This year’s summer forecasts indicate that temperatures will be warmer than usual. If you plan on engaging in outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, cycling, hiking, running, climbing, sailing, or working out at the gym, it is essential to invest in the best sun protection shirt to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
Shirts designed for sun protection, such as the Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard and NAVISKIN Men’s Rash Guard, are specifically crafted to block or absorb UV rays, significantly reducing the risk of severe sunburn. Opting for these men’s sun protection shirts presents a more convenient alternative to traditional sunscreen lotions and creams.
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to serious consequences, including skin cancer, premature aging, and immune system suppression.
To help you find the most suitable sun shirt for hot weather, we have compiled a list of UV shirts that boast a UPF 50+ rating, are made from thicker or more densely woven fabrics, and utilize high-quality materials.
How Do Sun Protection Clothing Work?
Sun protection clothing is designed with a different weave compared to regular fabrics, which tend to be loosely woven. This loose structure allows UV light to penetrate easily.
In contrast, sun protection clothing is typically crafted from tightly woven fibers, resulting in a higher thread count that effectively blocks UV rays. To achieve the highest levels of protection against 98% of UV rays, these shirts are also specially colored to reflect sunlight. The combination of a tight weave, a higher thread count, and reflective colors is what makes sun-protective clothing effective.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, UV protection shirts made from polyester and nylon outperform those made from cotton or hemp in terms of shielding against harmful UV rays.
Top Sun Protection Shirts for Men to Guard Against UV Rays
Men’s UV protection shirts come in various styles, colors, fabrics, and UPF ratings. Whether you need a shirt for camping, hiking, or enjoying a summer beach getaway, we have the best options available for you.
The best sun protection clothing includes:
#
Name of UV Shirt
UPF Rating
Material Used
Rating
Price
1.
NAVISKIN Men’s Rash Guard
50+
100% Polyester
4.6/5
$19.99
2.
Willit Men’s UPF 50+
50+
100% Polyester
4.5/5
$22.99
3.
Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard
50+
100% Polyester
4.5/5
$15.13 – $22.99
4.
Columbia Men’s Terminal Tackle
50+
100% Polyester
4.7/5
$30.00 – $40.00
5.
BASSDASH Fishing T-Shirts
50+
84% Polyester, 16% Spandex
4.7/5
$21.99
6.
BALEAF Men’s Sun Protection Shirts
50+
100% Polyester
4.6/5
$19.99
7.
Hanes Men’s Long-Sleeve Pack
50+
100% Polyester
4.5/5
$21.33
8.
Roadbox Men’s UPF 50+
50+
100% Polyester
4.6/5
$21.99 – $27.99
9.
Real Essentials 4 Pack
50+
90% Polyester, 10% Spandex
4.4/5
$33.99
10.
33,000ft Men’s Long Sleeve
50+
100% Polyester
4.4/5
$36.99 – $41.99
1. NAVISKIN Men’s Rash Guard
If you're passionate about outdoor or indoor sports, the NAVISKIN shirt will keep you feeling cool during intense workouts. Its 100% polyester fabric effectively wicks away sweat, ensuring you remain dry. Designed with Raglan sleeves and a crew neck, the shirt minimizes shoulder friction and reduces exposed areas to sunlight. Only about 2% of UV rays are expected to penetrate this protective gear.
As an ideal sun protection shirt for an active lifestyle, it is breathable, soft, and durable, making it perfect for travel, water sports, running, hiking, golfing, fishing, and workouts.
2. Willit Men’s UPF 50+
For those searching for a sun protection shirt that reflects 98% of harmful UV rays while offering comprehensive coverage, the Willit Men’s UPF 50+ is an excellent choice. Available in 50 vibrant colors, it combines a silky texture with flatlock seams for ultimate comfort across all occasions. Lightweight yet durable, this shirt is perfect for intense gym sessions. Additionally, it features a hoodie for added protection from the sun.
This shirt is easy to wash, dries quickly, and efficiently wicks moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and cool.
3. Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard
The Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard features a combination of a tight weave, bright and dull colors, and a higher thread count, which collectively contribute to its UPF 50+ rating. Although it has short sleeves that may not cover the palms, it is ideal for swimming, outdoor games, fishing, and lounging on the beach. The stretchy and breathable fabric is lightweight and durable, surpassing many UV shirts available in both online and physical stores.
With various sizes and colors to choose from, this sun protection shirt is machine washable and dries quickly after exposure to water.
