Sun Protection for Boaters
While warm, sunny days are great for boating, prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays can seriously damage your skin. Without proper protection, you may experience sunburn or even be at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. Luckily, these tips from the experts at Rhode Island Watersports can help you keep yourself and others protected from the sun while boating.
1. Wear a Hat
Your head and the back of your neck are two areas that tend to be especially vulnerable to sun damage. Luckily, all it takes to protect these areas is the right hat. You can wear a long-billed ball cap, a wide-brimmed nylon hat, or whatever other style you might prefer. Just make sure that the hat provides sufficient protection from the sun.
2. Get a Pair of Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a very popular accessory, ranging from cheap pairs given out for free as promotional items to designer shades that cost hundreds of dollars. For boating, you should prioritize sunglasses that offer better UV protection over concerns about style or cost. If you tend to experience a lot of glare while out on the water, look for a pair that has polarized lenses.
3. Wear Long Sleeves & Pants
Most people wear short-sleeved clothing on hot and sunny days. Unfortunately, this kind of clothing does not offer much in the way of sun protection. When you go out in your boat, wear pale-colored clothing with long sleeves that are also loose-fitting and lightweight. These kinds of clothes will keep you cool while also protecting your skin from the sun.
4. Sunscreen
Remember that any sunscreen with an SPF of less than 30 will not provide adequate protection. Since you will be going out on the water and more than likely will get wet at some point, make sure that the sunscreen you use is waterproof. You may also need to reapply the sunscreen at various times throughout the day to maintain protection.
For more information or to shop our selection of new and pre-owned boats, visit Rhode Island Watersports in Oakland, Rhode Island. We also offer parts, servicing, trade-ins, and financing, so visit us for all your boating needs. We are proud to serve communities like Boston, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island. We hope to see you soon!