Profit from the lucrative sun protection apparel market by staying up to date on all the latest trends. With the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) market expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6 percent, now is the time to invest. Explore the most recent designs and learn about the fabrics and requirements that go into making the best UPF garments.
Table of Contents
Lucrative sun protection clothing market
3 major trends of UPF clothing
Sun protective activewear is here to stay
Lucrative sun protection clothing market
People who are health conscious or enjoy outdoor sports are constantly exposed to the sun’s rays. But long-term exposure to UV rays can cause skin damage, including premature aging and skin cancer. Thus, it is essential to wear suitable clothing when enjoying the great outdoors on sunny days.
The market for sun protection apparel in the United States was valued at $590 million in 2019 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6 percent from 2020 to 2027. The growing consumer awareness of the harmful effects of UV rays and the importance of protective clothing is expected to fuel the growth.
3 major trends of UPF clothing
Sun protective clothing is designed to help protect the skin from excessive sun exposure.
The UPF is a metric system that shows how well a particular fabric blocks ultraviolet (UV) rays and radiation. The Skin Cancer Foundation endorses garments with at least UPF 30. This means that the clothing allows only one-third of the radiation to reach the skin.
Even though sunblock is the most popular item among outdoor enthusiasts, UPF apparel has also become a must-have item, according to market reports. These garments are designed specifically for outdoor physical activities, with fabrics that protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Clothing made of breathable fabrics with quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties aids in beating the summer heat.
UPF clothing is available in a wide range of styles, colors, and prints for both men and women.
From long-sleeve T-shirts for all types of weather to shirts, pants, and trousers, they come in all sizes for different demographics. They can be paired with breathable sneakers for added comfort.
Uv-protective, lightweight T-shirts
It is important to protect one’s skin, especially when going outside, such as to the beach. As a result, people are encouraged to use sunscreen and wear anti-UV apparel such as hats, tops, and pants with UPF. T-shirts with UPF are typically tightly constructed with multiple vents to allow air circulation, allowing consumers to stay cool and fresh. Other types may be made with moisture-wicking fabrics that draw sweat away from the body.
Shirts with SPF are just like other shirts in appearance but have added features such as protection against UV rays. These shirts are lightweight, with several pockets for extra convenience.
Long-sleeved SPF T-shirts are a popular choice for outdoor wear among consumers. These items differ from others in that they are extremely light while hugging the body. They also dry quickly, and some have double stitching for added durability around sensitive areas. These breathable and lightweight options are ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, running, and other sports.
Aside from T-shirts, women can also get machine-washable, quick-drying, lightweight tops. Some products are available in a variety of colors, ranging from neutral tones such as nudes, greys, and black to eye-catching hues such as orange and yellow.
Breathable sun-protection jackets
Lightweight and breathable sun protection jackets are popular choices among shoppers looking for outdoor wear. These options are perfect for physical activities in the sun. Jackets with accredited UPF ratings that block UVB and UVA rays for maximum sun protection are great selections for the summer. They come in several colors ranging from dark tones to bright and colorful variations.
Some customers also appreciate having extra features like anti-odor and multiple pockets to keep their essentials, like keys, wallets, or phones. Apart from quick-dry, anti UV jackets for hiking, sun-protective coats are also sought after by skiers. These items are double insulated to protect against strong winds and cold while also shielding the skin from harmful UV rays.
Long-sleeve fishing jackets, among other sports equipment, are popular in the summer. These items provide full sun protection against intense heat. Some items may even have additional features, such as protection from mosquitos. Stretchy mesh fabrics that are breathable and quick-drying are best suited for these products.
Quick-dry, summer UPF trousers
UPF trousers are versatile and can be paired with T-shirts, shirts, or tops for outdoor sporting activities. These casual trousers come in a variety of styles, colors, and prints for both men and women. Just like other sun protection products, these pants are also constructed using lightweight and breathable fabrics that absorb moisture away from the skin.
Some customers prefer to buy high-quality items that will last for several years. Giving them items that do not shrink when machine washed and keep color after multiple washes is a great idea. Further, knee-length capris or ankle-length joggers with multiple pockets are hits among shoppers.
Sun protective activewear is here to stay
In recent years, there has been a shift in the way people buy products, with shoppers gravitating toward more eco-friendly and healthier options. One such change is the increased demand for sun-protective clothing, particularly in the outdoor apparel category. As people have become more aware of their environment and its impact on their health, there has been a noticeable shift toward healthy alternatives.
The markets are flooded with UPF clothing such as pants, shirts, T-shirts, and leggings. Aside from shirts, SPF shorts, leggings or pants are a summer hit when venturing into the outdoors. Shoppers prefer options that are breathable and easy to wash and maintain. Neutral and bright tones are also popular among consumers. It is good to have an extensive selection of high-quality sun protection clothes that are soft, stretchy, and light. As per the market reports, these trends are here to stay and will only increase in the long run.
