Solarstop Cap-Top Neck Protector
Here’s a smart, simple item that will come in handy during hot summer weather. The Solarstop elastic hatband will fit over the crown of any baseball-style cap. (Yep, you’ve probably got dozens of baseball caps, right?). The draped fabric provides 30+ UPF protection for your neck and ears. When things heat up, dunk the soft microfiber fabric in the water for relief–it cools you down fast and dries quickly.
This smart accessory is sold by Cabelas.com, CampMor.com, and Great Outdoors Depot, for $9 to $12.00. Campmor also offers the similar “Sunday Afternoons Solarweave Cap Curtain”, featuring 50+ UPF quick-drying supplex nylon that blocks 97% of UVA and UVB rays. The Cap Curtain features decorative webbing in the front with a velcro sizing adjuster in the back.
These designs are simple enough that anyone with basic sewing skills could make their own cap-top neck drape in a few minutes. (If the wife has a sewing machine this would be a snap). If you make your own unit, be sure to use sun-blocking fabric. Plain cotton or polyester won’t work as well. UV protection is key.
[Editor’s Note: Why, you may ask, am I recommending this somewhat goofy-looking product, and why have I featured sunhats previously in the Bulletin? Well, the risk of skin cancer is very, very real. I was at the dermatologist yesterday, and my Doctor removed two small “anomalies”. And I had a basel cell carcinoma removed two years ago. Trust me, sunscreen and ear/neck protection is a lot cheaper than going to the doctor. Folks who spend much time in the sun really need to watch this stuff–get yourself examined every year. I have a family member who would be dead right now if a melanoma wasn’t caught very early in the game. Enough said–protect your skin and live longer.]
Thanks for publishing this article. I truly hope everyone will read and digest the importance of this message. After living in Scottsdale AZ for a little over ten years I know the importance of getting this message out. I had a neighbor who was a real sun worshiper. Then that dreaded diagnosis came! MELANOMA!! His battle continues.