Be Sun Smart this Summer with Shimano'S 7 S’s

​Who doesn’t love the summer months and all the fun in the sun they offer. Whether it is getting out on the water, deep into the bush, or simply to the beach, park, creek or lake, it pays to stay sun smart.

As you head out into the sun with your family, friends or mates, be it camping, trekking, boating, sailing or fishing…  playing it safe in the sun will not only keep you from getting sun-scorched but make it a whole lot more fun.

We have collated the 7 S’s - Summer Sun Smart Tips to keep you and your family safe this summer…

1. Cover up! However sexy a good tan might look, keeping the sun off your skin is still a mainstake in being sun-smart. Long sleeves and shoulders covered is best. Better yet, ‘Slip’ on light breathable materials that keep you cool and provide sun protection in its fibre are top of the crop. The new sublimated fishing shirts from Shimano offer UPF 50+ protection and some amazing photography by underwater photographer Al McGlashan, making them stunning and sun safe.
   
   
   
2. Sunscreen has long been the ‘must-have’ if you are planning to spend time out in the sun. Surprisingly, most folk still think they are made of steel and don’t need to worry about this one. Especially, when you are on the beach or water with the sun reflecting up and glare at its maximum, you really have to ‘slop’ it on thoroughly and re-apply it after you had a swim.
   
   
   
3. We have had this one drummed into us since kindy and primary school and it could not be more relevant as the seasons heat up and the sun is getting more intense. Yes, ‘slap’ on a hat. The good old broad-brimmed hat is, of course, best to keep face and ears out of the sun, but caps and those with a neck flap are great too. Shimano’s range of caps and hats are designed to give maximum protection while looking cool too!
   
   
   
4. Take a break from direct sun. Shade is the ultimate respite from the sun’s heat and harming rays. Whenever possible ‘seek’ out shade and take direct sun in shorter doses, rather than one long block of time. Remember that even when you are out of the sun the glare and rays can still bounce off the water, ground and sand, so keep the sunscreen up and cover up.
   
   
   
5. Your eyes are super sensitive, so definitely ‘slide’ on some good quality sunnies to keep the brightness and the glare down and direct sunlight out of your eyes. Now, as with most things, there are good ones, not so good ones and really good ones. Come to sunnies, it is not worth taking unnecessary chances. Check out the Shimano range of sunnies designed to minimise eye impact and reduce bounce behind the lenses due to their contoured and shaped sunglass models.
   
   
   
6. Keeping hydrated is super important, and contrary to common belief, chugging a few cans of beer is not proper hydration. Always make sure you have ample water on hand and take a regular ‘sip’ throughout each hour. The longer you are in the sun, the more you should drink. A good guide is to drink at least 2 litres of water per day (not beer), more if you are active, exercising or sweating a lot.
   
   
   
7. Above all, ‘share’ these tips with your family and friends. And, while in the bush, out on the water or adventuring elsewhere, make sure you ‘tick’ the 7 S’s of being Summer Sun Smart. Better yet by practicing these Sun Smart Tips, you will lead those around you to be sun smart too this summer…  Can’t really get the kids to adhere to these - if you don’t, right.
   
   
   
   

While we are all familiar with the ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ - we really felt we needed to extend the list to get you through the summer’s heat safely. So, while you are doing what you love this summer following these tips will ensure you get through the summer without burns, blisters, heat stroke, dehydration or peeling off multiple layers of skin. Stay safe this summer!

Shimano’s summer safe hats, shirts, sunnies and more are available from all good tackle, fishing and outdoor stores. For more information, log onto www.shimanofish.com.au