Most people instinctively reach for sunscreen when planning to spend the day outdoors, which is highly recommended by skin experts. However, sometimes sunscreen isn’t sufficient for optimal protection against the sun’s harmful rays. In such cases, sun-protectant clothing, known as “UPF clothing,” can provide an additional layer of defense against ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
UPF clothing, which stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, is specially designed and tested to offer measurable sun protection.
According to Marc Hurlbert, CEO of the Melanoma Research Alliance, UPF is a metric that indicates the effectiveness of sun-protective clothing. This type of clothing acts as a barrier against the sun’s rays, often using embedded chemicals or a combination of fabric techniques to enhance protection.
The best UPF clothing options have been rigorously tested for comfort, durability, UPF factor, and price. These garments range from hats and shorts to hoodies and sunshirts, providing a variety of styles for different preferences and activities. They create a physical barrier to protect the skin and may use chemical treatments to repel UV radiation.
When selecting UPF clothing, it’s important to consider several factors to maximize sun protection. The UPF rating is the most crucial aspect, with many top picks offering ratings of UPF 30 or higher. For instance, a white T-shirt might only offer a UPF rating of 7, whereas a heavy denim shirt could offer UPF 1,700. Material choice also matters, as specially woven or UV-resistant fabrics provide reliable protection.
Garment weight is another key consideration, as heavier fabrics often offer better protection. However, some lightweight fabrics are chemically treated to enhance their UPF rating.
Comfort in hot weather is also important, so balancing weight and UPF rating is essential. For items without a UPF label, dark or bright colors and densely woven fabrics like wool or denim offer better protection. Testing by outdoor enthusiasts and consultation with experts has led to a curated list of the best UPF clothing options for 2024.
