Our life is spent outdoors getting out there any way we can so the importance of safeguarding our skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays cannot be overstated. Whether you're hitting the trails, cycling, or participating in team sports, understanding the significance of UV protection in athletic apparel is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the sun.
The Sun's Impact on the Skin
Before delving into UV protection in sportswear, it's crucial to recognize the potential harm posed by UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer and melanoma. Athletes who spend extended periods outdoors are particularly vulnerable, making protective measures essential and in Australia particularly the UV rating is high even when it's cloudy.
UV Protection in Athletic Apparel
Athletic apparel designed with UV protection in mind acts as a shield against harmful UV radiation, mitigating the risks associated with sun exposure during outdoor activities. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is the standard measurement for the effectiveness of fabrics in blocking UV rays. The higher the UPF rating, the greater the level of protection provided. All our garments offer a UPF rating of 50+ (unless stated otherwise, some top tier performance fabrics are an exception).
Choosing the Right Fabrics
To maximize UV protection, opt for fabrics specially engineered for their ability to block UV rays. Polyester and nylon blends are popular choices, often treated to enhance their UPF rating. These fabrics not only provide effective sun protection but also offer breathability and moisture-wicking properties, ensuring comfort during rigorous physical activities. The great news is that all our fabrics provide a level of UV protection, most are 50+.
Benefits of UV-Protective Athletic Apparel:
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Skin Safety: UV-protective apparel creates a physical barrier between the skin and the sun, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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Temperature Regulation: Quality UV-protective fabrics are designed to regulate body temperature, keeping athletes cool even in the heat of the sun.
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Durability: UV-resistant materials often boast increased durability, with the ability to maintain their protective qualities even after repeated exposure to sunlight and washing.
For anyone getting involved in outdoor activities, investing in UV-protective sportswear is a proactive step towards ensuring both performance and well-being. From lightweight long-sleeved shirts to moisture-wicking hats, a comprehensive approach to sun protection is achievable without compromising on comfort or style. Often times a longer sleeve, or greater protection does make it cooler, despite what you would originally think. For rashies, a long sleeve rashie worn in the water creates more cooling on the arms in the harsh sun than a short sleeve rashie would. Same for tri suits, the addition of sleeves allows you to control your temperature more by adding water onto your shoulders at each aid station or adding ice onto your shoulders.
You no longer need to look like a dork to protect yourself from UV
We've come a long way from fluro zinc slapped on your nose. Modern sportswear has successfully merged fashion with functionality, offering a wide array of UV-protective designs that cater to diverse tastes. You no longer need to sacrifice style for sun safety; they can embrace vibrant colors, patterns, and innovative designs while prioritizing their skin's health. With our custom sportswear, we work with you to bring your brand or team vision to life, or to create something special just for you to mark a special occasion.
As outdoor activities continue to be a cornerstone of an active lifestyle, the significance of UV protection in sportwear cannot be ignored. By choosing garments with a high UPF rating and incorporating them into our fitness wardrobe, we not only safeguard our skin but also set the stage for a more enjoyable and sustainable outdoor experience. UV-protective athletic apparel stands as a testament to the evolution of sports fashion, emphasizing that protection and style can seamlessly coexist in the pursuit of a healthy, active lifestyle.
All our fabrics provide UV protection, we're an Aussie business, our life is outdoors, so it's imperative we only provide options that protect our customers.
