Top 10 Sun Blocking Fabrics for Summer Clothing

Ready to beat the heat and stay protected this summer? 😎 

Let's dive into these awesome UV-blocking fabrics that'll keep you cool, comfy, and safe from those pesky rays.

With these materials, and sun shirts, in your wardrobe, you'll be all set for fun in the sun!

1. Polyester

Let's kick things off with the superstar of UV protection – polyester! This synthetic wonder is a go-to for activewear and summer clothes, and for good reason. It's lightweight, moisture-wicking, and fantastic at blocking those harmful UV rays.

Polyester's tight weave and synthetic fibers create a formidable barrier against the sun. Plus, it's super versatile – you'll find it in everything from t-shirts to hiking pants. Many polyester fabrics come with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+, which means they block out more than 98% of UV radiation. How cool is that?

Another great thing about polyester? It's durable and easy to care for. You can toss it in the wash, and it'll come out looking great, ready for your next summer adventure. So whether you're hitting the beach or just chilling in the backyard, polyester's got your back (and arms, and legs)!

2. Denim

Yep, your favorite jeans are UV superstars! The tight weave of denim offers excellent protection against those sunny rays. While you might not think of jeans as summer wear, a light denim jacket or a pair of denim shorts can be perfect for those breezy summer evenings.

Denim's protective power comes from its dense weave and thickness. Darker denim offers even more protection, but lighter colors will keep you cooler in the heat. And let's face it – is there anything more classic than a denim jacket thrown over a summer dress?

Just remember, while denim is great at blocking UV rays, it can get pretty hot. So save your denim for cooler days or evenings, and opt for looser fits to keep the air flowing.

3. Nylon

Another synthetic champion, nylon is a summer superhero. It's incredibly durable, lightweight, and offers top-notch UV protection. This fabric is perfect for those long beach days or hiking trips where you need reliable sun protection.

Nylon's strength lies in its ability to be woven very tightly, creating a formidable barrier against UV rays. It's also quick-drying and resistant to water, making it ideal for swimwear and outdoor gear. Many high-performance outdoor brands use nylon in their sun-protective clothing lines.

One of the coolest things about nylon? It can be blended with other fabrics to create clothes that are both comfy and protective. So you get the best of both worlds – style and safety!

4. Wool

Surprise! Wool isn't just for winter. Light, breathable wool fabrics are amazing UV blockers and perfect for summer evenings. Merino wool, in particular, is a summer superstar.

Wool naturally absorbs UV radiation, providing excellent protection from the sun. It's also great at regulating temperature, wicking away moisture, and resisting odors. So you can stay cool, dry, and fresh even on the hottest days.

Look for lightweight wool blends in summer clothes like t-shirts, dresses, and even suits. They're perfect for travel, as wool resists wrinkles and can be worn multiple times between washes. How's that for summer convenience?

5. Unbleached Cotton

While not as effective as some synthetics, tightly woven, unbleached cotton still offers decent UV protection. Plus, it's oh-so-comfy and perfect for those lazy summer days.

The natural color of unbleached cotton contains UV-absorbing pigments that help protect your skin. The tighter the weave, the better the protection. Look for high-quality cotton fabrics with a tight weave for the best UV blocking power.

Cotton is also super breathable, making it great for hot weather. It absorbs sweat and allows it to evaporate, helping you stay cool. Just remember, once cotton gets wet, it loses some of its protective power, so it's not the best choice for swimwear or super sweaty activities.

6. Bamboo

Eco-friendly and naturally UV-resistant, bamboo fabric is a summer superstar. It's soft, breathable, and perfect for sensitive skin. Plus, it's sustainable – what's not to love?

Bamboo fabric has natural UV-resistant properties, thanks to its unique micro-gaps and micro-holes in the fiber. These tiny structures scatter UV radiation, preventing it from reaching your skin. Bamboo also has antibacterial properties, helping you stay fresh in the summer heat.

Another great thing about bamboo? It's thermoregulating, meaning it'll keep you cool when it's hot and warm when it's cool. Look for bamboo t-shirts, dresses, and even bed sheets for the ultimate summer comfort.

7. Hemp

Another eco-warrior, hemp fabric is durable, breathable, and offers excellent UV protection. It gets softer with each wash, too! Hemp is one of the strongest natural fibers out there, so clothes made from it will last you summer after summer.

Hemp fabric blocks UV rays naturally, without any chemical treatments. It's also antimicrobial and moisture-wicking, keeping you cool and fresh. As a bonus, hemp is one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics around – it grows quickly without pesticides and actually improves the soil it's grown in.

Look for hemp blends in summer shirts, pants, and dresses. They might feel a bit stiff at first, but they'll soften up beautifully with wear and washing.

8. Lycra/Spandex

Often blended with other fabrics, Lycra (also known as spandex or elastane) adds stretch and UV protection to your summer wardrobe. Hello, comfy beachwear!

While Lycra isn't typically used on its own, it's a common addition to swimwear and athletic clothing. It helps these garments keep their shape and adds an extra layer of UV protection. Lycra can be engineered to provide UPF 50+ protection, blocking out over 98% of UV radiation.

The best part? Lycra makes your summer clothes super comfy and flexible. Whether you're doing yoga on the beach or just lounging by the pool, Lycra-blend fabrics will move with you.

9. Rayon

This semi-synthetic fabric can be a great UV blocker, especially when tightly woven. It's super versatile and perfect for flowy summer dresses, light blouses, and breezy skirts.

Rayon is made from natural cellulose that's chemically treated, giving it some of the benefits of both natural and synthetic fibers. It's lightweight, breathable, and drapes beautifully, making it a favorite for summer fashion.

When it comes to UV protection, the tighter the weave of rayon, the better. Look for high-quality rayon fabrics or those specifically treated for sun protection. Bonus: rayon takes dye really well, so you can find it in all sorts of fun, vibrant summer colors!

10. Specially Treated Fabrics

Last but definitely not least, many brands now offer clothes with built-in UV protection. These fabrics are treated with UV-absorbing chemicals or special dyes that enhance their sun-blocking power.

Look for terms like "UPF" (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) on labels for maximum sun safety. UPF is like SPF for fabric – a UPF 50 fabric blocks 98% of UV radiation. You can find specially treated versions of almost any fabric, from cotton to synthetics.

The great thing about these fabrics is that they're engineered specifically for sun protection. Many maintain their UV-blocking power even when wet or stretched, making them perfect for swimwear and activewear.

With these fabulous fabrics, you can enjoy the summer sun without worrying about UV damage. Remember, the right clothes can be your best sunscreen. Now go out there and rock that summer style while staying safe and sun-smart! ☀️👚👕

When you purchase from MANG you join a movement of people who are banded together to protect, preserve and restore our ecosystems. Whether you're looking for Women's, Men's, Youth, or Toddler sun protection products the future depends upon stewards like you stepping up to the cause to protect our Earth today.