Canoe Focus Summer 2017 | Page 56

56 The Paddlers Guide to UV Protection By Cotswold Outdoor 57 1. Invest In Your Sunglasses STORES NATIONWIDE COTSWOLDOUTDOOR.COM Make sure you choose a pair of sunglasses that exclude 100% of UV light. Chances are that £2 pair from the market stall aren’t up to the job. Paddlers in particular should consider investing in polarised lenses. Polarised lenses significantly reduce glare, an absolute lifesaver for sunny days on the water. 2. Don’t Forget A Hat Protecting our sensitive scalps from the beaming sun can be a challenge. A wide brimmed hat offers great coverage for the head and neck, but if you hate loose headgear then you could use a Buff or bandanna to keep the harsh rays at bay. 3. Take Water-Resistant Sun Cream 4. Use UV Protective Clothing The latest fabric technologies incorporate UV protection, weaving it into their clothing or applying a special UV treatment or dye. From shirts to shorts, hats and trousers, brands like Craghoppers, Ayacucho, and Helly Hansen have created unique UV protection ranges, so you can cover up in comfort and style. Okay so this one might sound obvious, but many forget that you need to reapply sun cream throughout the day. Don’t forget to top up every few hours, especially if you’re in a high spray area, or dip into the water for a refreshing swim. 5. Think About A Pair Gloves We take a look at some of the best ways to minimise your exposure to the sun so you can focus on what’s really important. Having fun! If you need any more advice about protecting yourself from UV on or off the water, just ask the experts in your local Cotswold Outdoor store. Or you can explore our entire range of sunglasses, UV protective clothing, and sun cream online at cotswoldoutdoor.com. Brilliant sunny days filled with adventure are what we long for. But the bright summer months have a hidden danger. Whether you’re relaxing on a local river or heading abroad for a far flung adventure, failing to prepare for the strong sunlight can put a serious downer on your day. We’re not talking about unpacking your winter mitts, but a lightweight pair of cycling gloves can help protect your hands from sunburn. Sun cream will wash off all too easily, especially if you’re regularly getting your hands wet.