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- Sun-Protective Activewear That Is Cute and Safe
Sun-Protective Activewear That Is Cute and Safe
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We’re all about activewear that is cute, functional and offers us protection from the sun. You might not have considered it, but bike shorts and a crop top isn’t the most sun-safe outfit when exercising outside. If you’re going to be running, walking or doing a yoga sesh in the sun, it’s best to reach for activewear that you know is going to provide some protection.
And, the best way to do this is with clothing that has in-built sun protection, which is known as Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, this refers to how much UV radiation the fabric allows to reach your skin. Instead of just reaching for a long-sleeve top, try finding one that includes UPF. Below, we’ve curated some of the best brands to shop for sun protective activewear.
Solbari
Melbourne-based brand Solbari is all about sun protection. Solbari creates clothing that has been tested and awarded the highest achievable sun protective rating for fabrics — UPF50+ — which blocks more than 98 per cent of UVA and UVB rays. The Solbari range includes hats, jumpers and T-shirts as well as a few cute activewear options.
The On the Move Essential Leggings ($125) are designed for all types of exercise, from walking to yoga and high-intensity workouts. These leggings protect your legs from the sun while also keeping you cool all day long. Pair your tights with the Base Layer UPF50+ CoolaSun Collection ($90) shirt, which has a cooling effect on the skin when the weather is hot, while also keeping your skin shaded from the UVA and UVB rays.
Bamboo Body
Sydney brand Bamboo Body creates clothing made from breathable bamboo that is not only more sustainable than cotton and synthetic materials but is also super soft and a downright pleasure to wear. To keep your legs protected, opt for Bamboo Body’s Soft Bamboo Leggings ($59.95), which come in four shades and are available in sizes XXS to 4XL. These leggings are also UPF50+ so you can exercise easy, knowing you’re safe from the sun.
Kathmandu
Adventure outdoor apparel brand Kathmandu has a great range of clothing with UPF protection. While much of the clothing is designed for activities like hiking and camping, these can just as easily be worn when walking, running or engaging in other outdoor exercises. An example of this is the SUN-Stoppper Women’s Short Sleeve T-Shirt ($78.98) which comes in four colours, is made from 100 per cent recycled polyester and offers UPF50+ protection.
