Summer gear offers style and protection

While you're frolicking through summer fun, are you thinking about your health? Here are five must-have accessories to help you look great while protecting your eyes, skin and body from sun damage:

Sunglasses

The sun can damage more than skin; exposure to UV radiation over many years can increase cataract risks and possibly damage your retinas, according to the American Optometric Association. Look for polarized lenses to reduce blinding glare and block harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Long-sleeved coverup

While creams, lotions and sprays go a long way toward protecting your skin from UV rays, they can be messy, inconvenient and ineffective if you forget to keep reapplying them to exposed skin. Coverups, however, can provide practical yet good-looking ways to add another layer of protection. Choose lightweight materials and styles with long sleeves for maximum protection.

Laughing woman wearing cowboy hat and cover-up at beach

Smart footwear

Summer cries out for comfy flip flops and sassy sandals. But while you're showing off your pedicure or enjoying the fresh air on your toes, you need to protect your feet from hot sand and the risk of sprains, strains, fractures and irritation that can come from poor footwear choices.

When choosing flip flops or sandals, look for styles made of high-quality soft leather to minimize rubbing and blisters. Shoe soles should bend at the ball of the foot, but you shouldn't be able to twist the shoe completely. Flip flops with extra padding in the thong will be more comfortable, and a thicker sole will provide more support and protection for the soles of your feet.

A hat

Even if you don't consider yourself a hat person, summer is a great time to explore this accessory. Many styles, colors and materials are available and most will do a good job protecting your head, face and shoulders from the sun. Styles with wide brims will shield more of your face and body, while light colors will do a better job reflecting heat. Look for lightweight, breathable materials.

Sweat-wicking gear

You'll want to keep up on your workout this summer, but you want to be comfortable and fashionable while exercising. Look for gear made of sweat-wicking fabrics, which help keep you cool and comfortable while minimizing heat rash and chafing. Some options also offer UV protection.