As runners, we train and push our bodies to perform; in return, we reap the added physical and mental health benefits. But we should not neglect the importance of protecting ourselves from the sun's harmful UV rays. Unprotected sun exposure can cause severe damage to the eyes and skin, lead to premature aging, increase the risks of developing skin cancer, and even weaken the immune system. Learn more about helpful sun protection tips and our Running Warehouse top picks for UV-protective clothing and gear to keep you safe all year long.

• Wear sun protective gear even on cloudy days: You are still exposed to harmful UV radiation when it's overcast. Snow is also highly reflective and can multiply your UV exposure because it reflects the sun's rays. On sunny days or cloudy ones, safeguarding our bodies from harmful UV radiation is paramount year-round.
• Avoid running outdoors during peak UV radiation hours: The sun's UV rays are generally strongest between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. When running outdoors, seek shade from trees or buildings to reduce sun exposure.
• Apply sunscreen regularly: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30+ or higher before heading out on your run, and be sure to reapply as it loses its effectiveness once you start sweating. Apply lip balm to protect your lips as well.
• Be sure to wear sunglasses & sunscreen, especially in higher elevations: When trail running in higher elevations, the sun rays are more powerful than at sea level due to the thinner atmosphere. The higher you go, the stronger the UV rays, so protect your eyes and any exposed skin.
• Wear clothing with UPF protection: The best line of defense for protecting your skin during outdoor runs is wearing sun-protective clothing with a certified UPF rating.
  

Let's take it from the top with sun-protective hats and headwear that will not only keep your head and scalp from frying like an egg, but also help to shield your face and prevent heatstroke. Hair or no hair, you need to protect yourself from the sun's damaging rays, and running hats help to do just that. When selecting UV-protective running hats, opt for mesh or perforated designs with moisture-wicking properties, which offer breathability and cooling comfort, keeping the sweat at bay. Additionally, look for full or wide-brim hats that provide shade, helping to prevent any painful sunburns on your face.

Drape style headwear is another great option for those warm-weather runs, especially on the trail where you are likely to encounter unpredictable elements. These hats offer maximum UPF protection for versatile coverage to your face, head, ears, and neck, so you can remain comfortably dry, cool, and burn-free on your run. Learn more about the features to look for in performance hats, in our comprehensive guide: How to Choose a Running Hat.

Throw shade in a good way by protecting your eyes from harsh UV rays. The cumulative effects of UV radiation have been linked to cataracts and retina damage; if left untreated, it can even lead to vision loss. You only have one pair of eyes, so take good care of them by wearing running-specific sunglasses. Run-specific sunglasses are designed to be lightweight and comfortable, providing a secure fit with non-slip frames (because the last thing you need is your sunglasses slipping as you run). From colour-enhancing lenses to bendable frames, running sunglasses come in a variety of beautiful colours, styles, and shapes to accommodate diverse tastes and head sizes. As an added benefit, sunglasses will also protect your eyes from dirt, dust, and pollen on your outdoor runs, which is a win-win all around!

When we throw on our running gear, we usually think about style and function: being able to achieve our personal best and look good doing so. But it is worth noting that our clothing choices also determine how much of the sun's radiation is being absorbed into our skin. When selecting running gear, look for synthetic fabrics with darker or bolder colours (which absorb UV rays and act as a barrier for your skin), and avoid lighter pastel colours and whites that offer little to no sun protection. The tried-and-true test is holding up your clothing to a light source, and if you can see through it, that's an indicator that UV radiation can easily pierce through the fabric.

Ultimately, UPF-protective clothing is the best line of defence against sun damage when exercising outdoors. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating on your fabric tells you how much UV radiation (UVB and UVA) will reach your skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a standard rating within the 30–49 range provides good sun protection, but a UPF rating of 50+ is optimal. Check out the variety of stylish and functional UPF clothing we carry at Running Warehouse to keep you safe on your outdoor runs.

When it is too hot to wear long sleeves or you want added mobility and movement, you can still shed the layers safely by wearing UV-protective arm sleeves. Arm sleeves will allow you to wear your favourite breathable running tanks and short-sleeve tees while still blocking the sun's harsh rays from your skin. These lightweight sleeves are specially designed with cooling fibres featuring sweat-wicking properties to keep you dry and comfortable, making them ideal for those early-morning or evening runs when you want to regulate your temperature.

No matter the season, protecting yourself from the sun is a year-round endeavor. We hope that this selection of sun protection gear will help equip you with the knowledge and tools to run in the sun safely and comfortably.