Do Wetsuit Pants Provide UV Protection?
When spending hours on or in the water, protection from the sun is just as important as staying warm. While most people are familiar with the insulating properties of wetsuits, many are unaware that wetsuit pants can also serve as a reliable barrier against harmful UV rays. For anyone involved in water sports or regular ocean swimming, understanding this added benefit can help make more informed gear choices.
What Are Wetsuit Pants Made Of?
Wetsuit pants are usually constructed from high-performance materials like neoprene, Chillproof, or similar thermal composite fabrics. These materials are designed not only to keep you warm in cooler water but also to shield your skin from external elements like wind and sun. The thickness and density of these fabrics naturally provide a level of UV resistance, unlike thinner swimwear fabrics.
How Wetsuit Pants Block UV Rays
The fabric used in most wetsuit pants is tightly woven and thick, making it difficult for ultraviolet rays to penetrate. Many wetsuit pants also carry an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, which indicates how effectively the material blocks UV radiation. A UPF rating of 50+, for example, means the fabric allows less than 2% of UV rays to pass through, offering excellent sun protection. This makes wetsuit pants a smart option for long hours spent paddling, snorkelling, or surfing, where direct sunlight can be intense.
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Benefits of UV Protection in Wetsuit Pants
Wearing wetsuit pants with built-in UV protection can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn, especially on areas of the body that are hard to keep covered with traditional swimwear. This is particularly useful during long sessions in the water, where reapplying sunscreen is impractical. UV-protective wetsuit pants also help maintain healthy skin over time, reducing the chance of sun-related damage while allowing you to enjoy extended water activities more comfortably.
Choosing the Right Pair for UV Protection
When selecting wetsuit pants for sun protection, check for UPF labelling or confirmation in the product description. Choose options that offer full leg coverage and a snug fit to ensure consistent protection during movement. If your activities include extended exposure to sunlight—such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or snorkelling—wetsuit pants with UV-resistant materials are worth the investment.
Conclusion
Wetsuit pants aren’t just for insulation. They provide an effective layer of UV protection that makes them ideal for Australian water sports and beach adventures. If you’re looking for gear that delivers both comfort and skin protection in one piece, UV-rated wetsuit pants are a reliable choice.
