What Is the Best Fabric for Sun Protection?

There isn't one fiber that is automatically the best for sun protection. The UV protection of a garment depends on the finished fabric's construction, density, color, thickness, and other characteristics, which is why a tested UPF rating is more useful than simply looking at the fiber content.

Research comparing fabrics has found significant differences in UV transmission based on fiber type, fabric mass, cover, and color. In one study of 28 white fabrics, 19 provided less protection than an SPF 15 sunscreen equivalent, while polyester fabrics generally provided more protection than cotton.

But fiber type is only one piece of the equation. A tightly constructed cotton fabric can provide more UV protection than a loosely constructed fabric made from another fiber. UPF is determined by the performance of the finished textile, not simply its raw material.

What makes a fabric good for sun protection?

Several characteristics can increase UV protection:

• Dense construction: Less open space means less UV can pass through.
• Higher cover factor: Fabrics with greater surface coverage generally provide higher UPF.
• Greater weight or thickness: More material can reduce UV transmission.
• Color and dyes: Dyes can absorb UV and increase protection.
• Low porosity: Fewer openings in the fabric generally mean greater protection.

So what is the best fabric for UPF clothing?

Rather than choosing a fiber based on its name, look for UPF 50+ clothing that has been tested for UV transmission. A UPF rating tells you something measurable about the finished garment's ability to block UV.

And comfort still matters. The most useful sun-protective clothing is clothing you can wear comfortably for hours—whether you're traveling, walking, sitting outside, or simply going about your day.

The takeaway: the best fabric for sun protection isn't necessarily cotton, linen, or polyester. Look for tested UPF 50+ performance combined with comfortable construction and adequate coverage.

Read more about how we do UPF differently.

Sources:
Gies et al., Cancer Research — “Clothing as protection from ultraviolet radiation: which fabric is most effective?”
Saha et al., Heliyon (2024) — “A comprehensive review of ultraviolet radiation and functionally modified textile fabric…”
Gambichler et al., Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology — “Defined UV protection by apparel textiles.”