Even if you rarely sunburn, proactive sun protection is vital for health, as skin cancer is largely preventable. While sunscreen is common, sun-protective clothing can do much of the work. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing blocks UV radiation from reaching your skin. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a UPF rating of at least 30, with 50+ being ideal. Many UPF garments are quick-drying, moisture-wicking, breathable, and lightweight, perfect for outdoor activities. Here are the best women's UPF tops for all your sun protection needs.
1. Lands' End Crewneck
This UPF 50 shirt from Lands' End comes in numerous patterns. It is lightweight, quick-drying, fitted but stretchy, and soft against the skin. Available in many colors, sizes XS-3XL, plus petite and tall sizing. $50 at Lands' End.
2. Baleaf Lightweight Long-Sleeved Rash Guard
Made of UPF 50+ fabric, this shirt is quick-dry and moisture-wicking with a tag-free collar. Over 15,000 5-star ratings on Amazon. Available in solid colors, sizes XS-3XL. Clip on-page coupon for discount. $20 at Amazon.
3. Columbia Fishing Shirt
UPF 50 rating, hidden shoulder vents, mesh back lining, two front pockets, rod-holder loop, and utility loop. Long-sleeved version in 10 colors, short-sleeved in 7 colors, sizes XS-3XL. Long sleeves: $60, Short sleeves: $55 at Columbia.
4. Soothfeel Zip-Up Hoodie
UPF 50+ rating, hood, thumbholes, ultra-lightweight, two zippered side pockets, two inner pockets. Available in 23 colors, sizes XS-3XL. $27+ at Amazon.
5. Willit Fitted Hoodie
Breathable, quick-dry UPF 50+ fabric, fitted design suitable as rash guard or for running/hiking. Available in 32 colors, sizes S-3XL. $23+ at Amazon.
6. REI Sun Hoodie
UPF 50+ hoodie with crossover neck protection and thumbholes. Lightweight and quick-drying. Available in five colors, sizes XS-XL. $60 at REI.
7. Columbia Shirt with Hidden Hand Pockets
UPF 40 rating, two zippered side pockets, roll-up sleeves, mesh back lining. Available in various colors, sizes XS-3XL. Long sleeves: $60, Short sleeves: $50 at Columbia.
8. Beyond Yoga Relaxed Tee
UPF 40, lightweight, soft, machine-washable crewneck with curved hem. Available in sizes XXS-4XL at Amazon, up to 13 colors. $66 at REI, $45+ at Amazon, $46+ at Nordstrom.
9. L.L.Bean Tropicwear Shirt
Options for short or long sleeves, prints or solids, cape venting, large chest pockets, microfiber wipe for sunglasses. Available in petite, regular, plus, and tall sizes. Short sleeves: $70, Long sleeves: $75 at L.L.Bean.
10. Vuori Long-Sleeved Crewneck
Moisture-wicking UPF 30+ crewneck, lightweight and soft. Available in six colors, sizes XS-XXL at Nordstrom. $54+ at Nordstrom.
