Whether you're going on a hike or lounging poolside, cover up with these sun protection clothing picks for a burn-free summer.
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10 Sun Protective Clothing Picks for Sunblock-Free Fun in the Sun
Updated on Sep. 26, 2024
Sunscreen isn’t your only defense against the sun’s harsh UV rays—it’s not even the best. “Clothing is the single most effective form of sun protection,” says dermatologist Dr. Kate Braunlich, DO, FAAD. “It provides a convenient, consistent shield.”
While layering in the heat isn’t ideal, there are cooling sun-protection clothing options that safeguard against the sun. Each item in this guide, from shirts and light jackets to leggings, offers UPF protection for effective sun defense.
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Uniqlo UV Protection Pocketable Parka
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Ubestyle UPF 50+ High-Waist Leggings
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L.L.Bean Sand Beach Cover-Up
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Patagonia Kids’ Capilene UPF Hoody
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Athleta UPF Relaxed Jacket
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Lululemon Multi-Sport Sun Hat
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Eddie Bauer Men’s UPF Long-Sleeve Shirt
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Summersalt The Waterside Ruffle Rash Guard
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Beyond Yoga On the Down Low T-Shirt
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Uniqlo UV Protection Pocketable Parka
Rain or shine, this water-repellent parka is a must as you’re headed out the door. It’s available in six colors, from universal neutrals to striking brights. Choose from a wide range of sizes too.
We especially love the versatility of this sun protection clothing, which is lightweight enough to wear on warm days—protecting you from the sun with UPF 40—or keeping you dry on drizzly days. It’s a perfect rain jacket replacement.
Ubestyle UPF 50+ High-Waist Leggings
If you live in activewear (no judgment here—we do too!), upgrade to a pair of leggings with UPF protection. These Amazon leggings, which pack UPF 50+ protection, are a must-have for an al fresco yoga session, a stroll along the beach or simply day-to-day wear. Pick from 14 colors and up to a size XXL.
L.L.Bean Sand Beach Cover-Up
Easy, breezy beach cover-ups are beautiful, but most won’t protect you from the sun’s scorching rays. That’s where this L.L.Bean cover-up comes in handy. It’s lightweight and breathable, with fast-drying and moisture-wicking fabric. It features UPF 50+, the highest-rated sun protection possible.
Patagonia Kids’ Capilene UPF Hoody
It’s hard to slather sunscreen on wiggly kids. So, give them an extra layer of UPF (and yourself an extra sigh of relief) with sun protection clothing, like this pint-sized Patagonia sweatshirt. Not only does it have 40+ UPF protection, but it dries quickly and keeps kids cool in all types of weather. Pack this in your beach bag, as the fun colors are also sure to help your kids stand out on a busy beach.
Athleta UPF Relaxed Jacket
What’s not to like about this Athleta jacket? It features UPF 50+ protection, sweat-wicking capabilities and a goes-with-everything style that tops a variety of summer outfits. Best yet, this lightweight spring jacket is available in sizes XXS to 3X as well as regular, tall and petite sizing. It’s all but guaranteed you’ll find a perfect fit.
Lululemon Multi-Sport Sun Hat
Keys? Check. Wallet? Check. Phone? Check. How about reel-safe sunscreen and a serious sun hat? Add this sweat-wicking Lululemon hat, which is available in beige or black, to your everyday must-haves. It’s lightweight and flexible, making it a breeze to throw in your beach bag or suitcase. The UPF 40+ protection is an added bonus too.
Eddie Bauer Men’s UPF Long-Sleeve Shirt
Sun protection clothing comes in all shapes and styles, including men’s long-sleeve shirts. This Eddie Bauer Guide 2.0 shirt is perfect for fishing, backyard barbecuing or simply everyday summer wear. No need to worry about overheating, either. The shirt’s moisture-wicking technology keeps the fabric off your skin even on the stickiest of days. (Just don’t forget a layer of natural sunscreen.)
On Sale
Summersalt The Waterside Ruffle Rash Guard
Whether you’re headed to a pool party or building sandcastles with your family, wear this ruffle rash guard over your favorite swimsuit. (Summersalt offers a wide assortment of flattering swimsuits for women of all sizes and ages.) The rash guard spares you from the sun with UPF 50+ protection. It also stands up to all the harsh summer materials like salt, sand, sunscreen and chlorine.
Beyond Yoga On the Down Low T-Shirt
You can never have enough basic white tees, especially when talking about sun protection clothing. This Beyond Yoga T-shirt features a flattering curved hem (great for pairing with leggings, jeans or a skirt) and UPF 40 fabric that shields you from harmful UV rays. Basic? Not so much.
What to look for when buying sun protection clothing
UPF rating
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, indicating how much UV radiation can penetrate fabric. The higher the UPF rating, the better the protection. Here’s how different levels work:
- UPF 15-24: blocks 93.3% to 95.9% of UV rays.
- UPF 25-39: blocks 96% to 97.4% of UV rays.
- UPF 40-50+: blocks 97.5% to 99% of UV rays, with UPF 50+ being ideal.
Fabric material
- Tightly woven fabrics: “A tightly-woven piece with smaller holes between the thread, like denim, offers more protection than one with an open weave, like a crocheted shawl,” says Braunlich.
- Natural vs. synthetic fabrics: “Synthetic materials are better for UV protection than natural ones,” says Braunlich. They can be more tightly woven than even the tightest of natural fabrics.
- Moisture-wicking: This fabric may not directly enhance sun protection, but it increases comfort by absorbing sweat and helping cool you down in the sun.
Color and dye
Dark colors like black block more UV radiation than light shades like white. Thicker fabrics also offer more protection. Even without UPF-rated fabric, a dark shirt will provide better coverage than a light one.
Fit and coverage
More coverage equals better protection. Long sleeves and pants cover more skin than short-sleeved shirts or shorts. Loose clothing may also be more comfortable in the heat, even if it doesn’t offer more protection than tight-fitting garments.
Breathability and comfort
Some UV-protective fabrics can be less breathable. However, you can find lightweight options with vents for better air circulation, making them more comfortable in the sun.
Durability and longevity
To prolong your clothing’s lifespan, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, especially with performance fabrics that might require special treatment. UV-protective swimwear or outdoor gear should also be chlorine—and saltwater-resistant to avoid wear from pool or ocean use.
Additional features
Look for cooling technology, antimicrobial properties and pockets for convenience. Some garments offer sweat-wicking or vents for enhanced comfort during outdoor activities.
Certifications
For verified protection, look for The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation, which ensures the fabric’s UPF rating is legitimate. UPF 30 is good, while UPF 50+ is ideal.
Ease of care
Most UPF-rated clothing is machine washable. However, check care labels for best practices. Some fabrics may be quick-drying but require hang drying or low-heat settings to maintain their protective properties.
Why you should trust us
Megan McCarty is a full-time writer specializing in fashion, beauty and wellness. She covers everything from sun protection clothing to winter coats. Her work has appeared in InStyle, Well + Good and Byrdie.
We consulted Dr. Kate Braunlich, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist with expertise in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology and spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation. She has extensive experience in skin cancer prevention and sun protection, supported by her fellowship in complex medical dermatology at the University of Florida. Dr. Braunlich’s passion for outdoor activities and her professional background make her a trusted authority on sun protection clothing.
Sean Tirman, Content Updates Editor at Reader’s Digest, updated and contributed research to this piece. Sean has written shopping guides since 2016 and is a former associate editor at Gear Patrol.
How we found the best sun protection clothing
We prioritized clothing with verified UPF ratings, focusing on trusted brands with strong reviews. Our selection includes various styles, garment types and price ranges, balancing sun protection, comfort and value to create a comprehensive guide for UV-protective apparel.
FAQ
What clothing is best for sun protection?
There isn’t one garment or brand that stands out above all others for sun protection. Instead, focus on factors like fabric type, color, UPF rating and coverage.
“A tightly woven piece with smaller holes between the thread, like denim, offers more protection than one with an open weave, like a crocheted shawl,” says Braunlich. “Thicker and darker fabrics are more protective than thin, light fabrics, and synthetic materials are better for UV protection than natural ones.”
What is the best fabric to protect skin from sunlight?
For optimal protection, choose thick, dark, synthetic fabrics with a high UPF rating.
Does sun protective clothing really work?
“Yes. Clothing is the single most effective form of sun protection,” says Braunlich. “It is a convenient and consistent shield. The level of protection remains the same throughout the day, and there is no need to reapply every two hours like you would with sunscreen.”
