How to Stick to the Shade in Big Cities: Tips for Staying Sun-Safe

Navigating a big city can be an exhilarating experience, but with urban adventures comes the challenge of sun exposure. Whether you're commuting, sightseeing, or enjoying outdoor spaces, staying sun-safe in an urban environment is crucial. The sun's UV rays can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer, making it essential to find ways to stick to the shade, even in bustling city settings.

Here are some practical tips for staying in the shade and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays while exploring big cities.

1. Use Natural Shade: Trees, Buildings, and Overhangs

In most cities, there are plenty of natural or architectural features that provide shade. One of the easiest ways to stay out of the direct sun is to plan your walking routes around shaded areas.

• Look for tree-lined streets: Many cities have parks, boulevards, and residential areas with trees that provide consistent shade. Prioritize these streets when walking, and take advantage of the tree cover during peak sun hours.

• Walk along shaded sides of buildings: Skyscrapers and tall buildings cast long shadows. Walking on the side of the street where the shade falls can make a noticeable difference in how much sun exposure you get.

• Use overhangs and awnings: Shops, restaurants, and city structures often have awnings or overhangs that provide partial shade. Pause under these when waiting for public transportation or when you're taking a break.

2. Plan Your Activities for Early Morning or Late Afternoon

The sun is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, so scheduling your outdoor activities outside of these hours can help you avoid the worst of the UV rays.

• Morning outings: Early morning hours are ideal for enjoying the city with less intense sunlight. Whether it's a walk through the park or grabbing coffee at an outdoor café, you’ll reduce your UV exposure and stay cooler.

• Evening strolls: Late afternoon and early evening are also great times to explore urban areas while benefiting from more shade and lower temperatures. Many cities come alive at night, with markets, street performances, and lit-up attractions, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors with less sun.

3. Take Advantage of Public Transport and Covered Pathways

Public transport systems like subways, buses, and trams not only help you get around faster but also keep you out of the sun for longer periods. When walking isn’t necessary, consider hopping on public transport to avoid unnecessary sun exposure.

• Subways and underground paths: In major cities, underground trains and tunnels are common. Taking the subway for part of your journey keeps you shaded while allowing you to move efficiently across town.

• Covered walkways and skyways: Some cities have elevated walkways or pedestrian bridges between buildings that are covered, providing both shade and a shortcut. Familiarize yourself with these pathways, especially if you’re visiting a new city, to stay sun-safe while you travel.

4. Seek Out Parks and Green Spaces with Ample Shade

Parks are often designed with shaded areas, offering respite from the sun in the heart of urban centers. Many parks feature shaded benches, picnic areas, and walking paths lined with trees, making them ideal spots to relax while staying protected from UV rays.

• Find shaded seating areas: When choosing a place to sit and relax, look for shaded benches or tables under trees or man-made shelters. If the park has a gazebo or pergola, head there for shade.

• Use shade structures in playgrounds and sports areas: If you’re visiting a park with your kids, check out the playground or sports fields, where shade sails or canopies are often installed. These shaded structures are perfect for enjoying the outdoors without worrying about sunburn.

5. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing and Accessories

Sometimes it’s hard to completely avoid the sun, especially in a busy city where shade might not always be available. In these situations, wearing sun-protective clothing and accessories can provide an extra layer of defense.

• Hats: A wide-brimmed hat can offer substantial protection by shading your face, neck, and ears. In crowded areas where it’s hard to find shade, a hat is an easy way to block direct sunlight.

• Sunglasses: UV-blocking sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful rays and help prevent long-term eye damage. Opt for wraparound styles that shield the sides of your eyes as well.

• Clothing with UPF: Wearing clothing with a built-in Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) can guard your skin from UV rays. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and lightweight jackets with UPF ratings offer sun protection without making you feel too hot.

6. Use Umbrellas for Portable Shade

Umbrellas aren’t just for rainy days—they’re also highly effective for creating portable shade on sunny days. In many countries, people routinely use umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun, and this simple tool is becoming more popular in cities around the world.

• UV-blocking umbrellas: Look for umbrellas specifically designed for sun protection, which often have special UV-blocking coatings. These can provide extra protection when walking between shaded areas or waiting outdoors.

• Foldable and lightweight options: Invest in a lightweight, foldable umbrella that fits easily in your bag. That way, you’ll always have a source of shade on hand, even when you're walking through open plazas or waiting for a taxi.

7. Choose Sun-Safe Outdoor Dining

When dining outdoors, picking a shady spot can be a little tricky, especially in cities where outdoor seating areas are often in direct sunlight. Here’s how to enjoy al fresco meals while protecting your skin.

• Look for shaded patios or roof decks: Many restaurants and cafés offer shaded outdoor seating with umbrellas, pergolas, or retractable awnings. Choose these spots for a relaxing meal without the sun beating down on you.

• Bring a portable shade option: If you’re meeting friends for a picnic or outdoor gathering, bring along a portable canopy or umbrella to create your own shade. These lightweight options are easy to set up and provide excellent sun protection while you enjoy your meal.

8. Download Sun Safety Apps

In today’s tech-savvy world, several apps can help you stay sun-safe while navigating the city. These apps provide real-time UV index updates and sun exposure reminders, allowing you to adjust your activities or seek shade when necessary.

• UV Index apps: Apps like SunSmart Global UV, UVLens, or your local weather app can tell you the UV levels in your area and notify you when UV exposure is at its highest. Use these tools to plan your outings during times when the sun’s rays are less intense.

• Sunscreen reminder apps: Some apps will even remind you to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours based on the UV index, making it easier to protect your skin throughout the day.

Conclusion: Stay Sun-Safe in the City

Big cities are full of opportunities for outdoor fun, but it’s important to prioritize your skin’s health by sticking to the shade. By planning your routes, using public transport, wearing sun-protective gear, and seeking out shaded spots, you can enjoy city life without worrying about overexposure to harmful UV rays. Combine these strategies with smart technology and sun protection practices, and you’ll be able to explore urban environments while keeping your skin safe and healthy.