5 Reasons to Wear a Sun Shirt While Walking Your Dog
Sun Safety for pet owners
Walking your dog is a daily gift— an opportunity to connect with nature, clear your mind and get a bit of exercise. But as pleasant as those strolls may be, they also expose you to prolonged sun exposure that can have lasting effects on your skin. Dermatologists and health experts agree: protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays is one of the most effective ways to prevent premature aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Our favorite simple - yet incredibly effective - solution? A sun shirt. Lightweight, breathable, and designed with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), sun shirts provide an extra layer of defense without the hassle of reapplying sunscreen. Here’s are 5 reasons to invest in a sun shirt for your daily walks...
💡 Did you know
The average length of a dog walk is 20-30 minutes per day. That's nearly fours hours per week of sun exposure that can leave you susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer.
5 reasons to wear a sun shirt to walk your dog
1. Consistent Sun Protection
Sun shirts offer continuous UV protection as long as you're wearing them -unlike sunscreen, which needs to be reapplied every two hours (or more often if you sweat). The tightly woven fabric blocks harmful rays, helping to prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage.
😍 Our top pick for a sun shirt is the JOJU Laguna Sun Shirt, loved for its buttery soft feel and chic, slim fit. The Laguna is breathable, odor-wicking and quick-drying. It's the perfect shirt for the trails, the courts - and everything in between.
2. A Cooler Walk, Even in the Heat
It may seem counterintuitive, but long sleeves can actually keep you cooler. Many sun shirts are made with moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics that help regulate body temperature. They allow sweat to evaporate more efficiently, reducing overheating and making your walk more comfortable.
3. Lower Risk of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and excessive sun exposure is a major contributing factor. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends UPF clothing as one of the best ways to reduce UV exposure. Wearing a sun shirt while walking your dog is a simple yet effective habit that can help protect your health in the long run.
Step 4: Less Reliance on Sunscreen
While sunscreen is an essential part of sun protection, it has its limitations. It can rub off, wear away with sweat and be easily forgotten. A sun shirt eliminates the need for constant reapplication on your arms and torso, ensuring reliable coverage throughout your entire walk.
5. Added Protection Against Bugs
Sun shirts are no longer just for athletes or hikers. Today’s designs blend functionality with style, making them easy to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe. Whether you prefer a neutral color that pairs with anything or a bold hue that adds personality to your walk, there’s a sun shirt to match your style. Plus, they transition seamlessly from your morning walk to running errands or even casual social outings.
Selecting the Perfect SUN SHIRT
5 Things to Look For When Choosing a Sun Shirt
1. UPF 50+ Protection. Sun protection is measured in UPF, 50+ is the max possible rating. Look for shirts that are lab-certified UPF 50+ to ensure maximum protection. Click here to learn more about UPF ratings.
2. Chemical-Free Sun Protection. Sun shirts can get their UPF coverage in two ways. It can come naturally caused by the fibers used in the fabric and the way they are knit together. Or it can come from a treatment applied to the fabric at the mill. Treatments fade and wash out over time. Naturally occurring, chemical-free protection lasts the duration of the sun shirt's lifetime.
3. Breathability. You want a sun shirt that allows moisture (sweat) to pass through it. Breathable fabrics help regulate your body temperature, keep your skin dry, reduce odor and minimize chafing.
4. Fit. You want a sun shirt that looks good and feels good. Look for shirts that allow movement in your arms & shoulders, sit at the right length and are comfortable throughout your torso.
5. Ease of Care. Exercise clothes should be easy to take care of. Look for sun shirts that are machine washable and dryable.
Our favorite sun shirts
The Bottom Line
Daily walks with your dog should be enjoyable and worry-free—but that doesn’t mean you should neglect sun safety. A sun shirt is a simple, effective way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while keeping you cool and comfortable. With a variety of options available, it’s an investment that benefits both your health and your lifestyle. So before you head out for your next walk, consider making a sun shirt part of your routine—your skin will thank you.
