What does UPF clothing mean?

2 min read

UPF clothing is also known as sun protective or sun protection clothing. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and is the sun protective rating for fabrics.

UPF clothing is a form of clothing that utilises fabrics which are sun protective. UPF clothing also utilises functional design which means that less skin is exposed to the sun.

UPF is for clothing what SPF is for sunscreen. In Australia, the UPF rating for fabrics is granted by the Australian Government once they have undertaken their own testing process. Australia set the global standard for sun protective clothing when they were the first country in the World to formally test the UPF rating of fabrics in the 1990s.

The UPF rating highlights the amount of UV blocked by the fabric in question. So, UPF of 5 indicates that 1/5th or 20% of UV radiation is able to penetrate the fabric. Put another way 80% of UV is blocked by a UPF of 5. Regular clothing does provide sun protection, but can still allow a significant proportion of UV radiation through to the skin.

Whereas, UPF 50+ which is the highest UPF rating achievable in Australia indicates that up to 1/50th or 2% of UV radiation is able to penetrate the fabric. That is, at least 98% of UV is blocked by a UPF rating of 50+. Medical experts in Australia recommend UPF 50+ sun protective clothing as the best way to prevent sunburn, skin cancer and skin ageing.

Solbari is the leading sun protective clothing brand in Australia with customers in over 70 countries.

All of the Solbari fabrics have been awarded a UPF 50+ rating by the Australian Government. Solbari offers an award-winning range of UPF sun protective clothing, broad-brim sun hats, UPF arm sleeves and sun umbrellas.

You can find out more about Solbari's certified UPF50+ sun protective range by clicking the links below:
Women UPF50+
Men UPF50+
Sun hats UPF50+
Accessories UPF50+

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Content Disclaimer: All content on the Solbari website is for informational purposes only. It does not consitute and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions about your health or a medical condition.

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