From sunscreen to sun hats, there are many dependable methods to protect yourself from the sun. The UPF rating is another form of protection for your clothes if you need a little extra help.

 While sun exposure is essential for regulating your internal clock and maintaining vitamin D levels, it can be harmful in large doses. Too much sun exposure can cause burning and irritation and even increase your risk for skin cancer.

 UPF clothing will work hard to keep UV rays at bay alongside your SPF lotion and chapstick. Read on to learn about this helpful factor and why it’s a must-have for your sun protection toolkit!

What Is UPF And Why Is It Important?

The UPF meaning is short for ‘ultraviolet protection factor’. It’s a rating system that determines how well your clothes block UV rays.

 UV rays damage the DNA in your skin cells, eventually leading to issues ranging from damaged vision to skin cancer. While some exposure to UV rays won’t result in damage, it’s easy to overlook the long-term impact. Every unprotected hiking session, cycling trip, or visit to the beach adds up over time.

 If you’re wondering why someone would choose UPF clothing over standard sunscreen, there are a few reasons to consider. Firstly, a layer of sunscreen lasts only a few hours before your body naturally sheds and sweats it off. Secondly, reducing your risk for health problems is best done with a well-rounded toolkit – if one tool fails, you have another to back you up!

 UPF in clothing is, quite literally, a layer of protection that blocks UV rays all day long. 

What Is The Main Difference Between UPF vs SPF?

SPF is similar to UPF and stands for ‘sun protection factor’. While UPF protects you from UVA and UVB, which can cause skin cancer, SPF protects you from UVB, which causes sunburns.

 The higher the SPF rating, the more UVB rays are blocked. For example, one sunscreen with an SPF of 15 blocks roughly 93% of UVB rays, while another sunscreen with a rating of 30 will block around 97%.

 You don’t always have to choose between UPF vs SPF. Some sunscreens offer broad spectrum protection and keep you shielded from UVA and UVB rays.

What Are UPF Ratings And Which Ones Should I Look For?

A UPF rating operates similarly to an SPF rating. The higher the rating, more UVA and UVB rays are blocked.

 Determining this rating involves looking at a complex set of factors such as the fabric type, thickness, and weight. Let’s take a look so you can understand what goes into your protective UPF shirts and hats.

Fabric Type

While cotton is comfortable and breathable, it’s not the most effective material for blocking UVA rays. UPF clothing with higher ratings usually contains synthetic materials such as polyester, rayon, and acrylic.

Thickness And Weight

Does clothing stop UV rays? Yes! The thicker your UPF clothing, the more difficult it is for UVA rays to break through.

 That doesn’t mean all your sun protected clothes have to be bulky and heavy, though!

 Our line-up of UPF clothing includes breezy cardigans and long-sleeved shirts for active lifestyles.

Moisture Content

Wet clothes don’t push back UV rays as well as dry clothes. If you live in a rainy climate or exercise a lot, you’ll need UPF clothing that can wick away moisture and keep you protected.

We offer moisture-wicking long-sleeved shirts and polos to keep you dry, rain or shine!

Weave Density

Weave density refers to how tightly fabric is woven together. The smaller the holes, the harder it is for air, water, or UV rays to pass through.

Tension And Stretch

What is UPF when it comes to how comfortable your clothes feel? While a little stretch is helpful for staying cozy, very stretchy clothes aren’t quite as protective against UV rays.

 Our sun-protective clothing line-up gives you just the right balance of tension and stretch, such as our lightweight jackets and lightweight jogger pants.

Color

Have you noticed you feel hotter in dark clothes than lighter clothes? That’s because dark colors absorb heat more – they also absorb more UV rays, keeping you protected.

Our UPF Clothing Will Keep You Stylish And Protected

With our UPF clothing line, you don’t have to choose between style and protection. Our family-owned and operated business provides a collection of chic UPF 50+ clothing, sun hats, and accessories for any occasion.

 The UVX line-up of sharp, trendy outfits look fantastic no matter your lifestyle or personal tastes. Whether you like to go camping every weekend or just want to stay protected while out on a morning walk, our jackets, shirts, and joggers have you covered (literally!).

 Our premium fabrics offer soft, delicate comfort while wicking away moisture and pushing back UVA rays. You can also refine your look with our scarves, hats, and sleeves.

 Now that you know the UPF meaning for your clothes, are you ready to look and feel your absolute best? Shop our collection today to find your go-to style of sun protective clothing!