UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market by Product (Swimwear, Hats & Caps, Pants & Shorts, Shirts, T-shirts, Jackets, & Hoodies, and Others), End Use (Kids, Men, and Women), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA): Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

UPF Sun Protective Clothing Overview

Sun protective Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates how much UV radiation (both UVB and UVA) a fabric allows to reach the skin. For example, a UPF 50 fabric blocks 98% of the sun’s rays and allows 2% (1/50th) to penetrate, thus reducing exposure risk significantly. The UPF garments are made up from materials such as polyester and nylon that generally provide greater protection against UV rays than natural fibers. Wearing UPF clothing can be beneficial in an area with intense sun exposure or individual with high sensitivity UV radiations.

Global UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market Analysis

The global UPF sun protective clothing market size was $xx million in 2022 and is predicted to grow with a CAGR of xx%, by generating a revenue of $xx million by 2032.

COVID-19 Impact on Global on UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market

The global supply chains were severely disrupted due to lockdowns and restrictions, impacting the production and distribution of UPF clothing. Manufacturing plants and textile mills faced temporary closures, leading to a decrease in product availability. As people prioritized essential goods during the pandemic, discretionary spending, including clothing purchases declined. The economic uncertainty and financial constraints resulted in lower demand for UPF clothing. With restrictions on outdoor activities and travel limitations, the demand for UPF clothing designed for outdoor sports, travel, and leisure activities declined. Instead, there was an increased focus on comfortable indoor clothing.

In post-pandemic period, outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and exercising have gained popularity. This has led to a higher demand for UPF clothing as individuals seek to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation while enjoying outdoor pursuits. The focus on health & wellness is increased after the pandemic. As individuals prioritize their well-being, UPF clothing gaining popularity due to its ability to provide effective sun protection without the need for constant reapplication like sunscreen.

Growing Popularity of Outdoor Activities to Drive the Market Growth

People are becoming more conscious about protecting their skin from harmful damaging effects such as sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer. This factor is driving the demand for UPF sun protective clothing. The increasing skin cancer cases and awareness about the skin cancer has also fueled the demand for UPF sun protective clothing. Government in various countries are taking initiatives to raise awareness about the sun protection. In some countries, there are regulations under which outdoor workers or schoolchildren have to wear UPF sun protective clothing. This initiative has increased the demand for UPF clothing. The popularity of outdoor activities is increasing globally. With more people engaging in outdoor recreation and tourism, the demand for sun protective clothing has increased in the last few years. Manufacturers are focusing on producing UPF clothing that combines style with functionality. This availability of options has expanded the market appeal beyond skin-conscious individuals. Increased awareness about sun protection, rising health concerns, government initiatives, fashionable designs, and technological advancements are the primary drivers propelling the growth of the UPF sun protective clothing market.

Lack of Awareness and Knowledge Concerns to Restrain the Market Growth

The lack of knowledge, awareness, and understanding in the people about risks associated with UV radiation hinders the adoption of UPF clothing. The UPF clothing can be more expensive compared to other clothing due to usage of high-quality fabric. This perception of high cost and especially in regions where affordability is a concern, limits the market growth for UPF clothing. The demand for UPF cloths is influenced by weather conditions and environmental factors. In regions with long winters or cooler climates, the demand for UPF clothing may be lesser for specific months or period. Consumers in the remote areas or areas having limited access to the retailers may find challenges to purchase UPF clothing. Most people prefer sunscreen products, such as lotions and sprays, which offer an alternative to protect their skin from the sun. This availability and effectiveness of these products can create competition for the UPF manufacturing clothing companies.

Rising Expansion of E-Commerce Platforms to Drive Excellent Opportunities

The rising focus on health presents a significant opportunity for the UPF clothing market. As the people become more aware of the harmful effects of UV radiation on the skin, there is an increasing demand for UPF sun protective clothes. The rise of e-commerce and online shopping platforms has unlocked the new avenues for sales and distribution of UPF clothing. E-commerce platforms provides a broader customer base to the manufacturing companies where they can expand their businesses and make availability of UPF clothing. Countries with high exposure to sunlight, such as those in tropical regions, present a vast market opportunity. As disposable incomes rise and awareness about sun protection increases in these markets, the demand for UPF clothing is expected to grow substantially. Improvements in fabric technologies, such as the development of lighter and more breathable materials with enhanced UPF properties, is projected to drive market growth. Collaborations between UPF clothing manufacturers and the fashion industry can help bridge the gap between style and sun protection. By aligning UPF clothing with current fashion trends, the market can attract a broader demographic and overcome style-related barriers. Joint marketing campaigns and educational initiatives can help raise awareness about the benefits of using UPF clothing alongside sunscreen products. Such partnerships can drive market growth and strengthen the overall sun protection industry.

Global UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market Share, by Product, 2022

The shirts, t-shirts, jackets, & hoodies sub-segment accounted for the highest share in 2022. Shirts, t-shirts, jackets, and hoodies are the most popular category of UPF clothing. This garment is considered as an everyday clothing worn by a wide range of individuals. Manufacturers are designing t-shirts, jackets, and hoodies in fashionable and stylish options with the fashionable clothing trend. This allows consumers to maintain both sun protection and personal style. Shirts, t-shirts, jackets, and hoodies are used for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and sports. These activities involve exposure to the sun, making UPF clothing essential for sun protection. Shirts, t-shirts, jackets, and hoodies offer a convenient solution for sun protection while traveling as well. These clothes are easy to pack and carry while travelling, and can be worn in various climatic conditions.

Global UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market Share, by End Use, 2022

The women sub-segment accounted for the highest share in 2022. Women are generally more careful about skincare and sun protection than men and children. Women often prioritize maintaining the health and appearance of their skin, which includes protecting it from harmful UV radiation. Women are more likely to prioritize fashion and style in their clothing choices. Manufacturers of UPF clothing have recognized the trend and offer a wide range of stylish and fashionable options for women. Women are often more engaged in travel and leisure activities, including beach vacations, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures, which expose them to higher levels of UV radiation. UPF clothing provides convenient solution for women to protect themselves from the sun burn damages. Certain occupations, such as outdoor work, teaching, healthcare, and childcare, may require women to spend time outdoors. These professions lead to an increase in need for sun protection, and UPF clothing can offer an effective solution.

Global UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market Share, by Region, 2022

The North America UPF sun protective clothing market generated the highest revenue in 2022. There has been rising awareness of the adverse effects of UV radiation on the skin such as sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer, among the general population in North America. This awareness leads to greater demand for sun protective clothing in the region. Increasing cases of skin cancer in North America are encouraging individuals to protect themselves from the UV radiations. The rising incidence of skin cancer has also led to an increase in demand for UPF clothing in the region. This region has large number of baby boomers, who are highly susceptible to the skin cancer. Moreover, the increasing income and willingness to spend on health are also factors fueling the market. The North America is also known for their love of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, water sports, and gardening. Therefore, there is a significant market for UPF clothing that provides sun protection during outdoor recreation and supports active lifestyles.

Competitive Scenario in the Global UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market

Cabana Life - the leader in sun protection offers stylish sun protective clothing with 50+ UV protection including bathing suits, dresses, hats, cover-ups, tunics, shirts, and pants for kids, men, and women. Cabana Life is a private company which was founded in 2005. Its headquarters is located at New York, USA. The number of employees ranges from 25 to 100. The annual revenue of Cabana Life varies between 5.0 M and 25 M. The company currently specializes in the retail, sports, leisure & hobby areas. Cabana Life has partnered with the David Cornfield Foundation and Stand Up to Cancer to raise funds to help further skin cancer research, education, and prevention. The company’s mission is to spread awareness about proper UV protection while maintaining a sense of style.

Some of the leading UPF Sun Protective Clothing Market players are COOLIBAR SUN PROTECTIVE CLOTHING, Sunprecautions, IBKUL, UV Skinz Inc., Patagonia Inc., Nike Inc., The North Face, IZOD, and Under Armour, Inc.