What is the maximum UPF rating?

2 min read

UPF 50+ is the maximum UPF rating achievable and it denotes that only up to 2% (or 1/50th) of UV radiation can penetrate fabrics with this rating. Australia was the first country in the world to formally rate fabrics for sun protection in the 1990s.

UPF is for fabrics what SPF is for sunscreen. Sun protective clothing is also known as UPF clothing and sometimes even SPF clothing (which comes from a misunderstanding of the difference between UPF and SPF). SPF is the rating system for sunscreen.

We often get asked at Solbari Sun Protection, why is your product only UPF 50+ when there are other sun protective clothing products that offer SPF 100.

SPF 100 is not a legitimate sun protective rating for fabrics.

We highlight to our community that SPF 100 is not a legitimate sun protective rating for fabrics. SPF is a rating system for sunscreen not fabrics. Also, it is not possible to be awarded a sun protective rating for fabrics above 50+. UPF 50+ is the highest achievable sun protective rating for fabrics.

The Australian Government test fabrics and award a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating. The rating scale for UPF or ultraviolet protection factor ranges from 15 to 50+ in Australia.

UPF ratings of 15 and 20 are considered to provide good levels of sun protection.
UPF ratings of 25, 30 and 35 are considered to provide very good levels of sun protection.
UPF ratings of 40, 45, 50 and 50+ are considered to provide excellent levels of sun protection.

Solbari Sun Protection offers an award-winning range of UPF 50+ sun protective clothing, broad brim sun hats and UV arm sleeves and sun resistant umbrellas.

Solbari UPF 50+ is the leading sun protective clothing brand in Australia with customers in over 60 countries.

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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.

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