A sun protection rating for textiles and clothing, known as the Ultra-Violet Protection Factor
or UPF rating was developed in Australia and New Zealand in 1996. Similar standards were
later adopted in the USA, Canada and South Africa. Recently a European standard has been
introduced.

UPF rating measures how much ultra violet radiation can pass through a garment to the skin.
A factor of 50+ gives the highest level of protection, blocking out around 97.55% of the rays.

This rating can be achieved through the use of yarns that offer a UV protection. some yarns also
achieve this through the use of chemicals. Hot to Trot only uses fabric which achieves
the UV protection without the use of chemicals, making them suitable for babies and all
sensitive skin.

For effectiveness, garments should be close fitting and therefore breathability, comfort and
lightness are important.


THE AUSTRALIAN/NEW ZEALAND UPF RATINGS SYSTEM

Protection Category                         UPF Rating                       % UVR Blocked

Good Protection                                15-24                                    93.3-95.9

Very Good                                         25-39                                    96.0-97.4
 
Extremely Good                                 40 and over                          97.5 or more

* The Australian/New Zealand standard on Sun Protection, AS/NZS 43999:1996
developed by the Australian radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.


CHOOSING A SUN PROTECTIVE GARMENT

Different materials i.e. cotton, polyester and nylon have varying degrees of natural
UVR-absorbing properties
A tightly woven fabric will allow less UVR to pass through as the smaller the spacing
between the fibres, the higher the protection.
A long sleeved garment with a collar will offer more protection than a short sleeved
garment without a collar.
The Hot to Trot tops are designed for the extreme heat of the Australian summer and
unlike sunscreen they protect you hour after hour!

SLIP-SLAP-SLOP

The Australian. New Zealand and American Cancer Societies are promoting the
SLIP-SLAP+SLOP campaign. They suggest that you slip on a  top, slap on a hat
and slop on sunscreen.


 KEY STATISTICS ON SKIN CANCER IN AUSTRALIA

For information on skin cancer visit www.skincancer.gov.au