The most significant benefit of a hiking-specific shirt is that it’s made to wick away moisture and dry quickly. This moisture management will ensure you’re comfortable on a long hike and reduce rubbing of your clothing and uncomfortable chafing. That being said, you don’t necessarily need a shirt that’s marketed for hiking specifically. Athletic shirts meant to be worn for different types of workouts can be easily used as hiking shirts. It all comes down to picking the right material and a comfortable fit. Odor resistance helps a lot, too, especially if you plan to sweat in the shirt a few times before you get a chance to wash it.