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Why You Should Wear Gloves While Driving

If you follow us on Instagram, you have most likely seen us share dozens of Stories with our followers wearing their UPF 50+ gloves. To some, this may look or seem completely ridiculous to wear gloves while driving, but there is a lot of reasoning behind the logic of wearing them!

The average driver in the U.S. spends 17,600 minutes in their car each year, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. That is 293 hours! With all that potential sun exposure, your hands and arms suffer the most and are typically exposed to more UV rays while driving that most other parts of your body.

Even with all that time in your vehicle, you may feel like your car offers a lot of protection from the sun, but for the most part, that is just not true. Your windshield may block some UV rays, but your door windows offer minimal protection. An interesting, but true statistic is that typically the left side of our bodies show more sun-related aging because of the time spent driving!

So that brings us to the point of the entire blog… Why should I wear them? The answer is simple: To protect your hands from unnecessary sun exposure that leads to aging, wrinkly skin and skin cancer.

From fingerless to sleeves, we offer a variety of gloves that can fit your preference and need!

Looking for the classic driving coverage? These are perfect!
For those that want a little more extended coverage:

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Live Wisely Wear to Where

5 Ways to Protect Your Skin From the Sun

It’s no secret that the most effective protection against the sun is the protection that you wear.

Ever heard of sunscreen? Of course you have. It’s been around for nearly 90 years. It’s a good form of protection from the sun, but there is one catch to its effectiveness – It must be reapplied every two hours. Sunscreen paired with other forms of protection works wonders, but alone it’s just not enough. For that reason, you won’t find any products with SPF in our top 5.

UPF 50+ clothing and accessories, on the other hand, provide the most effective form of sun protection because there not as much of a commitment as sunscreen ends up being, won’t wash off due to water or sweat, and always applies to UVB and UVA rays.

Still trying to figure out the difference between UPF and SPF? Check out our blog on it.

Follow these 5 tips to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.

1. Wear a wide-brimmed hat

Choose a hat with a 3-inch or greater brim to protect your face, scalp, ears and neck.

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2. Switch Out Everyday Favorites

Swap everyday favorites for long sleeve UPF 50+ shirts.

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3. Add UPF 50+ Coverage

Add coverage to short sleeves when lounging outdoors or performing workouts.

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4. Protect Over-Exposed Hands

Keep a spare pair of UPF 50+ gloves in your car to protect your hands.

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5. Use Sun Blankets for On-the-Go

Pack a UPF 50+ sun blanket for handy sun protection when you’re out and about.

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Live Wisely Wear to Where

When to Wear a Sun Hat

Some of the most common places to be diagnosed with skin cancer – face, scalp, and ears – are located on your head… So choosing to wear a hat, especially one that is UPF 50+, just makes sense. The bigger challenge is trying to figure out when it is most crucial to have one on your noggin.

Reading a Good Book on the Beach

Whether it’s the ocean or poolside, having your favorite read teamed up with a wide-brim hat is the duo you’ve been looking for. Spend more time getting into that New York Bestseller and less time worried about the sun.

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Hitting Up the Country Club

Have a membership at the local country club? Hours of direct sunlight on the golf course or tennis courts adds up and can be detrimental to your skin health. With the reapplication of sunscreen and a good hat on your head, you should comfortably be able to play 18 holes unscathed by the sun.

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Fishing on the Lake

Summer is all about going up to the cabin, taking the boat out and taking advantage of the good weather. For the big fishers out there that just love being on the water and lose track of time easily, a hat with extended coverage is vital because of the straight hours of direct sunlight and the UV rays reflecting off the water. 

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Running Errands Around Town

It’s your day off and it has to be spent buying groceries, stopping by the bank, picking up the kids from school, going to the dentist’s office and countless other things on your agenda. With all that scheduled for your day, the accumulated UV rays add up quickly!

Pro tip: Keep a packable sun hat in your car or purse to always be ready for the sun.

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Paired with the Perfect Outfit

A very underrated piece of an outfit that can really bring the whole look together is a well-styled hat. There may be no better time to have a perfectly selected wide-brim hat than for a Kentucky Derby party or event!

If you are struggling to find the right one, our team has designed a guide to help you find the perfect hat that works with your face shape.

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Taking the Dog for a Walk

Our furry companions need their exercise too, it’s an important part of being a pet owner. With that being said, typically, you’re taking the dog out for a little stroll during the day while UV rays are present. It shouldn’t be a very time-intensive chore to get prepped for a walk! Simply apply a little SPF 30+ sunscreen and a hat… and voilà!

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Enjoying the Great Outdoors

This one is for you adventure seekers that love camping in the woods and exploring nature! If you’re the weekend warrior that joins every hiking group they can, you need a great sun hat paired with some long sleeves.

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Regardless of the activity, you’re doing and the style you choose, make sure to get in the habit of wearing sunscreen on your face with your hat to help lessen the chances of extreme sun exposure even when wearing a hat .

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Fishing the Waters of “The Kingdom of Tonga”

Beaches and waves are often enjoyed in different ways rather than hiking them with a 9-foot oversized walleye rod. However, in my opinion, this is the best way to enjoy a beach and really get to know not only about the aquatic life, but the community surrounding it.

On New Year’s Eve, some close friends of mine and I embarked on a trip halfway across the world to a small remote island, which was a three-hour detour from Fiji, called “The Kingdom of Tonga.” Prior to the trip, we had heard stories of the kingdom, but have never experienced it first hand. Luckily, Mike, one of my accomplices, had an uncle that was a local of the island that was able to show us local traditions, such as drinking cava, and how to climb a coconut tree.

The point of this trip was not to relax as much as it was to catch as many exotic species of fish as we could, but it ended up being much different than we had originally planned.  For starters, my main bag of luggage was lost with all of my clothes, majority of the fishing lures, and deodorant. It stunk, literally. Luckily for me, I had a pair of light, UPF 50+ hiking pants, and a sunhat to keep the sun off me. We had our rods and reels, but only a handful of top water baits and jigs, so we could still fish.

Enjoying the beautiful landscape of Tonga in the UPF 50+ Fishing Shirt

Another problem we learned was having the ability to fish with knowledgeable people. On the island, there seemed to be very few people that understood what we were trying to fish for and mainly fished the local way with hand-lines and nets. Not only that but everything was always delayed. We quickly learned of the term “island time”, a name for islanders generally being later than the original plans, which greatly played into factor on most of our trips. We would line up fishing guides (one of which was the prime minister) for the day, and when we went to meet them we were always postponed an hour or sometimes even three hours because of the looseness of island time.

On our first fishing outing with the minister, it was a hot scorcher of a day and it was very important to stay cool and hydrated. After an hour of fishing, we saw a white flash under the boat, shortly after followed by the squealing of line being drug out from a reel. Before I heard Mike say “There’s one!” my reel started screaming too. After a long hard fight, all three of us reeled up beautiful trevallies, which are a native fish we were targeting. The locals we were with were very happy and smiling knowing they would go home with dinner that night.

The next few trips out were a struggle, losing most lures to sharks, and still no sign of my bag. It had been five days and I had the same pair of pants I was wading in saltwater and sweating in, but somehow they didn’t smell. We caught very few fish, with some acceptations of finding more trevallies from shore, but realized that we needed to find someone that understood what we were targeting. After using some of the locals to give us leads on a guide in the area we stumbled across Steve Campbell, a true pioneer of marlin fishing. Although we didn’t particularly want to target marlin, our trip with Steve was one I will remember forever. The night before our trip, my bag showed with all of the lures, and the day that followed was filled with Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and the occasional shark catch. That night we were able to share our catch with the locals, who were more than thankful.

Mavrik Finished reeling in a shark from the beach in his UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Performance Tee and Sun Hat

The last few days, we spent our time fishing from the beach and catching more trevallies, I even caught my favorite, a six-foot-long barracuda, from shore. Quickly our trip came to an end, and I was thankful for all of the new friends I had made and the memories that will live on. It is safe to say that I have some unfinished business in Tonga, and I will be back.

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Have Coolibar, Will Trek Through Patagonia

Nearly nowhere on the planet is the earth so pristine and awe-inspiring than Patagonia. Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park are the region’s top highlights, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors per year. And most trekkers pack wisely and make a logistical plan to get the most of this remote piece of heaven. We recently caught up with a group of backpackers that brought us along on their journey and we can’t be more excited to share it with you.

This is what our backpacking friends had to tell us about their trip:

Our group of five wearing Coolibar, including little trekker 2-year-old baby Sóle, traversed the popular “W” trail of Torres Del Paine National Park over the course of 8 days. While we methodically planned and packed, what we didn’t plan for was the high winds, temperature swings – and we were there in the summer months! This was Coolibar put to the test in extremes, and we can universally say, bravo, we LOVE our Coolibar.

Juanpablo, dad to Sóle, was the master planner. Here’s what Juanpablo recommended for a pack list: 1) Light pieces to layer for cold evenings. You’ll likely wear your clothes, sleep in them and wear them again – if you’re really trekking. So bring things that breathe and insulate at the same time. We had some of Coolibar’s Merino Wool pieces. They insulate in cold, then wick and breathe in heat – made from New Zealand sheep and all the good sun protection Coolibar offers; 2) Breathable, wicking UPF 50+ sun protective clothing for high and hot points on the trip, and even just for sunny days despite temperatures. This is where Coolibar is your best friend; 3) A waterproof jacket and trekking boots; 4) The highest rated sunscreen for you and the environment. We recommend anything with Zinc Oxide as the active ingredient; it’s easy on sensitive skin, often these brands are non-toxic to people and environments and new formulas go on very smoothly; 5) Invest in the best sunglasses you can afford; eyes are needed for a lifetime. You’ll want lenses that don’t distort the color of the scenery but offer the best UV protection for your eyes from reflective surfaces like water and snow-capped mountain peaks. This is not the time to dabble in drugstore sunscreen or sunglasses; 6) A hat for blocking the sun is also a must-have. Your head will thank you; 7) Insect repellent and long sleeves to protect against these little biters called midges.

As with any mountain hiking (or skiing), be mindful the higher the altitude, the closer you are to the sun, the more UV sun exposure you receive. What’s more, snow surfaces can reflect up to 80 percent of UV radiation back at you – that’s roughly double the dose of what you’d receive in the course of an average day. By comparison, water is about 10 percent and dry beach sand is about 15 percent. All these surfaces bounce UV rays back at your face. Sunscreen and eye coverage is vital.

On the trail, temperatures vary between 5 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the course of a single day. Regardless of temp, we layered up our Coolibar. UVA rays are omnipresent, and UVB at these altitudes is much stronger. In hindsight, a gaiter would have been a great addition – both for sun protection and for shifting temperatures. We had some turtlenecks, but they are cotton and not nearly as UV protective as a Coolibar gaiter.

In addition to our camp gear and dehydrated meals in backpacks that we left at camp, we recommend a lightweight, packable daypack. These proved invaluable for water and snacks, particularly with Sóle. With all the exertion of climbing and hiking, having energy sources on hand is essential. Also, sunscreen was packed in daypacks, pockets and lip balm was on virtually 24/7.

For all our preparation, we were compensated in one-of-a-kind vistas of sweeping freshwater lakes, teal lagoons, ice floes, glimmering glaciers, lush valleys, and finally, the soaring mountain “towers” for which the park is named.

Our adventure proved how well Coolibar performs in extreme sun and heat, is a great layer in cold winds and evenings. Thank you for outfitting our trekking team. We are fans for life.

 

 

 

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Try Sun Protective Clothing During Your Next Snorkeling Trip

You might not know one of the important benefits to wearing sun protective clothing while you are on your next beach vacation. Certain ingredients in sunscreens can have a harmful impact on the beautiful coral reefs that you traveled to visit. Coral reefs are beautiful to visit and are the most diverse of all marine ecosystems but it is up to us to help protect them.

Coral is a living creature related to the sea anemone and isn’t just pretty to look at when you’re snorkeling. According to the Smithsonian Institution, corals are crucial, irreplaceable homes for up to a quarter of all ocean species. The Smithsonian says they’re also valuable to people, providing food, shoreline protection, tourism jobs and even medicines, which make them worth $30 billion to more than $170 billion a year.

According to the Environmental Working Group, An estimated 25 to 60 million bottles worth of sunscreen chemicals wash off into coral reef areas each year. About 25 percent of sunscreen applied to the skin is released into the water within 20 minutes of submersion. We know how important it is to keep the sun protection on our bodies for those of us who need to keep our skin protected while in the water.

When we shower, the chemicals found in certain sunscreens wash off our skin and can pollute wastewater that ends up in the ocean as well. This is problematic because Researchers at Haereticus Environmental Laboratory in Virginia and Marche Polytechnic University in Italy found that exposure to oxybenzone – a hormone disruptor and allergen in 70 percent of the non-mineral products listed in EWG’s latest Sunscreen Guide – can cause juvenile coral to be fatally trapped in their own skeletons. The Italian study also identified butylparaben, octinoxate and a chemical called 4MBC, all commonly found in sunscreen, as toxic to coral health.

A great way to minimize your impact is by wearing UPF 50+ sun protective clothing and using sunscreen on exposed areas of skin like your face, hands, and feet. Divers Alert Network, the largest scuba diving safety association, says applying lotion to only the neck, face, feet and back of hands can reduce sunscreen loads into the water by 90 percent.

If sunscreen must be used, EWG agrees with the recommendations of the Professional Association of Underwater Instructors and the National Park Service that you should use sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.Though some sunscreens say they’re “reef safe,” those claims are unregulated and can be deceptive  We have many sunscreens on our website that fit into these recommendations: http://bit.ly/2i7xA7Q

Next time you head out to go scuba diving remember to grab your Coolibar Rash Guard and Swim Tights for full coverage protection and save the sunscreen for the exposed areas of your body. Shop sun protective swimwear here: http://bit.ly/2i7MM4O

Sources:

Read more about this topic from the EWG and The Smithsonian 

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5 Resorts You Should Visit This Winter

If you’re a sun lover like us you want to go somewhere warm and inviting this winter. Don’t forget to take your UPF 50+ clothing along for the ride. Living an active, outdoor lifestyle is possible when you wear sun protective clothing from Coolibar. Take a trip to one of our favorite resorts this winter and explore somewhere new.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

A destination in itself, this impressive property is nestled within 62 oceanfront acres, offering breathtaking tropical gardens and abundant wildlife. Explore our waterfront resort by air-conditioned trams. Or take a leisurely stroll along flagstone walkways flanked by the Polynesian and Asian artwork. Located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, Hilton Waikoloa Village features 1,240 guest rooms and suites – perfectly suited to any taste. While you’re there take in the beautiful beaches, take a helicopter tour, and take a volcano excursion. Don’t miss the sunset dining at KPC or book a visit to the Legends of Hawaii Luau. Under a magical Hawaiian night sky and swaying palms, our Big Island Luau features exotic dance, music, and entertainment for the whole family with hula & fire dancers and a lavish Hawaiian buffet.

JW Marriot Tuscon

Nestled against the saguaro-covered foothills of the Sonoran Desert, the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa sets the stage for an unforgettable family getaway. No matter what brings you to our resort in Tucson, our luxury amenities will provide you with everything you need for rejuvenation. Relax in style in our resort rooms, many of which offer sensational views of our immaculately maintained grounds, hone your skills at our golf club, or discover the essence of relaxation at our resort’s state-of-the-art spa. In addition, our family-friendly resort features sparkling pools, a waterslide and lazy river, some of Tucson’s most celebrated fine dining restaurants, and 80,000 square feet of sophisticated venue space; we can add a distinctive flair to any wedding or business meeting. And thanks to our resort’s exceptional location, you’ll have no problem exploring Tucson’s top attractions, including the University of Arizona. Escape to a majestic oasis at the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa.

Shutters on the Beach – Santa Monica

Shutters on the Beach sits perfectly on the sand of Santa Monica Bay near the historic Santa Monica Pier and in the midst of one of Southern California’s most eclectic and desirable seaside communities. It sits only eight miles from Los Angeles International Airport. Shutters on the Beach recalls both the traditional architecture of America’s quintessential beach resorts and inviting cottages of Southern California coast.

When you are there make sure you check out their amazing restaurants on site and get a seat in The Living Room, one of the most sought-after spots in Los Angeles for a cocktail at sunset.

ONE Spa at Shutters on the Beach combines unparalleled organic and indulgent body treatments by red flower and facials by Omoroicza, at the first-ever spa by L.A. designer Michael S. Smith. The result is a tranquil and refined serenity stop for the skin and the soul.

Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman

Discover an unmatched collection of luxurious amenities at one of the Cayman Islands’ top luxury resorts. From the soft sands of Seven Mile Beach to the luxury oasis of la prairie spa, and outdoor activity offerings through Ambassadors of the Environment by Jean-Michel Cousteau, our Caribbean resort’s two beautiful towers, and tropical surroundings are a delightful revelation of wonder. Enjoy resort restaurants, island water sports, golf, tennis and beautiful hotel rooms and suites located in the Ocean Tower or Resort Tower.

From the moment guests arrive at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, they are encompassed by a sense of wonder, making every experience a treasured memory at this Grand Cayman luxury hotel. By day, it might be captured in the cool blue sea – in a gently floating water hammock or a memorable swim at Stingray City. Unforgettable evenings leave memorable imprints, too, whether from the excitement of a night snorkel experience, the delectable seafood dining experience at Blue by Eric Ripert, or a moonlit stroll on Seven Mile Beach.

Four Seasons Nevis

A tropical oasis located lifetimes away from the hustle and bustle of the Caribbean– flush with sugar-soft beaches and sweeping vistas of rainforest discover equal parts, serenity and tropical adventure around every bend.

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Nevis has its very own herb garden, which pays homage to the organic bounty of Nevis that stems from the island’s fertile, volcanic soil. For centuries, Nevisians have honed the art of natural therapies by practicing plant remedies.

The garden’s plants are used in certain spa treatments and rituals, and in tea services for guests before or after their treatments. Guests can relax in the outdoor Spa gardens surrounded by aromatic plants and two hydrotherapy pools, including a volcanic stone Jacuzzi and a Japanese-inspired cold pool. A burbling fountain – fashioned out of an antique sugar copper – and native, gingerbread-trimmed massage cottages honor the island’s rich cultural history.

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