Our Mission

High Desert Sunwear exists to bridge the gap between fashion, function, and impact. We aim to create a world where activism and UV defense are seamlessly integrated into self-expression, it should not be one or the other. Through personal struggles with skin cancer, and literally not feeling comfortable in our skin, we empower people to protect themselves and the world...and look good doing it.

Our Values

  • Expression

    We enable wearers to make a statement through fashion, especially in the outdoors, and celebrate their individuality.

  • Protection

    We instill confidence in every outdoor adventure, ensuring our wearers are shielded from UV rays while embracing the freedom to explore and enjoy life to the fullest.

  • Freedom

    We equip wearers to bask in the sun's warmth with the assurance of effective protection, enabling them to explore, express, and be themselves, unburdened by the fear of sun damage.

  • Community

    We connect individuals to form a vibrant community that advocates for the enjoyment of the outdoors while prioritizing skin health, through stewardship and education.

Our Story

Growing up in New Hampshire and living for many years in the Pacific Northwest, intense sunlight and protection from the sun were not always top of mind. It wasn't until a few bouts of skin cancer did I realize the importance of protecting myself. At the time, it almost felt too late. I constantly battled with perceived harm from the sun, and was confronted daily by the physical scars it had etched on my skin. This anxiety only increased as my wife Diana, our cat Bean, and I started spending winters in Mexico (I know, not a great place to stay in the shade). And it went just as expected, I spent what felt like countless hours applying slimy sunscreen or wearing dorky performance clothing to give myself peace of mind. I felt like I couldn't be myself - either through expression or activity. There was always something holding me back.

It wasn't until the tumultuous days of COVID where, like many others, we sought solace on the open road. Packing our RV and heading south from Seattle to Mexico, we met with friends in Utah who have now become family (but not like a ‘join our cult’ kind of way). As we continued further into the southern corners of the state, we found ourselves in awe. Starry nights were peacefully married with low bellowing 'meows' from Bean. Truly magical. However, on the reverse, the intense midday sun brought me right back to those moments of anxiety. It was there, in the Mars-like atmosphere outside of Moab, where High Desert Sunwear was born.

We want to live in a world where people can enjoy time outside without sacrificing skin health or self-expression. A world where sun protection is seamlessly integrated into style. At High Desert Sunwear, our core values are Expression, Protection, Freedom, and Community. We understand life is too short to be consumed by constant worry. We are dedicated to creating a world where confidence and protection are inseparable. High Desert Sunwear is an invitation to live freely, explore boldly, and enjoy every moment under the sun. Welcome to a world where your adventures are limitless, and your skin is always protected.