Sun Protective Clothing – Does It Work & Is It Worth It?
Curious about UPF clothing? We answer common questions on sun protective clothing – how it works, its benefits vs. regular clothes & sunscreen, main features to look out for, and why it’s worth it for your skin.
Reading Time: 12 minutes
Introduction
Sunshine on your skin can feel wonderful, but the long-term effects are no joke – UV exposure is responsible for up to 90% of visible skin ageing and significantly raises the risk of skin cancer. If you’ve ever ended a day outdoors with a surprise sunburn despite wearing a T-shirt, you know regular clothes aren’t always enough. Despite this, sun damage can be occurring regardless of a sunburn or not. This is where UPF 50+ sun protective clothing comes in. But does this special clothing really work, and is it worth the cost? In this guide, we’ll tackle real questions people have about sun protective clothing – from effectiveness and comfort to style and care. By the end, you’ll know how UPF apparel can help you enjoy the sun safely without fear. Let’s dive in!
Does Sun Protective Clothing Really Work?
Absolutely – if it’s genuinely UPF-rated, it works. Sun protective clothing is specifically designed and tested to block ultraviolet (UV) radiation. You might see tags like UPF 50+ on these garments. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and it’s similar to SPF (Sun Protection Factor) for sunscreens, except UPF measures protection for fabrics against both UVA and UVB rays. A higher UPF means more UV is filtered out before reaching your skin. For example, a shirt rated UPF 50 allows only ~1/50th of UV rays through (about 2%) – blocking 98% of UV radiation.
Contrast that with a typical cotton tee from your wardrobe: a thin white T-shirt might only have a UPF around 5, meaning it lets about 20% of UV rays penetrate. No wonder people often get tan lines or burns through regular clothing! Sun protective fabrics, on the other hand, offer reliable coverage. In fact, the British Association of Dermatologists emphasises that clothing is the first line of defence against UV. Unlike sunscreen, which we may apply unevenly or forget to reapply, a long-sleeve UPF shirt continuously shields your skin without fading.
I used to doubt if a thin jacket could really prevent burns until I wore a UPF 50+ hoodie on a full-day hike. Normally, my arms would turn pink by afternoon. That day, I didn’t get even a hint of colour on my skin, despite strong sun. It was a convincing demonstration that these garments do their job. So if you’re wondering whether it’s hype or science – the science is solid. UPF clothing can significantly reduce your UV exposure when worn correctly, keeping your skin safer.
UPF Clothing vs. Regular Clothing: What’s the Difference?
You might ask, “Can’t I just wear long sleeves or darker clothes for sun protection?” It’s true that any clothing provides some barrier compared to bare skin, but not all fabrics are created equal. Several factors determine how much UV regular clothes block:
- Material & Weave: Tightly woven or thick fabrics (like denim or wool) naturally block more UV than thin, sheer ones. A dense fabric acts like a wall to UV rays, whereas a lightweight, loose weave (like a thin cotton shirt) is more like a sieve. Many UPF garments use synthetic fibres (polyester, nylon, spandex blends) because polyester is excellent at absorbing UV. In contrast, untreated cotton or linen can let a lot of rays through, especially if the fabric is light-coloured or lightweight.
- Colour: Surprisingly, the colour of your clothing affects its protection. Dark or vivid colours absorb more UV radiation before it reaches your skin. For instance, navy blue, red, or black shirts tend to have higher UPF than white or pastel ones. That plain white T-shirt we mentioned earlier (UPF ~5) only blocks ~20% of UV – whereas the same shirt dyed a dark colour could block much more. UPF-rated apparel often comes in richer colours or has UV-absorbing dyes to boost protection.
- Coverage & Fit: Regular fashion trends might favour shorter sleeves or thinner, tight-fitting materials, which leave more skin exposed or stretched. Sun protective clothing is designed with generous coverage (long sleeves, high necks, full-length pants, wide-brim hats) to cover maximum skin. A loose-fitting UPF shirt can also create a bit of air space, which helps keep you cooler and stops fabric from clinging (stretched fabric can become more transparent to UV).
So what’s the difference with dedicated UPF clothing? In short: purpose-built protection. UPF brands engineer their fabrics to achieve a high UV blocking rating and maintain it over time. They might use special weaves, fabric blends, or even UV-inhibiting fabric treatments. Many garments are lab-tested to ensure they meet a certain UPF level across all areas of the fabric (so even the mesh panels or lighter sections are accounted for).
Regular clothes can vary wildly in protection. One study noted that a typical summer cotton T-shirt may only offer SPF (UPF) 5 as mentioned, and if it gets wet or stretched, the protection drops further. In comparison, a certified UPF 50+ shirt will block 98%+ of UV even when it’s wet, because it’s designed for that purpose (many are quick-dry to not stay water-logged). Unless you plan to hike in head-to-toe denim or wool in the heat, normal clothing just can’t give the consistent, lightweight protection that modern UPF fabrics can.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, everyday clothes often offer only minimal UV protection. For example, “an everyday white cotton T-shirt has a UPF of only about 5,” whereas any fabric must have UPF 30 or higher to earn the Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. In other words, sun protective clothing is specifically made to fill this protection gap that our regular wardrobe leaves.
Bottom line: While wearing any shirt is better than nothing, relying on normal clothing can give a false sense of security. Sun protective apparel removes the guesswork – you know exactly how much UV is being blocked because it’s stated on the label. It lets you dress for the weather (cool, breathable fabrics) while still guarding your skin. The difference when you swap your regular tee for a UPF 50 shirt on a sunny day is like the difference between sunscreen and no sunscreen for that part of your body. Why risk it? If you’re going to be in the sun, it pays to wear clothes that are proven to protect.
If you’re curious about the technical side, check out our primer on what is sun protection clothing for details on how fabrics get their UPF ratings – it’s a great foundation on the science behind the clothing.
Sun Protective Clothing vs. Sunscreen: Do You Still Need Both?
Clothing or sunscreen? Ideally, use both together for best protection. But each has its pros and cons:
UPF Clothing Advantages: Once you put on a UPF 50+ long-sleeve shirt or pants, you’re covered – literally. It shields you continuously without needing reapplication. There’s no risk of missing a spot or sweating it off. For people who are forgetful with sunscreen or have sensitive skin (or conditions like eczema where too much chemical sunscreen can irritate), clothing is a godsend. It’s also mess-free – no greasy residue or waiting 15 minutes before it works. And as a bonus, covering up means you can use less sunscreen overall, saving you money and reducing chemical runoff into the environment.
Sunscreen Advantages: Sunscreen, on the other hand, can go where clothes can’t. Your face, hands, and any exposed areas still need good sunscreen. A high-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect areas like your nose, ears, or the back of your neck that might not be fully covered by clothing or a hat. Sunscreen is also more practical at the pool or beach for areas you don’t want to cover with cloth while swimming (though rash guard swim shirts and UPF swim leggings are becoming popular).
Why Not Just Sunscreen Alone? Many people do rely on sunscreen alone, but studies show we often apply too little or not frequently enough. In real life, that SPF 50 lotion might be giving you far less protection if it’s applied sparingly or sweated off. The Skin Cancer Foundation notes that clothing offers more certain protection than sunscreen because people often don’t use sunscreen properly (you’d need 30ml, applied evenly, every two hours). That’s a high bar to meet consistently! With UPF apparel, once you’re dressed, you have a safety net of constant protection on those areas.
The Best Approach: Dermatologists recommend a combined approach: wear UPF clothing as much as is practical (cover your torso, arms, legs with lightweight gear, and wear a wide-brim UPF hat for your face/scalp) and apply sunscreen on all exposed skin (typically face, neck, hands, and any gaps). Don’t forget UV-blocking sunglasses too, since eyes need protection. Think of UPF clothing as your front-line armour and sunscreen as the backup for the gaps. By using both, you dramatically cut down UV exposure.
Another big plus: UPF clothing is an easy way to protect babies and kids, who may not sit still for sunscreen. Babies under 6 months old shouldn’t use sunscreen at all, so sun-protective onesies, hats, and blankets are crucial. We have a detailed guide on sun protection for babies if you’re interested.
And for adults with conditions like vitiligo or lupus that make sun exposure dangerous, UPF garments provide peace of mind that sunscreen alone might not give.
In summary: You can choose one or the other in a pinch, but using both is the gold standard. Sun protective clothing covers what it covers better than any sunscreen can, and sunscreen covers what clothing can’t. Together, they let you enjoy sunny days without worry. Plus, wearing more clothing means you don’t have to marinate in as much sunscreen – good news for your skin and the environment. For eco-friendly tips, see our piece on reef-safe sun protection to learn how UPF clothing helps reduce reliance on coral-harming chemicals.
How to Choose Sun Protective Clothing
Now that we’ve established UPF apparel works, how do you pick the right pieces for your lifestyle? The ideal sun protective clothing should keep you safe without cramping your style or comfort. Here are some tips for choosing and using UPF clothing effectively:
1. Check the UPF Rating (Aim for 50+)
Always look at the tag or description for the UPF rating. We recommend UPF 50 or 50+, which is considered “excellent” protection, blocking ~98% of UV. UPF 30 (blocking 96–97%) is the minimum rated protection you’d want for strong sun. Anything below UPF 15 isn’t even labelled as sun-protective. Higher numbers are better, but note that UPF 50 vs 30 is a small difference in practice (98% vs 96.7% blocked). So don’t worry if that shirt is “only” UPF 30 – it’s still very good. Just avoid un-rated clothing for long sun exposure, or assume a very low protection level.
Also, check if the brand has any certifications or seals. Some garments carry the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation, which means they’ve been verified to meet at least UPF 30 requirements. Others might mention Australian/New Zealand Standard testing (those countries are leaders in sun safety). If you see claims like “tested to meet ASTM UV standards” or “UPF 50+ after 40 washes,” that’s a good sign the company has ensured durability.
2. Pick the Right Fabric for Comfort
One common concern is whether long sleeves will make you too hot in summer. The good news: modern UPF fabrics are made to be lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking. When choosing, look for words like “breathable mesh,” “cooling technology,” or “moisture-wicking” in the product description. Polyester and nylon dominate in this category because they can be made thin and quick-drying while still blocking UV. Some brands even use fabric tech that cools you as you sweat (by rapid evaporation). For example, many hiking-oriented sun shirts have ventilation panels or roll-up sleeves for versatility.
If you tend to overheat, go for looser-fit styles and lighter colours. Yes, dark colours absorb more UV (and more heat), but many UPF clothes compensate with heat-reflective coatings or high-tech fabrics. You can find white or pastel UPF shirts that still rate 50+ because of the fabric structure or special additives. Feel the fabric: it should be tightly woven/knit but feel soft or silky, not thick like canvas (unless it’s a sun hat or specific gear).
Some lines use natural fibres like bamboo or merino wool which can be breathable and offer decent UPF inherently – but synthetics are most common and effective.
A quick test: hold the fabric up to the light. If you can easily see through it, UV can likely penetrate, unless it’s labelled with a high UPF due to invisible treatments. Most quality sun shirts won’t let much visible light through. And don’t forget stretch: if a garment is very form-fitting and stretches a lot on your body, that can lower its effective UPF (the fibres pull apart). So consider going one size up for a looser fit in something like leggings or a swim shirt if you’re between sizes. The slight drape not only cools you but also keeps protection levels maxed out.
3. Don’t Sacrifice Style (Find What You’ll Actually Wear)
A big pain point people mention is feeling frumpy or “too sporty” in sun protective clothing. This might have been true in the past, but today there are so many stylish options available. You can get casual everyday wear with UPF: cute summer dresses, chic cover-up cardigans, collared shirts that look office-appropriate, even fashionable hats that you’d wear because they look good and block UV.
Tip: Start with one piece you know you’ll use often. Love gardening? Grab a light UPF overshirt or arm sleeves in your favourite colour. Spend weekends at the beach? Invest in a stylish UPF swim shirt (rash guard) or a long sarong wrap for your legs. There are even business-casual UPF shirts and travel clothing that blend right in with regular attire.
The key is, when you like how it looks and feels, you’ll wear it more, which means better protection habit. If you’re concerned about looking like you’re on safari, opt for simple designs in colours that flatter you – nowadays you can find everything from plus-size sunwear to tailored fits.
If you browse our women’s UPF clothing collection you might be surprised how diverse the options are, from sporty to everyday chic.
4. Cover the Key Areas
When selecting your outfit for a sunny outing, think about maximising coverage comfortably. This doesn’t mean you must be head-to-toe covered at all times, but try to protect your most sun-exposed areas. For most people, that’s the shoulders, back, chest, arms, and legs. A long-sleeve UPF shirt and long pants will obviously cover those, but if it’s too hot for long pants, consider at least knee-length shorts or a long skirt instead of tiny shorts – or use high SPF sunscreen on the lower legs. For tops, 3/4-length sleeves or elbow-length sleeves are better than nothing if full long sleeves won’t fly.
Also, pay attention to the neckline: a shirt with a collar or higher neck protects the delicate neck and upper chest area (common sites for sun damage). If you wear a scoop-neck tee, remember to put sunscreen on your chest where the shirt doesn’t cover.
Don’t forget hands and feet – they get a lot of sun over the years. You can find UPF gloves or sleeves with hand covers (some hiking shirts have thumb holes that extend the fabric over the back of your hand). A simpler solution is to apply sunscreen on hands and tops of feet, or wear a hat with a handkerchief (bandana) to cover your neck and hands when needed.
Speaking of hats: a UPF hat is one of the best investments. Look for a wide brim (3 inches or more all around) to shield your face, ears, and neck. A normal cap only shades your forehead and leaves your neck exposed, so if you go that route, use a UV buff or neck gaiter for your neck. Many sun hats are both stylish and rated 50+, and some even have neck drapes or adjustable brims.
In short, use clothing to cover as much skin as you comfortably can during peak sun hours. Even partial coverage is helpful – for example, a shoulder wrap or shawl can save your shoulders from burning at a picnic. The goal is to reduce the total area of skin that’s bombarded by UV. Every square inch covered by cloth is one less area you need to worry about sunscreen sweating off. Over years, those covered areas will likely look younger and have lower cancer risk than areas you always leave exposed.
5. Care for Your UPF Clothing (Make It Last)
To get the most value (and protection) out of your sun-safe wardrobe, you’ll want to take care of the garments so they keep working season after season. Here are some care tips:
- Follow Washing Instructions: Most UPF clothing can be machine-washed, but usually in cold water and a gentle cycle. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, which can degrade fibres or UV-blocking ingredients. Use mild detergent. Many brands recommend hang drying instead of using a hot dryer, since high heat can break down elastics and certain fabric treatments.
- Know If It’s Treated vs. Inherent: Some clothing gets its UPF from the type of fabric (e.g. tightly knit polyester) – those tend to retain protection longer. Others have a chemical treatment or dye that boosts UV blockage. Treated fabrics can lose effectiveness after many washes or if the treatment fades. Check the label or product info: if it says “UPF durable through X washes,” that’s a good sign. High-quality brands test their clothing to ensure long-term performance.
- Replace When Worn Out: UPF garments don’t “expire” on a set date, but monitor their condition. If a shirt becomes very thin, threadbare, or faded after years of use, its protection might be reduced. Also, stretchy swimwear or leggings may lose some UPF as they age and lose elasticity. As a rule of thumb, a well-made UPF piece should last a good long while (1–2 years of regular use easily, often more). But retire it if you notice fabric thinning or excessive stretching.
- Chlorine and Salt: If you wear UPF swimwear in a chlorinated pool or the ocean, rinse it with fresh water afterwards. Chlorine and salt can slowly degrade fabric. Some swim shirts are chlorine-resistant (check if noted). Rinsing and then air drying will help maintain the fibres and any integrated UV blockers.
- Storage: Store your UPF clothes folded or hanging in a drawer/closet when not in use, just like other clothes. Prolonged direct sunlight on the garment (when not being worn) could fade colours over time – ironic, we know – so don’t leave them to bake in the back of your car or on a line for days.
By taking care of your sun protective clothing, you ensure it takes care of you every time you need it. These pieces are an investment in your health, so treating them gently will give you years of reliable use. Many brands, like those we carry at equatorsun, design their apparel specifically to withstand lots of wear and washing without losing protection, so you can have peace of mind that your favourite UV jacket is still doing its job next summer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. It’s best to use sunscreen on any skin not covered by UPF clothing. Sun protective garments shield the areas they cover extremely well (so you can skip sunscreen under those clothes). But you should still apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on your face, neck, hands, and any other exposed skin. For example, if you wear a UPF shirt and trousers, put sunscreen on your face, ears, and hands. Using both maximises protection, and remember that surfaces like water or sand can reflect UV onto you, so a little extra sunscreen on exposed areas is smart. The combination of UPF clothing + sunscreen gives you the best of both worlds in sun safety.
They’re similar concepts but applied differently. SPF (sun protection factor) is for lotions and tells you primarily how well it blocks UVB rays (the ones that cause burns). UPF is for fabrics and indicates how much of both UVA and UVB gets through the material. UPF 50 means the fabric allows only 1/50th of UV through (~2%). SPF 50 means if used correctly, only 1/50th of the usual redness happens – roughly 98% UVB blocked in a lab test. In practice, UPF is more reliable coverage because it doesn’t wear off like sunscreen. Also, SPF doesn’t account for UVA (which causes ageing and can contribute to cancer), while UPF covers broad spectrum UV by design. Think of UPF as equivalent to an always-on sunscreen covering that body part.
Absolutely, yes. UV rays can and do penetrate many fabrics. If you’ve ever gotten a tan or sunburn through your shirt, you’ve experienced this. The amount of penetration depends on the shirt’s material, colour, and thickness. Thin, light-coloured fabrics let the most UV through – for example, a white cotton T-shirt might only block ~80% of UV (UPF 5). That still leaves 20% reaching your skin, which over hours can cause damage. Thicker or darker clothes block more (a dark denim jacket might have UPF 100+ effectively, letting almost nothing through). But most summer-weight clothes fall somewhere in between. Also, if a fabric is stretched, wet, or worn, it can transmit even more UV. That’s why relying on a regular shirt is risky for all-day sun exposure. In contrast, a UPF-rated shirt is tested to ensure minimal UV penetration.
To some extent, yes – but UPF clothing is engineered to protect regardless of colour. In general textile science, darker colours absorb more UV. In fact, a dark shirt often has higher inherent UPF than a white shirt of the same material. However, many UPF clothing lines use special fabric constructions or additives that give even light colours a high UPF. For example, a light pink UPF 50 rash shirt has been treated or woven in a way that you’re still getting full protection, even though normally pink might not absorb as much UV as navy blue. The great thing about buying certified UPF clothing is the colour choice is more about personal style, since the UV testing has accounted for the colour.
Quality UPF clothing can last several years, but its protective ability may gradually lessen with heavy use and washing. Unlike sunscreen (which you must reapply every 2 hours), you don’t “reapply” clothing – but over months and years, the fabric can wear down. The longevity depends on factors like fabric type, whether the UPF came from a chemical treatment, and how you care for it. Many reputable brands test their garments to ensure they still give, say, UPF 50 after 30–40 washes. Inherent protection (from the knit or fibre) tends to last as long as the garment stays intact, whereas chemical treatments (like UV-blocking dyes or coatings) can wash out slowly. Monitor your garments: if your swim shirt is thinning or your sun pants are getting threadbare, consider replacing them. Some users report their favourite UPF hoodie is still going strong after 5 years with proper care.
If you spend any significant time outdoors, yes, it’s worth it. While UPF clothing can be pricier than ordinary clothing, think of it as investing in your health and comfort. One high-quality UPF shirt might save you from using bottles of sunscreen (and potentially from a painful burn or future skin damage). Over time, that can even be cost-effective. More importantly, the protection it provides can help prevent skin ageing and lower your skin cancer risk – benefits that are hard to put a price on. Most people find that once they have a few go-to UPF pieces, they use them constantly – for hiking, beach days, gardening, or just daily walks. That versatility means you truly get your money’s worth.
Conclusion: Embrace the Sun Safely
The sun gives us warmth, joy, and vitamin D – but we’ve learned it requires respect and protection. Sun protective clothing is like a loyal friend in your quest to enjoy sunny days without sacrificing your skin’s health. It really works, it addresses many common pain points (no one misses the feeling of dried-out sunscreen on their arms or the fear of surprise burns), and it’s becoming more accessible and fashionable each year. Whether you’re a surfer, a hiker, a parent chasing your kids in the park, or just someone who loves brunch on the patio, UPF clothing can make a world of difference in how you experience the sun.
We hope this guide answered your burning questions and showed that sun safety doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be as easy as getting dressed in the morning. With the right UPF wardrobe, you’ll be prepared for whatever UV the day throws at you, confident that you’re doing something great for your skin. Over time, your future self will thank you when you have fewer wrinkles, sunspots, and health worries.
So, is it worth it? Absolutely. Sun protective clothing empowers you to live your life outdoors with less worry. It’s about enjoying the beautiful weather while staying sun-smart. Now that you’re armed with knowledge, you can make informed choices to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Ready to Give It a Try?
If you’re excited to experience the benefits of UPF clothing firsthand, we invite you to explore our curated selection at equatorsun. We’re passionate about sun safety and hand-pick apparel that balances style, comfort, and top-tier protection. Check out our latest arrivals in the UPF 50+ clothing collection – there’s something for everyone, from casual everyday wear to swimwear and accessories. Need a starting point? Consider a versatile piece like a sun hoodie or a wrap that you can use in multiple settings.
Don’t let the fear of sun damage keep you in the shadows. With the right gear and habits, you can embrace the sun safely. Slip on some sun protective threads, slather a bit of sunscreen on the rest, and get out there to enjoy the blue skies with confidence. Your skin will thank you for years to come.
Visit equatorsun to discover certified UPF 50+ clothing, hats, and accessories for the whole family – because protecting your skin should look and feel good too.