Protect your hands from harmful UV rays while enjoying the outdoors with UPF gloves. Specially designed for sun safety, these gloves combine comfort, style, and advanced protection, making them essential for anyone who spends time outside. Whether you’re gardening, biking, or fishing, discover how UPF gloves can keep your skin safe without sacrificing mobility or fashion.
UPF Gloves: Comparison Table
| Type | Coverage | Style | Best For | Touchscreen Compatible | Grip Material | Adjustable Closure | Cooling Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-finger UPF Gloves | Full hand | Full-finger | Maximum protection | Some models | Yes | Sometimes | Often |
| Fingerless UPF Gloves | Up to knuckles | Half-finger | Dexterity, mobility | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fishing UPF Gloves | Extended wrist | Fingerless | Water, fishing | Usually | Reinforced | Yes | Quick-dry |
| Lightweight Travel Gloves | Wrist | Full or half | Driving, daily use | Some | Non-slip | Sometimes | Breathable |
| UV Gloves with Insect Repellent | Full hand | Both | Hiking, travel | Some | Varies | Yes | Yes |
Everyday Usage of UPF Gloves
UPF gloves, designed with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rated fabrics, are a smart addition to your sun-protection routine. They shield your hands from harmful UV rays during daily activities and outdoor adventures. Here’s how you can use them in everyday life:
- Driving: Car windows often do not block all UVA rays. Wearing UPF gloves while driving prevents sun damage, dark spots, and premature aging on your hands.
- Gardening: Extended gardening exposes hands to sunlight and harsh conditions. Gloves protect from sunburn, cuts, and scrapes.
- Fishing, Boating, and Kayaking: Water sports can double UV exposure due to sun reflection. Specialized fishing gloves provide grip, resist moisture, and dry quickly.
- Golfing, Hiking, and Outdoor Sports: Maintain a solid grip and dexterity while protecting skin during prolonged activity.
- Walking, Running, or Biking: Lightweight gloves prevent sun exposure on hands and wrists without over-heating.
- Sensitive Skin or Dermatological Recovery: UPF gloves are valuable if you’re treating sun damage, recovering from procedures, or managing skin conditions requiring strict sun avoidance.
Benefits of Using UPF Gloves
Choosing UPF gloves for your daily routine and outdoor pursuits offers the following advantages:
- Superior UV Protection: UPF 50+ gloves block over 98% of harmful UVA & UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, age spots, and skin cancer.
- Comfort and Cooling: Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics help keep your hands dry and cool, even in hot weather.
- Enhanced Grip and Safety: Many models include silicone or synthetic leather palms for a non-slip grasp—ideal while driving or handling equipment.
- Dexterity: Fingerless options preserve finger feel and smartphone use, making them great for activity and errands.
- Skin Health Support: Protects fragile or healing skin, supports anti-aging, and avoids exposure to harsh sunscreens (which can wash off easily from hands).
- Reusable and Easy Care: Most UPF gloves are washable and durable, offering long-term value without contributing to waste.
- Versatility: Useful for a wide range of activities and travel. Some models offer features like insect repellency for added outdoor comfort.
How to Choose UPF Gloves
When selecting UPF gloves for your needs, consider these factors:
1. Coverage & Protection Level
- Look for UPF 50+ Rating: The higher the UPF, the more reliable the sun protection. Seek gloves that offer a certified UPF 50+ rating for best results.
- Coverage Style: Decide between full-finger and fingerless. Full-finger gives complete protection; fingerless allows more dexterity and ventilation.
2. Material Quality
- Breathable, Lightweight Fabric: Polyester, nylon, and spandex blends are common, ensuring comfort, flexibility, and breathability.
- Moisture-Wicking/Cooling Technology: Helpful for all-day comfort, especially during high activity or hot climates.
- Quick-Dry Properties: Essential for water-based sports.
3. Fit and Sizing
- Snug, Not Tight: Gloves should fit closely without restricting movement. Most brands offer a size chart—measure around your palm for best results.
- Cuff Length: Longer cuffs offer additional wrist/forearm protection, especially for fishing, cycling, or hiking.
4. Dexterity & Grip
- Choose grip patterns or silicone patches if you’ll be gripping tools, sporting equipment, or steering wheels.
- Touchscreen Compatibility: If you use your phone while gloved, look for compatible fingertips (usually on full-finger gloves).
5. Additional Features
- Adjustable Closures: Velcro or elastic bands ensure a secure fit.
- Insect Repellent: Some gloves offer built-in insect protection—ideal for woods or travel.
- Color and Style: Select from colors that best match your wardrobe or visibility needs.
6. Durability and Maintenance
- Washability: Ensure your gloves are machine washable for easy care.
- Reinforced Wear Points: Look for extra stitching or padding in high-friction areas.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Using UPF Gloves
- Measure Before Buying: Refer to manufacturer size guides. Proper fit prevents slipping and ensures comfort.
- Full Finger vs Fingerless: Choose fingerless for activities requiring tactile sensation (phone, fishing, photography). Opt for full-finger for maximum protection or sensitive skin.
- Layer With Other Sun Protection: Combine gloves with UPF sleeves or shirts for extended coverage.
- Pairing For Safety: Use gloves with grip enhancement for driving, fishing, sports, or cycling.
- Regular Washing: Clean your gloves frequently, especially after heavy use or exposure to saltwater, sweat, or sunscreen. Most UPF gloves keep their sun protection after many washes.
- Monitor Signs of Wear: Replace gloves when they show excessive wear, thinning, or holes—a breach can reduce protection.
- Sunscreen For Exposed Skin: Apply sunscreen on areas not covered by gloves, such as fingertips (for fingerless styles).
- Stay Cool: Choose lighter colors if you’re active in hot sun, as they absorb less heat.
- Pack Spares For Travel: Sun gloves are lightweight and compact—keep an extra pair in your bag for vacation or emergencies.
- Medical Use: If you’re healing from medical treatments or skin procedures, consult your doctor about coverage needs.
UPF Glove Models: Features & Specs Comparison
| Model/Brand | UPF Rating | Style | Material | Breathability | Grip Type | Touchscreen | Adjustable Closure | Sizes | Colors | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coolibar Sawyer UV Sun Gloves | 50+ | Full-finger | Polyester/Spandex | Yes | Silicone palm/fingers | Yes | Pull-on | XS–XL | 9 options | Cooltect™ cooling, unisex |
| Coolibar Ouray Fingerless Sun Gloves | 50+ | Fingerless | Polyester/Spandex Mesh | High | Silicone print | – | Pull-on | XS–XL | 12 options | Light activities, colors |
| Coolibar Gannett Full-Finger | 50+ | Full-finger | Spandex blend | High | Silicone print | Yes | Pull-on | – | Several | Touchscreen |
| Palmyth UV Fishing Gloves | 50+ | Fingerless | Synthetic fiber blend | High | Synthetic leather | No | Pull tabs | XS–XXL | 6 | Quick-dry, reinforced palm |
| Prequel Fingerless Sun Gloves | 50+ | Fingerless | Breathable, synthetic | Yes | Silicone print | – | Velcro strap | One size | Black, Cream, Brown | Adjustable, unisex |
| Satinior 4-pack Driving Gloves | Not rated | Half-finger | Not provided | Moderate | Non-skid | – | – | Women’s | 4 | Value 4-pack, colors |
| Abaco Bay Sun Gloves | 50+ | Fingerless | Spandex | Yes | None specified | – | – | Varied | Multiple | Light, form-fitting |
| UV Skinz Sun Gloves | 50+ | Not specified | Not specified | Yes | Solid grip | – | – | S–L | – | Easy to put on/off |
| Outdoor Research ActiveIce Sun Gloves | Not listed | Fingerless | Polyester | Yes | Anti-slip print | No | – | Several | – | Active cooling, tapered |
| éclipse Sun Gloves | 50+ | Both | Cooling fabric | Yes | Not specified | – | – | Range | Multiple | Insect repellent option |
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Conclusion
UPF gloves are an essential accessory for anyone seeking effective, comfortable, and versatile sun protection for the hands. Whether you’re driving, enjoying outdoor sports, gardening, or protecting sensitive skin, these gloves offer a reliable shield against harmful UV rays. Choosing the right pair means factoring in coverage, material, fit, grip, and additional features such as cooling technology or insect repellency. A well-chosen pair will provide daylong protection, enhance comfort, and support long-term hand health.
FAQ
What does UPF mean in UPF gloves?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF-rated fabric blocks a certain percentage of UVA and UVB rays. For example, UPF 50+ means the gloves block at least 98% of harmful UV rays reaching your skin.
Do I need UPF gloves if I already use sunscreen?
Yes. Sunscreen can rub off easily from hands, especially during activities like driving or gardening. UPF gloves provide consistent coverage and don’t require reapplication, making them more reliable for hand protection.
Are UPF gloves effective when wet?
Most high-quality UPF gloves retain their protection even when wet. However, always check the manufacturer’s instructions, as some lower-quality materials may lose efficacy when saturated.
How do I wash UPF gloves?
Most UPF gloves are machine washable with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, and air-dry for best results. Regular washing maintains hygiene and extends glove life.
Can I use my phone while wearing UPF gloves?
Many fingerless gloves allow for easy use of touchscreens. Some full-finger models are designed with touchscreen-compatible fingertips, but always confirm this feature before purchasing.
Which is better: full-finger or fingerless UPF gloves?
It depends on your needs. Full-finger gloves offer the most protection, ideal for those with sensitive skin or seeking maximum coverage. Fingerless gloves provide dexterity and are cooler, making them ideal for sports, driving, or phone use.
Are UPF gloves only for outdoor sports?
No. UPF gloves are also useful while driving, walking, running errands, or any daily activity with sun exposure. They’re particularly helpful for those with sensitive skin, medical conditions, or after dermatological procedures.
Do materials other than fabric offer UV protection in gloves?
Some gloves incorporate synthetic leather or silicone in the palm for grip, which also provides a physical barrier to sunlight. However, the main UV protection comes from the fabric’s UPF rating.
How do I know my size for UPF gloves?
Measure the circumference of your palm (just below the knuckles, excluding the thumb) and compare with brand-specific sizing charts. Gloves should fit snugly but not tightly for best protection and comfort.
Will UPF gloves make my hands hot and sweaty?
Most modern UPF gloves use lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials to keep hands cool and dry. For intense heat or activity, look for gloves with specific cooling features or mesh panels.