UPF 50 sun protection: what is it and why is it important?

  • UPF 50 Sun Protection: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?

    Fishing, boating, ATV riding, hiking and other outdoor activities often mean spending long hours under direct sunlight. While most people are familiar with sunscreen, fewer know about specialized clothing designed to protect against harmful UV radiation.

    That is why more and more outdoor enthusiasts choose clothing with UPF 50+ protection, helping to shield the skin from damaging ultraviolet rays.

    1What Is UPF?

    UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is a rating that indicates how effectively a fabric blocks ultraviolet radiation before it reaches the skin.

    Unlike SPF, which is used to measure the effectiveness of sunscreen products, UPF is specifically used for fabrics and clothing.

    The higher the UPF rating, the better the garment protects against UV radiation.

    2What Does UPF 50+ Mean?

    UPF 50+ is one of the highest protection levels available in outdoor and sports apparel.

    What the UPF number meansUPF 15 blocks about 93 percent of UV rays, UPF 30 about 96.7 percent, and UPF 50 plus more than 98 percent.What the UPF number meansUV radiation blocked by the fabricUPF 15about 93%UPF 30about 96.7%UPF 50+more than 98%Skalė nuo 90 iki 100 %, kad skirtumas tarp lygių būtų matomas.
    Three UPF levels and how much UV radiation each one blocks.

    This means that less than 2% of harmful UV radiation reaches your skin.

    3Why Is UV Protection Important?

    Long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause sunburn, accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of various skin conditions.

    This is especially important for people who spend a lot of time outdoors:

    • Anglers
    • ATV and UTV riders
    • Boat owners and boating enthusiasts
    • Hikers
    • Outdoor travelers
    • Professional guides
    • Outdoor workers
    Water, sand and other reflective surfaces can increase UV exposure, making sun protection even more important.

    4How Is UPF Clothing Better Than Sunscreen?

    UPF Clothing Sunscreen
    Provides continuous protection while worn Requires frequent reapplication
    Does not wash off with sweat Can wear off or wash away
    No additional application required Must be reapplied regularly
    Comfortable during active movement May feel uncomfortable in hot weather

    For the best protection, UPF clothing and sunscreen should be used together.

    5What Makes High-Quality UPF Clothing?

    • Certified UPF 50+ protection
    • Quick-drying fabric
    • Excellent breathability
    • Lightweight construction
    • Moisture-wicking performance
    • Comfort during hot weather
    • Durability for active outdoor use

    Modern UV-protective garments are designed not only to shield the skin from the sun but also to keep the wearer comfortable throughout the day.

    6When Should You Choose UPF 50+ Clothing?

    UPF 50+ apparel is especially useful during:

    • Summer fishing trips
    • Boating and water activities
    • Beach holidays
    • Long hiking adventures
    • ATV and off-road excursions
    • Travel to warm and sunny destinations
    If you spend several hours outdoors every day, UPF 50+ clothing becomes not only a comfort feature but also an important health protection tool.

    7Where to look for UPF clothing in our catalogue

    UV protection only works where the fabric covers your skin, so it is worth covering the body in parts rather than with one item.

    What it coversCategoryExample from the catalogue
    Torso and armsT-shirtT-shirt WAVE FISH Khaki 6611 (39 €)
    LegsPantsPants WAVE Khaki 4608 UV protection (79 €)
    Neck and faceUV neck protectionMask WAVE Khaki 9805 (24 €)
    HandsGlovesGloves WAVE NEW Khaki 2852 (29 €)
    EyesGogglesSEAGULL Black 1091 sunglasses (39 €)

    Prices and availability checked on 10 September 2026. The exact figures are always shown on the product page.

    ✓Conclusion

    UPF 50+ clothing provides one of the most effective forms of protection against ultraviolet radiation, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities safely even during the hottest summer days.

    For anglers, ATV enthusiasts, travelers and all outdoor adventurers, it is a practical solution that allows more focus on the experience and less concern about the effects of sun exposure.

    Where to go next:

    The whole UV protection line sits in one place. If you fish in the water in summer, the same clothing is covered by the wet wading guide, and for the cooler season there are waders.

    See UV protection