How to choose your UV protection T-shirt (Part 1)
All of our UV-resistant T-shirts are UPF 50+, i.e. they have the maximum level of sun protection.
The choice between them will therefore be made based on the length of the sleeves and will depend on what it will be used for. The constraints are greatest for surfing so we decided to build our range primarily for surfing.
For surfing, the choice will be made according to the duration of your sessions: 1 hour, 2 hours or 3 hours.
How to choose your UV protection T-shirt (Part 2: According to the duration of the session)
1 hour: Occasional practice. You can choose between a loose fit (priority to ease of dressing and comfort when dry) or a fitted cut (priority to comfort when wet). A loop system to connect it to the shorts ensures the stability of the product.
2 hours: Regular practice. Comfort when wet is enhanced by the seamless panels under the arms and the drawstring which further increases stability.
3 hours: Intensive practice. Additional warmth to help you stay in the water for longer.
UV protection even when wet.
The fabric of this OLAIAN UV-resistant product blocks at least 98% of UVB radiation and 95% of UVA (UPF 50+). This guarantees effective protection from the sun. It can be used both in and out of the water, for water or nautical sports. UV radiation is filtered by the density of the textile fibres, for long-lasting protection, even after washing. Caution: the Spandex contained in the fibre may deteriorate in chlorinated water.
What does UPF 50+ mean?
UPF is a sun protection factor (Ultra Violet Protection Factor) and is standardized worldwide. It defines the protection level of a fabric and more precisely the proportion of UV rays it lets through. To meet the standards, it must block at least 95% of UV rays. UPF 50+ means that the fabric blocks at least 95% of UVB and 98% of UVA rays.
Reduced chafing
This UV-resistant T-shirt helps limit rubbing and chafing due to contact with the surfboard or bodyboard. It can also be used under a wetsuit to limit chafing, particularly around the neck and armpits. Limitation of irritation related to paddling movements has been proven for sessions of one hour. If you plan to surf for more than one hour, the 500 UV top will be a more suitable choice thanks to the seamless panels under the arms.
A system for support and stability in waves.
This UV protection top has a loop at the front to attach the cord of your swim shorts to stop the top from riding up while you surf. This solution is recommended for sessions up to one hour. After an hour we recommend that you choose the UV 500 top, which also has a drawstring at the hips to ensure better stability. Unwanted riding up of the top could cause irritation to the lower abdomen.
Warmth and wind
The minimum water temperature recommended for the use of this UV-protection T-shirt is 22°C. Air temperature may increase or decrease this recommendation.
Our thermal models (over 2 hours) are made of either fleece, neoprene or both. The presence of wind can have an impact which can be uncomfortable as soon as the wind exceeds 15 km/h: In this case, choose a model with neoprene.
Multi water sports UV protection T-shirt
Our UV tops are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding surfers.
Our design choices also make them compatible with other water sports such as swimming, kitesurfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, sea wading or SUP (stand up paddle boarding).
Behaviour when in the sun
Although this t-shirt protects against the sun, phenomena such as reflections (from water, sand ...), heat, time of day, etc. must be taken into account.
Wearing this T-shirt does not exempt the wearer from adopting suitable behaviour: wear sunglasses, wear a hat or cap, regularly apply an appropriate sunscreen, drink regularly, etc.
Surfing sun protection
https://www.olaian.fr/conseils/la-protection-solaire-en-surf-tp_3890
What is the OLAIAN brand?
OLAIAN, DECATHLON'S SURF BRAND based in Hendaye, in South West France, OLAIAN is the surfing brand from Decathlon. In our offices at the water's edge, we can design a UV-protection T-shirt and then on the same day test it directly in real practice conditions
