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FAQ's for Sun-Togs UV Clothing

What is sun protective clothing?

What does UPF 50+ mean?

Where is it manufactured?

What fabrics do you use?

How do I care for my garments?

Do I still need to use sun cream?

What is sun protective clothing?

Most everyday clothing offers some form of sun protection but this is generally not adequate to provide sufficient protection against UV radiation. A typical summer T-shirt would probably offer a UPF rating of somewhere between 7 - 15 +, much less when wet ,significantly below the minimum recommended levels.
UV Protective clothing is a relatively new breakthrough and has been developed by specialist clothing manufacturers which have engineered their fabrics and methods of construction specifically to provide high levels (often predefined) of UV protection in a variety of conditions. These fabrics are normally patented. Many of these new garments have been made for use in outdoor activities and are most commonly for use on the beach or poolside. However there are increasing signs that UV fabrics are also now being used in more conventional clothing and this is a trend that is expected to continue. Sun Protective Clothing is manufactured from fabrics which are very closely woven using a special weave and dying process and designed to prevent a high percentage of the sun’s harmful UV rays from penetrating the fabric. Generally speaking darker fabrics give higher protection. Whilst there is no international standard for the UPF factor shown on garments at present, the factor given is determined by testing with a spectrophotometer. This instrument measures the amount of UV light passing through the fabric and therefore allows an appropriate rating to be given to the fabric. There is a lack of consistency in how fabrics are tested as fabric properties can vary significantly depending on their state (stretched, wet or dry). There are efforts in a number of countries (Australia, USA and UK) to develop standard UV rating and test conditions for UV fabrics. However these do not yet appear to have been adopted by manufacturers as it is felt that these new ratings, used alongside existing ratings, would actually create more confusion amongst consumers. There is also an issue of enabling the consumer to make like for like comparisons against differing products such as sun creams.

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What does UPF 50+ mean?

This is the maximum Ultraviolet Protection Factor accorded to sun protection clothing by Australian, New Zealand and US Government rating agencies. The UPF rating indicates how much Ultraviolet Radiation is absorbed by the fabric. For example a fabric with a UPF Rating of 50 only allows 1/50th of the hazardous ultraviolet radiation falling on the surface of the fabric to pass through it - or expressed another way, the fabric blocks 98% of the sun's harmful UV Rays. This means that, where it is protected by the fabric, the fabric will reduce your skin's exposure to ultraviolet radiation by twenty times.

Where is it manufactured?

Our Sun Protective Clothing is mainly manufactured in China.

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What fabrics do you use?

Our UV Sun Suits, Swim Shirts, Sun Shorts and Sun Hats are made with a special densely knitted polyamide/elastane fabric designed to provide excellent protection (certified UPF50+), the maximum protection factor awarded to UV clothing. We regard this as the best fabric available as it provides not only an excellent level of protection, but is cool, light and comfortable to wear. It dries quicker than other fabrics, is highly durable and resistant to chlorine. All our fabrics are tested and comply with UK, Australian, New Zealand and USA standards.

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How do I care for my garments?

Generally rinsing after use in fresh water and allowing the garments to dry in shade will ensure your garments stay in good shape. Garments may be washed in a washing machine on a low temperature cycle (40 degrees)with a mild detergent but should not be tumble dried.

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Do I still need to use sun cream?

Yes, to be adequately protected, areas of the body that are not covered by our UV clothing, such as face, neck, lower arms and legs need protection with a suitable sunscreen. Generally sunscreens should carry a minimum rating of SPF 15+, although SPF 30+ is recommended for children. Sunscreeens should be applied liberally and regularly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

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