How to Choose the Best Sun Protection for Gardening

Gardening is a great creative outlet, provide physical activity and enable you to connect with nature.Whether you're tending to your flowers, growing vegetables, or just enjoying the outdoors, sun protection is crucial for your health. 

In this guide, we'll explain why sun protection matters in gardening, key factors to consider, and top product recommendations to keep you safe under the sun.

Why Sun Protection Matters for Gardeners

UV Exposure during extended period of time

Gardening requires spending extended periods outdoors, often during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM). This increases the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and long-term skin damage. Repeated sun exposure can also elevate the risk of skin cancer.

UV Amplifier effect

Reflective surfaces such as soil, water, and hardscaping materials can increase your overall exposure to harmful UV rays. Even if you're working under shade, reflected sunlight can still harm your skin.

Frequent Reapplication of Sunscreen

In the garden, you’re often bending, reaching, or working close to the ground. This constant movement, combined with sweating, can cause sunscreen to wear off faster. Reapplication is key.

What to Look for in Sun Protection Gear

UPF Clothing: Your First Line of Defense

For gardeners, wearing UPF-rated clothing is one of the most effective ways to stay protected. Look for:

• UPF 50+ long-sleeve shirts and long sleeve tops, made from lightweight, breathable fabrics.

• Loose-fitting clothing such as a garden bib overall or a button up shirt that keeps you cool while allowing you to move freely as you dig, plant, and prune.

• High-neck shirts or a scarf to maximize sun coverage at the neck.

Top Pick for tops: Our Bamboo long sleeve t-shirt – A lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking top with UPF 50+ sun protection.

Top pick for bib overall: Gardening overall from Duluth, lightweight and stretchy design for maximal comfort & movement while offering UPF50+ sun protection.

Top pick for scarf: Larger, Longer Polyester Bandana Scarf – Ideal for those who want full coverage. It’s lightweight, easy to drape around your neck or front for extra protection, and dries quickly.

Shorter Cotton Bandana – A great choice for those who prefer natural fibers. Soft, breathable, and perfect for tying around your neck or hair.

Sunscreen: Essential for Exposed Skin

Even with sun-protective clothing, sunscreen is necessary for exposed areas. Choose:

• A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

• Water-resistant formulas that last through sweat.

• Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide for long-lasting protection.

Top Pick: EltaMD UV Sport SPF 50 – Sweat-proof, water-resistant, and safe for sensitive skin.

Best Hats for Gardening

A good gardening hat should provide full coverage for your face, neck, and ears. Look for:

• Wide-brimmed hats (3 inches or more) to shield your face, neck, and shoulders from UV rays.

• Breathable fabric to prevent overheating.

• Moisture-wicking materials to keep sweat away from your face as you work.

Top Pick: Our wide brim hat – has a wide brim, is packable and offers UPF45+ sun protection..

Best Sunglasses for UV Protection

Gardening involves working outdoors, often under the bright sun. Protect your eyes with:

• 100% UVA/UVB protection lenses.

• Wraparound styles to block UV rays from all angles.

• Polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially while working near reflective surfaces like soil or water.

Top Pick: Vallon Heron Glacier – stylish, side shields and UV400

Best Gardening Gloves for Sun Protection

Gardening gloves are essential for protecting your hands from sunburn, blisters, and cuts. Choose:

• UPF-rated gloves to shield your hands from harmful UV rays.

• Breathable materials to ensure comfort while working.

• Long cuffs to provide additional sun protection for your wrists and forearms.

Top Pick: Go greens bamboo gloves, made with bamboo fibers, soft and comfortable while offering UPF50+ sun protection. 

Best Times to Garden for Sun Protection

Avoid gardening during peak UV hours (10 AM - 4 PM). If possible:

• Start early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

• Use shaded areas or consider setting up garden canopies to reduce direct sunlight exposure.

Hydration and Skin Health

Gardening can be physically demanding, especially on hot days. Stay hydrated to help regulate your body temperature and keep your skin healthy. Drink plenty of water throughout your gardening session and apply a moisturizing sunscreen to avoid dry skin.

Final Thoughts

Sun protection is a crucial part of gardening safely. By choosing the right UPF clothing, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, gloves, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin protected. Whether you're planting, weeding, or harvesting, taking care of your skin and eyes should always be a priority.

Key Takeaways for Sun-Safe Gardening

✅ Wear UPF 50+ clothing to keep your skin protected from the sun.

 ✅ Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreenevery 2 hours.

✅ Use a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and sun gloves to shield exposed areas.

✅ Avoid peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM) to reduce UV exposure.

✅ Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks to stay cool in the garden.

📌 What’s your favorite sun protection gear for gardening? Share in the comments!

🔗 Looking for the best UPF apparel for gardening? Explore our collection [insert link].

Stay safe, stay covered, and happy gardening!