Sun protection is more important than ever, and UPF-rated clothing is a crucial tool in shielding your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. You’ve likely seen UPF ratings like UPF 15+, UPF 30+, UPF 40+, or UPF 50+, but what exactly does that “+” at the end mean? And how do these ratings compare? Let’s break it down to help you make informed choices about your sun protection wardrobe.
What Is UPF?
UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, measures how effectively a fabric blocks harmful UV radiation from reaching your skin. UPF clothing provides broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields against both UVA and UVB rays for comprehensive coverage. The higher the UPF rating, the greater the protection. For example:
| UPF Rating | UV Penetration | Protection Level |
|---|---|---|
| UPF 15 | Allows 1/15th (about 7%) of UV rays to penetrate the fabric. | Good |
| UPF 30 | Allows 1/30th (about 3.3%) of UV rays through. | Very Good |
| UPF 50 | Allows only 1/50th (2%) of UV rays to pass through. | Excellent |
At first glance, the difference between 7% and 2% UV penetration might seem minor. However, UPF 50 blocks twice as much UV radiation as UPF 30 and offers over three times the protection of UPF 15, significantly reducing cumulative UV damage over time. Some UPF-rated apparel also includes a “+” symbol, indicating performance beyond the minimum requirements for its category.
What Does the Plus (+) Mean?
The plus sign (+) in UPF ratings—such as UPF 15+, UPF 30+, or UPF 50+—indicates that the fabric offers greater UV protection than the baseline for its category. Here’s how each rating is categorized:
| UPF Rating | UV Blockage | Protection Level |
| UPF 15+ | Blocks at least 93.3% of UV rays. | Good protection for casual exposure. |
| UPF 25+ | Blocks at least 96% of UV rays. | Reliable protection for moderate exposure. |
| UPF 30+ | Blocks at least 96.7% of UV rays. | Very good protection for outdoor activities. |
| UPF 40+ | Blocks at least 97.5% of UV rays. | Excellent protection for prolonged sun exposure. |
| UPF 50+ | Blocks 98% or more of UV rays. | Maximum protection for intense sun exposure or sensitive skin. |
By choosing fabrics with the “+” designation, you can trust that your clothing provides dependable and effective UV protection, ensuring safer outdoor activities.
How Are UPF Ratings Determined?
UPF ratings are determined through rigorous testing in controlled environments. Fabric samples are exposed to UV light, and the amount of UV radiation that penetrates through the fabric is measured. Factors influencing the UPF rating include:
- Weave Density – Tighter weaves allow fewer UV rays to pass through.
- Fabric Type – Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon often outperform natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Color – Darker colors absorb more UV radiation, offering higher protection.
- Treatments – Fabrics may be treated with UV-blocking agents to enhance their effectiveness.
UPF clothing is tested according to recognized industry standards, such as AATCC TM183 (U.S.), AS/NZS 4399 (Australia/New Zealand), and EN 13758-1 (Europe), ensuring the fabric meets its stated level of protection.
Why Does the “+” Matter?
The “+” symbol in UPF ratings means you’re getting better-than-basic protection. For instance, UPF 40+ doesn’t just meet the threshold for “excellent” protection—it exceeds it. This is especially important for people who spend extended time outdoors or have heightened sensitivity to UV exposure. Knowing that a UPF 40+ shirt blocks at least 97.5% of UV rays offers peace of mind that your skin is well-protected.
Choosing the Right UPF for Your Needs
When selecting UPF clothing, consider your lifestyle and sun exposure:
| UPF Rating | Best For |
| UPF 15+ to UPF 25+ | Casual exposure, like running errands or short outdoor walks. |
| UPF 30+ to UPF 40+ | Moderate to high exposure, such as hiking, gardening, or outdoor sports. |
| UPF 50+ | Intense sun exposure, beach days, or high UV-index conditions. |
Understanding these ratings helps you choose the right level of protection for your daily activities.
The Bottom Line
UPF clothing is a game-changer in sun protection, and the “+” in UPF ratings is a reliable marker of fabrics that go above and beyond the baseline. Whether you’re choosing UPF 15+ for casual outings or UPF 50+ for maximum defense, the “+” ensures superior UV protection to help you stay safe and confident under the sun.
Remember, no single solution provides 100% protection. Pair UPF clothing with sunscreen on exposed areas and practice other sun-safe habits, like seeking shade during peak hours. By combining these strategies, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin protected year-round.
Live well under the sun!
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