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UPF Clothing Explained
Our sun protection collection offers built-in UPF without sunscreen, sunblock, and other topical treatments that require reapplying, have a greasy finish, and aren't travel friendly. Through yarn and fabric construction, it provides permanent coverage as you're traveling in sun-drenched locales or on never-ending trails.
UPF Clothing Explained
Our sun protection collection offers built-in UPF without sunscreen, sunblock, and other topical treatments that require reapplying, have a greasy finish, and aren't travel friendly. Through yarn and fabric construction, it provides permanent coverage as you're traveling in sun-drenched locales or on never-ending trails.
The Impact of the Sun
UV rays cause sunburns, cancer, and premature aging by damaging the skin’s cellular DNA. Although there are several types, UVA and UVB rays are the most concerning, so much so that getting five sunburns in your lifetime more than doubles your chance of developing melanoma*.
Don't Get Burned
Your Location
Risk increases near the equator and at high altitudes.
Time of Day
Ultraviolet rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Direct Sun vs. Clouds
Even on cloudy, hazy days, you still need protection.
Reflective Surfaces
Like large bodies of water, sand, snow, and asphalt.
Isn't All Clothing Sun Protective?
A Glaring Difference
UPF Ratings Explained
Good levels of sun protection. Up to ~95.9% of UV radiation is blocked.
Very good levels of sun protection. Up to ~97.4% of UV radiation is blocked.
Excellent levels of sun protection. Up to ~97.8% of UV radiation is blocked.
The highest achievable rating for fabrics. Superior level of protection.
Coverage vs. Protection
Fabric Weave
The tightness of fabric determines how much space is between each fiber. As it gets tighter, the transmission of UV rays decreases, while coverage level increases.
Dye
Contrary to popular belief, color doesn't have a strong effect on sun protection. It’s the type and amount of dye in a fabric that determines its
effectiveness.
Fabric Type
Due to their molecular structure, materials like polyester and nylon are better at deflecting the sun. Most natural fibers need added treatments to be more protective.
Fabric Treatments
Garments may have added chemical finishes to increase their UPF ratings. These treatments are not harmful to skin, but may lose some
effectiveness over time.
"Many times I don't want sunblock goop on my skin, so my ExOfficio gear provides the sun protection I medically require."
"I'm fair skinned and hate to be exposed too much in the sun, but I'm very outdoorsy. My sun protection hoodie is a must for summer."
"I live in Florida and enjoy the summer heat. ExOfficio gear serves me well, providing sun protection while allowing for effective ventilation."
"I use my sun protection hat while hiking for great coverage against harmful rays."
Shop Sun Protection
About Our Sun Protection Collection
Chase the sun safely with button-down shirts, hiking pants, women's dresses, and more styles in our Sun Protection Collection. If you're planning for extended sun exposure on your next outdoor adventure, layer on sun protection clothing to block harmful UV rays and beat the heat.
UPF clothing, also known as UV protective clothing, helps prevent sunburns and other negative impacts of the sun. Whether you're looking for summer clothes, hiking gear, or anything in between, choose one of our styles that offer up to UPF 50 protection. They offer constant, odorless coverage without the reliance of sunscreens and sunblocks, plus sunburn remedies like aloe vera.
*Source: SkinCancer.org