Sun-Protective Clothing Shopping Guide
Clothing is one of the most practical forms of sun protection because it provides a physical barrier between the skin and ultraviolet radiation and does not need to be reapplied like sunscreen.
Purpose-made sun-protective clothing can be useful for everyday outdoor activity, sport, work, boating, swimming and travel.
1. Check the UPF rating
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF 50 fabric allows approximately 1/50 of the relevant UV radiation to pass through under test conditions, meaning about 98% is blocked.
UPF 50 or 50+ is a useful benchmark when you want a high level of tested protection.
Read our UPF guide for more detail.
2. Look at how much skin the garment covers
A high-UPF fabric only protects the area underneath it. Coverage is therefore just as important as the fabric rating.
Useful design features can include:
- long sleeves
- higher necklines or collars
- longer hems and trouser legs
- thumb loops or cuffs that cover more of the hand
- hoods or neck panels for specialist outdoor use
3. Choose a comfortable fit
Loose-fitting clothing is often preferable because highly stretched fabric can allow more UV to pass through as gaps between fibres open up.
The best garment is one you can comfortably wear for the entire activity.
4. Match the fabric to the activity
For exercise or hot conditions, look for breathable fabrics and moisture management. For swimming, choose a garment designed for repeated water exposure and follow the care instructions.
For hiking, boating or long outdoor days, consider durability, quick drying and the amount of skin covered.
5. Do not assume all ordinary clothing has the same protection
Dense, darker and thicker fabrics often block more UV than thin, pale or loosely woven materials. Stretch, wear and wetness can also change performance.
Our sun-protection fabric guide explains these factors in detail.
6. Sun-protective swimwear
Rash shirts, swim tops, leggings and full-coverage swimsuits can reduce the amount of exposed skin that requires sunscreen.
For children in particular, a long-sleeved UPF swim top can make sun protection easier during long periods around water.
7. Hats matter too
A broad-brimmed hat can protect the face, ears and neck more effectively than a narrow cap. Legionnaire-style hats are another practical option, particularly for children and outdoor work.
8. Think about care and durability
Follow the manufacturer's washing and care instructions. Some UPF garments achieve their rating through fabric construction while others may also use treatments or finishes.
Replace clothing when it becomes excessively thin, stretched, damaged or worn if you are relying on it for high UV protection.
9. Cost is not the same as protection
An expensive garment is not automatically more protective. Look at the tested UPF rating, coverage, construction and suitability for the activity rather than the brand name alone.
10. Combine clothing with other protection
Clothing does not cover every part of the body. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin and consider shade, sunglasses and a suitable hat.
Quick buying checklist
- UPF 50 or 50+ if you want high tested protection.
- Enough coverage for the activity.
- A comfortable, preferably not over-stretched fit.
- Breathability and moisture management for hot conditions.
- Swim-specific construction for water activities.
- Care instructions you can realistically follow.
A well-designed garment with adequate coverage can greatly reduce the amount of exposed skin that needs sunscreen.