UV Protection in Technical Sailing Gear: Why It’s Crucial at Sea

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Why Is UV Protection So Important for Sailors?

The water surface reflects light and increases exposure to harmful solar rays, which become more intense. Without adequate protection, the skin gets damaged and fatigue increases, especially in the summer or when it's very hot.

Which other technical features are crucial in performance sailing gear? Learn more

What Really Determines UV Protection

The ability of a fabric to protect from ultraviolet rays is influenced by several factors: 

  • fabric structure  
  • specific treatments  
  • ability to block UV rays  

 

In the most advanced technical gear, this protection is integrated directly during the design and construction phase for optimal gear performance. 

  • A person wears the SLAM OD WS TECH HOODED T-SHIRT, a navy blue sports hijab and face covering made from recycled stretch fabric, with "SLAM" in white on the front, set against a plain light-colored background.

How UV Protection Integrates with Other Features

A UV-protective garment must also be breathable and lightweight. To assess if it meets your needs, consider: 

  • the level of UV shielding  
  • the behaviour of the product during prolonged exposure  
  • comfort during use 
  • A person with wavy blond hair and blue eyes looks to the side, wearing a navy blue OD TECH HOODED T-SHIRT by SLAM and a matching perforated face covering, both made from recycled stretch fabric.
  • Close-up of a person wearing SLAM's FOIL WS RASHGUARD LS, featuring various pink shades and "READY TO FLY" in white text on the sleeve. This quick-drying top has stylish seam stitching and provides UV protection for active days.
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