UPF vs. SPF: Why Fabric Protection Matters for Fishing Shirts
When it comes to fishing gear, sunscreen isn’t enough. Discover why UPF-rated fabrics are essential for your fishing shirts — and your skin's health!
Gear up and stay sun-safe!Â
This blog explains the key differences between SPF and UPF, highlighting why UPF-rated fabrics are crucial for fishing shirts. Learn how to protect yourself from harmful UV rays with the right apparel while staying comfortable on the water.
When gearing up for a day out on the water, sun safety should be at the top of your list. You’ve likely heard of SPF when it comes to sunscreen, but when it comes to clothing — like your trusted fishing shirts — UPF is the real star. So, what exactly is the difference, and why does it matter when choosing fishing apparel?
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is a measure used for sunscreens. It indicates how long a sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn. For example, if your skin would normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun, applying SPF 30 sunscreen would theoretically allow you to stay outside for 300 minutes without burning.
However, SPF is all about products you apply directly to your skin — not the clothes you wear.
What is UPF?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and measures the amount of UV radiation (both UVA and UVB) that a fabric allows to reach your skin. If a fabric has a UPF rating of 50, it means only 1/50th of the sun's rays can penetrate it, blocking 98% of harmful UV radiation.
In other words, UPF is the clothing world's version of SPF, and it covers more types of harmful rays.
Why UPF Matters for Fishing Shirts
When you're out fishing, you’re often exposed to direct sunlight for hours at a time. Reflective surfaces like water can intensify UV exposure, making proper sun protection even more important.
Fishing shirts with high UPF ratings (such as UPF 50+) act like a shield, dramatically reducing your risk of sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Plus, today's performance fabrics are designed to be breathable, lightweight, and moisture-wicking — keeping you cool and comfortable even under the harsh Aussie sun.
Choosing the Right Fishing Shirt
Not all fishing shirts are created equal. When choosing your next go-to fishing shirt, look for these features:
- UPF 50+ rating for maximum UV protection.
- Breathable and quick-drying materials like polyester or nylon blends.
- Long sleeves and high collars to cover more skin.
- Moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry.
- Vented panels for added airflow.
At Z&TEE, we prioritise sun safety without sacrificing style. Our fishing shirts are made with UPF 45 fabrics, perfect for all your outdoor adventures — from casting lines to coastal exploring.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between SPF and UPF empowers you to make smarter choices about your sun safety gear. So, next time you're getting ready for a fishing trip, don't just lather up — suit up with a UPF-rated fishing shirt and enjoy the great outdoors with confidence!
