In the UAE, everyone knows the sun is strong. But on the water, a lot of people still protect themselves based on habits that don’t hold up. A cool winter breeze, an old T-shirt, a single layer of sunscreen in the morning.
Here are six common myths, what the science actually says, and how to pick clothing that really protects you.
Myth 1: “It’s winter, so the sun isn’t a problem.”
Fact: UV radiation isn’t heat. You can’t feel it, and a cool breeze does nothing to reduce it. UV levels in the UAE are lower in winter than in summer, but even in January the midday UV index in Dubai typically sits around moderate levels, where sun protection is still recommended. Over a two- or three-hour session, that adds up.
Myth 2: “Any T-shirt will do.”
Fact: A typical white cotton T-shirt has a UPF of only about 7. That means roughly one-seventh, or about 14%, of UV still reaches your skin. A fabric rated UPF 50 lets through just 2%.
|
Fabric |
UPF |
UV reaching your skin |
|
White cotton T-shirt, dry |
about 7 |
about 14% |
|
White cotton T-shirt, wet |
about 3 |
about 33% |
|
Fabric rated UPF 50 |
50 |
2% |
Myth 3: “Wet clothes protect you just as well.”
Fact: Many fabrics lose protection when they get wet or stretched, because the gaps between the fibres open up. The same white T-shirt drops to around UPF 3 when wet. On the water, that’s exactly when you’re wearing it.
Myth 4: “Sunscreen is all I need.”
Fact: Sunscreen matters, but on the water it washes off, sweats off and rubs off under a harness, a buoyancy aid or a hiking strap. It’s also easy to apply too little, or forget to reapply. UPF clothing doesn’t wear off during a session. Use both: UPF clothing for everything it covers, sunscreen for the rest.
Myth 5: “I’m fine in the shade of the sail, or on a hazy day.”
Fact: On the water, UV doesn’t only come from above. Water reflects UV and can increase your exposure by around 10%, and a boat’s deck can add roughly another 10%. Dry sand on the beach can add around 20%. Thin cloud and haze also let much of the UV through. Shade from a sail helps, but it doesn’t block reflected light.
Myth 6: “UPF is just SPF for clothes.”
Fact: They’re related, but not the same. SPF on sunscreen is based on UVB, the rays mainly responsible for sunburn. UPF on clothing measures how much of both UVA and UVB passes through the fabric. UVA penetrates deeper into the skin and contributes to skin ageing and damage, even when you don’t burn.
What to look for in sun-protective clothing
• A UPF rating on the label. It’s the only way to know how much protection you’re actually getting. UPF 50+ is the highest standard rating.
• Coverage. Long sleeves, a higher collar and longer bottoms protect more skin. Your neck, shoulders, forearms and the backs of your hands get the most sun on the water.
• The right fit. Very tight fabric stretches, which can reduce protection. Choose a fit that sits close for movement without being pulled thin.
• Colour and weave. Darker or brighter colours and denser weaves generally block more UV than pale, thin or loose fabrics.
• Built for the water. Technical tops and rash vests designed for watersports dry fast and stay comfortable wet, so you’ll actually keep them on.
The bottom line
The best sun protection on the water is a combination: UPF clothing for most of your skin, water-resistant sunscreen for your face, ears and hands, a cap, and polarised sunglasses. It takes a few seconds to put on, and it lets you stay out longer.
If you notice any changes to your skin, see a doctor or dermatologist.
Gear up for the sun
Browse our technical tops and rash vests, and check the UPF rating on each product page before you buy.
