What is UPF? The Truth About UV-Protective Clothing
Sunlight is an essential part of outdoor activities. Not only does it provide necessary vitamin D, but it also brings positive energy and a sense of exhilaration. However, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause sunburn and skin damage.
In the past, sunscreen was the go-to solution for UV protection. However, with technological advancements, UPF sun-protective clothing has emerged, offering superior skin protection. Join Columbia in exploring UPF clothing and answering common questions about this innovative technology!
1 - What is UPF?
UPF stands for "Ultraviolet Protection Factor." It is a measure of how well a fabric protects against UV exposure from the sun. The higher the UPF rating, the more UV rays are blocked.
For example: Clothing with a UPF rating of 50 allows only 1/50 (or 2%) of UV rays to reach the skin.
2 - How is UPF Different from SPF?
UPF (UV protection factor for fabrics) and SPF (UV protection factor for sunscreen) are two different measurements. UPF measures the amount of UV radiation passing through fabric, while SPF applies only to cosmetic products like sunscreen. Recent comparative studies have shown that UPF clothing provides superior skin protection compared to sunscreen and is recommended as a "foundation" for UV defense.
3 - What is UPF Clothing?
UPF clothing (or UPF-rated clothing) is made from fabrics tested and rated for UV protection. These specialized fabrics are designed to absorb and disperse UV rays, protecting the skin from sunburn and damage (for areas covered by the clothing).
To help consumers make informed choices, The Skin Cancer Foundation awards its "Seal of Recommendation" to products with a minimum UPF rating of 30. UPF 50+ is considered "excellent protection."
4 - How Does UPF Clothing Work?
UPF clothing protects the skin by blocking UV rays through the fabric itself, rather than applying a sunscreen coating on the surface. The material is optimized from fiber, weave, to fabric. This means sun protection is integrated into the fabric structure, making it more durable than sunscreen. However, it still ensures breathability and lightweight comfort.
5 - The Best UPF Fabric Technologies
Omni-Shade™ is Columbia Sportswear’s first sun-protection product line and is also the fabric used in research conducted by OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University, USA). The product has been proven to be more effective than sunscreen. Recently, this technology has been upgraded with Omni-Shade™ Broad Spectrum, adding broad-spectrum protection to the existing UPF technology.
What is broad-spectrum protection?
UV rays include both UVA and UVB. Previously, sun protection technologies mainly focused on UVB—the main cause of sunburn. However, protecting the skin from both UVA and UVB, known as broad-spectrum protection, is becoming increasingly important. Omni-Shade™ has always provided broad-spectrum protection, but Omni-Shade™ Broad Spectrum enhances this even further.
6 - Does UPF Clothing Wick Sweat or Provide Cooling?
UPF fabrics do not inherently wick moisture or provide cooling, but Columbia Sportswear offers many product lines that combine UPF technology with moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating technologies for enhanced comfort. For example, the Silver Ridge™ line integrates Omni-Wick™ moisture-wicking technology with broad-spectrum protection from Omni-Shade™ Broad Spectrum. Some products even incorporate cooling technologies like Omni-Freeze Zero™ or Omni-Freeze Zero Ice™.
7 - Is UPF Clothing Effective Underwater?
Yes, UPF clothing works very well underwater. It is even more effective than sunscreen because it does not wash off, making it ideal for activities such as boating, fishing, or surfing. Additionally, it is an environmentally friendly choice, as some sunscreen ingredients can be harmful to aquatic ecosystems.
Example: Combining moisture-wicking technology Omni-Wick™ with broad-spectrum protection Omni-Shade™ Broad Spectrum. Some products also feature cooling technologies like Omni-Freeze Zero™ or Omni-Freeze Zero Ice™.
8 - How Long Does UPF Clothing Protect Against UV Rays?
UPF clothing remains effective throughout its lifespan. “Sun protection is integrated into the fibers, weave, and fabric structure, so it does not fade, wash out, or wear off,” explains Mr. Beckham.
9 - Do You Still Need Sunscreen When Wearing UPF Clothing?
UPF clothing only provides sun protection for the areas it covers. Therefore, it does not completely replace sunscreen. You should still apply sunscreen to exposed areas such as your face, hands, and legs.
10 - Is UPF Clothing Unnecessary in Winter?
Not true—UV rays can be harmful year-round, even in winter. In Vietnam, winter sunlight can still damage the skin, especially on clear days. Additionally, outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or going to the beach in winter can lead to prolonged UV exposure without realizing it. Therefore, don’t forget to equip yourself with UPF clothing and sunscreen to protect your skin all year round!
These are essential insights about UV protection clothing that you shouldn’t overlook. Visit Columbia today to find the best sun-protective apparel and get ready for your next adventure!