If you are a fan of outdoor sports, protection from the sun is a must. While outdoor sports gear like UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing, sunglasses, and hats can all provide some protection from the sun, your best defense is a good quality sunscreen that’s formulated to withstand even the most intense workouts. True outdoor sports sunscreens should be designed with the active athlete in mind and need to offer protection against the sun’s harmful rays but should also be water- and sweat-resistant.

So it’s no wonder that choosing the best outdoor sports sunscreen can be a bit challenging. Slathering on sunscreen before the practice of outdoor sports is as essential as wearing a good pair of shoes, especially in the warmer months to come when the sun’s strong UVB rays can quickly lead to sunburn. In fact, outdoor sports lovers should try to apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before heading out to allow enough time for it to absorb, as well as reapply every hour.

One of the key-elements to keep in mind is that the perfect sunscreen needs to be waterproof: since you’ll be using this sunscreen while working out, you will be sweating a lot, and the last thing you want to do is sweat off all that sun protection, or have it run and cause your eyes to start stinging right in the middle of your training. Water-resistance is a must in a good sports sunscreen, otherwise, you’ll be wasting your time applying it in the first place.

Moreover, you should look for sunscreens that offer optimal UVA and UVB rays protection. The best sunscreens on the market offer balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This is because they work differently – UVB rays damage the outer layer of your skin causing you to tan or burn whereas UVA rays penetrate the dermis (the deepest layer of your skin) causing premature aging. Exposure to both UVA and UVB rays increase your chances of getting skin cancer. So, it’s essential your sunscreen protects you against both.

But what are the best sunscreens on the market for outdoor sports? We’ve put together a list with the best options available online that will have you covered in the upcoming months.

Here are the top sunscreens to use for outdoor sports

outdoor sports

Skinnies Sungel SPF30

We know we should apply sunscreen long before heading outside, but how often does that happen? Thankfully Skinnies dries in just two minutes and forms a thin, barely there layer of protection. Unlike most sunscreens, it isn’t water-based; it’s more concentrated so you need less. In our test, we found it won’t sweat off, and leaves only a slightly waxy feeling on your fingers afterward. If SPF 30 isn’t enough protection, Skinnies Conquer SPF 50 gives you protection for up to four hours.

EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen SPF 50

The EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen SPF 50 has a no-drip, water-resistant formula that’s suitable for all skin types, making it perfect for active people. It can be difficult to find a sunscreen that doesn’t feel heavy or oily after applying, which can make you feel like you’re sheathed in an additional layer of clothing. If you have especially sensitive skin, oily formulas can also cause irritation, leaving you feeling more miserable than protected. The EltaMD UV Sport offers a solution to both problems, with an oil-free formula that goes on feeling light, absorbs quickly, and is appropriate for all skin types — even those with especially sensitive or dry skin.

BLUE LIZARD Sport Mineral-Based Sunscreen

If you’re ever unsure about whether you need sunscreen on a cloudy day, Blue Lizard’s mineral-based SPF 30+ sunscreen takes the guesswork out of it. Its unique, patented UV photo-sensitive bottle transforms from white to blue in the presence of harmful UV rays, so you’ll know exactly when to apply. Moreover, the dermatologist-recommended, hypoallergenic formula contains only high-quality, non-irritating, natural minerals to provide highly effective, broad-spectrum UVA and UVB skin protection.

BADGER SPF 35 Sport Sunscreen

This sunscreen met all the must-have requirements to provide excellent protection while you’re on the field. This is a water resistant, physical sunscreen, which offers balanced protection from both UVA and UVB guides. This product is gentle on both the environment and on your skin, it’s chemical free and is made from only 5 ingredients. Its active ingredient is zinc oxide (22%) which provides great protection and is safe for users with sensitive skin. It’s fragrance free and has a pleasant natural smell. The other ingredients used to make this sunscreen are organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and sunflower vitamin E.

Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen Lotion by La Roche-Posay

The facial area often requires a different kind of sunscreen, especially for folks with more sensitive skin. The face sunscreen by La Roche-Posay is a fantastic option because it offers maximum protection, preserves the skin from free radicals, and absorbs well. Their sweat-proof can prevent “real” pain, should sweat run into your eyes. The formula is also resistant to water for up to 80 minutes.