How to Know if Your Clothes Are Protecting You from the Sun

Most of us know we should wear sunscreen to avoid sunburns, but did you know that some types of clothing can also help protect your skin from the sun? While any clothing provides some barrier between you and the sun, certain features in UPF-rated clothing can make a much bigger difference in how well your skin is being protected.

Here are some clothing features to look for to ensure the best protection from the sun.

Clothing features that protect from the sun.

Go Bold with Color

Deep or vibrant colors like navy, black, or red tend to absorb more UV radiation than pale or pastel shades. That means they’re keeping more rays from reaching your skin.

2. Pay Attention to the Weave

The tighter the weave, the better. Materials like canvas, denim, or technical performance fabrics block more sun than thin, loosely woven fabrics through which you can see light. Here’s a quick test: Hold your fabric up to a window. If light passes through easily, so can UV rays.

3. Fabric Type Matters

Natural fibers like unbleached cotton have built-in UV-fighting properties. At the same time, synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon can do a great job of blocking rays, especially when they have a slight sheen that reflects sunlight. Some fabrics can be treated with UV-blocking agents for extra defense.

4. Loose is Better Than Tight

While you might prefer the look of form-fitting styles, when fabric stretches, it allows more UV light to pass through. Looser fits can keep you cooler and uphold a stronger UV barrier.

5. Look for the Label

Clothing labeled with a UPF rating tells you how much UV protection it provides. A UPF of 50+ blocks 98% of harmful rays. All Crown Cover apparel meets this golden standard of protection.

6. Cover More, Worry Less

The more skin your outfit covers, the less chance UV rays have to do damage. Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and high necklines all offer more protection than shorts and tank tops.

7. Watch Out for Water and Sweat

Even high-UPF fabrics can lose effectiveness when wet or stretched. That’s why it’s essential to wear purpose-built sun clothing that’s designed to perform in real-world conditions.

Crown Cover UPF 50+ Protection

At Crown Cover, we design every piece of clothing with UPF 50+ protection built in so you can enjoy the sun without second-guessing your outfit. Check out all of our UPF-protective clothing in our online store at www.crowncover.life/shop.