Sun Safety for Kids Beyond Sunscreen: Hats, Shades and Bamboo Layers

Last summer, I was packing for a day at the beach with my two kids. The Florida sun was already blazing by 9 AM, and I knew it was going to be one of those melt-into-your-sandals kind of days. I had snacks, towels, and yes, three kinds of sunscreen. But even after reapplying, my youngest ended up with pink shoulders and sandy tears.

That’s when I realized sunscreen alone wasn’t cutting it. I needed sun protection that actually stayed on, didn’t irritate their skin, and didn’t interrupt the fun.

In part, that’s how the ONE bamboo sun shirt was born.

Why Sunscreen Isn’t Always Enough

Sunscreen is helpful, but it wears off fast. Kids are constantly in motion, wiping their faces, splashing in water, rubbing their eyes. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, you’re supposed to reapply every two hours. Who has time for that when you’re wrangling toddlers and trying to enjoy the outdoors?

For kids with sensitive skin, eczema or sensory needs, sunscreen can sting or feel sticky. Mine used to resist it like I was trying to paint them with glue. I wanted something better.

Why UPF Clothing Changed Everything

When I first tried a long-sleeve sun shirt on my son, I expected complaints. Instead, he called it his “superhero suit” and wore it for hours. No sticky mess, no fighting, just covered skin and full-on play.

UPF clothing (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is like wearable shade. The ONE Shirt is made from ultra-soft bamboo that’s naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and gentle on even the most sensitive skin. It keeps kids cool while protecting their arms, back and shoulders from harsh UV rays.

Our ONE bamboo sun shirt has:

• A UPF 35+ rating (the higher the better)
• A long back hem to protect when crouching or climbing
• Thumb holes to keep sleeves in place
• A tiny nature icon on the back to help kids put it on by themselves

Now, I pack fewer things and worry less about sunburns. I know they’re protected, even if we forget to reapply or lose track of time on the trail or beach.

What Else You Need: Hats and Sunglasses

We pair the ONE Shirt with a wide-brimmed hat for ear and neck coverage. Look for something with a chin strap and mesh sides so it doesn’t overheat them. Personally, I love the ones from Sunday Afternoons because they hold up to a lot of crumpling in backpacks and sticky fingers.

Sunglasses are more than just cute. They protect your child’s developing eyes from long-term damage. Find sunglasses that have good lenses and of a reputable brand to make sure the eyes are actually protected. We make polarized kids sun glasses as well. 

Our Simple Summer Sun Gear List

After lots of trial and error, here’s what’s in our regular rotation:

• 2 to 3 bamboo UPF shirts like the ONE Shirt
• A long sleeve rash guard for swimming. 
• 1 wide-brim hat that’s lightweight and adjustable
• UV-safe sunglasses
• Lightweight shorts or pants that breathe well
• Water shoes or sandals with toe protection

Real Protection = Real Play

When sun safety is easy, it becomes something kids can manage themselves. That builds independence. It builds comfort. And it builds more time outside doing what kids do best, getting messy, exploring, and playing like it’s their job.

When I see my kids grab their sun shirts before we even leave the house, I know we’ve created something that works. It’s not just a layer. It’s peace of mind, a tool for independence, and a way to make outdoor life less stressful for all of us.

If you’re looking for a shirt that your kid will actually wear, even in the heat, try the ONE bamboo sun shirt. It’s the shirt I wish I had years ago.

Love,
Adriana
Founder of Play Outside