- The '+' means the fabric beats the baseline for its category. On UPF clothing, UPF 50+ blocks more than 98%, not just 98% on the nose.
- UPF 50+ is the maximum rating a fabric can earn; nothing is labeled higher.
- Higher ratings let through far less UV. UPF 50 lets 2% reach your skin, while UPF 15 lets about 6.7%, more than three times as much.
- The number reflects four things: weave, fiber, color, and any UV-blocking treatment.
- Look for a tested UPF label. Essuntials® is independently lab-tested and verified to hold UPF 50+ through 40 washes.
Sun protection is more important than ever, and UPF-rated clothing is an essential tool in shielding your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. You've likely seen UPF ratings like UPF 15+, UPF 30+, UPF 40+, or UPF 50+, but what exactly does that '+' at the end mean? And how do these ratings compare? Let's break it down to help you make informed choices about your sun protection wardrobe.
What Is UPF?
UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, measures how effectively a fabric blocks harmful UV radiation from reaching your skin. UPF clothing provides broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields against both UVA and UVB rays for comprehensive coverage. The higher the UPF rating, the greater the protection. For example:
| UPF Rating | UV Penetration | Protection Level |
|---|---|---|
| UPF 15 | Allows 1/15th (about 7%) of UV rays to penetrate the fabric. | Good |
| UPF 30 | Allows 1/30th (about 3.3%) of UV rays through. | Very Good |
| UPF 50 | Allows only 1/50th (2%) of UV rays to pass through. | Excellent |
At first glance, the difference between 7% and 2% UV penetration might seem minor. However, UPF 50 lets through about 40% less UV than UPF 30 (2% versus 3.3%), and roughly a third as much as UPF 15 (2% versus 6.7%), which meaningfully lowers cumulative UV damage over time. Some UPF-rated apparel also includes a '+' symbol, indicating performance beyond the minimum requirements for its category.
What Does the Plus (+) Mean?
The plus sign (+) in UPF ratings (such as UPF 15+, UPF 30+, or UPF 50+) indicates that the fabric offers greater UV protection than the baseline for its category. Here's how each rating is categorized:
| UPF Rating | UV Blockage | Protection Level |
|---|---|---|
| UPF 15+ | Blocks at least 93.3% of UV. | Good, for casual exposure. |
| UPF 25+ | Blocks at least 96.0% of UV. | Very Good, for moderate exposure. |
| UPF 30+ | Blocks at least 96.7% of UV. | Very Good, for outdoor activities. |
| UPF 40+ | Blocks at least 97.5% of UV. | Excellent, for prolonged sun exposure. |
| UPF 50+ | Blocks at least 98% of UV. | Excellent, the maximum rating, for intense sun or sensitive skin. |
By choosing fabrics with the '+' designation, you can trust that your clothing provides dependable and effective UV protection, ensuring safer outdoor activities.
Why Does the '+' Matter?
The '+' symbol in UPF ratings means you're getting better-than-basic protection. For instance, UPF 40+ doesn't just meet the threshold for 'excellent' protection, it exceeds it. This is especially important for people who spend extended time outdoors or have heightened sensitivity to UV exposure. Knowing that a UPF 40+ shirt blocks at least 97.5% of UV rays offers peace of mind that your skin is well-protected.
How Are UPF Ratings Determined?
UPF ratings are determined through rigorous testing in controlled environments. Fabric samples are exposed to UV light, and the amount of UV radiation that penetrates through the fabric is measured. Factors influencing the UPF rating include:
- Weave Density – Tighter weaves allow fewer UV rays to pass through.
- Fabric Type – Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon often outperform natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Color – Darker colors absorb more UV radiation, offering higher protection.
- Treatments – Fabrics may be treated with UV-blocking agents to enhance their effectiveness.
UPF clothing is tested according to recognized industry standards, such as AATCC TM183 (U.S.), AS/NZS 4399 (Australia/New Zealand), and EN 13758-1 (Europe), ensuring the fabric meets its stated level of protection.
Choosing the Right UPF for Your Needs
When selecting UPF clothing, consider your lifestyle and sun exposure:
| UPF Rating | Best For |
|---|---|
| UPF 15+ to UPF 25+ | Casual exposure, like running errands or short outdoor walks. |
| UPF 30+ to UPF 40+ | Moderate to high exposure, such as hiking, gardening, or outdoor sports. |
| UPF 50+ | Intense sun exposure, beach days, or high UV Index conditions. |
Understanding these ratings helps you choose the right level of protection for your daily activities.
Frequently Asked Questions About the UPF Plus
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the '+' in UPF ratings.
What does UPF 50+ mean?
It means the fabric blocks at least 98% of UV, clearing the UPF 50 mark. UPF 50+ is the maximum rating a fabric can earn, so nothing is labeled higher.
Is UPF 50+ better than UPF 50?
Slightly. Both block at least 98%, but the '+' signals the fabric tested beyond the UPF 50 threshold. In practice the difference is small; what matters more is that the rating holds up over time.
Does a higher rating let me skip sunscreen?
No. Even UPF 50+ covers only the skin under the fabric. Pair it with broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed areas like your face, neck, and hands.
Is UPF 30+ enough for everyday wear?
Yes, for casual exposure. UPF 30+ blocks about 96.7% of UV, a very good baseline. For long or intense sun, UPF 50+ is the safer call.
The Essential Takeaway
UPF clothing offers powerful sun protection, and the '+' in UPF ratings is a reliable marker of fabrics that go above and beyond the baseline. Whether you're choosing UPF 15+ for casual outings or UPF 50+ for maximum defense, the '+' ensures superior UV protection to help you stay safe and confident under the sun.
Remember, no single solution provides 100% protection. Pair UPF clothing with sunscreen on exposed areas and practice other sun-safe habits, like seeking shade during peak UV hours. By combining these strategies, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin protected year-round. The best sun protection is the kind you can live in.
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