UV protection clothes to protect you from the blazing sun

They also boast other features like cool-touch fabrics and ventilated armholes

Uniqlo, Lulu lemon
Uniqlo, Lulu lemon
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The weather in Singapore has been H-O-T. These days, we’re not even checking the weather forecast to see if we should bring an umbrella out in case it rains – we’re more concerned about whether it has hit above 35 degrees because that’s the only explanation for why we’re soaked in sweat, right? But surviving the hot weather isn’t just about keeping sweat-free — it’s also crucial to be adequately protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. And this is when clothes with UV protection come into play.

On Mar 27, the UV index in Singapore hit extreme levels, according to the National Environment Agency. It is advised for the public to put on sunscreen and a hat, and have an umbrella on the ready. But why not go the extra mile and invest in clothes with UV protection? We found 10 that you might like.

Cool Touch & Anti UV Twill Cigarette Suit Pants, $79, G2000

Credit: G2000
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The hot weather might make you feel like trading all your pants for shorts, but they may not be all that work-appropriate. Here’s the good news: G2000 has pants that have UV protection and are made with Cool Touch fabric, making them comfortable to wear in humid weather. It features a cigarette pants silhouette for a sleek look, so no one would know you just had a losing battle with the sun and humidity. For more work clothes with UV protection, check out the brand’s Techwork Anti-UV range.

Cool Touch & Anti UV Work Dress with Fabric Belt, $129, G2000

Credit: G2000
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If you can’t take wearing pants out because the backs of your knees get sweaty, opt for a dress. This one is also made with Cool Touch fabric that, like its name, feels cool to the touch, and has UV protection. We also love the matching belt that comes with the dress!

Miracle Air Jacket (AirSense Jacket) (Co-ord), $79.90, Uniqlo

Credit: Uniqlo
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While you can take a rain check on some plans, there’s no “sun check” for work or important meetings. Unfortunately, some roles or office settings still require you to wear a blazer. If that sounds familiar, consider picking up this blazer from Uniqlo, which has UPF50+, and is made of a fabric that wicks off your sweat quickly. We suggest layering any of the brand’s lightweight Airism tops that also help wick moisture and keep you cool. Uniqlo has a pretty extensive range of clothes with UV protection or made with sweat-wicking fabric, so be sure to check them out!

Parachute Pants, $49.90, Uniqlo

Credit: Uniqlo
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If you’re looking to jump on the parachute pants trend but with added sun protection, this pair is all you need. It has UPF50+, but this sun protection factor clearly doesn’t infringe on the aesthetics. Pair this with a top from Uniqlo’s sun protection range, and you’re good to head to the park with the kids this weekend.

Travel Shirt Women UPF50+ Dry Lite, $123, Solbari

Credit: Solbari
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Hate wet patches under the armpits? Well, it’s time to bid them goodbye after you add this shirt to your wardrobe. This shirt from Australian brand Solbari not only comes with UPF50+, but has side mesh panels under the arms for ventilation. We’re not going to lie — our initial first reaction was “Huh”, but that quickly changed to “That’s genius!” The panels are not too obvious unless you go around with your arms above your head, but it looks like a design accent anyway, so don’t be too concerned about its appearance. The most important thing is, no more wet patches!

Lightweight UV Protection Running Jacket, $228, Lululemon

Credit: Lululemon
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Need clothes with UV protection to don for quick errands or to pick up the kids from supplementary classes? Try this lightweight one from everyone’s favourite athletic apparel brand. It comes with UPF40+, but what we love most about this jacket is the little details, such as a watch hole so you can easily check the time on your smartwatch, and the sleeve with thumb holes so your sleeves don’t ride up to ensure maximum protection.

Olaian Women Surf Legging UV-Protection100 – Black, $15.90, Decathlon

Credit: Decathlon
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Everyday wardrobe aside, it’s also important that your swimwear has UV protection. Planning to bring the kids to the swimming pool to cool them down, but afraid your usual swimwear can’t protect you from the sun? Look no further than these leggings from Decathlon. Pair it with a rash guard with sun protection, and you’ll be protected even if your kids decide to spend more than an hour in the pool. As with other swimwear, do take note of the aftercare required after exposure to chlorine, to make these leggings last longer.

SOEOES Vinyl Brim UV Protection Sports Jacket, $68, Zalora

Credit: Zalora
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Protecting your face is just as important as shielding your body. So you’ve applied the SPF needed. You want something more for assurance but find it cumbersome to bring out a hat. Consider this jacket instead. It comes with a hoodie with a wider brim for extra coverage, and a high collar that can protect half your face from sun rays. This makes it handy if you’re doing a short walk or jog around the neighbourhood with the kids, and don’t want to bring too many things out.

Women’s Round Neck Long Sleeve Top UPF 50+, $75, Oh!Sunny

Credit: Oh!Sunny
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Looking for a casual top that offers sun protection with the need for an extra jacket? This basic top from Oh!Sunny will serve your needs well. It boasts UPF50+, and the fabric is lightweight, making it perfect for the current hot weather. Available in nine colours, you can pick your fave, or stock up with several in different colours! Our only gripe is that sizes are limited to M and L. Oh!Sunny has an extensive range of accessories and clothes with UV protection, even for kids.

ACG ‘UV Hike’, $149, Nike

Credit: Nike
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So you got your top covered (literally), but what about your legs? These pants from Nike are made with UV-blocking material to protect you from the sun. They’re hiking pants, but who says you can’t wear it out when running errands or taking the kids out? After all, when the UV index hits extreme, sun protection is paramount. The brand is moving towards zero waste and zero carbon, hence these pants are made from at least 75% recycled nylon fibres, which means the carbon emissions produced from making these pants are reduced by up to 50% as compared to a pair that is made with virgin nylon.



This article was originally published in Singapore Women's Weekly.

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