Ready to discover the best sustainable sun-protective clothing brands for the entire family? Being sun-safe doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors – it just means being smart about how you enjoy the great outdoors. We researched the wide web to find the most ethical UPF 50 sun protection clothing companies for every aesthetic. Think UPF clothing women love to wear to the office, UV protection swimming suits for the entire family, and many sun protection shirts, hoodies, and trousers for men. We also added some tiny UPF 50 clothing for babies!
For more summer-approved finds, check out these 7 Sustainable & Organic Polos Perfect For Summer.
Best UPF 50+ Sustainable Sun Protective Clothing Brands in 2024
While basking in those warm rays feels amazing, it’s important to remember that the sun can be a bit of a fallen enemy. Sure, it gives us vitamin D, but too much of it can be extremely harmful. Did you know that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70 with more than 9,500 people getting diagnosed with skin cancer every day? Of course, 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Yet, 65% of participants in the most recent AAD admit that they often forget to reapply sunscreen. This is extremely dangerous if you consider that on average, a person’s risk for melanoma doubles if they have had more than five sunburns.
Additionally, UV exposure can accelerate the aging process, leading to wrinkles, age spots, and a leathery texture. In fact, 90% of visible skin changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun’s UV rays. Sadly, mineral sunscreen alone isn’t enough to effectively protect us from the sun. That’s where the best sustainable sun-protective clothing brands of 2024 come in.
We’ve reviewed and ranked the top 7 different ethical UPF 50 sun protection clothing companies for women, men, and kids. Read on to find stylish up 50 hats, UV protection swimming suits, men’s and women’s sun protection shirts, and plenty more lightweight sun protective clothing options.
P.S.: Your eyes aren’t safe from UV rays either as prolonged exposure can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. Protecting your peepers is just as important as shielding your skin.
So, make sure to check out these Sustainable Sunglass Brands For Men and the 9 most Eco-Friendly Sunglasses for Women too.
Does Sustainable Upf Clothing Make a Difference?
Absolutely! Unlike sunscreen, which can wear off after a few hours, sun-protective clothing offers consistent, all-day coverage without needing reapplication. Plus, you won’t have to worry about whether you’ve missed a spot or if your sunscreen has worn off after a swim! In addition, modern sun-protective clothing is designed to be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. Gone are the days of heavy, sweaty fabrics. Today’s UPF 50+ clothes are made with high-tech materials that keep you cool while providing top-notch protection.
The Skin Cancer Foundation states that clothing is the most effective form of sun protection. Why? Because it’s a barrier that doesn’t need to be reapplied, doesn’t wash off, and doesn’t degrade over time. According to their studies, wearing UPF 50+ clothing can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Since one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70, an extra layer of protection is worth it!
Another great study published in the journal Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine also found that fabrics with high UPF ratings significantly reduced UV exposure to the skin compared to conventional clothing. The researchers concluded that wearing UPF 50 sun protection clothing is an effective strategy to prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage.
Upf Clothing Rating Explained
UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, is the superhero rating system for fabrics. While SPF (Sun Protection Factor) tells you how long sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays, UPF measures how much UV radiation (both UVA and UVB) a fabric allows to reach your skin. Think of UPF as your fabric’s personal bodyguard against the sun’s harmful rays.
Let’s break it down with some easy numbers:
- UPF 15-20: Good protection. These fabrics block 93-95% of UV rays. Not too shabby, right?
- UPF 25-35: Very good protection. These block 96-97% of UV rays, stepping up the game.
- UPF 40-50+: Excellent protection. Fabrics in this range block 98-99% of UV rays. It’s like having a VIP pass to sun safety.
For instance, a shirt with a UPF 50 rating only lets 1/50th of the UV radiation pass through, effectively blocking 98% of those pesky rays. The higher the number, the better the protection – simple as that!
Choosing the Right UPF Clothing Rating
So, how do you pick the right UPF rating for your adventures? It depends on how much sun exposure you’re expecting:
- Everyday Activities: If you’re out for a casual stroll or running errands, a UPF 15-20 garment might be just fine. It gives you solid protection without feeling like overkill.
- Extended Outdoor Activities: Heading to the beach, going hiking, or spending the day at an outdoor festival? Opt for UPF 25-35 for added security.
- High Exposure Situations: If you’re planning on being out in the sun all day, like at a summer music festival, or doing water sports, go for UPF 40-50+. This level offers the best shield against UV radiation, giving you peace of mind.
Which Sustainable Fabrics Block Uv Rays?
Organic Cotton
First up, the classic go-to: is organic cotton. This fabric is not only gentle on the skin but also on the environment. Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, making it a healthier choice for farmers and the soil. But how does it fare against UV rays?
Organic cotton typically has a UPF rating of around 15-30, depending on the weave and color. While lighter and loosely woven cotton might not offer the highest protection, darker and tighter weaves can step up their game. Plus, it’s super breathable and comfy for those hot summer days.
You can check out this organic cotton clothing brand guide to find more information.
Hemp
Next, let’s talk hemp – the fabric that’s as tough as it sounds. Hemp is a sustainable superstar because it grows quickly, requires minimal water, and doesn’t need pesticides. It’s also naturally resistant to UV rays, with a UPF rating often around 30-50.
Hemp fibers are incredibly durable, meaning your hemp clothing will last longer, which is great for both your wallet and the planet. It’s also naturally antibacterial and breathable, keeping you fresh and protected under the sun.
Here’s a list of the best hemp clothing brands you need to know about.
Recycled Polyester
Recycled polyester is made from post-consumer plastic bottles and other waste, giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. This eco-friendly fabric often boasts a high UPF rating, typically around 30-50+, due to its tight weave and synthetic nature.
What’s more, recycled polyester is lightweight, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking – perfect for outdoor activities and sports. Just imagine, those plastic bottles you recycled could come back as your favorite sun-safe workout shirt!
This guide to recycled and upcycled clothing brands is a great place to start.
Bamboo
Bamboo fabric is another eco-friendly option gaining popularity. Bamboo grows incredibly fast, requires little water, and doesn’t need pesticides – a true renewable resource. It’s naturally UV resistant, often providing a UPF rating of 20-50, depending on the processing and weave.
Bamboo fabric is super soft, breathable, and has natural antibacterial properties, making it a comfy and clean choice for your sun protection wardrobe. Plus, its moisture-wicking ability keeps you cool and dry all day long.
Here are the top 13 bamboo clothing brands you probably never heard of.
Tencel (Lyocell)
Tencel, also known as lyocell, is a sustainable fabric made from eucalyptus trees. The production process of Tencel is eco-friendly, using less water and non-toxic solvents that are recycled in a closed-loop system. This fabric is not only sustainable but also effective in blocking UV rays, typically offering a UPF rating of around 30-50.
Tencel is incredibly soft, breathable, and gentle on the skin, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. It also boasts excellent moisture management, keeping you cool and comfortable in the sun.
Top Sustainable Sun Protective Clothing Brands With UPF 50+
1. Tasc Performance UPF 50 Sunblock Shirts
The American sustainable clothing brand Tasc Performance offers 3 different Sun Protective Clothing options for men and women. The long-sleeved t-shirt, the hoodie, and the zip-up.
Their Sunblock Shirts lineup has a UPF rating of 50+, meaning that they can effectively block out nearly 97.5% of harmful UV radiation without relying on chemical finishes – because who needs those, right?
To top it all off, all men’s and women’s sun protection shirts wick keeping you cool and dry even on the hottest days. Plus, they have anti-odor properties, so you can stay fresh no matter how intense your adventure gets.
Best for: Sun protection shirts for women and men
Price: From $54
Sustainable materials: Bamboo Viscose, Organic Cotton, and MOSOtech 160gsm
2. Jetty Life 30 and 50+ UPF Protection Shirts
Jetty is a cult-favorite B-certified corporation, founded on our love for riding waves and adventure. Their collection is packed with beautiful, t-shirts, sweatshirts, flannel, boardshorts, jackets, outerwear, and accessories for men, women, and kids. But this time, we’ll focus on their ethical sun-protective clothing for men and women. You can find Performance tee shirts, long sleeves, and hooded long sleeves adorned with minimalist yet fun graphics.
We especially love Jetty because, through their Jetty Rock Foundation, they thrive on supporting coastal communities. Thus far, they’ve donated millions of dollars to clean water initiatives and disaster relief efforts which is simply amazing!
Best for: Sun protection hoodies
Price: From $54.95
Sustainable materials: REPREVE™ Recycled Polyester made from plastic bottles and spandex
3. Patagonia Fair Trade Sun Protection Clothing
We have a soft spot for Patagonia and their durable outdoor clothing and gear for climbing, surfing, skiing and snowboarding, fly fishing, and trail running. However, that doesn’t mean that their 40+ UPF 50 sun protection clothing for kids, men, and women isn’t meant to be worn daily while running errands in the city.
You can find stylish button-up shirts with 40+ UPF sun protection, performance hoodies made with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, and ultra-comfy women’s leggings.
We especially love the Quandary 40+ UPF Pants because they are made from
96% NetPlus® postconsumer recycled nylon made from recycled fishing nets. Parents can also find adorable little t-shirts for babies! Most items are also manufactured ethically in a fair trade certified factory.
Best for: Sun-protective clothing for babies and long-sleeve shirts for adults
Price: From $29
Sustainable materials: Modal, recycled polyester, NetPlus, non-toxic DWR
4. Coolibar Lightweight Sun Protective Clothing for Women, Men, and Kids
For more than two decades, Coolibar has been knwon as one of the best ethical sun protection clothing brands for every member of the family. What makes them so amazing? Their upf clothing has the ability to block a whopping 98% of UVA/UVB rays. No wonder why they are Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation.
Coolibar uses an innovative fabric called Moduri. It’s an eco-friendly, high-stretch material made from plant-based fibers that delivers UPF 50+ comfort. Also, Coolibar’s second collection ups the ante with ZnO™ fabric, which features GOTS-certified organic cotton and sustainable bamboo.
This blend is not only soft and breathable but also packed with UV protection. Their lineup includes wraps, jackets, tunics, polos, t-shirts as well UPF 50 hats, and the best upf swimwear babies, men, and women swear by.
Best for: UV protection swimming suits
Price: From $34
Sustainable materials: Plant-based Moduri fabric, and ZnO™ fabric
5. Prana Fair Trade UPF Clothing and Sun-Protective Tops
Meet Prana, one of the most trusted sustainable fashion brands in 2024 with a big line of Bluesign-certified sun protection clothing for men and women. If you’re on the hunt for figure-flattering, oh-so-stylish pieces, look no further.
Their UPF 50+ collection is a sun-smart eco lover’s dream. Think crop tops, sports bras, hoodies, tunics, and shirts that are not only chic but also designed to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It’s fashion with a purpose, and it’s all made in Fair Trade Certified factories. Last but not least, they ship all their fabulous UPF 50 sun protection clothing in plastic-free packaging. As for their Fair Trade program, it has successfully given back over $400,000 to more than 33,000 workers around the globe.
Best for: UPF 50+ sports bras and tank tops
Price: From $35.40
Sustainable materials: Recycled Polyester, LYCRA® Elastane
6. Rei Spf 50+ Sun Protection Clothes
Searching for sustainable sun protection clothing that’s as vibrant and dynamic as your active lifestyle? REI is your go-to e-destination for UPF clothing that proves sun safety doesn’t have to be dull.
We absolutely love their reversible swimsuit tops – perfect for doubling up on style and sun protection without missing a beat. For those cooler days or post-workout chills, their pastel-colored hoodies and ultra-comfy shorts are both sun-safe and eye-catching.
And let’s not forget their chic hats and versatile trousers that merge fashion with function in a sun-protective package. With over 800 products currently available, REI offers a stunning selection from top sustainable brands. You can fine-tune your search by fabric, sustainability efforts, best uses, or features, making it easier than ever to find your ideal gear.
Best for: upf swimwear
Price: From $29.83
Sustainable materials: Blue design-Certifed And Organic Material Options
7. Luminora Uv Protective Clothing for Women
For the best Lightweight sun-protective clothing, check out Luminora. Tested and recommended by renowned skin cancer surgeon and co-founder Dr. Ali Hendi, Luminora is your go-to destination for chic UPF 50 sun protection clothing designed for both fitness and leisure.
The collection runs the gamut from athletic UV protection clothing to luxurious resort wear. You can find high-quality leggings, sleek long-sleeve tops, breezy tank tops, elegant kaftans, versatile jumpsuits, and lightweight dresses. Each piece is crafted to keep you stylishly shielded with their innovative Luminology Technology™, which delivers SPF 50+ protection. But it doesn’t stop there.
Luminora’s fabric is infused with all-natural plant-based oils, bringing a host of benefits to your wardrobe. This unique blend not only provides top-tier UV protection but also acts as an antibacterial agent. And if that wasn’t enough, their fabric is moisture-repellent, wrinkle-resistant, and silky soft – perfect for any activity or occasion.
Best for: Sun-protective vacation clothing
Price: From $19+
Sustainable materials: Luminology Technology ® Upf 50+ Fabric With Plant-Based Oil
Sustainable UPF 50 sun protection clothing FAQs
What color is best for UPF clothing?
While lighter colors like white, pastels, and yellows are often cooler in hot weather, they typically offer less UV protection. Light colors reflect more sunlight, but they can let more UV rays pass through the fabric. However, with advancements in fabric technology, even some light-colored UPF clothing can offer high protection if they are made from tightly woven or treated fabrics.
Some UPF clothing, regardless of color, is treated with UV-inhibiting substances that boost their protective capabilities. These treatments can make even lighter-colored fabrics highly effective at blocking UV rays.
Does UPF clothing work when wet?
For natural fibers like cotton or linen, getting wet usually decreases their UPF rating. When these fabrics are wet, they can stretch and the fibers can spread out, allowing more UV rays to penetrate through to your skin. For example, a dry cotton shirt with a UPF 15 rating might drop significantly when wet.
Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon tend to retain their UPF protection better when wet. These fabrics are often tightly woven and less likely to change structure when soaked, maintaining their UV-blocking capabilities. In fact, some swimwear and activewear made from these materials are designed to offer consistent UPF protection whether dry or wet.
Many modern UPF garments are made from blended or specially treated fabrics that hold up well under wet conditions. Treatments that imbue fabrics with UV-blocking properties can help maintain a high UPF rating even when the clothing is wet.
In Conclusion
Here you have it – the 7 best sustainable sun-protective clothing brands in 2024. Wearing UPF clothing is important for everyone – men, women, and babies – because it provides essential protection against harmful UV rays. Remember, exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation can lead to serious health issues such as skin cancer, premature aging, and painful sunburns. SPF clothing offers a reliable layer of defense, reducing the risk of these problems by blocking a significant amount of UV radiation. So why not keep you and your entire family safe with some ultra-stylish sun protection shirts, hoodies, trousers, and swimwear?
