Best Sun Protection for Paddling

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Paddlers get intense sun exposure: long hours in open sun, reflection off the water and little shade. Sunburn and heat exhaustion can ruin a trip, and repeated exposure adds up over years. Covering skin with sun-protective clothing is the most reliable approach, supplemented by sunscreen on exposed skin.

We compared sun gear on UPF protection, comfort, breathability, fit for paddling and durability. This is general information; for personal skin concerns, talk to a healthcare professional.

Why paddlers need extra protection

Water reflects sunlight, increasing exposure from below, including under hat brims. Wind cools skin so you may not feel burning. Sunscreen washes off with splashing and sweat. That's why clothing coverage is so valuable for paddlers.

The best sun protection gear

Sun hoodies and shirts

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts and hoodies with UPF ratings block much of the sun's UV while staying cool. Hoods protect neck and ears. Look for quick-dry fabrics and thumb loops to cover the backs of hands.

Hats

Wide-brim hats shade the face and neck; cape-style hats add neck coverage. A chin strap or leash keeps hats on in wind. Under a helmet in whitewater, a thin cap or hood works.

Gloves

Hands get constant sun on the paddle shaft. Sun gloves or fingerless paddling gloves protect the backs of hands and reduce blisters.

Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses cut glare from the water. Use a retainer strap so they don't sink. Wraparound styles block side glare.

Neck gaiters and face coverings

Lightweight UPF gaiters cover neck and lower face and can be pulled up when needed.

Sunscreen strategy

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed skin before launching and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or heavy sweating. Lip balm with SPF protects lips. Follow product directions and local rules on sunscreen use in sensitive waters.

Heat and hydration

Sun protection goes hand in hand with staying cool: drink water, wet your hat or shirt to cool down, and take breaks in shade. See staying cool in summer heat.

Choosing UPF clothing

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures how much UV a fabric blocks. Higher UPF ratings block more. Fabric weave, color and fit affect protection; tightly woven and darker fabrics usually block more. Wet or stretched fabrics may protect less. Choose loose-fitting, breathable garments rated with UPF for long days on the water.

Dressing for hot days

Light-colored, loose UPF clothing reflects heat and allows airflow. Wetting a sun hoodie or hat cools you through evaporation. Choose quick-drying fabrics that don't cling. Avoid dark cotton, which absorbs heat and stays wet.

Protecting lips, ears and feet

Lips burn easily; use lip balm with SPF. Ears and the back of the neck are often missed; hoods, cape hats and gaiters help. Tops of feet burn on sit-on-top kayaks; cover them or apply sunscreen.

Sun protection for kids

Children need the same protection: UPF shirts, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Keep kids hydrated and take breaks in shade.

Signs of heat illness

Watch for heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache and confusion. Get to shade, cool down and drink water. Severe symptoms need emergency care. See kayak first-aid kit.

Shade on the water

Some fishing kayaks accept shade canopies or umbrellas. They help on hot, calm days but catch wind, so use them cautiously.

Sun protection for your gear

UV also degrades kayaks, PFDs and straps. Store gear out of sun and consider UV protectant sprays for plastics.

Timing your paddles

Paddling early or late in the day reduces sun exposure and heat. Midday sun is most intense.

Sunscreen types

Choose broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen and follow the label's reapplication guidance. Test new products on a small area of skin first.

Building a sun kit

A sun kit that lives in your deck bag: sunscreen, SPF lip balm, sunglasses with retainer, a buff, and a spare hat. Replace sunscreen each season and check expiration dates.

A full-coverage outfit for a long day

For a long, sunny day on the water, a practical outfit starts with a lightweight, loose UPF sun hoodie in a light color, paired with quick-dry UPF pants or shorts and a sarong or towel over your legs on a sit-on-top. Add a wide-brim or cape hat with a leash, polarized sunglasses on a retainer, a UPF gaiter you can pull up over your nose and cheeks, and fingerless sun gloves. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to any exposed skin, including the tops of your feet and ears, and carry it in your deck bag for reapplication. Bring plenty of water and electrolytes. This setup keeps you protected from above and from reflection, and it's usually cooler than bare skin in the sun.

Our bottom line

Cover up first, then use sunscreen for what's left. A UPF hoodie, a hat that shades your face and neck, sun gloves, polarized sunglasses on a retainer and a gaiter protect far more reliably than sunscreen alone on long days on the water. Add water, shade breaks and early or late paddling times on hot days.

Caring for UPF clothing

Wash UPF garments according to care labels, avoid fabric softeners that can affect performance, and replace clothing that becomes thin or stretched, since worn fabric may protect less. Rinse salt water out after coastal trips to keep fabrics comfortable and extend their life.