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Home Applications Sun Protective Clothing

Sun Protective Clothing Fabric
by the yard

Sun Protective Clothing Fabric by the Yard provides lightweight comfort and reliable UV protection, making it ideal for crafting garments designed for extended sun exposure. Typically ranging from 120–220gsm, it balances coverage, breathability, and flexibility while maintaining a smooth and comfortable feel against the skin. With options like stretch knits, microfiber blends, and moisture-managing materials, this fabric supports small brands and DIY creators in producing protective, functional, and stylish sun-safe pieces.

  • Fabric Types: Mesh Fabric, Knitted Fabric, Tricot Fabric, Polyester Microfiber Fabric, Spandex Blend Fabric, Woven Lightweight Fabric, Interlock Fabric.
  • Fabric Content/Material: Polyester-Spandex Blends; Nylon-Spandex Blends; 100% Polyester; Polyamide Blends; UV-Finished Synthetic Fibers.
  • Function: UV protection for safety, moisture wicking for dryness, stretch for mobility, breathability for comfort, and quick-dry performance for active daily wear.

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Fabrics Built to Block the Sun

Stretch Knits for Active Sun Protection

Our stretch knit UV protective fabrics combine a tight weave with four-way elasticity, making them ideal for rash guards, swim shirts, and outdoor activewear. These fabrics pair naturally with our 4 Way Stretch Fabric range, offering full freedom of movement without sacrificing UV blocking performance. Weighing between 140–180gsm, they're substantial enough to shield skin while remaining light and comfortable during prolonged outdoor activity.

Microfiber Blends That Breathe and Perform

Microfiber-based UV fabrics offer an ultra-fine hand feel with excellent moisture-wicking and quick-dry properties — essential for sun-protective garments worn in warm, humid conditions. Many of our options incorporate Polyamide Nylon Fabric or Polyester Fabric into their construction, delivering durability and colorfastness even after repeated sun and water exposure. These blends are a go-to for manufacturers producing high-volume beachwear, hiking shirts, and UV-rated outdoor apparel.

Lightweight Options for Everyday UV Coverage

For everyday sun-safe clothing like long-sleeve tops, sun hats, and lightweight cover-ups, our 120–160gsm fabrics strike the perfect balance between protection and wearability. Designs that incorporate Performance Wear Fabric construction principles ensure these lighter weights still deliver reliable UPF ratings without feeling heavy or restrictive. Their breathable structure allows air circulation, keeping the wearer cool even during extended time outdoors.

Sage green microfiber jersey draped over a wooden mannequin in a sunlit studio with rolls of performance textiles.

Wholesale UV Fabric That Delivers Real Protection

Sun protective clothing fabric is one of the fastest-growing segments in performance apparel, driven by growing consumer awareness of UV-related skin damage and the demand for stylish, functional outdoor wear. At Global Fabric Wholesale, we stock a curated range of UV-rated fabrics spanning 120–220gsm, covering everything from featherlight microfiber jerseys to denser stretch wovens designed for maximum coverage. Our fabrics are sourced with both performance and aesthetics in mind — because today's sun-safe garments need to look as good as they function. Whether you're producing rash guards, fishing shirts, outdoor leisure wear, or sun-safe resort collections, our range pairs seamlessly with Performance Wear Fabric construction standards and the flexibility of 4 Way Stretch Fabric options.

A split composition showing a turquoise chiffon beach cover-up and a sage green technical hiking shirt in a studio.

From Beach Cover-Ups to Technical Outdoor Apparel

The versatility of sun protective fabric means it serves an exceptionally broad range of end uses. Lightweight, breathable options are perfect for resort wear, beach cover-ups, and casual summer tops, while heavier, more structured UV fabrics suit technical hiking gear, fishing shirts, and professional outdoor workwear. Designers working on Beach Fabric collections will find our UV-rated options a natural fit, offering the vibrant printability and quick-dry performance that coastal and outdoor brands demand.

Ordering sun protective fabric by the yard gives you the flexibility to sample multiple weights and constructions before committing to a full production run — an important advantage when dialing in the right UPF rating and hand feel for your specific garment. Our wholesale pricing tiers reward larger orders without locking out smaller brands and independent makers. If your collection also calls for complementary pieces that prioritize comfort and ease, explore our Loungewear Fabric range for relaxed styles that can sit alongside your sun-safe line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What UPF rating should I look for in sun protective fabric?
For reliable sun protection, look for fabrics rated UPF 30 or higher — UPF 50+ is the gold standard and blocks over 98% of UV radiation. The tightness of the weave, fiber type, weight, and any UV-absorbing treatments all contribute to the final UPF rating. Heavier fabrics in the 180–220gsm range typically offer stronger protection than lighter options, though many lightweight microfiber and nylon blends also achieve UPF 50+ through their construction.
Which fabric types are best for making sun protective clothing?
Polyester, nylon (polyamide), and tightly woven microfiber blends are the most effective base materials for UV protective garments. These synthetics naturally block more UV rays than loosely woven natural fibers, and they're often treated with additional UV inhibitors during manufacturing. Stretch knit versions are especially popular for activewear and swimwear, while woven microfiber options suit shirts, pants, and cover-ups that need a cleaner, more structured drape.
Does washing sun protective fabric reduce its UV protection over time?
High-quality UV protective fabrics are engineered to retain their UPF rating through many wash cycles, especially when cared for correctly. We recommend washing in cold water on a gentle cycle and avoiding harsh detergents, bleach, or high-heat drying, which can degrade UV-blocking finishes over time. Fabrics where UV protection is built into the fiber structure — rather than applied as a surface finish — tend to maintain their rating far longer.
Can I use this fabric for children's sun protective clothing?
Absolutely — sun protective fabric is an excellent choice for children's outdoor clothing, swim shirts, and play garments, as children's skin is particularly sensitive to UV damage. Look for softer, lighter-weight options in the 120–160gsm range that are gentle against delicate skin while still delivering strong UPF coverage. Stretch knit varieties work especially well for kids' activewear, providing comfort and ease of movement alongside reliable sun protection.
What is the minimum order quantity for sun protective fabric by the yard?
We cater to a wide range of buyers, from independent designers to large-scale manufacturers, and our minimum order quantities are structured to be flexible and accessible. Whether you're sampling a new fabric for a small production run or placing a bulk wholesale order, we can accommodate your needs. Contact our team directly if you have specific quantity requirements or need pricing for high-volume orders — we're happy to discuss the best options for your business.

Order more than 300KG ?

Sure! Please contact our team for bulk order support and special pricing.

Custom Printed Fabric

Yes, we offer custom printing — share your design and we’ll bring it to life on your chosen fabric.