9 UV-Rated Gear Picks for Open Water Swimming

Gliding through open water with nothing but the sky above and the deep below is one of the most liberating ways to experience the outdoors. However, spending hours under a relentless sun with water reflecting those rays back at you is a recipe for severe UV damage and premature gear failure. Having the right UV-rated equipment ensures you can focus on your stroke and safety rather than nursing a painful burn tomorrow.

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Why UV Protection Matters for Open Water Swimmers

Open water swimmers face a double dose of solar radiation. Sunlight strikes directly from above, while the water’s surface acts as a giant mirror, bouncing up to 10% of UV rays right back at exposed skin. Because swimming involves hours of continuous exposure with no shade in sight, standard sun protection strategies quickly break down. Sweat and water wash away weak sunscreens, while standard fabrics degrade rapidly under intense UV light.

Beyond skin health, UV radiation is a silent killer of gear. Ultraviolet rays break down the chemical bonds in neoprene, spandex, and silicone, causing them to lose elasticity, fade, and tear prematurely. Investing in gear specifically rated for UV protection means you are protecting your body from long-term cellular damage while ensuring your equipment doesn’t dry rot after half a season.

Finally, solar glare on the water significantly impacts visibility and situational awareness. Squinting against the glare makes it harder to spot sighting landmarks, oncoming watercraft, or changes in weather. Comprehensive UV protection keeps your eyes relaxed and your skin shielded, allowing you to maintain a straight line and stay alert to your surroundings.

Long-Sleeve Rash Guard – O’Neill Skins O’Zone

A long-sleeve rash guard serves as a physical barrier against both UV rays and marine irritants like sea lice or jellyfish. Unlike sunscreen, a rash guard cannot wash off mid-swim, providing reliable coverage from the moment you enter the water until you drag your kayak or paddleboard back onto the beach. It eliminates the need to constantly reapply lotion to hard-to-reach areas like your back and shoulders.

The O’Neill Skins O’Zone stands out because it offers UPF 50+ protection alongside a design that minimizes drag. Its premium 6-ounce polyester/spandex blend stretches four ways, allowing for an unrestricted shoulder rotation during your freestyle stroke. The strategic seam placement prevents painful chafing under the armpits, a common issue with cheaper shirts during high-volume paddles or swims.

• UPF Rating: 50+ (blocks 98% of UV rays)
• Material: 6oz Polyester/Spandex blend
• Best For: Warm water swimming, snorkeling, and paddle sports
• Sizing: True to size for a compression fit; size up for a casual fit

When buying this rash guard, keep in mind that it is designed to fit like a second skin to prevent bagging and water resistance. If you prefer a looser fit for beachside wear, go up one full size, but be prepared for some extra drag in the water. To maintain its UV rating, rinse it in cool freshwater after every session and hang it to dry out of direct sunlight. This shirt is perfect for swimmers in warm climates who want maximum coverage, but it is not a replacement for a thermal wetsuit in cold water.

Polarized Swim Goggles – Aquasphere Kayenne Pro

Eye protection in open water is about more than just keeping water out; it is about cutting through blinding surface glare so you can navigate safely. Standard tinted goggles dim your vision, but they do nothing to block the polarized light reflecting off the water. Polarized goggles act like sunglasses for your swim, allowing you to spot buoys, boats, and shoreline landmarks without straining your eyes.

The Aquasphere Kayenne Pro polarized goggles are engineered with an oversized, curved lens design that provides an expanded 180-degree field of vision. This lateral visibility is critical for keeping an eye on fellow swimmers or avoiding low-profile paddleboards. The polarized Italian-made lenses block harmful UVA and UVB rays while neutralizing surface glare, making them incredibly comfortable during sunrise or midday swims.

• Lens Type: Polarized, curved Plexisol
• UV Protection: 100% UVA/UVB
• Fit System: Quick-fit one-touch buckle
• Best For: Sunny conditions, bright open water, and triathlons

Be aware that polarized lenses can make it slightly more difficult to read digital screens, such as some sports watches, while underwater. Additionally, the oversized gasket design requires a clean, hair-free seal to prevent leaks, meaning those with very narrow faces might need to test the fit carefully. This goggle is a must-have for sunny, bright-light conditions, but it is not ideal for dark, overcast days or indoor pool training.

High-Visibility Swim Buoy – New Wave Swim Buoy 15L

A swim buoy is a non-negotiable safety tool that serves a dual purpose: making you visible to motorized watercraft and providing a buoyant resting platform if you cramp up. While it does not block UV rays directly, its bright exterior must withstand hours of intense, degrading sunlight without fading or losing air. A faded buoy is a useless buoy, as it blends back into the reflective glare of the water.

The New Wave Swim Buoy 15L is constructed from heavy-duty, UV-resistant PVC that holds its neon coloration over seasons of exposure. It attaches comfortably around your waist with an adjustable strap, trailing behind you outside of your kick zone so it does not impede your stroke. The 15-liter capacity provides ample buoyancy to support an adult’s weight while offering a dry-bag compartment to store keys, a phone, or snacks.

• Capacity: 15 Liters
• Material: UV-resistant PVC
• Visibility Colors: Neon Orange, Neon Pink, Neon Yellow
• Best For: Solo open water swimmers and coastal triathletes

Before hitting the water, always test the dry compartment seal and inflate the buoy to check for air leaks. Remember that while this buoy provides excellent buoyancy for resting, it is not a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) and should not be used as a life preserver. It is perfect for swimmers who train in active boating zones, but unnecessary for those swimming in small, restricted, boat-free zones.

Mineral Sunscreen – Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen

No matter how much protective clothing you wear, exposed skin on the face, back of the neck, and hands still requires chemical or physical protection. Traditional chemical sunscreens often break down rapidly under water exposure and can irritate your eyes when you sweat. Even worse, many contain chemicals that harm fragile marine ecosystems and coral reefs.

Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen is a highly effective, zinc-oxide-based physical block that creates an immediate barrier against UVA and UVB rays. It boasts the highest level of water resistance allowed by the FDA (80 minutes), meaning it stays put even during vigorous swimming. The non-nano zinc formula is reef-safe, biodegradable, and free of biologically harmful chemicals, making it safe for both your skin and the aquatic environments you swim in.

• Active Ingredient: 20% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
• SPF Rating: 50+ (Broad Spectrum)
• Water Resistance: 80 Minutes
• Eco-Friendly: Reef-safe, biodegradable formula

Because mineral sunscreen acts as a physical shield, it is thick and will leave a visible white cast on your skin. This is actually a benefit for swimmers, as it allows you to easily see any spots you missed before dive-in. Apply it at least 15 minutes before getting wet to let it bond to the skin, and use a dedicated washcloth to scrub it off post-swim. This product is ideal for eco-conscious swimmers who need reliable, long-lasting protection, but those who dislike heavy, visible lotions may find the application tedious.

Silicone Swim Cap – Speedo Elastomeric Swim Cap

Your hair and scalp are highly vulnerable to sun damage, yet they are often overlooked during gear selection. A quality swim cap shields your scalp from direct UV exposure while keeping your hair from absorbing harsh salt or chlorine. Furthermore, it helps retain body heat in cool water and streamlines your head profile to reduce drag.

The Speedo Elastomeric Swim Cap is a major upgrade over standard latex caps, utilizing a textured interior that reduces hair pulling and snags. Made from thick, high-grade silicone, it resists the drying and cracking effects of UV rays and pool chemicals that ruin cheaper caps. The elastomeric material provides greater stretch and a more forgiving fit, reducing the pressure headaches common during long training swims.

• Material: 100% Medical-grade silicone
• Interior Texture: Textured grid to prevent slipping
• UV Resistance: High (impervious to solar degradation)
• Best For: Long-hair swimmers and daily training sessions

To prevent tearing your cap, always insert your hands with fingers flat (avoiding sharp fingernails) to stretch it open before pulling it over your head. After swimming, sprinkle a small amount of baby powder or talcum powder inside the dried cap to prevent the silicone from sticking together during storage. This cap is excellent for swimmers who want a durable, comfortable head cover, but those with exceptionally small heads may find it slips if not pulled down over the ears.

Open Water Wetsuit – Orca Athlex Float Wetsuit

In cooler waters, a wetsuit is essential for thermal regulation, buoyancy, and skin protection. It covers almost your entire body, completely eliminating the need for sunscreen on your torso, arms, and legs. However, a standard surfing wetsuit is too stiff and heavy for swimming, making a dedicated open water swimming wetsuit a critical investment.

The Orca Athlex Float Wetsuit is designed specifically for swimmers who need high buoyancy to correct their body position in the water. Constructed with premium Yamamoto neoprene, it features a highly flexible upper body panel that allows for a natural, uninhibited shoulder rotation. The neoprene is treated with a UV-resistant outer coating that prevents the sun from drying out and cracking the material over time.

• Material: Yamamoto 39 and 38 cell neoprene
• Thickness: 4.5mm core/legs for buoyancy, 2mm shoulders for flexibility
• Coating: SCS (Super Composite Skin) drag reduction
• Best For: Cool water swimming, beginners needing body-position support

Getting into a triathlon wetsuit requires patience and care; always use plastic bags over your hands and feet to slide through the limbs, and pull the neoprene up using the pads of your fingers, not your nails. If the suit fits correctly, it will feel snug on dry land but comfortable once a thin layer of water enters and warms up. This wetsuit is perfect for swimmers training in water temperatures between 55°F and 68°F, but it is too warm and restrictive for tropical waters.

UV-Resistant Swim Jammer – TYR Durafast Elite Jammer

For male swimmers who prefer not to wear a full wetsuit, jammers provide compression, coverage, and drag reduction. However, standard nylon swimsuits degrade rapidly when exposed to a combination of chlorine, salt water, and intense UV rays, quickly becoming thin and see-through. A high-performance jammer must use specialized threads to maintain its elasticity and opacity over time.

The TYR Durafast Elite Jammer is built with advanced circular knit construction that utilizes high-denier poly fiber. This fabric is engineered to withstand over 300 hours of performance, offering complete UPF 50+ protection for your thighs and glutes. Unlike traditional elastane, the Durafast fabric resists fading and stretching out, ensuring the suit maintains its tight, supportive fit for multiple seasons.

• Fabric: 94% Polyester / 6% Spandex (Durafast Elite)
• UPF Rating: 50+
• Durability: 300+ hours of chlorine/UV resistance
• Best For: Daily training, open water racing, and lap swimming

Because the fabric contains a high percentage of polyester, it has less stretch than a standard Lycra suit, meaning it will feel very tight when you first put it on. It is important to tie the inner drawcord securely to prevent the waistband from scooping water during your flip turns or dives. This jammer is an exceptional choice for serious swimmers who spend hours in sunny outdoor pools or open water, but casual beachgoers may prefer a looser swim trunk.

UPF 50+ One-Piece Swimsuit – Speedo PowerFlex Eco

A dedicated one-piece training swimsuit is the foundation of any female open water swimmer’s gear kit. It needs to stay securely in place during vigorous kicking and arm cycles while protecting the back and shoulders from sun exposure. Cheap fashion suits lack the durability and coverage required to handle the abrasive nature of outdoor swimming.

The Speedo PowerFlex Eco is constructed from 100% recycled nylon yarn, making it an eco-friendly choice that does not compromise on performance. It features PowerFlex Eco fabric, which is 10 times more durable than ordinary spandex and highly resistant to fiber destruction from sunscreens, pool oils, and UV rays. The suit provides UPF 50+ block protection and features flatlock seams that sit smoothly against the skin to eliminate drag and chafing.

• Material: 78% Econyl (Recycled Nylon) / 22% Lycra Xtra Life
• UPF Rating: 50+
• Strap Style: Crossback or Flyback for shoulder mobility
• Best For: Active training, open water swimming, and triathlons

Be aware that this suit is cut for athletic training, meaning it offers moderate to high leg cutouts and a compression fit designed to hold everything secure. Ensure you rinse the suit in cold water immediately after swimming to wash away salt or chlorine, and never put it in a clothes dryer, which ruins the elastic fibers. This suit is ideal for competitive and fitness swimmers who need gear that lasts, but it may not appeal to those looking for a relaxed, full-coverage lifestyle suit.

Floating Sun Hat – Shelta Seahawk Sun Hat

While you cannot wear a brimmed hat while actively swimming freestyle, a floating sun hat is a game-changer for water-based support crews, paddleboarders, or swimmers during warm-up and cool-down breaks. It protects your face, ears, and neck from direct overhead sun while cutting down on the glare that bounces off the water. If you drop it or a wave knocks it off, a floating design ensures you do not watch your investment sink to the bottom.

The Shelta Seahawk Sun Hat is designed specifically for active water sports, featuring a rigid, non-sagging brim that retains its shape even when completely soaked. The underside of the brim is dark to absorb reflected water glare, reducing eye strain significantly. It features a removable chin strap system that keeps the hat secured in heavy winds, alongside laser-cut ventilation ports that keep your head cool.

• UPF Rating: 50+ (Brim and crown)
• Brim Type: Rigid, non-sagging, floating brim
• Material: Eco-friendly recycled nylon
• Best For: Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swim support

When selecting your size, measure the circumference of your head just above the ears, as a hat that is too loose will catch the wind and pull back on your throat. Because the brim is rigid, packing it requires laying it flat rather than folding or rolling it, which can damage the internal foam. This hat is perfect for anyone supporting open water swimmers from a boat or board, but it is not designed to be worn while executing swim strokes that require submerging your head.

How to Maintain Your UV-Rated Gear for Long Life

UV-rated fabrics and gear require proper care to maintain their protective qualities over multiple seasons. The combination of salt, chlorine, sand, and UV rays creates a highly abrasive environment that breaks down performance materials. The single most important maintenance step is to thoroughly rinse all gear in clean, cold freshwater immediately after every use, even if you only swam for a few minutes.

Never use harsh detergents, fabric softeners, or bleach on UV-rated gear, as these chemicals strip away protective coatings and degrade elastic fibers. Instead, use a mild, specialty wetsuit wash or a gentle soap designed for activewear when a deeper clean is needed. Always air-dry your gear flat or hang it on wide, padded hangers out of direct sunlight, as drying gear in the hot sun accelerates the very breakdown you are trying to prevent.

When storing your gear for the off-season, ensure every item is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Do not fold neoprene wetsuits, as this creates permanent creases that compromise the material’s insulating properties; instead, store them flat or draped over a thick bar. Store all silicone and rubber items, like goggles and swim caps, in a cool, dark, dry storage bin away from extreme temperature fluctuations.

Essential Safety Rules for Swimmers in Open Water

Open water swimming is inherently different from pool swimming, requiring a heightened focus on safety, navigation, and environmental awareness. The golden rule of open water swimming is to never swim alone; always have a buddy in the water or a spotter on a kayak, paddleboard, or the shoreline. Unpredictable currents, sudden cramps, or changing weather can turn a routine swim into an emergency in seconds.

Before entering the water, always study the local conditions, including tide charts, wind direction, water temperature, and potential boat traffic. Practice “sighting” by lifting your eyes just above the water line every few strokes to check your bearings against a fixed point on land. This technique keeps you on course and prevents you from adding unnecessary distance to your swim or wandering into hazardous boating channels.

Finally, always make yourself as visible as possible to others on the water by wearing a brightly colored silicone swim cap and towing a high-visibility swim buoy. If you find yourself caught in a strong rip current, do not try to swim directly back to shore against the flow. Instead, stay calm, float on your back to conserve energy, and swim parallel to the shoreline until you are free of the current’s pull.

Equipping yourself with high-quality, UV-rated gear is the best way to ensure your open water adventures remain safe, comfortable, and sustainable. By protecting your body from solar radiation and caring for your equipment properly, you can confidently focus on the horizon ahead. Stay safe, respect the water, and enjoy every stroke of your journey.