Why UPF Is a Gamechanger for High-Visibility Safety Apparel

With hot temperatures already blazing in parts of the U.S., it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re protected from the sun. So how do you pair staying safe and visible with sun protection? By wearing high-visibility safety garments that feature UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).

UPF vs. SPF: What’s the Difference?

SPF (sun protection factor) and UPF both refer to the level of protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunscreen and in apparel, respectively. Each scale tells how long you can stay in the sun with them on before getting sunburned.

SPF only refers to protection against UVB rays, while UPF measures the protection level against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s important to note that while sunscreen filters UV rays, it doesn’t block them all completely so it’s good to layer your protection with both sunscreen and UPF clothing.

The Importance of UPF for High-Visibility Workwear

UPF measures the amount of UV radiation that can penetrate fabric and reach your skin, thereby shielding you from the sun. Regular fabrics, especially light or woven fabrics, leave micro holes where UV light can penetrate. High visibility UPF fabrics are woven much tighter and block more of the sun’s harmful rays.

Sun-protective clothing is a fantastic option for those who work outside all day because of its many benefits, including:  

1. Reduction in Skin Cancer Risk: People who work outdoors daily are at higher risk for developing skin cancer. UPF-rated garments help lower the risk by limiting the amount of UV radiation that reaches the skin.
2. Prevention of Heat-Related Illnesses: These newer fabrics, like our Cool Touch, offer moisture-wicking and other innovative properties, which help you regulate your temperature more effectively.
3. Constant Protection: With UPF fabrics, you don’t have to worry about reapplying sunscreen—be sure to use sunscreen on uncovered areas though!

Our Premium Black Series® Safety Apparel

Kishigo has several high-visibility garments designed for hot weather. All are manufactured with Cool Touch that offers both Moisture Wicking and Anti-Odor Properties, and UF rated micro mesh that keeps you cool and protected.

Check out the Premium Black Series Cool Touch Short Sleeve T-shirt, Class 3

• NEW Cool Touch Fabric with Moisture Wicking and Anti-Odor Properties.
• UPF rated Micro Mesh Contrast on Front and Back to promote sun protection and breathability.
• NEW 2” wide stretchable high performance breathable reflective material.
• Black Micro Mesh Panels placed to improve heat stress and conceal perspiration.
• Innovative construction to eliminate excess fabric in seams.
• Tag-less neck label for extra comfort.
• Left chest welt pocket.

Looking for additional sun protection with long sleeves? Check out the Premium Black Series® Cool Touch Long Sleeve T-shirt, Class 3. It not only offers the above features, but has a black bottom cuff that conceals dirt stains to maintain a professional appearance on the job site.

Get the high visibility you need along with sun protection that works. See our Cool Touch UPF products here or contact us today to learn more.