Outdoor companies often provide clothing designed to protect from ultraviolet (UV) rays while enjoying nature. Such clothing often contains chemical compounds or dyes designed to absorb radiation; others utilize dense construction and dark colors as barriers against harmful UV rays.

Fabric type and color also play an integral part in blocking UV rays from reaching the skin, with darker hues offering greater protection, while tighter weaves offer superior coverage than looser ones.

Darker Colors

Studies around the world have confirmed that dark colors provide greater protection from UV rays by absorbing them instead of allowing them to penetrate skin, making dark-colored shirts, pants or skirts more protective than lighter ones. This holds especially true when worn against darker hues like black, navy blue, indigo or deep reds.

Material and construction also play a vital role in UPF ratings. Fabrics woven tightly, with few spaces between threads, offer greater protection, while treatments like chemicals or dyes may increase UV absorption. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon typically rank higher on UPF scale than natural materials like cotton or silk.

Noting the decrease in UPF rating as fabric becomes wet can be crucial; for example, a UPF 30 shirt provides approximately half as much protection when wet as when dry – that is why it is essential to only wear such clothing outdoors when spending time in direct sunlight.

Denser Weave

Tighter fabric weaves help block UV radiation. Tightly woven fabrics like poplin cotton, linen and wool offer sun protection as do silks; thread count can also provide an indication of sun protection; if a piece of clothing can be seen through, its UPF rating may be low.

UPF ratings are determined in laboratories, and indicate how much UVA and UVB rays from the sun pass through fabric. A UPF of 30 or greater provides effective protection; 50+ is even better.

Tightly woven natural fabrics, UV-blocking synthetic textiles and dark or bright colors all help protect against sun damage. However, remember that their UPF rating decreases when wetted, stretched or tightened and washing may even increase it by shrinking holes in its weave – all good reasons to carry multiple UV protective clothes daily!

Sunglasses

Selecting sunglasses that offer UV protection can protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light and reduce eye strain in bright conditions, as well as help protect the delicate skin surrounding your eyes from wrinkles and cancer. Look for wraparound frames which prevent sunlight from shining into your eyes through edges of lenses; consider purchasing ones with polarized lenses, mirror coatings or UV protection labeled on their hangtag or price sticker for optimal protection.

Lens materials like glass, polycarbonate plastic and nylon all offer distinct advantages in terms of optical clarity, impact resistance and weight. Most nonprescription sunglasses use polycarbonate plastic lenses which are impact resistant yet lighter than glass ones; many also come polarized to reduce reflective glare on surfaces such as pavement, chromed car parts or water surfaces – often combined with UV blocking substances for maximum eye protection.

Shade

Sun exposure is necessary to produce vitamin D and develop a natural tan; however, too much sunlight exposure can be hazardous and lead to skin cancer. Wearing protective gear during outdoor adventures will protect you from UV rays which penetrate even light-colored clothing and reflect off water, snow, sand or clouds and penetrate light clothing layers as well.

Densely woven fabrics such as those found in REI Co-op’s Sahara Shade hoodie provide more UV protection as they block out radiation that would otherwise reach your skin. You can test a fabric’s UV protection by holding it up against light – if UV rays can easily pass through, this indicates it doesn’t provide sufficient UV shielding.

Other textile treatments can enhance UV protection in clothing. OBA, such as those found in many detergents including Rit Sun Guard, has been recognized by The Skin Cancer Foundation as being effective at reducing UVR transmittance; however, more research must be completed to ensure these additives do not pose any unforeseen health risks.