The Ultimate Guide to Sun Shirts & Sun Protective Clothing
Why sun protection matters
Sun protection is essential for maintaining healthy skin and reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause significant damage over time, making it crucial to wear protective clothing, including sun shirts, hats, and sunglasses. Investing in high-quality sun-protective clothing can help shield your skin from harmful UV radiation and keep you comfortable outdoors.
How does JOJU certify its sun protection:
We send all of our fabrics out to an independent lab to test for UPF rating
We use the American Standard ( AATCC TM 183 ) test to assess sun protectiveness
Want to know more? Visit our store.
Table of Contents
What Are Sun shirts?
Sun shirts are specially designed garments made from UV-blocking fabrics that help protect your skin from harmful sun exposure.
These shirts typically come with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, indicating their level of sun protection. Unlike regular cotton t-shirts, which offer minimal UV resistance, sun shirts are engineered with tightly woven fabrics and UV-absorbing materials.
Understanding UPF Ratings
UPF ratings indicate how much UV radiation a fabric can block.
UPF 15-24: Good protection (blocks 93-96% of UV rays)
UPF 25-39: Very good protection (blocks 96-97.4% of UV rays)
UPF 40-50+: Excellent protection (blocks 97.5-98% of UV rays)
- UPF 50+ : The best defense against harmful sun exposure.
Sample UPF ratings:
- White Cotton T-Shirt: UPF 5-10
- Linen Shirt: UPF 5-15
- Silk Shirt: UPF 10-15
- Baseball Cap: UPF 10-20
- Denim Jeans: UPF 50+
- Straw Hat: UPF 5-15
JOJU SUN SHIRTS FOR UV PROTECTION
Key FEaTURES OF SUN SHIRTS
- UPF Rating: Sun shirts come with a UPF rating, usually ranging from 15 to 50+. A UPF 50+ rating blocks 98% of UV rays, providing excellent protection.
Lightweight and Breathable: Designed for comfort, most sun shirts use moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool and dry.
Quick-Drying: Many sun shirts are made from polyester or nylon blends that dry quickly, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
Long Sleeves and High Collars: Extra coverage on arms and neck areas enhances protection.
Odor and Bacteria Resistance: Some sun shirts feature antimicrobial treatments to prevent odor buildup.
Stylish Designs: Sun shirts are available in various styles, colors, and fits, allowing you to stay protected without compromising on fashion.
Further Readings
→ How to choose the Yoga Mat based on your yoga level?
→ How to master the Yoga Hardest positions?
"Sun-protective clothing is the simplest way to stay safe; unlike sunscreen, you never need to reapply."
Types of sun protective clothing
1. Sun Shirts
Sun shirts are made with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric, which blocks harmful UV rays more effectively than regular clothing.
What to look for in a sun shirt
Long sleeves
Thumbholes for hand protection
Elevated neckline
Breathability
Moisture-wicking & quick drying
Sun Shirts are Great For:
- Walking, hiking & outdoor adventure
- Fishing & boating
- Tennis, pickleball & racket sports
- Travel & sightseeing
2. Sun Pants & Leggings
Sun pants are made with UPF-rated fabric that blocks harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage
What to look for in sun pants:
- Breathability
- Bug & insect protection
- Sustainability & durability
Use cases for sun pants:
- Hiking & outdoor adventures
- Beach & water activities
- Travel & sightseeing
- Gardening & yard work
3. Sun Hats
Sun hats provide shade for your face and neck and reduce sun exposure.
What to look for in a sun hat
- UPF protection
- Ventilation
- Extended brim
- Ease of care (wash & dry)
Use cases for a sun hat
- Beach & pool days
- Hiking & outdoor adventure
- Gardening & yard work
- Sporting events
4. Gloves & Arm Sleeves
Sun sleeves are made with UPF-rated fabric, blocking harmful UV rays and reducing the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
What to look for in a sun sleeve:
- Cooling & moisture-wicking fabric
- Comfort & flexibility
- Breathability
Use cases for a sun sleeve:
- Outdoor sports & activities
- Long drives
- Gardening & yard work
- Hiking & camping
""When it comes to sun protection, your clothes are your first line of defense."
Further Readings
→ How to choose the Yoga Mat based on your yoga level?
→ How to master the Yoga Hardest positions?
Best Fabrics for Sun Protection
Not all fabrics offer the same level of sun protection. Here are some of the best materials for sun-protective clothing:
Polyester: Naturally UV-resistant, lightweight, and moisture-wicking.
Nylon: Durable, quick-drying, and often used in activewear.
Lycra/Spandex: Provides stretch and flexibility, ideal for swimwear.
Bamboo: A natural option with breathable and moisture-wicking properties.
Cotton with UV Treatment: Regular cotton isn't highly protective, but UV-treated cotton can enhance protection.
Who should wear sun protection?
Outdoor Enthusiasts: Walkers, hikers, campers, runners and cyclists
Racket Sports Players: Tennis, pickelball and padel players
Gardeners and Farmers: Those who spend long hours under the sun.
How to Choose the Right Sun Shirt
When selecting a sun shirt, consider the following factors:
- UPF Rating: Opt for UPF 50+ for maximum protection.
- Material: Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort.
- Fit: A relaxed but snug fit ensures better coverage without being too tight.
- Ventilation: Mesh panels or moisture-wicking properties help keep you cool.
- Durability: Look for high-quality stitching and fade-resistant fabrics.
Caring for Sun-Protective Clothing
Proper care extends the life of your sun-protective garments:
Wash in Cold Water: Use mild detergent to preserve the fabric’s UV protection.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Bleach and fabric softeners can reduce UPF effectiveness.
Air Dry: Prolongs fabric life and maintains UV protection.
Store Properly: Keep clothing in a dry, cool place to prevent wear and tear.
The Author: JOJU
JOJU is a line of luxury sun protective clothing. We make buttery soft, ultra lightweight UPF 50+ sun shirts for men, women & teens. We believe in the power of time spent outdoors and the importance of sun safety. Our mission is to inspire people to enjoy the outdoors - safely and comfortably.
JOJU SUN SHIRTS
Frequently Asked Questions
Do sun shirts replace sunscreen?
No, sun shirts provide excellent protection but should be used in combination with sunscreen on exposed areas like your face and hands.
Can I wear a regular long-sleeve shirt for sun protection?
Regular shirts provide some coverage, but they lack UPF-rated fabric, meaning UV rays can still penetrate. A designated sun shirt offers better protection.
Do sun shirts work when wet?
Yes, most sun shirts continue to provide UV protection even when wet, but the level of protection may slightly decrease depending on the fabric.
Are sun shirts worth the investment?
Absolutely! They help protect your skin from UV damage, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
CONCLUSION
Sun shirts and sun-protective clothing are essential for anyone spending time outdoors. By choosing high-quality UPF-rated garments, you can enjoy outdoor activities while keeping your skin safe. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply running errands, sun-protective clothing is a simple yet effective way to stay protected. Invest in the right sun gear today and embrace the sun safely!
