6 Best Swimwear Styles That Offer Sun Protection You Need This Summer
Discover 6 stylish swimwear options with UPF protection that keep you safe from harmful UV rays without sacrificing fashion. From rashguards to swim leggings, stay sun-smart while looking great.
Looking good at the beach doesn’t mean sacrificing your skin’s health. With skin cancer rates rising and awareness about UV damage growing, sun-protective swimwear has become both a smart choice and a fashion statement.
Today’s UPF-rated swimwear options combine style with science, offering built-in protection that won’t wash off like sunscreen while keeping you on-trend. You’ll find everything from classic one-pieces to athletic rash guards that blend fashion-forward designs with serious sun-blocking capabilities.
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1. Rashguards: The Full-Coverage Classic
Rashguards stand as the gold standard in sun-protective swimwear, originally designed for surfers but now embraced by swimmers, paddleboarders, and beachgoers worldwide. These athletic-inspired tops offer substantial coverage for your upper body while maintaining comfort during water activities.
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How Rashguards Block UV Rays
Rashguards provide sun protection through tightly-woven synthetic fabrics that create a physical barrier against UV radiation. Most quality rashguards offer UPF 50+ protection, blocking 98% of harmful rays from reaching your skin. The fabric’s density and special treatments enhance its ability to scatter, absorb, and reflect UV radiation before it contacts your skin.
Best Rashguard Features To Look For
Look for rashguards with flatlock seams to prevent chafing during extended wear. Seek four-way stretch fabric that moves with your body while maintaining shape. The ideal rashguard includes thumbholes to protect hands, moisture-wicking properties to stay comfortable, and quick-dry technology for convenience. Choose between looser fits for casual wear or compression styles for performance activities.
2. High-Neck One-Piece Suits: Elegant Protection
High-neck one-piece swimsuits offer both sophisticated style and exceptional sun protection for your neck and décolletage—areas frequently overlooked when applying sunscreen.
UPF Ratings In One-Piece Designs
Quality high-neck one-pieces typically feature UPF 50+ ratings, blocking up to 98% of harmful UV rays. Unlike regular swimwear, these suits use densely woven fabrics specifically treated with UV-inhibiting technologies. Look for suits with certification from recognized testing authorities like ASTM International or the Australian Radiation Protection Agency for verified protection levels.
Stylish Options That Don’t Sacrifice Safety
Today’s high-neck designs include sleek athletically-inspired suits with racerback details, vintage-inspired halter styles with ruching, and fashion-forward suits with cutout accents. Many brands offer elegant color-blocking patterns, textured fabrics, and adjustable closures that maintain full coverage while allowing personalized fit and style. These versatile suits transition seamlessly from active swimming to beachside socializing.
3. Swim Leggings: Full Leg Protection
Swim leggings have revolutionized sun protection for water enthusiasts by offering comprehensive coverage from waist to ankle. These specialized bottoms combine functionality with style, making them increasingly popular for beach days and water sports.
Benefits Of Extended Coverage For Water Activities
Swim leggings provide UPF 50+ protection for areas frequently exposed during swimming and water sports. They’re ideal for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball where legs remain vulnerable to sun damage. Unlike traditional sunscreen, these leggings won’t wash off during extended water activities and protect against both sand abrasion and jellyfish stings.
Pairing Options For Complete Sun-Safe Looks
Combine swim leggings with rash guards for head-to-toe protection in high sun exposure conditions. For versatility, pair with high-neck tankinis or swim tunics to create modest yet fashionable beach outfits. Many brands now offer coordinating sets with matching prints and colors, allowing you to build a sun-protective wardrobe that transitions seamlessly from water to beachside dining.
4. Long-Sleeve Swim Dresses: Feminine Yet Functional
Swim dresses with long sleeves offer an elegant approach to sun protection while maintaining a distinctly feminine silhouette. These versatile pieces have surged in popularity as they seamlessly blend style with comprehensive UV defense.
Sun-Protective Fabrics In Swim Dress Designs
Modern long-sleeve swim dresses feature densely woven synthetic fabrics with UPF 50+ ratings, blocking 98% of harmful UV rays. Many incorporate nylon-spandex blends with moisture-wicking properties for comfort during extended wear. Leading brands now use chlorine-resistant materials that maintain their protective qualities even after repeated pool exposure.
Flattering Cuts That Provide Maximum Coverage
Empire waistlines and A-line silhouettes flatter diverse body types while ensuring ample coverage from shoulders to thighs. Strategic ruching along the torso creates a slimming effect without compromising the garment’s protective benefits. Adjustable necklines and built-in shorts provide additional coverage options, making these pieces perfect for transitioning between swimming and beachside activities.
5. Two-Piece UPF Tankinis: Versatile Protection
Tankinis offer the perfect middle ground between traditional one-pieces and bikinis while providing excellent sun protection. These two-piece options combine style with functionality for those who want coverage without sacrificing comfort.
Mix-And-Match Sun Protection Options
UPF tankinis deliver unmatched versatility with interchangeable tops and bottoms. You can pair long-sleeve tankini tops with swim shorts, skirts, or swim leggings depending on your protection needs. Many brands offer coordinating pieces in complementary colors and patterns, allowing you to create multiple outfits from just a few key pieces while maintaining consistent UPF 50+ protection.
Adjustable Coverage For Different Activities
Tankinis adapt seamlessly to various water activities by allowing you to customize your coverage level. Choose higher-neck styles with longer torsos for paddleboarding or surfing when maximum protection is needed. Opt for shorter, sportier cuts for active swimming sessions or more relaxed fits for beachside lounging. The two-piece design also simplifies bathroom breaks compared to one-piece options—a practical consideration for full-day water adventures.
6. Sun-Protective Swim Shorts: Beyond Basic Trunks
Men’s And Women’s Protective Bottom Options
Sun-protective swim shorts have evolved dramatically beyond traditional trunks for both men and women. Men can choose from board shorts with 7-9″ inseams or longer jammers that extend to the knee, offering UPF 50+ protection. Women’s options include boyshorts, board shorts, and swim skorts that provide stylish alternatives to standard bikini bottoms while delivering comprehensive thigh protection.
Features That Enhance Sun Safety
Look for swim shorts with dense, tightly-woven fabrics specifically treated with UV-inhibiting technologies to maximize sun protection. Key safety features include longer inseams (4-9 inches) that shield vulnerable thigh areas, secure waistbands that prevent shifting during activity, and quick-dry materials that discourage removing shorts while still damp. Many performance styles also incorporate flat-lock seams to prevent chafing during extended wear.
Conclusion: Choosing The Right Sun-Protective Swimwear For Your Needs
Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays doesn’t mean sacrificing style at the beach or pool. Today’s UPF-rated swimwear offers both fashion-forward designs and essential sun protection that outperforms traditional sunscreen.
Whether you prefer the comprehensive coverage of rashguards and swim leggings for active water sports or the elegant silhouette of a long-sleeve swim dress for casual beachside lounging you’ll find options that suit your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
Remember that the best sun-protective swimwear is one you’ll actually wear consistently. Look for UPF 50+ ratings quick-drying fabrics and comfortable fits that move with your body. By investing in quality sun-safe swimwear you’re making a smart choice for your skin’s long-term health while still looking your best under the sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UPF-rated swimwear?
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rated swimwear is specially designed clothing that provides built-in sun protection. Unlike regular swimwear, these garments are made with tightly-woven fabrics or treated with UV-inhibiting technologies that block harmful ultraviolet rays. UPF 50+ swimwear blocks 98% of UV radiation, offering superior protection compared to standard sunscreen which needs frequent reapplication and can wash off during water activities.
Are rashguards only for surfers?
No, rashguards aren’t just for surfers anymore. While originally designed for surfing, these versatile protective tops have become popular among swimmers, paddleboarders, snorkelers, and casual beachgoers. They offer substantial upper body coverage with UPF 50+ protection, blocking 98% of harmful UV rays. Modern rashguards feature comfortable flatlock seams, four-way stretch fabric, and quick-dry technology, making them suitable for various water activities and everyday beach wear.
How do high-neck swimsuits provide better protection?
High-neck swimsuits provide enhanced protection for the neck and décolletage—areas highly susceptible to sun damage and often missed when applying sunscreen. These suits extend coverage to the base of the neck, protecting these vulnerable regions from direct UV exposure. With UPF 50+ ratings, they block up to 98% of harmful rays while offering stylish options like racerback designs, vintage halter styles, and fashionable cutouts.
Can swim leggings be worn for activities beyond swimming?
Absolutely! Swim leggings are versatile for numerous water and beach activities. They’re ideal for snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, beach volleyball, and coastal hiking. Beyond sun protection, swim leggings protect against sand abrasion and jellyfish stings. They’re designed with quick-dry, chlorine-resistant fabrics that maintain their shape and protection level during active movement. Many styles feature secure waistbands and flattering cuts that transition well from water to beachside socializing.
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What makes long-sleeve swim dresses different from regular swimwear?
Long-sleeve swim dresses combine elegant style with comprehensive sun protection, unlike regular swimwear. They feature densely woven UPF 50+ fabrics covering the arms, torso, and upper legs while maintaining a feminine silhouette. Modern designs include flattering cuts like empire waistlines, built-in shorts for modesty during activities, and moisture-wicking properties for comfort. These versatile pieces transition seamlessly between swimming and casual beachside activities.
Why choose a UPF tankini over a one-piece swimsuit?
UPF tankinis offer practical advantages over one-pieces while maintaining excellent sun protection. They allow mix-and-match versatility to customize coverage based on activities and personal preference. Tankinis provide easier bathroom breaks during full-day water adventures and can be adjusted for different body types and comfort needs. With options ranging from high-neck styles for maximum protection to sportier cuts for active swimming, they combine functionality with style.
Do swim shorts provide adequate sun protection?
Yes, UPF-rated swim shorts provide excellent sun protection for the thighs and upper legs—areas highly susceptible to sunburn. Modern swim shorts (board shorts, jammers, boyshorts, or swim skorts) are made with tightly-woven fabrics treated with UV-inhibiting technologies, typically offering UPF 50+ protection. Longer inseams provide additional coverage, while secure waistbands and quick-dry materials enhance comfort during water activities. They’re a stylish alternative to standard swimwear bottoms while prioritizing sun safety.
How does sun-protective swimwear compare to using sunscreen alone?
Sun-protective swimwear offers several advantages over relying solely on sunscreen. UPF-rated garments provide consistent protection that doesn’t wash off in water, wear away with sweat, or require reapplication every two hours like sunscreen. They cover more surface area reliably, protecting easily missed spots. While sunscreen remains essential for exposed skin, UPF swimwear creates a physical barrier blocking up to 98% of harmful UV rays, making it more effective and convenient for extended water activities.
