ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

UPF Clothing Gains Popularity as Sun Protection Alternative

other · 2026-08-13

A rising trend in sun-protective apparel is evident, particularly showcased by Anne Hathaway’s vacation snapshots from Italy and southern France, where she donned Tutublue full-body swimsuits boasting a UPF 50+ rating. UPF indicates the level of UV radiation protection, akin to SPF but assessed through different methods. While UPF garments can enhance sun safety, especially for children and outdoor workers, sunscreen remains essential for uncovered skin. The inaugural UPF testing took place in Australia in 1970, with the first standard established in 1996. The Skin Cancer Foundation advises a minimum UPF of 50. Brands such as Adidas, Decathlon, and Uniqlo produce UPF clothing, though some items prioritize marketing over functionality, and wet fabrics diminish protection; thus, certified wet-tested products are recommended.

Key facts

  • Anne Hathaway wore full-body swimsuits from Tutublue with UPF 50+ during vacations in Italy and southern France.
  • UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and measures UV rays blocked by fabric.
  • UPF 50 means only 2% of UV rays pass through the fabric.
  • UPF and SPF are tested differently: UPF measures rays through fabric, SPF measures time to redden.
  • UPF clothing can be used instead of or alongside sunscreen, but sunscreen is still needed for exposed areas.
  • First UPF tests were done in Australia in 1970; first standard published in 1996.
  • No universal UPF certification exists; UV 801 is considered the best standard.
  • Skin Cancer Foundation recommends UPF 50 or higher for effective protection.
  • Brands like Adidas, Decathlon, The North Face, Patagonia, Uniqlo, Hunza G, and Claudent offer UPF clothing.
  • Accessories with UPF like sleeves, hats, and umbrellas are popular in Japan, China, and South Korea.
  • Some UPF products are marketing gimmicks with little actual protection.
  • Tightly woven fabrics like denim, cotton, and nylon offer natural UV protection.
  • Wet fabrics lose protection; certified wet-tested items are recommended.
  • A regular white cotton t-shirt has a low UPF, dropping below 10 when wet.

Entities

Artists

  • Anne Hathaway

Institutions

  • Tutublue
  • Adidas
  • Decathlon
  • The North Face
  • Patagonia
  • Uniqlo
  • Hunza G
  • Claudent
  • Altroconsumo
  • Skin Cancer Foundation
  • Nule

Locations

  • Italy
  • France
  • Australia
  • Japan
  • China
  • South Korea

Sources