Head to Head
CGEAR Sand-Free Mat vs Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Deciding between the CGEAR Sand-Free Mat and the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion? We break down every spec, feature, and trade-off so you can pick the right beach gear for your needs and budget.
Our Pick
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion edges out the CGEAR Sand-Free Mat thanks to its higher rating (4.7 vs 4.4). That said, the CGEAR Sand-Free Mat is still a strong choice if its specific strengths align better with your needs.
01 / Specs
Specs comparison
| Spec | CGEAR Sand-Free Mat | Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.7/5Winner |
| Category | Mat | Sunscreen |
| size | 8 ft x 8 ft | 8 oz |
02 / Pros & Cons
What we like, what to know
CGEAR Sand-Free Mat
What we like
- +Sand genuinely falls through — not just marketing
- +8x8 ft covers a large sitting area
- +Packs down small with included carry bag
Worth knowing
- −Not as soft as a traditional blanket
- −Mesh means no cushioning from hard ground
- −Corners need anchoring in wind
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
What we like
- +Goes on clear with no white cast
- +Reef-friendly formula protects ocean life
- +Smells like coconut — not like chemicals
Worth knowing
- −Must reapply every 80 minutes in water
- −Chemical sunscreen — not mineral
- −Squeeze bottle can leak in beach bags
03 / Who It's For
Who should buy which?
Choose A
The CGEAR Sand-Free Mat
You are anyone tired of bringing half the beach home in their blanket.
Choose B
The Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
You are daily beachgoers who want protection without the white ghost look.
04 / The Verdict
The verdict
Both the CGEAR Sand-Free Mat and the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion are quality beach gear, but they serve different needs. The CGEAR Sand-Free Mat is a mat with a 4.4-star rating, while the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion falls in the sunscreen category with a 4.7-star rating.
Our recommendation: Go with the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion for its higher rating (4.7 vs 4.4). However, the CGEAR Sand-Free Mat remains a compelling option if its specific strengths align better with how you plan to use it.