The Best Sun Protection Gear of 2019
Play in the rays without feeling the burn
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Patagonia Tropic Comfort Hoodie ($69)
With an ample hood, thumb holes, and feathery but tough UPF 50+ polyester fabric, the Tropic Comfort pullover is everything we want in a full-coverage sun shirt. The women’s version includes a phone-size zip pocket at the back hip.
Sunday Afternoons Sun Guardian Hat ($25)
True to its name, this UPF 50+ straw number (styled after what you’d see on a lifeguard) has a generous four-inch brim that’s lined with black cotton fabric to cut glare and provide solid shade for your face, neck, and shoulders.
Hurraw Sun SPF 15 Lip Balm ($5)
There are a million SPF balms out there, but we keep coming back to Hurraw’s creamy zinc-oxide option because it goes on clear, stays put, protects well, and tastes pleasantly of nothing.
Prana Sutra Pants ($79)
Keep these UPF 50+ trousers (or the women’s Mantra) in your bag to throw on over shorts or swimwear for added coverage. The airy hemp-polyester-spandex blend dries quickly and feels right at home on the beach or aboard a boat.
All Good Tinted SPF 50+ Sunscreen Butter ($10)
This year, All Good added a neutral beige tint to its classic zinc paste, so people with tan and dark complexions can enjoy all-natural mineral protection without the white streaks. Calendula-infused jojoba soothes skin, and the oxybenzone-free, reef-safe formula is easy on the environment.
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Costa Rinconcito Sunglasses ($259)
Costa’s Rinconcito frames deliver style with on-the-water performance. The durable frame stands up to ocean salt, while non-slip nose and temple pads keep your glasses in place. But it’s the lenses that really shine—scratch-resistant, polarized glass is color enhanced for superior clarity. The water’s never looked this good.
Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster Antioxidant Serum ($49)
To address serious sun damage, you want this dermatologist-recommended combination of high-potency antioxidants. Stabilized vitamin C, ferulic acid, and vitamin E work together to reduce inflammation, repair cells, and protect against free radicals. Trust us, it’s worth the price.
Mustang Survival Traction UV Gloves ($30)
For serious paddling and angling in sun-blasted conditions, these suede-palmed UPF 50 gloves provide excellent grip and heat-deflecting above-the-wrist coverage.
Korres Greek Yoghurt After-Sun Cooling Gel ($26)
Classic aloe gel is good, but this milky moisturizer is better. Lactic acid promotes new cell growth and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier, which helps your crispy dermis recover faster. The light herbal scent provides a welcome reprieve from the usual coconut beach-vibes bombardment.