Under Armour Sunblock Sun Protection Apparel

Athletes who train outdoors face significantly higher UV exposure than the general population due to extended time in direct sunlight, often during peak UV hours. Ultraviolet radiation comes in two primary forms that affect the skin. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin's dermal layer, contributing to premature aging and long-term damage. UVB rays affect the outer epidermal layer and are the primary cause of sunburn. Both types increase the risk of skin damage over cumulative lifetime exposure. The challenge for athletes is that traditional sun protection methods have significant limitations during exercise. Sunscreen sweats off during physical activity, requiring frequent reapplication that interrupts training. Many chemical sunscreens also cause eye irritation when mixed with perspiration, creating additional discomfort during intense workouts. UPF-rated clothing offers a passive, maintenance-free alternative. Unlike SPF ratings for sunscreen, which measure protection from UVB rays only, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures a fabric's effectiveness against both UVA and UVB radiation. A UPF 50+ rating means the fabric blocks more than 98 percent of UV radiation from reaching the skin, with no reapplication needed. The tightness of the fabric weave, the type of fiber, the color, and any chemical UV absorbers all contribute to a garment's UPF rating. Darker colors and tighter weaves generally provide better protection, though advanced fabric treatments can achieve high UPF ratings even in lightweight, breathable materials. For athletes, the key is finding UPF-rated clothing that also manages heat and moisture, because sun protection apparel that causes overheating will not be worn consistently.

Your ideal Sunblock lineup depends on your exposure level and activity type. For maximum coverage during all-day outdoor events, choose the Sunblock hoodie, which protects your arms, torso, neck, and head with a single garment. Integrated thumb holes extend coverage to the backs of your hands, eliminating one of the most commonly sunburned areas. For activities where a hood feels too warm, Sunblock long-sleeve shirts provide arm and torso protection with a more breathable neckline. If your training involves mixed indoor and outdoor time, the lightweight fabric packs down small in your bag for easy transitions. Pair your Sunblock top with [Under Armour shorts](/collections/under-armour) for a comfortable warm-weather training kit.

Understanding peak UV exposure helps you plan your Sunblock use effectively. UV radiation is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, with peak intensity around solar noon. Altitude increases exposure by approximately 10 percent for every 1,000 feet of elevation, making mountain training and hiking particularly high-risk. Water and sand reflect UV rays, intensifying exposure for athletes training near lakes, beaches, or pools. Cloud cover reduces but does not eliminate UV exposure, with up to 80 percent of rays penetrating light cloud cover. For year-round outdoor athletes, Sunblock apparel provides consistent protection regardless of season, since UV radiation remains significant even in cooler months. Pack your Sunblock hoodie whenever training moves outdoors.

For comprehensive outdoor protection, combine your Sunblock top with a quality hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and sunscreen on any exposed skin not covered by fabric. The Sunblock hoodie covers the most vulnerable areas, arms, neck, head, and hand backs, but your face and lower legs still need attention. For athletes with sun sensitivity or a history of skin concerns, building a full Sunblock wardrobe with multiple tops ensures you always have a clean option ready. Add [recovery slides](/collections/adidas-adissage) for post-workout relaxation that keeps your routine comfortable after sunny training days.