The right swim shirts for UV protection offer safety and comfort, making each shirt functional and stylish. With many options available, it’s essential to consider both the level of UV protection and your activity level. Every decision related to fabric and design can impact performance, from super light, ultra-breathable materials to those touting high UPF ratings.
At ooShirts, we know the best beginning to UV protection starts with the perfect swim shirt. Since we know all the ins and outs of custom swim t-shirts, let us guide you through selecting one that will comfortably protect you from the sun for long enough to do the job. Let us help you find the best option for you.
Guided by our vast experience in custom apparel, we’ve compiled this guide to help you pick the best UV-protective swim shirts. We will also provide vital tips for extra UV protection. By the end, you will be set to choose a swim shirt that will give you superior sun protection yet keep you comfortable in the water.
Let’s jump in!
What Are Swim Shirts?
Swim shirts are a must-have for anyone who loves spending time in the water and wants reliable sun protection. Similar to rash guards and swim tees, the sleeves may be short or long, depending on the wearer’s preference.
The main idea of a swim shirt is to protect from the sun; thus, these shirts are crucial for outdoor lovers who enjoy water sports. In addition to protection against UV rays, swim shirts offer other advantages, such as quick-drying fabrics and chlorine resistance, that guarantee durability and comfort during extended use in various water environments.
Different Types of Swim Shirts
From swift, functional swimsuits perfect for sports to more laid-back beachside styles, swim shirts have various designs to keep you protected and comfortable in the water. There’s a swim shirt, whether you’re into intense water sports or just relaxing in board shorts by the pool.
- Rash Guards: The original choice for water sports enthusiasts, these are made of stretch fabric-one that dries quickly and fits snugly to protect against sun, sand, and surf.
- Swim Tees: These offer class-rated UV protection with a looser, more flexible fit—ideal for casual swimmers who want comfort and airiness, even with a stripe design for added style.
- Long-Sleeve Swim Shirts: Because these styles are cut to cover more of your skin, they offer the maximum possible sun protection. Many include additional features, like thumb holes, to keep the sleeves down.
- Short-Sleeve Swim Shirts: These are great for those desiring a more full range of motion with less coverage. They are also great once one is in the water, and the day isn’t all that harsh with warm water.
- UV Protection Swim Shirts: These shirts are made of fabrics treated for high UPF ratings and promise all-time best protection against harming UV rays.
How to Select the Best Swim Shirts for Maximum UV Protection?
Head for the best swim shirts that offer maximum UV protection to ensure a safe, fun time in the water. A fitting swim shirt can protect against those hurtful UV rays and let you enjoy your time under the sun. Follow these steps to make the most of your swimwear:
Step 1: Pick Synthetic Fabrics for Superior UV Defense
When it comes to UV protection, synthetic fabrics such as spandex and polyester are your best choice. These are designed to effectively fend off UV rays, providing top-notch protection compared to natural fibers. These fabrics ensure you stay shielded and comfortable during all your water adventures. Explore these features for optimal UV defense:
- Durability: Fabrics should be selected to resist chlorine and salt water without sacrificing their protective qualities. Durability is an essential feature in ensuring extended sun protection.
- Comfort and Breathability: Wear a comfortable, breathable shirt with moisture-wicking to keep you cool and dry for added fun in the water.
- Color and Design: Darker colors and tight weaves provide better protection against UV rays. These are preferred to lighter colors and looser weaves as a better defense against the sun.
- Quick-Drying Features: Quick-drying fabrics allow you to stay comfortable once you become wet, thus serving while getting in or out of the water.
- Stretch and Flexibility: The fabrics used shall be somewhat stretchy and flexible for free movement without losing their UV-blocking capabilities.
- Resistance to Wear and Tear: Select fabrics that resist abrasion and pilling for active sports or extended outdoor exposure. This helps maintain UV protection and appearance, even after contact with rough surfaces like sand or pool edges.
Step 2: Verify UPF Rating
The most crucial step in choosing a UV protection swim shirt is their UPF rating. Protection factor filtration of ultraviolet sun radiation will show how much protection the garment protects against the sun. They should have a UPF of 50+, providing excellent protection for your skin when engaging in any sort of water endeavor.
Remember that the higher the UPF, the greater the protection against UV radiation. Let this be one of your top considerations when finding the ideal swimwear. It is wise to wear highly-rated UPF swimwear so your skin can be safe and you can confidently enjoy the sun.
Step 3: Select Long Sleeves and High Necks
Even when swimming, long sleeves with high necklines provide maximum sun protection. Long sleeves better cover the arm parts, while a high neckline protects the sensitive skin around the neck from sunburn during water sports.
Choose shirts in those styles, and you’ll no longer have to think about sun protection while outdoors. Enjoy the comfort of a long-sleeved, high-necked swim shirt as you live life to the fullest in the water.
Step 4: Ensure Flatlock Stitching
Once you’ve selected long sleeves with high necklines, you should look for flatlock stitching on swim shirts. This type of stitching prevents chafing and increases comfort during water activities. It enhances the shirt’s durability and keeps the seam smooth and irritation-free against your skin.
Flatlock stitching also enables better flexibility and mobility, allowing you to move freely and without restrictions. Choosing a swim shirt with this stitching method means getting a higher-quality product that will last longer and provide advanced UV protection and overall performance.
Step 5: Check for Chlorine-Resistant Fabrics
When selecting swim shirts, it is essential to note their performance in chlorine concerns. Chlorine can burn up fabrics, affecting their lifespan and UV protection. Therefore, look for shirts that resist chlorine damage to keep your swimwear performing best. Check out these key features to ensure optimal performance:
- Chlorine Resistance: Choose swim shirts crafted from chlorine-resistant fabrics. These materials resist chlorine, keeping your swimwear durable and protective over time.
- UPF Rating Maintenance: Ensure the swim shirt maintains its high UPF rating, even with regular chlorine exposure. This guarantees you stay shielded from harmful UV rays.
- Long-Lasting: Choose chlorine-resistant and durable fabrics. This combination ensures your swim shirts last longer and provide solid sun protection.
Step 6: Opt for Raglan Sleeves
When choosing swim shirts for optimal sun protection, consider those with raglan sleeves. These sleeves offer enhanced movement and reduced chafing, making them an excellent choice for extended sun exposure. The design allows for better arm mobility, ensuring comfort and adequate UV protection.
Raglan sleeves blend functionality with style, offering a comfortable fit while maintaining strong sun safety. They’re a smart option if you’re looking for swimwear that balances performance and sun protection.
Step 7: Order from a Trusted Apparel Brand
Use a trustworthy brand if you want swim shirts with maximum UV protection. Reliable companies provide high-priority sun-protection gear with stringent standards that set the benchmarks for UV, durability, and comfort. Look for those brands that can clarify UPF ratings, fabric quality, and customer feedback with assurance.
To make it even better, many trusted brands offer free standard shipping. Watch for promotions where you can use a code at checkout for extra savings. With a good brand, you’re investing in long-lasting protection so you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about harmful UV rays.
Tips and Tricks for Extra UV Protection in Your Swim Shirts
A few innovative strategies can make all the difference regarding extra UV protection. Incorporating these tips into your routine can enhance sun defense and keep your swimwear in shape. Learn how to stay protected and stylish while enjoying your time in the sun.
1. Opt for Darker Colors for Enhanced Sun Defense
With darker colors such as navy, grey, and black, there is an improvement in sun protection attained by choosing UV radiation. This implies that when selecting swim shirts for a time in the water, you will have more reassurance regarding your protection against harmful sun effects.
Not only do darker colors raise protection against UV rays, but they are also a fashion statement for the beach or pool. This option lets you get on with your work outside more confidently and calmly.
2. Use Sunscreen on Exposed Areas
Remember to slather plenty of sunscreen onto any uncovered skin for extra sun protection. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF for more protection. Apply again every two hours or even sooner if you swim or sweat a lot.
Take note of those easy-to-miss areas: your ears, the back of your neck, the tops of your feet, and your hands. A swim shirt added to sunscreen will significantly boost protection from sun damage and let you enjoy the outdoors more confidently.
3. Preserve Protection by Washing in Cold Water
To keep your swim shirts providing top-notch UV protection, always wash them in cold water. Cold water helps maintain the fabric’s integrity and preserves its UV-blocking capabilities. Hot water, on the other hand, can damage the material and weaken the sun’s protection.
By washing your swim shirts in cold water, you ensure they continue effectively shielding you from harmful UV rays. This simple step helps extend the life of your swimwear and keeps you protected during your outdoor adventures.
4. Avoid Stretching the Fabric to Keep UV Protection Intact
When caring for your swim shirts, it is crucial to avoid overstretching the fabric. Stretching can weaken the material and diminish its UV protection. Handle your swim shirt gently during washing and drying to preserve its sun-blocking abilities.
Treating your swim shirt carefully ensures it provides adequate protection against harmful UV rays. This attention to detail helps extend the life of your swimwear, keeping you shielded during all your water activities.
Key Takeaway
Choosing the best swim shirts for UV protection ensures safety and comfort, making every swim outing more enjoyable and secure. Whether planning a beach day, pool session, or paddle, the right swim shirt enhances sun safety while offering a perfect fit.
Consider fabrics with high UPF ratings for optimal UV protection and materials with breathability and quick-drying properties. Choosing a swim shirt made from these fabrics can significantly impact your sun protection and overall comfort, so it’s worth paying close attention to.
Need help finding the perfect swim shirt for UV protection? Contact us at [email protected] for expert advice and personalized recommendations for your needs. You can also visit our ooShirts blog page for insights on selecting swimwear that combines sun safety with style. Let us assist you in finding the ideal swim shirt that ensures top-notch protection.