How to choose an anti-UV tee shirt? (Part 1)
All our anti-UV tee shirts are UPF50+, i.e. they have the highest level of sun protection.
The choice will therefore be made according to sleeve length, and will then depend on the type of stress you will be subjected to during your session. Surfing is where the stresses are greatest, so we've decided to build our range primarily for surfing.
For surfing, the choice will depend on the duration of your sessions: 1 hour, 2 hours or 3 hours.
How to choose your UV protection tee shirt? (Part 2: Depending on session length)
1 hour: Occasional use. Choose between a loose fit (for ease of donning and dry comfort) or a tight fit (for wet comfort). A buckle system attached to the shorts ensures product stability.
2 hours: Regular wear. Seamless panels under the arms and a tightening tie further enhance wet comfort.
3 hours: Intensive use. Added thermal properties for longer wear in the water.
UV protection even when wet.
The fabric used in this UV protection product OLAIAN blocks at least 98% of UVB and 95% of UVA rays (UPF 50+). This guarantees effective protection against the sun. It can be used in and out of the water for water sports. UV filtration is generated by the density of the textile fibers, and this protection lasts over time, even after washing. Please note that the elastane contained in the fiber may deteriorate in chlorinated water.
What does UPF 50+ mean?
UPF is a globally standardized sun protection factor (Ultra Violet Protection Factor). It defines the textile's level of protection, and more precisely the proportion of UV transmission. To meet standards, it must block at least 95% of UV rays. UPF 50+ means that the textile blocks at least 95% of UVA and 98% of UVB rays.
Reduces irritation
This anti-UV t-shirt limits chafing and irritation caused by contact with the surfboard or bodyboard. It can also be used under a wetsuit to limit irritation, particularly around the neck and armpits. Limitation of irritation due to paddling movements is validated for one-hour sessions. If you're planning to surf for longer than an hour, the UV 500 top is a better choice, thanks to its seamless panels under the arms.
Wave-holding system
This anti-UV top has a loop at the front to pass the cord of the swim shorts through, to prevent the top from riding up during practice. This solution is recommended for sessions of up to 1 hour. For sessions over an hour, we recommend the UV 500 top, which also has a drawstring at the hips for greater stability. Untimely removal of the top could cause irritation in the lower abdomen.
Thermicity and wind
The minimum water temperature recommended for use of this anti-UV tee shirt is 22°C. Air temperature can influence this recommendation either upwards or downwards.
Our thermal models (over 2h) are made of fleece, neoprene or both. The presence of wind will have an impact that can be annoying as soon as the wind exceeds 15 km/h: in this case, opt for a model with neoprene.
Anti-UV tee shirt for water sports
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, active ocean walking (longe-côte) or SUP (stand-up paddle).
Behavior in the sun
Although this t-shirt provides protection from the sun, phenomena such as reverberation (off water, sand, etc.), heat, time of day, etc. must be taken into account. Wearing a T-shirt does not exempt you from following the appropriate precautions: wearing sunglasses, a hat or cap, regularly applying a suitable sun cream, drinking regularly, etc.
Sun protection for surfers
https://www.olaian.fr/conseils/la-protection-solaire-en-surf-tp_3890
What is the OLAIAN brand?
OLAIANDECATHLON'S SURF BRAND
Based in Hendaye, in the south-west of France, OLAIAN is Decathlon's surf brand. In our "feet in the water" offices, we can design a UV-resistant T-shirt in a single day, then test it directly in real-life conditions.