UV Bikini

Here’s one that, despite my better judgment, I am filing under gear.

It comes from sister site Luxist and is all about a new piece of space age apparel called the UV bikini. Actually, I should correct that. It’s more post-space age. It’s a global warming age piece of fashion.

And the Inconvenient Truth about this piece of swimwear is that it is quite ugly (the body inside of it not withstanding). The idea behind the UV bikini is, as you might have guess, to help you know how many horrible, skin-damaging UV rays are bombarding you at any particular moment. Then you can decide whether to apply some SPF 300, continue with your tan, or go immediately to the dermatologist for skin cancer removal. The bikini comes with a handy little meter that is waterproof, washable and pool-safe. It runs about $190 and will definitely inspire lookie-loos, especially those whose hygiene may be lacking and who have an inordinate fondness for Star Trek.