'No sunburns here': This $25 athletic tee blocks 98% of UV rays - and it's on sale
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As August draws to a close, many of us are eager to soak up the final weeks of summer sun. Although most of us know not to leave the house without a healthy slathering of sunscreen, our clothing also plays a large part in determining our level of protection from UV rays.
When we apply sunscreen to our bodies, we most likely think of the areas that are exposed to the sun: our arms, legs, face and neck. But according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, despite covering our bodies, the clothes we wear absorbs and traps UV rays, which can unknowingly cause sun damage.
An easy solution? Opt for sun-protective clothing, which actually blocks harmful rays, decreasing our risks of sun exposure significantly. There are plenty of stylish and affordable wardrobe basics with a high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) that can block harmful UV rays, like the Women's Long Sleeve Sun/UV Protection T-Shirt from BALEAF.
What is it?
BALEAF’s classic long sleeve T-shirt is made specifically to protect your body from harmful UV rays without sacrificing style or comfort. Unlike traditional white T-shirts, which have only an average UPF factor of 7 (and even less when they’re wet), BALEAF’s designs feature a UPF rating of 50, which blocks up to 98% of harmful UV rays.
BALEAF Women's Long Sleeve Sun/UV Protection T-Shirt UPF 50+
SHOP IT: Amazon, from $22 (originally $25)
Like sunscreen, sun protecting clothing should be worn year round whenever you’re spending time outside. Each lightweight shirt is made from moisture wicking, technical fabric that helps your body stay cool, ensuring your covered areas are safe from dangerous UV rays, no matter the weather outside.
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Whether you’re an avid hiker, gardener, runner or simply love spending time outdoors, the sporty design looks as great as competing athleisure brands, but with the added bonus of sun protection you can count on. Available in 11 different colours, there’s something to suit your personal style - and keep your skin looking its best.
What people are saying
With more than 2,300 customer reviews on Amazon, BALEAF’s long-sleeve design has won over customers by creating functional and comfortable clothing that puts sun safety on the forefront.
Many shoppers have advised to order one size larger than you normally would, to ensure the shirt fits loose, giving air a chance to circulate. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends loose fitting, long sleeve clothing, since tight clothing can stretch material apart to allow UV rays to penetrate.
“Very happy with this shirt. It's a nice fit, I'm a small 14 and got an XL, which makes it nice and loose but not super baggy either. I wore it during an excursion in Mexico yesterday and I didn't put sunscreen on under and was walking in the blazing hot sun for two hours and didn't burn at all,” one shopper wrote. “I also swam with it and it didn't feel like it was sticking to my skin at all.”
“I bought this to go to Ecuador so that I could throw it in my pack and wear as needed if the sun got too strong. I really like it... I would suggest getting it a little big so that the air can circulate,” another wrote. “They can be hot, but having it looser made a big difference and allowed me to throw it on over whatever I was wearing. I normally wear a medium in shirts but sized up based on reviews and don't regret it. It is big though, probably could have gone for the medium but glad I didn't. Easy to wash. No sunburns here!”
Verdict
Sun protection is vital to ensuring your skin stays healthy year round. While you can opt for darker colours, thicker and thicker fabrics like wool or denim, when it comes to activewear, light and breathable clothing is key to comfort. That’s why it’s an added bonus when you can choose clothing that’s functional and boasts a UPF 50 factor.
At only $22, BALEAF’s long-sleeved tees are a more affordable option compared to it’s competitors and ideal for anyone who lives and exercises in warm climates or spends long periods of time outside.
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The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
