Six Ultimate Endurance Sunscreens

By Sabrina Grotewold
Published Jul. 5, 2011
Updated May. 23, 2012 at 1:56 PM UTC

Made of non-nano zinc oxide, extra-virgin olive oil, beeswax, jojoba and cocoa butter, this Environmental Working Group top-rated sunscreen mimics a thick moisturizer that is water resistant for 40 minutes and non-stinging. Badgerbalm.com
Rated highly by EWG, this water and sweat-resistant stick is oxybenzone, paraben and petroleum free and has a pleasing citrus scent. Made with coconut oil and beeswax, the slightly waxy stick glides on easily, but leaves a sheen behind. Beyondcoastal.com
Toss the 40-count pouch or single application swipes in your bag or car, and you’re good to go with mess-free, paraben-free, water-resistant sun protection that won’t melt in your glove box as temps soar. Supergoop.com
We like how quick and easy application of this oil-free, no-rub spray sunscreen is during a run or bike session. Ultra sweat and waterproof, the paraben and preservative free formula dries fast and feels light. Missionathletecare.com
Composed of 20 percent non-nano zinc oxide, PABA and chemical-free ingredients such as aloe leaf juice and raspberry seed oil, this EWG highly rated water-resistant product feels a little thick at first, but is actually quite breathable. Thinksport.com
Olympian and American record-holder Deena Kastor’s favorite, this California Baby water resistant sunscreen’s chemical-free, organic and sustainable ingredient list makes it safe for babies, kids and sensitive-skinned adults. Californiababy.com

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This piece first appeared in the June 2011 issue of Competitor Magazine.

The Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit whose mission is to protect consumers from toxic chemicals found in everyday products, publishes a database ranking 1,400 sun protective products. EWG advises:

• Sunburns are late warnings of overexposure.

• Don’t rely on sunscreen as your sole defense against the sun.

• Use lower SPF products and apply more frequently.

• Avoid oxybenzone, a chemical that can contaminate the body.

• Government data reveals that tumors and lesions can develop faster on skin coated with vitamin A.

Source: ewg.org

Check out these six excellent sunscreen options for endurance athletes in the photo gallery below. Photos by Scott Draper/Competitor.

FILED UNDER: Shoes and Gear TAGS: skin cancer / sunscreen

Sabrina Grotewold

Sabrina Grotewold is runner and editor based in southern California. Christened the Kitchen MacGyver by her husband, she’s determined to persuade people to eat their veggies.