Trend Report: SPF Textiles

Trend Report: SPF Textiles

The innovations by MEC are explored in regular updates that examine new developments in stitch, yarn, fiber, engineering and technical knowledge for the circular knitting market.

Textiles have been used to protect our skin from the harsh rays of sunlight since humans first started weaving cloth, however in modern day technology we can measure this quality in a fabric by their UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), which is a rather recent method (the late 1990’s) of rating the level of sun protection provided by textiles. For the best results, the highest protection is offered by specially manufactured yarns, that have been treated in the spinning process or final finishing. 

While we often associate white garments with hot sunny weather, it is actually the darker colors that protect the best according to research from University of Alberta, however the experience of someone wearing dark clothing in the hot sun is quite different than light, which is why these deeper colors should be considered for outdoor textiles, as they can offer us shade and protection in the form of umbrellas, tents and tarps without trading the hot air against our skin, yet still providing the best UV protection.

In addition to UPV qualities, many outdoor textiles are being created with waterproof aspects, which is a key component for sun protection as the performance of UV textiles are often reduced when wet, except for silk and viscose which become more protective when wet.  The more dense a fabric the better the protection for both sun and water, and for this reason fabrics being created for the marine industry could guide us well for outdoor upholstery ideas and innovations, as the marine industry have long been dealing with both factors in their textile developments.

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