Sun Protection Gear

NZ Sun Protection Gear Buying Guide

Choose your sun cover based on where you get the most exposure. If you need shade for the face, ears and neck, a hat is usually the best starting point for day walks, tramping and travel.

Wide brim styles suit general hiking and everyday wear because they give all-round shade. Neck flap hats are better for open tracks, ridgelines and summer conditions where the back of the neck gets constant sun.

Arm sleeves work well when you want coverage without wearing a full long sleeve top. They are useful in warm weather because they help cover the forearms while still feeling lighter than an extra layer.

UV neck drapes and face covers are the better option when the neck, lower face or sides of the face need more protection. They also work well with hats for exposed sections where reflected glare and direct sun both matter.

Sun protection gear gives you more flexibility because you can cover the areas that need it most. For full all-round use, many hikers will get the best result from combining a sun hat with either sleeves or a neck drape.