How it works and why you need it, plus best product picks
UPF clothing ensures healthy adventures in the great outdoors — Photo courtesy of Free Fly Apparel
Many of us apply sunscreen before we head outside, but is that enough? The American Academy of Dermatology Association states that “approximately 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day,” which is about 5.4 million people per year.
Those numbers are staggering, so it’s a good idea to add UPF clothing to your closet as a preventive against the sun’s harmful rays. Here’s everything you need to know about sun protection clothing.
What is UPF clothing?
UPF, which stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, measures how much protection a piece of clothing provides from the sun’s UV rays. Some common types of sun-protective clothing include shirts, pants, shorts, swimwear, and even dresses. You’ll also find various UPF accessories, including hats, gloves, neck gaiters, and bandanas.
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, on the other hand, refers to the level of sun protection a product (such as sunblock) offers against UVB (ultraviolet B) rays. The SPF standard starts at 15, mild protection, and goes up to SPF 100, meant to block 99% of UVB. However, unlike UPF clothing, SPF doesn’t protect against UVA (ultraviolet A) radiation, which penetrates deep beneath the skin’s surface and is more harmful.
According to the National Institutes of Health, many sunscreens on the market provide limited protection to higher radiation wavelengths that exceed 380 nanometers. By using sunscreen and wearing UPF clothing, you’re adding another layer of protection against UV radiation.
Who should wear UPF clothing?
Outerknown’s sun shirt is lightweight with a high UPF rating — Photo courtesy of Outerknown
Although most people should wear UPF clothing, people sensitive to the sun or with skin conditions will find it especially beneficial because it protects them from additional exposure. Sun protection clothing can also be a good idea for individuals who spend a lot of time working or playing outdoors, especially if they forget to reapply sunscreen.
What kind of protection does UPF clothing provide?
Developed in Australia in the 1990s, the UPF rating system calculates how much protection a piece of clothing offers against the sun’s UVA and UVB radiation. Several factors determine the UPF rating, including fabric, material, weight, color, fiber type, and weave.
Some fabrics might be treated with chemical UV absorbers to enhance their protection capabilities. However, their efficiency will fade with washing and wearing over time, making them less effective. Generally, thicker fabrics and darker colors offer more sun protection.
Created by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the chart below shows how effectively an item’s UPF shields UVA/UVB rays. For optimal protection, choose UPF 50+ garments.
UPF 15–24: Good
UPF 25–39: Very good
UPF 40–50+: Excellent
Does UPF clothing really work?
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UPF clothing is “one of the most effective forms of protection against sun damage and skin cancer.” In addition to being an effective preventive, these garments keep you cool because they’re often lightweight and moisture-wicking.
“UPF clothing is highly effective and allows [people] to stay outdoors longer while doing the things they love,” says Corey Simpson, a spokesperson for Patagonia clothing. “It provides protection and peace of mind, enabling them to pursue their sports or activities without worrying about sun exposure.”
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How to choose UPF clothing
When it first came out, sun protective clothing was limited to bulky fabrics, a narrow selection of items, and the retailers who carried them. Through product research and development, UPF clothing is now available in a wide variety of fabrics, product categories, and colors.
Many mainstream retailers offer UPF clothing and accessories in various styles to keep you looking stylish while playing it safe. Here are some of our favorite recommendations.
Duluth Trading Company Women’s Rootstock Garden Duster
This duster from Duluth Trading is perfect for gardeners and offers UPF 50 sun protection — Photo courtesy of Duluth Trading Company
We love Duluth Trading’s Rootstock Garden Duster because it’s chic and versatile. It offers UPF 50+ sun protection whether you’re gardening or running tasks around town. Made of cotton canvas, it provides breathability and comfort. It also has an interior waist drawstring for a more fitted silhouette. With nine pockets to boot, it’s the perfect style for outdoor adventures.
Nomadix Bandana Towel
Nomadix towels are versatile UPF clothing accessories — Photo courtesy of Nomadix
The Nomadix Bandana Towel is compact and easy to carry, making it essential on hikes, bike rides, and runs. Wear it as a head wrap or a neck gaiter to keep cool and stay protected from the sun, or use it as a towel to wipe away sweat. Super absorbent and quick-drying, it’s made of post-consumer recycled materials and offers UPF 50+.
Patagonia Men’s Long-Sleeved Self-Guided UPF Hike Shirt
Patagonia’s hike shirt offers UPF 50 sun protection — Photo courtesy of Patagonia
Patagonia has been outfitting adventurers for over 51 years, so it’s no surprise that its Long-Sleeved Self-Guided UPF Hike Shirt makes our list. The casual top is multifunctional, making it a good choice for hiking and biking adventures or a night out on the town. It’s made of recycled polyester woven ripstop and offers 40+ UPF sun protection. The women’s version comes in three colors.
Athleta Trekkie North High Rise Jogger
Athleta’s joggers offer sun protection for hikes and more — Photo courtesy of Athleta
Athleta’s Trekkie North High Rise Joggers are my favorite for hiking because they’re breathable, lightweight, and sweat-wicking. They also provide UPF 50+, which offers excellent sun protection. Made of two-way stretch with a pull-on waistband, they’re super comfortable. The zippered side pockets allow you to carry all your essentials securely.
Outerknown Sun Shirt
Pro surfer and co-founder Kelly Slater wears Outerknown’s Sun Hoody in Tahiti — Photo courtesy of Todd Glaser / Outerknown
I’m a fan of the fashion brand Outerknown, which sells everything from sportswear to swimwear. It was co-founded by 11-time world champion surfer Kelly Slater in 2013 with a strong focus on sustainability.
Outerknown’s women’s sun shirt offers UPF 50+ sun protection and is moisture-wicking and quick-drying for hot days. It provides a relaxed fit to pursue all your activities without feeling constricted. It’s also available in a men’s version.
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Free Fly Apparel Women’s Bamboo-Lined Active Breeze Short
Long hikes require sun protective UPF clothing like Free Fly Apparel’s breezy shorts — Photo courtesy of Free Fly Apparel
Free Fly Apparel makes functional and comfortable gear for the outdoors. One of my favorites is the Active Breeze Short, which is lightweight and offers 4-way stretch for your sporty lifestyle. It has an interior anti-odor liner and features UPF 50+ sun protection. The 6-inch version provides a little more coverage.
Prana Kootenai Bucket Hat
Get this Prana bucket hat for extra sun protection — Photo courtesy of Prana
Hats offer excellent sun protection, especially for the delicate areas on your face. Prana’s Kootenai Bucket Hat comes in three colors and is one size fits all with a drawcord for an adjustable fit. Made of 100% recycled polyester, it’s moisture-wicking and offers UPF 50+. For those who prefer caps, the Foothills Flat Brim is an excellent choice with UPF 50+.
Arc’teryx Taema Hoody
Sun protective clothing like this Arc’teryx hoody is great for trail running — Photo courtesy of Arc’teryx
The Arc’teryx Taema Women’s Hoody offers UPF 40+ and is an excellent option for runners and hikers. Made of 100% polyester, this lightweight top is breathable and moisture-wicking. The long sleeves and hood offer extra sun protection. Arc’teryx also features an assortment of sun protection clothing for men, including tops and bottoms.
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Left on Friday Rays Long Sleeve Mockneck Top
UPF clothing that’s moisture-wicking is perfect for beach or pool days — Photo courtesy of Coliena Rentmeester
This buttery-soft long-sleeve rash guard comes in four colors and features UPF 50+ protection. It’s fade-resistant, moisture-wicking, and can handle chlorine and salt water. There’s also a super cute crop length.
Vineyard Vines Girls Long Sleeve Ruffle One-Piece and Boy’s Printed Chappy Chappy Swim Trunks
UPF clothing for kids is essential for days on the sand or at the pool — Photo courtesy of Vineyard Vines
What could be cuter than the preppy Vineyard Vines Long Sleeve Ruffle One-Piece for girls, which offers UPF 50 protection in a fun novelty print? The Printed Chappy Chappy Swim Trunks for boys are made from REPREVE Recycled Polyester and come in various prints and patterns. Best of all, it offers your little ones extra sun protection as they romp and play.
