Home About Contact Terms Privacy Facebook Twitter Pinterest

SimplySunSafe

Enjoy the sun safely!

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Tanning
  • After Sun
  • Clothing
  • Hats
  • Umbrellas
  • Surfaces

Best Sunscreen for Cycling in 2021

Last updated on January 7, 2021 by Meg Leave a Comment

Best Sunscreen for Cycling

Outsiders watching cycling see it as a smooth and flowing sport. The reality, however, is that it is extremely taxing and requires great endurance. Cyclists spend hours upon hours training in the sun. That is why it is vital that proper sun protection is utilized.

As a cyclist, it is wise to adhere by the Skin Cancer Foundation’s sun protection guidelines by wearing UV protective clothing, hats and sunglasses, and seeking shade when you’re able to. These things are not enough, however!

You need to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen at all times as a cyclist. Whether your day is spent training or competing in a race, you do not want to compromise the health and protection of your skin in the sun’s UV rays.

There are specific types of sunscreens that you’ll want to use as a hardworking cyclist, in order to ensure sufficient protection.

Let me guide you through the process of finding the right sunscreen for your skin while you ride your bicycle!

After comprehensive research into what your skin needs for protection while cycling, SimplySunSafe recommends thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+ as the best sunscreen for cycling. Keep reading for a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth reviews of the top 5 sunscreens for cycling.

Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+, 6 Ounce

 
Buyer’s Guide
Comparison Table
5 Best Sunscreens
 

Table of Contents show
Buyer’s Guide
Broad spectrum protection
Best SPF for cycling
Physical is better than chemical
Water resistant
Suitable for daily use
Best Sunscreen for Cycling Comparison
5 Best Sunscreens for Cycling
1. thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+
2. Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35
3. BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical SPF 30
4. EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47
5. Raw Elements Eco Formula Sunscreen SPF 30
Conclusion

Buyer’s Guide

 

To be sure that your skin is properly protected while you are cycling under the sun, there are a few essential features that you should search for in your sunscreen:

Broad spectrum protection

Perhaps the most important thing there is to know about sunscreen, for any purpose, is that you want it to provide broad spectrum protection.

What this means is that you will receive balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This is vital because each type of ray works differently:

  • UVB rays damage the outer layer of your skin, resulting in tanning or burning
  • UVA rays penetrate the deepest layer of your skin (the dermis) and cause premature aging

Exposure to both types of rays increases your risk of skin cancer, which is why you want to ensure sufficient protection while you’re cycling.

Don’t worry, you’re in luck!

Finding broad spectrum sunscreens is very easy! They are available everywhere and easy to identify. Just take a look at the sunscreen’s label and ingredients list.

The label will often have words such as ‘broad spectrum’ or ‘UVA/B’, clearly indicating the right protection.

You can also search the ingredients list for zinc oxide. Sunscreens with zinc oxide are always a great choice for cyclists, as they protect against the full range of UVA/B rays.

Best SPF for cycling

Do you feel like the meaning of the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is slightly vague? You’re not alone!

It is important to understand what SPF means because it will aid you in your search for a pro cyclist sunscreen. Let me give you a simple explanation:

The SPF rating indicates the fraction of the sun’s rays that will reach your skin if you have properly applied the product.

For example, if you are wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 50, then only 1/50th of the sun’s rays will reach your skin.

Now you can see why it is very important and helpful. Just be sure not to get carried away.

Wearing a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 50 does not mean that you can stay out in the sun 50 times longer than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen. Unless you want a painful sunburn, don’t test this out while you’re cycling!

There are many factors that influence the effectiveness of SPF including time of day, amount of properly applied sunscreen, and reflections from surfaces like water and sand.

Check out this table below to better understand how much protection you receive with different SPF ratings:

SPF Rating UVB Protection
None 0%
2 50%
15 93%
30 97%
50 98%
100 99%

It’s a bit surprising, right?

There is really very little difference between an SPF rating of 30 and one of 100.

So how do you know which SPF rating to choose for cycling?

SimplySunSafe agrees with the experts on this matter and suggests that you always choose a sunscreen with an SPF rating no lower than 30 and no higher than 50.

And remember, no matter what SPF rating you choose, be sure to reapply at least every two hours to protect your skin while on your bicycle!

Physical is better than chemical

It is good to know that sunscreens can be broken into two main groups – chemical and physical.

The differences between these groups lie in their active ingredients and in the ways they work to protect your skin.

  • Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays as they reach your skin
  • Physical sunscreens reflect UV rays before they reach your skin

Here’s the important part – not all sunscreens are created equal!

There are many reasons to choose physical sunscreens over chemicals ones.

The most important reason is that physical sunscreens stop more sunlight across a broader UV spectrum. Put simply – they work better.

Physical sunscreens also work immediately upon application, last longer, are less likely to cause irritation, and have a longer shelf life.

If those reasons aren’t enough to convince you, listen to this:

Chemical sunscreens often contain ingredients that mess with your hormones!

As a cyclist, you don’t want to take that risk. The worst of these ingredients is called oxybenzone, and is still legal despite concerns from the FDA. I suggest that you take the time to check all potential sunscreens for this ingredient, and avoid it no matter what!

Physical sunscreens are the way to go for your cycling needs!

Water resistant

Although cycling may look like a simple and relaxed sport to outsiders, cyclists know that it is one of the most physically demanding sports there is.

Whether the weather is hot and humid or not, you will definitely find yourself sweating while training or racing on your bicycle.

That is why you want to use a sunscreen that provides water resistance while cycling.

Sunscreens are available with water resistance for 40 or 80 minutes. I suggest that you choose a sunscreen with 80 minutes of water resistance in order to maximize the durable protection that you will need while on your bicycle.

Wearing a water resistant sunscreen will provide you with the peace of mind knowing you will remain protected even when the sweat starts flowing while you’re cycling!

Suitable for daily use

Cycling requires consistent and intensive training. You need to be out on your bicycle nearly every day in order to prepare yourself for your cycling competitions.

This means you need a sunscreen that you can depend upon for long-term daily use.

To help you find such a sunscreen, ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you want a sunscreen that you can use daily on both your face and body?
  • What skin sensitivities or conditions do you need to accommodate for?

Knowing the answers to these questions will streamline your search process, and lead you to find the ideal product to protect your skin while cycling.

This is because you can eliminate sunscreens that contain ingredients that will cause irritation or trigger skin sensitivities.

One thing is for sure: a sunscreen that you will wear and reapply multiple times daily must be gentle and not cause your skin irritation.

Luckily, SimplySunSafe has got your back! The products recommended here are all effective yet gentle enough for daily use without any problems with irritation!

(Just be sure to check individual product ingredients lists before buying if you have issues with particular ingredients.)

Best Sunscreen for Cycling Comparison

 

  Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+, 6 Ounce thinksport Sunscreen Badger - Sport Sunscreen Cream SPF 35-2.9 oz Badger Sport Sunscreen Burnout Ocean Tested Physical Spf30+ 3.4 OZ BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical EltaMD UV Pure Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 47, 4.0 oz EltaMD UV Pure Raw Elements Certified Natural Sunscreen | Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, 95% Organic, Very Water Resistant, Reef Safe, Non-GMO, Cruelty Free, SPF 30+, All Ages Safe, Moisturizing, 3oz Raw Elements Eco Formula
SPF 50+ 35 30 47 30
Broad spectrum Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Active ingredients Zinc Oxide (20%) Zinc Oxide (22.5%) Zinc Oxide (20%) Zinc Oxide (10%) & Titanium Dioxide (5.5%) Zinc Oxide (23%)
Water resistance 80 minutes 80 minutes 80 minutes 80 minutes 80 minutes
Price See it at Amazon See it at Amazon See it at Amazon See it at Amazon See it at Amazon

5 Best Sunscreens for Cycling

 

After thorough research into how to properly protect skin while cycling which included discussing issues with customers, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, and participating in skincare forums, SimplySunSafe has compiled a list of the 5 best sunscreens for cycling.

Each product provides physical, broad spectrum protection at an SPF rating of 30 or greater. They are all water resistant and suitable for daily use while cycling!

1. thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+

Sale
Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+, 6 Ounce
Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+, 6 Ounce
  • Top rated by EWG skin deep database with a "1" rating since 2010. First sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements
  • Free of biologically harmful chemicals: no avobenzone, oxybenzone, paraben, phthalate, paba and 1,4 dioxane free or UV chemical absorbers
  • Highest -  SPF 50 plus, water resistance (80 minutes), broad-spectrum coverage as proposed by the 2012 monograph
  • Non-nano zinc oxide formulation average particle size >100micron,  non-aerosol formulation (high concern of both ineffectiveness and particulates being inhaled)
  • Applies and absorbs easily non-oily feel  does not have an obtrusive smell that many organic sunscreens have. No animal testing.
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2021-02-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


SimplySunSafe’s first recommendation for sunscreen for cycling is thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+.

This sunscreen provides broad spectrum protection with its active ingredient zinc oxide (20%), and is one of the safest on the market! In fact, it was the first sunscreen to pass the Whole Foods premium care requirements.

As its name suggests, thinksport is durable and effective for protection while engaging in a demanding sport like cycling.

But don’t be fooled. Although it is a strong formula, thinksport is very gentle on skin. You will be able to use this sunscreen daily on your face and body without experiencing any irritation.

The formula is thick and may leave a white cast on your skin, but I don’t think this will be too distracting as the wind whips past your face while you’re out on your bicycle!

Thinksport provides you with the 80 minutes of water resistance which you need to feel protected at the maximum level.

It also has a high SPF rating, which makes it a great choice for those with especially sensitive or paler skin.

Because of its versatility and staying power, thinksport SPF 50+ is also SimplySunSafe’s pick for best triathlon sunscreen. So if you’re not just into cycling but love swimming and running too – this is the perfect option.

Pros
  • Suitable for daily use
  • 80 minutes of water resistance
  • High SPF
Cons
  • Thick formula
  • Slight white cast
Get thinksport Sunscreen Now!

2. Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35

Badger - Sport Sunscreen Cream SPF 35-2.9 oz
Badger - Sport Sunscreen Cream SPF 35-2.9 oz
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2021-02-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Another excellent and reliable sun protection option for cyclists is Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35.

This product is a SimplySunSafe favorite because of its dependability and versatility. It provides broad spectrum protection with a high concentration of its sole active ingredient zinc oxide (22.5%).

Badger is durable and effective for sports like cycling, but its formula is extremely gentle.

Badger is a simple formula, with a total of only five 100% natural ingredients. Daily use on the face and body of even the most sensitive skin will be safe without any irritation.

The high concentration of zinc oxide makes the formula thick and likely to leave a slight white cast, but this is a small price to pay for sufficient sun protection!

Your 80 minutes of water resistance are taken care of by Badger and you can rest assured that the sweat you work up while cycling will not interfere with the imperative protection of your skin under the sun!

SimplySunSafe loves Badger Sport – this is no secret. In fact, we’ve chosen it as the best sunscreen for sports generally. Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed.

Pros
  • Simple, natural formula
  • 80 minutes of water resistance
  • High concentration of zinc oxide
Cons
  • Thick formula
  • Will leave white cast
Get Badger Sport Sunscreen Now!

3. BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical SPF 30

Sale
Burnout Ocean Tested Physical Spf30+ 3.4 OZ
Burnout Ocean Tested Physical Spf30+ 3.4 OZ
  • UVA / UVB broad-spectrum protection.
  • Very water resistant.
  • 18.6% Zinc Oxide.
  • Chemical-free, biodegradeable, ocean-safe, eco-sensitive.
  • Paraben-free, petroleum-free, paba-free.
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2021-02-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical is another great sun protection option suited to cyclists. It provides broad spectrum protection with its active ingredient zinc oxide (20%).

BurnOut is free of parabens, chemicals, and PABA which makes it suitable for daily use on your face and body. Even with multiple reapplications throughout the day, irritation will not be a problem with BurnOut.

The formula also contains skin nourishing ingredients that will enhance your experience from simple protection to protection and conditioning!

The formula is thick and will require time to rub in properly, but this just adds to the durability of its 80 minutes of water resistance.

BurnOut is a great option for cyclists, and I suggest that you give it a test run (well, ride)!

Pros
  • High concentration of zinc oxide
  • 80 minutes of water resistance
  • Skin nourishing ingredients
Cons
  • Thick formula that takes some time to rub in well
Get BurnOut Ocean Tested Physical Now!

4. EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47

EltaMD UV Pure Kids Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 47, Mineral Body Lotion Sunscreen, Water-Resistant, Zinc Oxide, Oil free, 4.0 oz
EltaMD UV Pure Kids Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 47, Mineral Body Lotion Sunscreen, Water-Resistant, Zinc Oxide, Oil free, 4.0 oz
  • Gentle and lightweight
  • Water-resistant (80 minutes)
  • 10.0% transparent zinc oxide, 5.5% titanium dioxide
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2021-02-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47 is a cyclist-friendly option for sun protection.

This is another SimplySunSafe favorite that provides effective broad spectrum protection with its active ingredients zinc oxide (10%) and titanium dioxide (5.5%).

EltaMD UV Pure is a little different from the other sunscreens on this list because it has quite a lightweight formula. It is designed for use on sensitive skin on the face and body and even daily use will not lead to any irritation.

Although this formula isn’t as thick as the others, it is still likely to leave a slight white cast. But I don’t think that will interfere with your ability to cycle!

EltaMD UV Pure is reliable enough for cyclists and it provides 80 minutes of water protection so that you don’t need to worry about being unprotected when you begin to sweat.

Its high SPF may also be of interest to those with paler or sensitive skin.

EltaMD UV Pure is a little on the pricey side. This is due to its more cosmetic feel which makes application a little easier. If the price doesn’t put you off, try it out!

Pros
  • 80 minutes of water resistance
  • Lightweight formula
  • High SPF
Cons
  • May leave slight white cast
  • Expensive
Get EltaMD UV Pure Now!

5. Raw Elements Eco Formula Sunscreen SPF 30

Raw Elements Organic SPF 30 Zinc Sunscreen, 3oz
Raw Elements Organic SPF 30 Zinc Sunscreen, 3oz
  • EWG TOP-RATED SUNSCREEN – Performance-driven face and body sun protection lasts up to 80 minutes and does not run or sting your eyes
  • DAILY USE FOR ALL AGES – Gentle, moisturizing formula can be used as part of your daily skin care routine and is gentle enough for kids
  • CERTIFIED ORGANIC NATURAL MINERAL SUNSCREEN – Soy, gluten and nut free, contains no synthetic chemicals and packed with nourishing antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, so your skin stays protected long after environmental exposure
  • SPF 30+ BROAD-SPECTRUM PROTECTION – With a sole active ingredient of 23% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, our Face + Body Lotion 30+ provides UVA-UVB true broad-spectrum coverage
  • SAFE FOR OUR PLANET – Reef-safe, Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, non-GMO and biodegradable in recyclable packaging. Protect yourself and the environment!
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2021-02-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


SimplySunSafe’s final recommendation for cyclists looking for sun protection is Raw Elements Eco Formula SPF 30. This product provides you with broad spectrum protection through a very high concentration of effective active ingredient, zinc oxide (23%).

Raw Elements Eco Formula is a hypoallergenic and suitable for daily use on face and body. Irritation will not be an issue with this product, even if you have skin conditions or sensitivities.

With natural Vitamin E included in the product’s ingredients, your training and competitions will be a time of skin conditioning!

Raw Elements Eco Formula does have a rather thick formula which is likely to leave a white cast. But with a durable 80 minutes of water resistance, you aren’t likely to be too concerned with a slight white cast. You’ll be too busy enjoying the ride on your bicycle!

This sunscreen is a bit pricey, but don’t count it out until you test it out to see if it works well for your skin!

Pros
  • High concentration of zinc oxide
  • 80 minutes of water resistance
  • Skin nourishing formula
Cons
  • Thick formula
  • A little pricey
Get Raw Elements Eco Formula Now!

Conclusion

This guide was written for those searching for the best sunscreen for cycling. I hope that by reading this guide, you gained a better understanding of how to protect your skin from the sun while on your bicycle, and found a product that fits your specific needs.

SimplySunSafe recommends thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50+, but each recommended is guaranteed to provide you with sufficient sun protection for your cycling needs.

Now that you have read this guide, the next step will be to start testing different products. By trying out different sunscreens, you learn how your skin reacts to different textures and ingredients – which means you’ll find your perfect sunscreen!

I love learning new things and hearing about different products from others!

If you use or know of another sunscreen that works well for cyclists, please share it with me in the comments. I’ll check it out and maybe even add it to this list!


Hi, I'm Meg :) I started SimplySunSafe to learn about sun safety and use this info to help my family and friends. Sun safety is an important part of everyone's life, so please use these articles to better protect yourself and your loved ones.

View My Blog Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Shop Related Items

People Also Like

Bestseller No. 1 CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 | Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide | Sheer Tint for Healthy Glow | 1.7 Fluid Ounce | Packaging May Vary
CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 | Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide | Sheer Tint for Healthy Glow | 1.7 Fluid Ounce | Packaging May Vary
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Bestseller No. 2 EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 for Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin, Oil-Free, Dermatologist-Recommended Mineral-Based Zinc Oxide Formula, 1.7 oz
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 for Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin, Oil-Free, Dermatologist-Recommended Mineral-Based Zinc Oxide Formula, 1.7 oz
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

SaleBestseller No. 3 Sun Bum Premium Day Tripper | Travel-Sized Sun Care Pack with Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion, Sunscreen Lip Balm and Hydrating Cool Down Lotion | Reef Friendly Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection, Basic
Sun Bum Premium Day Tripper | Travel-Sized Sun Care Pack with Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion, Sunscreen Lip Balm and Hydrating Cool Down Lotion | Reef Friendly Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection, Basic
Check Price on Amazon

Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Last update on 2021-02-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

RECENT

ABOUT

SimplySunSafe provides straight forward guides on the best sun safety products on the market. These guides inform you on what you should be looking for and the science that backs up quality suncare products.

I hope my articles will teach you something you didn’t know and help protect you and your loved ones from the sun.

SUPPORT SIMPLY SUN SAFE

You can support SimplySunSafe.com by purchasing the suncare products recommended here. It doesn't cost you any extra, but it keeps the content coming!

SimplySunSafe.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Copyright © 2021 SimplySunSafe. All rights reserved. Web design & development by On The Map Media Inc.