The True Value of UNIQLO's High-Performance Hoodie: Lightweight, Cool, & Offers Permanent UV Protection

Sportswear and lifestyle wear are becoming increasingly interchangeable. It’s a natural evolution. High-performance sportswear not only excels in functionality but also offers tremendous benefits for everyday life.

UNIQLO's "DryEX UV Cut Full-Zip Hoodie" is one such item that epitomizes this trend in fashion.

This hoodie absorbs sweat quickly, disperses it, and simultaneously cuts UV rays. Since its launch in 2012, it has gained popularity among athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and urban dwellers alike.

Let’s unveil the true capabilities of this item with the PR team from UNIQLO Co., Ltd..

Trying it on reveals the experience. Despite sweating due to the heat, there was no stickiness, and the texture felt nice and smooth. It felt like the fabric was rapidly absorbing the sweat. The cool sensation against the skin is also pleasant.

"The reason lies in DryEX. Since the late 2000s, UNIQLO has started developing functional materials for summer in collaboration with top athletes who are its ambassadors.

"As we advanced with joint development, we found that discomfort during competition was often caused by the stickiness of sweat on the skin, prompting us to address this issue.

"The key is to absorb and disperse sweat as quickly as possible. The faster this happens, the quicker it dries, making it less sticky. DryEX is a material designed to optimize sweat absorption and dispersion speed."

The fabric, woven from highly absorbent and dispersive polyester fibers, instantly draws sweat and spreads the moisture throughout the material, showcasing excellent quick-drying properties.

Additionally, using special fibers with cooling properties offers a pleasantly cool sensation against the skin.

Originally developed for T-shirts, DryEX has since been adapted for various items including polo shirts, tank tops, and shorts.

"One of the advantages of this material is its compatibility for combining with other items and materials such as Ultra Stretch and AIRism."

The original "DryEX UV Cut Full-Zip Hoodie" was launched in the spring/summer season of 2012, featuring UV cut functionality.

Answering Growing Demand with Sustainable UV Protection

"The thread used incorporates materials that reflect UV rays, preventing their penetration inside.

"Since the thread itself has UV protection features, its effectiveness does not diminish even after repeated washing, providing long-lasting protection."

While equipped with UV protection features, the fabric ensures breathability through a special mesh structure.

Moreover, to cover the hands from UV rays, the cuffs are designed with thumb holes.

Although UV protection was previously viewed as more of a women's concern, it has surprisingly found popularity among men as well.

"Due to the recent increase in UV levels, there seems to be a growing awareness of UV protection among men who enjoy sports and outdoor activities.

"Furthermore, with increased interest in men's grooming, more men are becoming conscious of tanning."

It also excels in stretchability, allowing ease of movement.

"Utilizing ultra-stretch materials that stretch both vertically and horizontally, and incorporating raglan sleeves to enhance shoulder mobility, it can also be used as sportswear."

Attention to usability is paramount. The side pockets are zippered, preventing items from falling out—a particularly practical feature for sports activities.

Improved Versatility with a Change to a Stiffer Material

In 2023, the material was updated.

"The previous material was much softer and had a more pronounced drape, which limited customer needs and wearing situations.

"Thus, we improved the material while maintaining its functionality and upgraded it to a stiffer, fabric-like material. As a result, it has evolved to better accommodate a broader range of scenarios."

After changing the material, sales increased further.

"One reason for the rise in popularity is considered to be its ability to be worn in a wider range of scenes.

"Recently, there has been an increase in female users.

"There is a similar product called 'AIRism UV Cut Full-Zip Hoodie' in the women's section, but a considerable number of female customers prefer the sturdier material of the 'DryEX UV Cut Full-Zip Hoodie.'"

UNIQLO has a concept called "SUW (Sports-Utility-Wear)." This aims for clothing that is functional enough for sports while also suitable for everyday wear.

Among UNIQLO's vast lineup, the "DryEX UV Cut Full-Zip Hoodie" can be said to embody this concept most strongly.

Even when sweating, it maintains a dry touch and cuts UV rays. Its applications range from outdoor sports to general outings. Moreover, at a price of 2,990 yen, its cost performance is outstanding.

This summer, which is expected to be extremely hot, is likely to see an increase in the occasions for wearing this hoodie.