Shedding light on UV protection: Farmers Defense

The outdoor work industry is evolving, and so are its needs. As weather patterns grow more extreme and the public gains more awareness of the hazards of UV radiation, the need for sun protection continues to grow. 

Farmers Defense is responding to this demand with its selection of Protection Sleeves, Sun Hats, Lightweight Work Aprons and more. 

During his years as a gardener, co-founder Jeremy's skin was always getting irritated, either from scratches from prickly plants, burns from the sun or rashes from a reaction. To prevent this, as most do, he wore a long-sleeved shirt or hoodie but found that not only were they too baggy and in the way, but they were also too hot during the hot days in the garden or greenhouse. 

That's when he decided to make his own solution and developed the first version of Protection Sleeves. From that point on, it's been the company's mission to make the best gear and accessories that are both protective and comfortable to keep gardeners, farmers, outdoor workers and outdoor enthusiasts protected and comfortable. 

Farmers Defense launched online in 2019 and saw an immediate positive response from customers. The company has grown nearly 200% year over year since then on its website alone, indicating a high demand for its products. 

Despite the success online, Protection Sleeves are not yet found in retail stores. Beginning in the spring of 2023, Farmers Defense began finding retail partners to take advantage of the vacuum in Protection Sleeves availability. The growing demand for UV protection and protection from other irritants to skin amounts to a massive opportunity for retailers. 

Farmers Defense isn’t just about sun protection; it’s about comfort and sustainability. In addition to helping gardeners, farmers, outdoor workers and outdoor enthusiasts say goodbye to irritated skin, sunburns and skin irritation, the company makes all its products out of recycled materials and uses recycled and compostable packaging for all its products. 

Its cooling and comfortable Protection Sleeves and Sun Hats are made with REPREVE® eco-dynamic fabric, made from recycled plastic bottles, with moisture-wicking qualities that keep wearers cool and dry. They also offer UPF 50+ UV protection and protection from mosquito bites, poison ivy and other harmful plants, as well as scratches when trimming, removing brush, harvesting and other outdoor work. 

The Protection Sleeves are made with 85% REPREVE® and 15% spandex, which offers stretchable, breathable, moisture-wicking qualities that keep wearers cool and dry; protects against skin allergens and scratches; and provides an alternative to thick clothing. 

The Sun Hats deliver a comfortable fit and keep customers shielded from the sun while tending to their garden or greenhouse or just being out in the sun. The hats are a unisex size for men and women and have an internal headband that actively wicks sweat to keep it from dripping and maintain a comfortable fit. The Sun Hats have an oversized rim and back flap, along with adjustable chin straps. 

The Lightweight Work Aprons are waterproof, lightweight and stick-resistant and designed for trimming, gardening and any other plant tending work. It features multiple pockets, including a dedicated canvas-lined pocket for trimming shears and a secure pocket for one’s cell phone, as well as a foldable design to wear as a utility waist belt and protector with quick release durable clips, with no tie required.

With all its uses and attributes, Farmers Defense products have a nine-month selling window due to all their functional uses throughout spring and summer but also being an easily giftable product through the holidays. 

Farmers Defense goes beyond just making great gear and supports causes it believes in by donating a portion of earnings to causes that include saving the bees, defeating breast cancer, garden social rehabilitation programs, special needs farm programs and more. 

Store owners who stock Farmers Defense products are making more than just a business decision — they’re answering customers’ calls for UV protection, high-quality products and sustainability. 

In a world where consumers are increasingly seeking products that offer more than simply basic functionality, Farmers Defense stands out. The company is about improving the outdoor work experience in every way possible. To join Farmers Defense in transforming the outdoor work experience, visit wholesale.farmersdefense.com.