UPF 50+ clothing explained

2 min read

If you have seen a reference to UPF 50+ clothing but are not sure what it means, this blog should help demystify the term a bit.

Not many people are aware that whilst clothing is an effective form of sun protection, not all clothing protects the same from UV radiation.

UPF refers to ultraviolet protection factor and there is a formal testing process for determining how sun protective the fabric in question is.

The Australian Government tests and rates fabrics for their UPF rating. Fabrics which are considered to have sun protective properties are rated on a scale between UPF 15 to 50+.

The UPF rating depends on what proportion of UV radiation is able to penetrate the fabric. UPF 15 means that 1/15th or 6.7% of UV is able to penetrate the fabric. UPF 50+, the maximum UPF rating achievable, means that up to 1/50th or 2% of UV is able to penetrate the fabric. A regular cotton t-shirt may only have a UPF of 5 which means that 1/5th or 20% of UV can penetrate the fabric.

Excellent UPF 50+ clothing not only has the highest sun protection rating for clothing but will also incorporate functional design to provide better skin coverage and fabrics which are comfortable to wear in hot, sunny conditions.

It is known that over 90% of skin cancers are caused by the cumulative effects of sun exposure. Dermatologists agree that sun protective clothing is the best way to prevent sun burn, skin ageing and skin cancers.

Solbari Sun Protection is the leading Australian Sun Protective clothing brand with customers in over 70 countries.

Solbari offers an award winning range of UPF 50+ sun protection clothing, UV arm sleeves, sun umbrellas, sun protective gloves and other accessories.

You can find out more about Solbari's sun protective range by clicking the links below:
Women UPF 50+
Men UPF 50+
Sun hats UPF 50+
Accessories UPF 50+

Back to blog homepage

Content Disclaimer: All content on the Solbari website is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute 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.

Your Story Series: Bree

Skin Health Education

3 min read

Bree was diagnosed with psoriasis at age 12 and shares how self-acceptance and sun-safe habits have helped her feel confident in her skin, while managing flare-ups and protecting her long-term skin health.

Your Story Series: Felicity

Skin Health Education

3 min read

After experiencing severe guttate psoriasis flare-ups, Felicity discovered that UPF clothing provided the sun protection her sensitive skin needed without discomfort.

A woman and a man wear Solbari UPF 50+ clothing

UPF 50+ Sun Protection for Psoriasis

Skin Health Education

2 min read

For people living with psoriasis, choosing clothing that feels comfortable against sensitive skin can be an important part of everyday life. Solbari is proud to be the first apparel brand to receive the National Psoriasis Foundation’s Seal of Recognition, highlighted that our products are non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-toxic.

UPF vs SPF: Understanding the Difference for Skin Health

Skin Health Education

6 min read

UPF and SPF work together—but they’re not the same. Discover why UPF 50+ clothing offers set-and-forget protection, and where sunscreen is still essential.

Celebrating Over 1 Million People Protected Worldwide

Sun Protection

2 min read

Today, we're proud to celebrate an incredible milestone. Over 1 million customers worldwide have now chosen Solbari's trusted UPF 50+ sun protection.

Your Story Series: Rachel

Skin Cancer & Melanoma

2 min read

Rachel was recently diagnosed with Basal Cell Carcinoma, and is now including UPF 50+ sun protection as part of her self-care routine so she can continue to enjoy her time outdoors.