What Is UPF Clothing—And Do You Need It?

When most people think about sun protection, sunscreen is the go-to solution. But if you're spending extended time outdoors—hiking, running, paddling, or just walking the dog—you may want to add another line of defense: UPF clothing.

If you’ve seen tags that say “UPF 50+” on outdoor shirts, hats, or hoodies and wondered what that means, you’re not alone.

In this post, we’ll break down:

• What UPF clothing is
• How it compares to SPF
• Who should wear it
• What to look for when buying
• And whether you need it for your next adventure

🧢 What Does UPF Mean?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It’s a rating system used for clothing that tells you how effectively a fabric blocks ultraviolet (UV) rays from reaching your skin.

• UPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV rays
• UPF 50 blocks about 98%
• UPF 50+ is considered excellent protection

The higher the UPF rating, the better the protection.

💡 Think of UPF as sunscreen for your clothing—only you don’t have to reapply it every 2 hours.

🧴 UPF vs. SPF: What’s the Difference?

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) applies to lotions, sprays, and other topical products. It only refers to protection against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn.

UPF, on the other hand, applies to fabric and measures protection against both UVA and UVB rays—meaning it offers broader protection.

🧗 Who Should Wear UPF Clothing?

UPF apparel is a smart option for anyone who spends time outside—but it’s especially helpful for:

• Outdoor athletes (runners, hikers, paddlers, cyclists)
• Children, whose skin is more sensitive to UV damage
• People with fair skin or a history of sunburn
• Anyone at high elevations or near water/snow, where UV exposure increases
• Travelers visiting tropical or sunny climates
• Those looking for an easy, low-maintenance sun solution

In short: if you’re outdoors a lot, UPF gear is worth it.

☀️ Benefits of UPF Clothing

✅ No need to reapply like sunscreen
✅ Covers hard-to-reach areas like your back or shoulders
✅ Long-lasting protection even when sweating or swimming
✅ Ideal for sensitive skin or those allergic to sunscreen ingredients
✅ More eco-friendly—no sunscreen chemicals in water systems

👕 What to Look for in UPF Gear

Not all clothing is created equal. Regular clothes can block some UV rays, but dedicated UPF apparel is specially woven and treated for consistent, rated protection.

Here’s what to consider when shopping:

1. UPF Rating

• Aim for UPF 30 or higher
• UPF 50+ offers maximum protection

2. Fit & Coverage

• Long sleeves, high collars, and wide brims provide better coverage
• Choose looser fits to allow airflow while maintaining sun protection

3. Material

• Look for tightly woven fabrics
• Synthetic blends like polyester, nylon, and spandex often outperform cotton in UV protection

4. Moisture-Wicking and Breathability

• Especially important for summer hiking or trail running
• Look for mesh panels or ventilated zones

5. Style Versatility

• Many brands now make everyday styles with UPF—think polos, dresses, joggers, and button-downs

🏞️ When to Wear UPF Clothing

• On trails during hikes or runs
• On the water (kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing)
• At the beach or while camping
• During long drives or road trips—yes, UV rays penetrate glass
• At elevation, where the sun is more intense
• Even on cloudy days—UV rays are still active

Remember: you don’t need to be at the beach to get sun damage. Everyday exposure adds up, especially if you’re regularly outside.

🔄 Does UPF Wash Out Over Time?

Most quality UPF clothing is designed to retain its sun-protective properties for 30–50 washes or more, especially if the fabric is woven for protection rather than chemically treated.

Tips to extend lifespan:

• Wash in cold water
• Avoid fabric softeners or bleach
• Air dry when possible
• Follow care instructions on the label

Final Thoughts: Do You Need It?

If you spend even a few hours a week outside, UPF clothing is a smart, low-effort investment in long-term skin health. It’s comfortable, breathable, and eliminates the mess and guesswork of sunscreen.

Think of it as a foundational piece of your outdoor kit—just like your trail shoes or hydration pack.