There's a popular saying in Scouting circles, "75% of Scouting is 'outing' ". Summer temperatures and humidity can be relentless, suffocating and even dangerous. Protecting skin from sun exposure is essential when plans include spending time outdoors. To this end, the BSA is prepared. Thanks to a substantial uniform overhaul- the first since the Oscar de la Renta BSA design of 1980- the new Boy Scout uniform has a built-in 40+ UPF protection factor. The uniform components carry the Skin Cancer Foundation seal and recommendation.
The following Centennial uniform components maintain a 40+ UPF rating:
1. New Venturing short-sleeve shirt
2. New Venturing switchbacks uniform pants
3. Centennial switchbacks uniform pants
4. Centennial canvas convertible pants
5. Centennial uniform shorts
6. Centennial BSA shirt, long/short-sleeve
7. Centennial BSA ladies convertible pants
8. Boy Scout ladies switchbacks pants
9. Centennial Boy Scout ladies shorts
10. BSA ladies fit nylon short-sleeve shirt
11. Centennial BSA ladies short-sleeve shirt
Understanding UPF
The UPF rating measures the UV protection provided by fabric. It indicates how much of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation is absorbed by the fabric, thereby sparing your skin. The higher the UPF rating, the more you are protected. A UPF 40 rating means that only 1/40th (2.5%) of the UV radiation will penetrate the fabric. So, you will reduce your skin's UV radiation exposure by 40 times. The Skin Cancer Foundation considers a 40+ rating to be the top-tier 'excellent' rating.
Caring for UPF protected garments
Garments treated with a UV blocker must be laundered with a non-chlorine bleach. It's best to tumble dry on low or line dry. Fortunately, the Centennial uniform is wrinkle-resistant permanent press. If needed, use a cool iron.
More Information
Technical paper on sun protective clothing
For pricing and to order the new Centennial uniform, Scoutstuff.org
Skin Cancer Foundation
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Comments
Every one needs to concider similar protection.
This is such a good idea!
Kim, it just makes sense to provide UPF protection in the fabric of a uniform meant to be outdoors. Ron, if there's anyone who understands sun protection, it's gonna be a fisherman.
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