The Science of Sunburn: Why 21°C Can Still Hurt.
The Science of Sunburn: Why 21°C Can Still Hurt
Many golfers mistakenly believe that if the temperature feels comfortable, sunburn isn’t a risk. The truth is different.
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UV radiation, not heat: Sunburn is caused by ultraviolet rays damaging skin cells. Temperature plays no role in this process.
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Winter risk: In destinations like the Canary Islands or Morocco, the UV index can be high even when it feels cool.
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Reflection matters: Golf courses, with their sand bunkers and water hazards, often reflect UV rays, increasing exposure.
According to Cancer Research UK, sun protection is essential whenever the UV index is 3 or above. Many of the destinations listed here regularly exceed this in winter. For golfers, who spend four to five hours outdoors per round, the risk is significant.
Playing Smart: Protecting Yourself on the Course
Protecting your skin doesn’t have to mean compromising your enjoyment. A few smart habits go a long way:
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Check the UV index daily. It’s often listed on weather apps.
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Apply sunscreen generously. Focus on ears, nose, and neck — areas golfers often forget.
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Wear protective clothing. Lightweight fabrics can cover arms without overheating.
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Seek shade where possible. Between shots or on breaks, avoid unnecessary exposure.
And of course, choose a hat designed for the task.
The Black Heron Difference: Where Style Meets Science
Blackheron hats were born from a simple observation: golfers need headwear that looks as good as it performs. Traditional caps offer minimal shade, leaving ears and neck exposed. Floppy hats may offer coverage but often lack structure or style.
Black Heron brings a new standard:
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Certified UPF50+: Tested to block 98% of harmful UV rays.
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7.5cm stiff peak: Provides reliable shade across the eyes and face without drooping.
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Wide brim: Extends protection to ears and neck — often the most neglected areas.
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Lightweight and breathable: Designed for hours of wear in comfort.
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Timeless design: A hat that looks as good in the clubhouse as it does on the course.
When you step onto the fairways of Tenerife, Dubai, or Mauritius, your Blackheron hat becomes more than just protection. It becomes part of your golfing identity: intelligent, stylish, and prepared.
A Final Word: Your Best Winter Golf Yet
Winter golf escapes offer more than a chance to keep your game sharp. They are opportunities to travel, to experience new cultures, to play courses that inspire, and to enjoy sunshine when the rest of the world is grey.
But they are also a reminder: sunshine, however gentle it feels, carries risks. Sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer are the silent costs of careless exposure.
By choosing your destinations wisely and protecting yourself intelligently, you can enjoy every drive, every putt, and every sunset without regret.
So pack your passport, polish your clubs, and book that winter golf trip. But before you go, make sure a Black Heron hat is in your bag. Because the best souvenirs of a golf holiday are memories and scorecards — not sunburn.