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The Ultimate Defence Against UV Exposure On The Water

Introducing the Musto EVO Sunblock range

2 January 2026

What to know

UV exposure is amplified on the water due to reflection and lack of shade.
Up to 90% of UV rays pass through cloud cover.
Water can reflect up to 80% of UV radiation.
UPF 50 garments block 98% of UVA and UVB rays and don’t wash or sweat off.

UV exposure on the water is constant and often underestimated. Reflection, cloud cover and long hours on deck dramatically increase risk — often without obvious warning signs. This guide explains why UV protection matters at sea and how UPF-rated technical clothing helps protect your skin while keeping you cool, comfortable and free to move.

Why UV Protection at Sea Matters

While the sun may not always feel intense at sea, UV exposure is significantly higher than most people realise. Cooler temperatures, wind and cloud cover can mask the sun’s strength, while reflection from the water dramatically increases exposure. With little natural shade and long hours on deck, sailors face sustained UV exposure well beyond typical land-based activities.

Research shows that up to 90% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover, and water can reflect up to 80% of those rays back onto exposed skin. Over time, repeated exposure contributes not only to sunburn, but also to premature skin ageing, pigmentation issues and an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

At sea, protection needs to be consistent, reliable and built into what you wear — not something that washes off, sweats away or requires constant reapplication.

The EVO Sunblock System Explained

The EVO Sunblock range is engineered to deliver reliable UV protection without compromising comfort or performance. Designed specifically for life on the water, each garment combines UPF 50 protection with technical fabrics that manage heat, moisture and movement throughout the day.

Rather than relying on sunscreen alone, EVO Sunblock integrates protection directly into your kit. The result is clothing that shields your skin, regulates body temperature and moves naturally with you during active sailing.

Key performance features include:

UPF 50-rated fabrics blocking 98% of UVA and UVB rays
Fast-drying, moisture-wicking construction to manage heat and sweat
Stretch and ergonomic fits designed for unrestricted movement on deck

How Sunblock pieces combine across a sailing day

While each EVO Sunblock piece performs on its own, the real advantage comes from choosing the right combination for how you sail. Below are example setups showing how Sunblock garments work together across different conditions and sailing styles.

EVO Sunblock: Built-In UV Protection for Life on Deck

Designed to be worn on its own or layered under technical gear, EVO Sunblock provides UPF 50 protection without compromising comfort, breathability, or mobility

All-day UV protection for extended time on deck.

The long-sleeve version is perfect for all-day wear at sea. It gives you extra arm coverage and is made from a breathable, lightweight fabric. It offers strong UV protection and helps control body temperature. This makes it great for layering or wearing alone in warmer weather.

Best for:
Skippers and crew who work long hours in direct sunlight or bright, reflective settings.