Although there is no documented UPF rating as to whether a garment is sunsafe or not, we are informed from the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) that informally 35 UPF+ is what they recommend.
Most school polo shirts are made from lacoste fabric with approximate UPF ratings of:
White lacoste – 15 UPF
Medium colours – 20 UPF
Dark colours – 25-30 UPF
More recently the cotton backed polyester has become popular for schoolwear as it results in a garment more in keeping with the school “look”. This fabric has a shiny appearance on the outside but is lined with cotton for comfort and moisture absorption.
Cotton backed polyester has the approximate UPF ratings
White – 40+ UPF
Colours – 50+ UDF
At Tudor School Uniforms we have offered a 50 UPF (tested by ARPANSA) range of cotton polos for the last 5-7 years. To achieve this rating the white and pale colours are a heavier weight.
The benefit of this product is that it is cool, comfortable and hard wearing, but does require a bit more care.
There have been a number of polyester fabrics (50 UPF) offered over the last few years, which are used primarily for sportswear.
100% polyesters can be used for sublimated garments so please go to our “Sublimated Polos” page for more information.