8 UV-Rated Gear for Staying Dry and Sun Protected While Paddleboarding

Standing on a paddleboard exposes you to a double dose of harsh solar radiation from both the sky above and the reflective water below. Without the right gear, a relaxing morning trek on a lake or coastal bay can quickly transform into a painful battle with sunburn and heat exhaustion. Equipping yourself with specialized UV-rated and water-resistant gear ensures you stay dry, protected, and comfortable for hours on the water.

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Why UPF Clothing Ratings Matter on Open Water

Standard summer clothing offers a false sense of security when you are out on open water. A basic cotton t-shirt only provides an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of about 5, which drops even lower when the fabric gets wet. On a paddleboard, water droplets act like tiny magnifying glasses, intensifying the UV rays bouncing off the surface of the lake or ocean.

UPF-rated garments are specifically engineered to block both UVA and UVB radiation through tight weave structures and specialized fibers. A rating of UPF 50 blocks 98 percent of harmful rays, dramatically reducing your skin damage risk during long exposure. Investing in certified UPF apparel means less reliance on greasy sunscreens that wash off and pollute local aquatic ecosystems.

Keep in mind that a garment’s UPF rating is only effective if the fabric fits properly without overstretching. When fibers are pulled too tight, the protective weave opens up, allowing UV light to sneak through to your skin. Choosing the correct size and understanding how wetness affects your clothing’s rating is key to staying safe on high-exposure days.

How to Balance Waterproofing and Sun Protection

Paddleboarding requires gear that can handle constant splashes while remaining highly breathable. Heavy waterproof jackets will trap sweat and heat, quickly leading to overheating under a midday sun. Conversely, highly breathable cotton absorbs water, becomes heavy, and fails to dry out, causing uncomfortable chafing.

The sweet spot lies in technical fabrics that combine hydrophobic properties with high UPF ratings. Look for nylon and polyester blends treated with durable water repellent (DWR) coatings or materials that naturally shed water. These fabrics allow sweat to evaporate quickly while shielding your skin from windburn and intense solar rays.

Layering is the ultimate strategy for adapting to changing water temperatures and weather shifts. A lightweight sun hoodie can be worn directly over a swimsuit, while a reliable dry bag keeps backup insulating layers completely dry. Finding this balance ensures you stay comfortable whether you are vigorously paddling through choppy ocean swells or drifting on a calm mountain lake.

Rash Guard – O’Neill Basic Skins L/S Crew

A dedicated long-sleeve rash guard is your first line of defense against both solar radiation and physical abrasion. When paddling, your arms and torso are in constant motion, making skin-on-board contact or paddle shaft rubbing a common cause of irritation. This layer acts as a second skin, preventing painful chafing while offering comprehensive upper-body sun protection.

The O’Neill Basic Skins L/S Crew is a standout choice due to its premium 6-ounce polyester/spandex composite fabric. It features UPF 50+ protection and utilizes flatlock stitched seams to ensure a completely smooth interior feel against your skin. The strategic seamless paddle zones under the arms prevent the bunching that often plagues lower-quality rash guards.

Because this rash guard is designed with a very tight, performance fit, buyers should size up if they prefer a looser, casual t-shirt feel. The snug fit is intentional, preventing the shirt from riding up your torso when swimming or paddling hard. It is highly resistant to chlorine and salt water, making it a durable option for both coastal bays and chlorinated pool sessions.

This rash guard is perfect for active paddlers who prioritize maximum mobility and zero drag in the water. It is not ideal for those who dislike form-fitting garments or want a loose, airy shirt for hot, windless days.

• Key specs: 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex, 4-way stretch fabric
• Fit type: Skin-tight performance fit
• Compatible uses: Ocean paddling, river touring, snorkeling, surfboard transitions

Sun Hat – Shelta Seahawk Performance Sun Hat

A reliable sun hat prevents blinding glare and protects the vulnerable skin on your face, ears, and neck. Standard straw hats or baseball caps easily fly off in a sudden gust of wind or sink to the bottom if you take a spill. A technical water hat must stay secured to your head, float in the water, and retain its shape even when completely soaked.

The Shelta Seahawk Performance Sun Hat solves the common “floppy brim” problem with a rigid, reinforced brim edge that resists wind and water pressure. It offers UPF 50+ sun protection and features a dual-system chin strap that keeps the hat secure during heavy wind or high-speed falls. The moisture-wicking lining and side ventilation mesh panels prevent heat from trapping around your scalp.

Some paddlers may find the rigid brim takes up more storage space in a gear bag compared to completely collapsible hats. However, this stiffness is exactly what keeps the brim from drooping into your eyes when wet. To maintain its shape, avoid crushing the brim under heavy gear during transport or storage.

This hat is excellent for paddlers tackling windy coastal waters or fast-moving river channels where secure gear is mandatory. It is less suited for casual, slow-paced lake paddlers who prefer a soft, packable bucket hat design.

• Key features: No-sag brim design, removable chin cord, floatable crown
• Sizes available: Small/Medium through XX-Large
• Best use: High-wind paddleboarding, kayaking, flats fishing

Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

Keeping dry clothes, electronics, and emergency gear safe from water damage is non-negotiable on any paddleboard excursion. Even on calm water, a sudden balance slip or a rogue boat wake can capsize your board in an instant. A rugged dry bag secures your gear to the deck rigging, ensuring your valuables remain bone-dry and floatable.

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is built from tough, abrasion-resistant 420D nylon fabric designed to handle rough beach launches and rocky shorelines. It features a waterproof TPU laminate inside and heavy-duty double-stitched, tape-sealed seams that block water penetration under pressure. The roll-top closure is easy to secure, and the built-in lash loops allow you to strap it firmly to your board’s D-rings.

Remember that roll-top bags must be rolled at least three times to create an airtight, waterproof seal. While this bag is incredibly water-resistant and handles temporary submersion, it is not rated for prolonged underwater diving. Always squeeze out excess air before sealing to minimize bulk on your deck.

This gear is a must-have for day trippers and overnight paddle campers carrying expensive cameras, dry clothing, or camping gear. It is overkill for brief, 20-minute paddles close to shore where you only carry a car key.

• Size options: 5L, 8L, 13L, 20L, 35L, 65L
• Material: 420D nylon with TPU laminate
• Best uses: Multiday touring, rapid river paddling, coastal exploring

UPF Leggings – Roxy Whole Hearted UPF 50 Leggings

While many paddlers remember to protect their upper body, the legs are often left completely exposed to direct sunlight and water reflections. Spending hours in a kneeling or standing position on a paddleboard leaves your thighs and calves highly vulnerable to painful sunburns. Specialized UPF leggings protect your lower half without restricting your range of motion.

The Roxy Whole Hearted UPF 50 Leggings offer a comfortable, lightweight barrier made from a durable polyester elastane blend. Featuring UPF 50 sun protection, these leggings resist salt water and chlorine while drying incredibly fast once you step off the board. The wide, flat waistband stays secure without digging into your skin during deep paddling strokes.

Keep in mind that light-colored leggings can sometimes become slightly translucent when wet, so choosing darker shades is often preferred for modesty. Ensure you rinse them thoroughly with fresh water after salt-water use to preserve the elasticity of the fabric. The snug, athletic fit runs true to size but should feel compressive rather than restrictive.

These leggings are perfect for paddlers seeking full-leg sun protection without the hassle of constantly reapplying sunscreen. They are not recommended for cold-water paddling where a thick neoprene wetsuit pants setup is required for thermal safety.

• Fabric composition: 82% Polyester, 18% Elastane
• Protection level: Certified UPF 50+
• Key design element: Wide flat waistband with interior drawcord

Polarized Sunglasses – Costa Del Mar Fantail

Glare off the water surface is more than just an annoyance; it can cause severe eye fatigue and hide underwater hazards like shallow rocks or sandbars. Standard sunglasses only darken your field of view without cutting the reflected light that bounces off the water. Polarized lenses are essential for safe navigation, allowing you to see directly through the surface glare.

The Costa Del Mar Fantail sunglasses are legendary among watermen for their high-performance polarization and durable construction. Utilizing 580P polycarbonate lenses, they filter out harsh yellow light and harmful blue light while enhancing natural colors and contrast. The heavy-duty nylon frames feature Hydrolite nose and temple pads that grip tighter as you sweat, preventing them from slipping off.

Because high-end sunglasses do not float, it is critical to pair them with a neoprene retaining strap before heading onto the water. The lenses require careful cleaning with a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the specialized polarization coatings. Store them in their protective hard case whenever you are not wearing them.

These sunglasses are ideal for serious paddlers, flats anglers, and tour guides who spend long hours navigating bright, reflective waters. They are not the best fit for casual paddlers prone to losing sunglasses who would be better served by cheap, floating alternatives.

• Lens technology: Costa 580 polarization, scratch-resistant barrier
• Frame fit: Medium sport-wrap frame
• Material: Bio-resin nylon frame, polycarbonate lenses

Deck Shoes – Astral Loyak Performance Water Shoes

Standing on a wet, slippery paddleboard deck requires exceptional grip to maintain your balance and paddle efficiently. Bare feet can quickly burn on hot deck pads, while standard sandals offer very little lateral support or toe protection during rocky launches. A low-profile water shoe keeps you stable on the board and protects your feet from sharp shells and rocks.

The Astral Loyak Performance Water Shoes combine a flexible, barefoot feel with a high-friction G.15 Rubber outsole that grips wet surfaces like glue. The upper is made of durable canvas with engineered mesh that drains water rapidly and dries quickly in the sun. The low-profile design fits easily under deck bungees and allows your toes to splay naturally for maximum balance.

These shoes fit snugly to prevent sand and silt from entering the footbed while you walk through shallow water. They do not provide heavy ankle support or thick, stiff midsoles, which means they are not meant for long hiking portages over jagged mountain terrain. Rinse them thoroughly after use to prevent fine sand from wearing down the interior seams.

This footwear is perfect for paddlers who launch from rocky, muddy shores and need reliable grip on wet boards. It is not designed for cold-season paddling where thick neoprene booties are required to prevent hypothermia.

• Outsole rubber: G.15 high-friction, non-marking compound
• Weight: Exceptionally lightweight (approx. 6.3 oz per shoe)
• Material: Breathable canvas with airmesh lining

Sun Hoodie – Patagonia Tropic Comfort Hoody

For long, hot days when the wind dies down, a loose-fitting sun hoodie provides cooling airflow alongside maximum skin coverage. The integrated hood shields your neck and ears—areas that are easily missed by sunscreen and vulnerable to painful burns. It is a versatile layer that functions perfectly both on the water and during post-paddle packing at the boat ramp.

The Patagonia Tropic Comfort Hoody is crafted from lightweight, moisture-wicking Capilene Cool Daily fabric that feels like silk against the skin. It features UPF 50+ sun protection and utilizes HeiQ Pure odor control, which prevents the build-up of sour smells after a long day of sweating. The generous hood is designed to fit comfortably over a baseball cap, and thumb loops keep the sleeves secured over your wrists.

This hoodie is designed with a relaxed, airy fit rather than a compression fit, which can cause it to drag if you spend a lot of time swimming. It dries incredibly fast, but it is not intended to function as a compression rash guard under a tight PFD. Wash it on a gentle cycle to preserve the fabric’s soft texture and performance treatments.

This sun hoodie is the ultimate choice for flatwater paddlers, touring enthusiasts, and hot-weather boaters who want loose, breezy protection. It is less suited for surfers or whitewater paddlers who require tight, hydrodynamic gear that won’t hold water during a swim.

• Material: 100% recycled polyester jersey
• Special features: Thumb holes, odor-control treatment, fair-trade certified sewn
• Fit: Relaxed, loose fit

Waterproof Case – JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch

Your phone is not just for capturing photos; it is a vital safety tool for checking weather radar, navigating, or calling for help in an emergency. Dropping a modern smartphone into a deep lake or saltwater bay can instantly ruin the device and cut off your communication line. A reliable waterproof pouch keeps your phone dry and functional while letting you use the touchscreen.

The JOTO Waterproof Phone Pouch provides a simple, highly effective seal with an easy-to-use snap-and-lock clasp system. It is certified IPX8 waterproof up to 100 feet, protecting your device from accidental submersions and heavy rain. The clear windows on both sides allow you to take clear photos and navigate your phone’s screen without removing it from the pouch.

Before using the pouch for the first time, always conduct a simple dry paper towel test at home to ensure there are no defects or punctures. Touchscreens will not respond well deep underwater due to water pressure, so use the physical volume buttons to snap photos if the pouch is submerged. Keep the clear plastic window free of sunscreen oils, which can smear your photos.

This pouch is a smart, budget-friendly insurance policy for any paddleboarder carrying a phone on the water. It is not suitable for large tablets or bulky rugged cases that exceed the pouch’s internal dimensions.

• Compatibility: Fits devices up to 7.0 inches diagonally
• Waterproof rating: Certified IPX8
• Included accessory: Durable neck lanyard for secure carrying

How to Wash and Care for Your UPF Paddle Gear

To maintain the sun-blocking integrity of your UPF clothing, proper post-paddle maintenance is absolutely essential. Saltwater, chlorine, sunscreen residue, and sweat can slowly degrade the synthetic fibers and chemical finishes that block UV rays. After every outing, rinse your apparel in cold, fresh water as soon as possible to flush out destructive elements.

Avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these chemicals can coat or break down the protective fibers, lowering the garment’s UPF rating. Machine wash your gear on a gentle cycle with a mild, liquid detergent, or wash it by hand. Never throw UPF clothing or technical water shoes into a hot dryer; instead, hang them to drip dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Store your dry gear in a cool, dark closet rather than leaving it tossed in the trunk of your car where extreme heat can ruin elastic properties. Inspect your gear seasonally for signs of fabric thinning or loss of elasticity, which indicates it is time for a replacement. Proper care ensures your safety gear remains effective and ready for many seasons on the water.

Essential Safety Tips for Hot Days on the Water

Paddleboarding on a hot day demands more than just wearing the right clothes; it requires constant situational awareness and physical preparation. Dehydration can creep up rapidly due to the cooling effect of the water breeze, which masks how much sweat you are actually losing. Always carry more water than you think you will need and drink at regular intervals, even if you do not feel thirsty.

A life jacket or Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is a mandatory piece of safety equipment that must be on your board or body depending on local laws. Low-profile, inflatable belt packs are highly popular among paddlers as they do not trap body heat like traditional foam vests. Always check the wind and current forecast before launching, and paddle against the wind first so you have an easier trip back when you are tired.

Finally, remember to apply a reef-safe sunscreen to exposed areas like your hands, lips, and the back of your ankles, which clothing might miss. Keep a close eye on your paddling partners for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, heavy sweating, or confusion. Taking frequent breaks in shaded bank areas can make the difference between a successful outing and an emergency situation.

Conclusion

Staying dry and shielded from the sun is the key to unlocking long, comfortable hours on your paddleboard. By choosing high-quality, task-specific UPF gear and maintaining it properly, you protect your health while maximizing your performance on the water. Pack your dry bag, secure your sun hat, and head out with the confidence that you are fully prepared for whatever the elements throw your way.