Sun Protective Clothing
Tuesday April 10, 2007
SPF clothing - What is it? Does it work? Where can I get it? As summer approaches and outdoor activity levels increase, you should remind yourselves to take necessary precautions against overexposure to the sun and UV rays. Besides the shelves full of sun-block applications available at the stores, there is another product that is gaining popularity amongst health-conscious people, namely, sun protective clothing.
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Comments
Hi;
The information in this section is misleading — SPF is only a measure of the effectiveness of sunscreen, not sun protective clothing.
SPF measures the time it takes to get a sunburn–exposure to UVB–but does not measure blockage of the cancer-causing UVA.
UPF, ultraviolet protection factor, is the proper measure for clothing. UPF measures how much of *all* UV is blocked — 98% for a UPF 50+ garment.
I would be interested in knowing how this clothing also keeps you cool? I mean, does it? I would hope so. Protecting yourself from the sun is one thing, but you also do want to get a tan or – if you have problems with the sun – at least stay cool while you’re outside with everyone else.
Do the clothes stay clean? Are they easy to wash? Are they comfortable?
I do mountain climbing, and can see the benefit in sun protection clothing if you’re having a long day out. But, as I asked, will it keep me cool? And how durable is it– will it tear easily? Would love to know the answers to these questions.