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A lot has changed since the early nineties, when sun-protective garments were considered medical devices that were regulated by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. These days, Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing is widely available from outdoor and sportswear brands as well as fashion labels, and the global market for sun-protective clothing was worth about US$745-million in 2022.
Here in Canada, where skin cancers make up a third of all new cases of cancer, it’s no wonder that this added layer of protection is in-demand. Experts recommend the use of UPF clothing along with other sun-protective measures such as wearing sunscreen and a hat.
“Sunscreen is not 100 per cent effective,” says Dr. Lisa Kellett, dermatologist at DLK on Avenue in Toronto and a member of the Canadian Dermatology Association’s Sun Awareness Working Group. “So anything that you can do to add in ultraviolet protection factor, UPF clothing, that’s certainly helpful in terms of protecting your skin.”
Unlike sunscreen, these garments offer consistent coverage and don’t require reapplication every few hours to remain effective. Kellett suggests looking for styles with a UPF factor of 50+, which means that it’s going to block around 98 per cent of UVA and UVB rays. She stresses the importance of purchasing from a reputable brand that is not inaccurately labelling products as UPF-rated.
Start by looking for a specific UPF number on the tag or in the product description. It can be worth shelling out more for garments from a trustworthy brand that adheres to an international standard for sun-protective clothing, such as those established by Australia, the European Union and the United States. Patagonia, for example, says they integrate third-party laboratory testing to determine a fabric’s UPF number.
While most clothing items will offer some protection from the sun’s rays, fabrics such as linen or cotton can actually be as low as UPF 5, says Chad Leeder, head of materials at outdoor brand Kathmandu.
Generally speaking, synthetic fibres (think polyester and nylon) tend to be better at sun-blocking than natural fibres, knit fabrics are typically more protective than woven fabrics, and darker fabrics absorb more UV rays than lighter ones, says Leeder. But these are just general considerations – if you want to know for sure that a garment offers good sun protection, look for the UPF rating.
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that the efficacy of UPF fabrics may decline owing to factors such as wear and tear, fabric thinning and wash durability. Leeder notes that many UPF fabrics contain chemical finishes that can last upward of 50 washes, but they may become less protective over time.
Shopping Guide: Sun Protective Clothing
Here are six options that are designed for sport, travel and outdoor activity – and are versatile enough for everyday wear, too.
For him
(Left) Made for hiking but stylish enough for many workplaces, this classic button-up is made in a Fair Trade Certified factory using a quick-drying recycled polyester that offers UPF 40+ sun protection. Patagonia Self-Guided UPF Hike men’s shirt, $99 through patagonia.ca.
(Centre) You’ll appreciate the UPF 50+ sun protection of this breathable, lightweight hoodie on fishing excursions, camping trips and more. Caperlan Hooded Fishing Anti-UV T-shirt, $40 through decathlon.ca.
(Right) Available in five colours, these go-everywhere cargo shorts are made with a quick-dry, ripstop fabric that’s breathable and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Helly Hansen HH Quick-Dry men’s shorts, $85 through hellyhansen.com.
For her
(Left) Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, this moisture-wicking tee is made with 100 per cent recycled polyester and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Kathmandu Sun-Stopper women’s T-shirt, $49.95 through kathmanduoutdoor.ca.
(Centre) This lightweight, quick-drying polyester dress offers UPF 50+ sun protection and can be styled with or without the belt. Tilley SS Travel midi dress, $150 through tilley.com.
(Right) Offering UPF 40+ sun protection, this sporty top with a hood and sleeve thumbholes is ideal for outdoor activities such as jogging and hiking. The North Face Adventure Sun women’s hoodie, $90 through thenorthface.com.