How to choose your UV protection t-shirt (Part 1)
All of our UV-resistant t-shirts are UPF50+, 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.
Support and stability in the 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 1 h. For more than one hour, we recommend that you choose the UV top 500, which also has a drawstring at the hips for better stability. Unwanted riding up of the top could cause irritation to the lower abdomen.
Behaviour when in the sun
Although this t-shirt provides protection from the sun, phenomena such as reflections (from the water, sand, etc.), 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 sun cream, drink regularly, etc.
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, kite surfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, sea wading or SUP (stand up paddle boarding).
UV protection even when wet.
The fabric of this OLAIAN anti-UV 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. The density of the textile fibres filters out UV rays, for long-lasting protection, even after washing. Caution: the elastane contained in the fibre may deteriorate in chlorinated water.
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. Reduced chafing from paddling movements has been proven for sessions of one hour. If you plan to surf for more than one hour, the UV top 500 will be a more suitable choice with its seamless panels under the arms.
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 cut (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.
What does UPF 50+ mean?
UPF is a sun protection factor (Ultra Violet Protection Factor) and is standardised 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 UVA and 98% of UVB rays.
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 h) 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.
Surfing sun protection
https://www.olaian.fr/conseils/la-protection-solaire-en-surf-tp_3890
What is the OLAIAN brand?
OLAIAN, DECATHLON'S SURFING BRAND
Based in Hendaye, in South West France, OLAIAN is Decathlon's surfing brand. 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
