Frequently Asked Questions
Which arm do they go on?
Either - every sleeve is identical, so most people wear a matched pair. If you only reach for one, make it whichever arm sees more sun. For a lot of Australian drivers that is the right, since it sits nearest the window.
Will they slide down while I'm wearing them?
The thumbhole anchors the lower end, which is the main reason plain sleeves creep, and a wide elastic band holds the top. If a sleeve does slide on you, it is almost always a size too large - send us your measurement and we will swap it.
Do I still need sunscreen?
Yes - on everything the sleeves do not cover: your face, neck, ears and fingers. Covering fabric and sunscreen do different jobs, and Cancer Council Australia recommends using several forms of protection together rather than relying on any one of them.
Can I still grip things and use my phone?
Yes. The knit stops at the knuckle line, so your fingers and thumb are bare. Touchscreens, secateurs, a steering wheel and a trowel all work normally, and there is no fabric across your palm.
Are they hot to wear in an Australian summer?
It is the first thing everyone asks, and the answer surprises people. The ice-silk knit feels cool as it goes on and keeps taking the heat off your arm rather than holding it in - we wear these ourselves through an Australian summer and they are more comfortable than bare skin in direct sun, not less.
Standing still in full sun on a 40 degree day is the hardest test for any sleeve, and nothing is magic. If you find them warm, that is fair feedback and the 14 day guarantee covers
Will they fit me?
They come in one size with four-way stretch, made to suit most adult arms. To check, measure around the widest part of your upper arm β anything up to [INSERT MAXIMUM UPPER-ARM CIRCUMFERENCE IN CM, MEASURED FROM A SLEEVE ONCE STOCK ARRIVES] sits comfortably without digging in. If yours is close to that or you are unsure, email us before you order and we will tell you honestly.
How do I wash them?
Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle with like colours, then hang dry in the shade. No tumble dryer, no bleach, no ironing and no fabric softener - softener coats the fibres and reduces the stretch that holds them up.
What should I know about the sun protection?
Sola is made from a close-knit sun-protective fabric rated UPF 50 by the manufacturer.
A UPF rating applies only to the area of skin actually covered, and protection may be reduced if the fabric is wet, stretched, or worn out over time. For best sun protection, use it together with hats, clothing that covers as much skin as possible, sunglasses, sunscreen and shade.
Sola is a garment, not a medical device, and makes no claim to prevent, treat or cure any condition. It will not remove pigmentation you already have. If you have a mole or mark that is new, changing, or worrying you, please see your GP or a dermatologist.