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Whether you’re running, hiking, golfing, or simply power-walking to your favorite smoothie spot, the ultra-light fabric helps prevent overheating and cuts down on that sticky, sweaty feeling. Plus, they’re soft and flexible enough to move with you—no chafing, bunching, or annoying slippage. These sleeves make it easy to stay sun-safe without sacrificing comfort, even on the hottest days.
The exclusive BloqTek™ fabric offers serious sun protection that won’t wash out, no matter how many times you toss it in the laundry. Bonus: when activated by water or sweat, it delivers a cooling effect that can lower skin temperature by up to five degrees. Perfect for staying sun-safe and cool during hot, sweaty days.
Material: nylon and spandex blend
Sizing: XS–XL
UPF rating: UPF 50+
Key features: thumbholes keep the sleeves comfortably in place
Best for Driving: Solbari Fingerless Driving Gloves UPF 50+
Why we love it: If your hands are constantly on the wheel, the Solbari Driving Gloves are designed specifically with drivers in mind and are a must for staying sun-safe on the road. While many other gloves are fingerless, these ones cover the entire hand, fingernails and all, shielding you from the sun during any commute. Thanks to a lightweight, breathable blend of 85% nylon and 15% elastane, these gloves deliver breathable, sweat-wicking comfort for your work route, quick errands, and weekend road trips alike.
Silicone grips on the palms improve control on the steering wheel, and smart touch-screen compatibility on the thumbs and index fingers means you don’t have to take them off to answer a call or skip a song. There’s even a discreet slit at the index finger for added screen access. If you want a fuss-free way to keep your hands protected from UV rays while driving, these gloves do it all—comfortably and stylishly.
These gloves are made from 85% nylon and 15% elastane that has been approved by OEKO-TEX®, so you know they’re free from harmful chemicals.
Material: nylon and elastane blend
Sizing: S-L
UPF rating: UPF 50+
Key features: touchscreen-compatible with discreet slits on the index fingers and conductive tips
Best for Gel Manicures: ManiGlovz UPF 50+ UV Light Protective Nail Gloves
Why we love it: If gel manicures are part of your regular beauty routine, you may be aware that nail lamps emit UV radiation, mainly UVA rays, which are associated with premature aging and skin cancer. Though even the strongest of these devices carries only a moderate UV risk. But you can still protect your hands from repeated UV exposure at the nail salon with ManiGlovz Women’s UV Protection Nail Gloves, which are specifically engineered to shield your hands while curing under nail lamps.
Made from a silky polyester-Lycra spandex microfiber blend, these gloves feel luxurious on your skin, offering full UV protection (UPF 50+). If you want a pair of sun gloves with pizzazz, these come in a variety of fun colors and prints, making salon appointments or at-home gel manicures a stylish and safe experience. Beyond nail appointments, they’re perfect for driving or any time your hands need defense against the sun. Your nails look fabulous, and your hands remain protected—it’s a win-win.
Many of the styles are infused with hydrating aloe vera microcapsules for added softness.
Material: polyester/spandex microfiber
Sizing: one size
UPF rating: UPF 50+
Key features: stretchy, water resistant, blocks over 98% of all UV and LED rays
Best Budget: MelodySusie UV Gloves
Why we love it: Effective sun protection doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and the budget-friendly MelodySusie Premium UV Gloves prove it. Made from a premium Lycra blend (88% nylon and 12% spandex), they feel far more luxurious than their price tag suggests. The soft, breathable fabric hugs your hands like a second skin, offering just the right amount of stretch and airflow to keep things cool and comfy. A super-dense mesh design helps wick away moisture, and the individual finger construction makes slipping them on and off a breeze.
Certified UPF 99+, these gloves block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, protecting your hands from sunspots, wrinkles, and premature aging—especially when curing gel nails or driving with the top down. They’re also machine washable and quick-drying, which makes them easy to care for and perfect for everyday use. At this price, you might want to grab more than one pair.
The super-dense mesh isn’t just for breathability; it keeps your hands cool and dry, so you’re not stuck with sticky, sweaty palms.
Material: nylon/spandex blend
Sizing: one size
UPF rating: UPF 99+
Key features: extended wrist coverage shields more skin from sun exposure
Best Adjustable: Prequel Fingerless Sun Gloves UPF 50+
Why we love it: Who said sun protection can’t be stylish? The Prequel Fingerless Sun Gloves, from board-certified dermatologist Sam Ellis, effortlessly blend sun safety and fashion-forward design. Crafted from a blend of smooth, velvety chinlon nylon and spandex, these gloves fit like a dream, whether you’re brunching outdoors, shopping at the farmers market, or cruising around town.
These minimalist gloves are available in two go-with-everything shades—classic black and soft cream—and have a modern, low-profile fit that looks more like an intentional accessory than a skin-care necessity. The UPF 50+ rating blocks both UVA and UVB rays, while silicone grips on the palms provide extra control (no slipping while driving or scrolling). Adjustable Velcro straps at the wrist let you customize the fit for all-day comfort. Sun protection has never looked this good.
Chinlon gives these gloves an extra-smooth, almost silky feel that sets them apart. Think of it as the elevated cousin of nylon, with the same stretch but a sleeker finish.
Material: chinlon and spandex blend
Sizing: one size
UPF rating: UPF 50+
Key features: silicone grip on the palms and adjustable velcro straps
Frequently Asked Questions
Do sun gloves actually work?
Yes—and they’re way more than just a cute accessory. “Sun gloves work by using UPF-rated fabric to physically block UV rays, acting like wearable sunscreen that you don’t need to reapply,” explains Asmi Berry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. “UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, it’s the rating used for clothing and fabrics to show how effectively they block UV rays.”
Their origination shouldn’t be entirely surprising, especially for those who swear by Korean sunscreens. “I became a believer in sun gloves inspired by my hiking friends from South Korea,” says Dr. Marmur. “They simply use UV protective fabric that blocks sun like SPF 50.”
How else can I protect my hands from the sun?
Sun gloves are a great start, but don’t stop there. “Add a dollop of sunscreen on the back of the hands and fingers prior to wearing sun gloves—it gives a more thorough, lasting protection,” says Dr. Marmur. Dr. Berry agrees that layering skincare is key: “Pairing sun gloves with ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or peptides can boost hydration and firmness.”
Who should be wearing these?
Spoiler: pretty much everyone. “Drivers, bikers, hikers, golfers, tennis players, gardeners—anyone who is exposed to the sun for more than 20 minutes daily should use sun protection on their hands,” says Dr. Marmur. If you spend time outdoors, are conscious of signs of aging on your hands (like thinning skin and dark spots), or both, then you might want to try them.
Why are hands particularly vulnerable to sun damage?
“The hands are especially vulnerable to sun damage because the skin on your hands has fewer oil glands, and people usually don’t put sunscreen on them,” says Dr. Berry. “This is why they’re often one of the first places to show signs of aging, like sunspots and wrinkles.”
What should I look for when shopping for sun gloves?
“Look for UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric, and full-finger coverage,” says Dr. Berry. “A snug but comfortable fit and touchscreen capability can be great added features.” Dr. Marmur adds: “Comfort and UVF 50+—plus the number of times the fabric can be washed before losing its protection—are the key considerations when shopping for sun gloves.”
Meet the experts
- Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City, New York
- Asmi Berry, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, California
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
