UPF 50+ gets printed on a lot of tags these days, and most of us nod along without really knowing what it means or why it's supposed to matter more than the sunscreen already in our bag. Here's the actual explanation, no science degree required.
UPF and SPF aren't measuring the same thing
SPF measures how long sunscreen protects your skin before UV starts getting through, and it only works as well as your last application. Sweat it off, swim in it, forget to reapply after four hours on the water, and its protection drops fast.
UPF measures how much UV radiation a fabric blocks before it ever reaches your skin. It doesn't wash off, wear off, or need reapplying halfway through the day. A UPF 50+ fabric blocks the vast majority of UV rays, all day, every time you wear it.
Why the number matters
Fabrics without a UPF rating can let a surprising amount of UV straight through, especially once they're thin, worn, or wet, which is exactly when you're relying on them most. A rating of UPF 50+ means the fabric has actually been tested, not just assumed to be protective because it's a long sleeve.
Our outdoor performance gear is built around that UPF 50+ standard, so the coverage is doing real work, not just looking the part.
Sunscreen still has a job to do
None of this means you should skip sunscreen altogether. Your face, hands, and anywhere skin is exposed still need it. UPF clothing simply takes the pressure off the parts of your body that a long sleeve shirt or one piece swimsuit can cover properly, so you're not relying on sunscreen alone to get you through a full day outdoors.
The simple version
Sunscreen protects for a while and needs topping up. UPF 50+ fabric protects for as long as you're wearing it. Together, they cover the gaps the other one leaves.
Shop the range
Explore our UPF 50+ fishing shirts, fishing jerseys and sun scarf — built to handle long days under the Aussie sun.
Wild Women Do.
