Abstract
The principal role of ultraviolet (UV) protective clothing is to protect the
skin against the harmful effects of the sun, notably skin cancer. This is one
of the most prevalent forms of cancer but, fortunately, it is also one of the
most preventable.
Public awareness about the dangers of excessive exposure to the sun has grown
considerably in recent years. However, large sections of the public remain
unaware that UV protective clothing exists or that UV resistance in
conventional clothing can be increased. Consequently, they rely on sunscreen
for UV protection.
The slow and limited adoption of UV protection in clothing by mainstream
consumers may be partly due to the fact that it can not be seen or felt -
unlike other performance features such as moisture management and stretch.
In the early 1990s UV protective clothing was considered to be a niche market
as it comprised mainly swimwear for children and babywear. Its lack of
popularity among adults was due to its relatively high cost, and the
perception that it was heavy, hot and uncomfortable to wear.
However, in the past decade, a number of companies have introduced UV
protective fabrics and garments which do not sacrifice comfort, breathability
or other desirable characteristics commonly associated with good performance
apparel. Furthermore, high quality UV protective clothing today is both
functional and fashionable. It is typically made from lightweight, breathable
fabrics, and can provide as much protection from UV radiation as heavyweight
denim.
Looking ahead, it has been projected by some authorities that consumers will
come to expect their outdoor apparel to offer UV protection - in the same way
as they expect it to be waterproof or insulating today. Others in the industry
are less optimistic, and believe that it will take some time before garment
manufacturers and consumers fully understand the benefits of UV protective
clothing.
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