A hat earns a UPF 50 rating when it's been tested and proven to block at least 98% of UV radiation — both UVA and UVB rays — from passing through the fabric.
Several factors determine whether a hat achieves that rating:
Fabric construction. Tighter weaves leave less space between fibers, reducing UV penetration. The weight and density of the material matter too — heavier, denser fabric generally performs better than lightweight or sheer weaves.
Fiber type. Not all materials block UV equally. Cotton on its own is a natural, breathable fiber but offers limited inherent UV protection — untreated cotton typically rates around UPF 5–10.
UV-protective finishing. A UV-absorbing coating applied to the fabric significantly enhances its protective performance. This is how many natural-fiber textiles achieve certified UPF ratings without sacrificing the feel and breathability of the original material.
Our hats are made from an organic blend of 80% cotton and 20% linen — chosen for its structure, durability, and wear — and finished with a UV-protective coating that brings them to a certified UPF 50 rating. You get the breathability and texture of linen and cotton with protection that blocks 98% of UV radiation.
