Summer is all about fun in the sun, splashy pool days, and sandy beach adventures! But as parents, our number one priority is keeping our little ones safe, especially from those strong UV rays. That’s where best SPF swimsuits for kids come into play. These aren’t just regular swimsuits; they’re designed with special fabrics that offer superior sun protection, letting your kids play freely without worrying about sunburn.
Investing in high-quality children’s swimwear with built-in sun protection is a game-changer. It means less fuss with constant sunscreen reapplication on covered areas and more peace of mind for you. We’ve rounded up five fantastic options that combine style, comfort, and most importantly, top-notch sun safety. Let’s dive in!
1. Boys Two Piece Rash Guard Swimsuits Kids Long Sleeve
This two-piece rash guard set is a fantastic choice for active boys who love to splash and play. Designed with both comfort and ultimate sun protection in mind, it features a long-sleeve top and swim shorts, ensuring extensive coverage from harmful UV rays. The high-quality fabric is not only soft against the skin but also boasts impressive durability, standing up to chlorine and salt water with ease. It’s the perfect uniform for learning to swim or simply enjoying extended periods by the water.
Key Features:
- High-quality 82% Polyamide, 18% Elastane fabric
- Highly chlorine and salt resistant
- Low water retention and extremely quick-drying
- Four-way stretch and shape memory for flexibility
- UPF 50+ sun protection, blocking 98% of UVA + UVB rays
- High collar design for optimal sun protection
Pros:
- Excellent UV protection (UPF 50+)
- Durable and resistant to pool chemicals and saltwater
- Quick-drying and comfortable for active kids
- Two-piece design offers flexibility and ease of movement
- Great value pack
Cons:
- Two-piece might expose a small sliver of skin at the waist if not sized perfectly
User Impressions: Parents love how well this set holds up to frequent use and washing. Many noted their boys found it super comfortable and never complained about itching or chafing. The sun protection was a huge plus, with kids coming home sunburn-free after long days outdoors.
2. Toddler Girls Swimsuit Rash Guard Sets Long Sleeve Swimwear
Let your little girl play fearlessly under the sun with this vibrant and incredibly durable rash guard set. This swimwear isn’t just about looking cute; it’s a fortress against the sun, featuring certified UPF50+ fabric that blocks a whopping 98% of UVA/UVB rays. Beyond its superior sun armor, this set boasts “Lightning-Dry Technology,” ensuring your child transitions from water play to land adventures in record time, staying comfortable and dry.
Key Features:
- UPF50+ certified fabric for maximum UVA/UVB protection
- Lightning-Dry Technology for 3X faster drying
- Highly chlorine-resistant fibers for vibrant, long-lasting colors
- Sensory-smart comfort: butter-soft, tagless, flat-lock seams to prevent chafing
- Mom-Proof Durability: stain-repellent and pill-resistant fabric
- Available in 9 vibrant colors & patterns for high visibility
Pros:
- Exceptional sun protection, outperforming many standard bathing suits
- Ultra-fast drying, preventing post-swim shivers
- Designed for comfort with anti-rash features
- Durable and easy to maintain, resisting stains and pilling
- Stylish and high-visibility designs
Cons:
- Premium features might come with a slightly higher price point
- Sizing might need careful checking for the “perfect fit”
User Impressions: Moms rave about the durability and how well these suits stand up to endless summer activities. The quick-drying feature is a consistent highlight, and parents appreciate the vibrant colors making their little ones easy to spot. The comfort level for sensitive skin is also frequently praised.
3. Girls Long Sleeve Rashguard One Piece Swimsuits UPF50+ Sun
This one-piece long-sleeve rash guard for girls offers a blend of fashion and functionality, making it an ideal choice for any water activity. It’s designed to provide ample coverage while remaining incredibly comfortable and flexible. The UPF 50+ material acts as a reliable shield against harmful UV rays, ensuring your daughter’s skin stays protected whether she’s taking swimming lessons or building sandcastles on the beach. Its simple yet effective design makes it a practical staple for any summer wardrobe.
Key Features:
- One-piece long sleeve design for extensive coverage
- Breathable, skin-friendly, flexible, lightweight, and quick-dry fabric
- UPF 50+ material for superior sun protection
- Great for swimming classes, pool, beach, and seaside activities
- Easy garment care: hand wash cold, lay flat to dry
Pros:
- Excellent UPF 50+ sun protection
- Comfortable and flexible fabric allows for easy movement
- Quick-drying, reducing discomfort after swimming
- One-piece design offers secure fit and no midriff exposure
- Simple and practical for various water activities
Cons:
- Hand-wash only might be less convenient for busy parents
- Limited pattern options compared to some other brands
User Impressions: Customers frequently commend the soft, comfortable feel of the fabric and how well it protects against the sun. They appreciate the modest yet stylish design and find it holds up well to wear and tear. The quick-dry aspect is also a commonly loved feature.
4. Angel season Girls Long Sleeve Bathing Suit Rash Guard
The Angel season long-sleeve bathing suit is a charming and highly protective option for girls. Crafted from a blend that ensures both comfort and durability, this rash guard one-piece excels in providing UPF 50+ sun protection, blocking 98% of UV rays. What makes it stand out is its thoughtful design, featuring a safety zipper for easy wear and removal, and a range of sweet patterns that make your little one shine. This is one of the best SPF swimsuits for kids if you’re looking for both practicality and playful style.
Key Features:
- Made from 84% polyester and 16% elastic fiber with 100% polyester lining
- UPF 50+ sun protection, blocking 98% of UVA and UVB rays
- Chlorine and saltwater resistant with high color retention
- Front chest safety zipper for easy on/off
- Cute one-piece design with sweet colors and patterns
- Available in a range of sizes (2-3T up to 9-10Y)
Pros:
- Superior UPF 50+ UV protection
- Durable fabric resistant to chlorine and fading
- Convenient front zipper for quick changes
- Adorable designs suitable for various preferences
- Comfortable and allows for freedom of movement
Cons:
- No padded bras (though this is a pro for toddler comfort)
- Sizing references might vary slightly, requiring careful measurement
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently praise the cute designs and the ease of getting toddlers into and out of the suit thanks to the front zipper. The fabric’s softness and the reliable sun protection are also frequently highlighted, making it a go-to for beach trips and swimming lessons.
5. Boys UPF 50+ Rash Guard Long Sleeve Swim Shirt UV
For boys who are always on the go, this UPF 50+ rash guard swim shirt is an essential piece of outdoor gear. It offers professional sun protection, actively reflecting and scattering UV rays to keep skin safe during long hours outside. More than just a swim shirt, its high-elasticity, tear-resistant fabric is designed for zero-pressure stretching, making it perfect for a wide range of activities beyond just swimming—from surfing to cycling. Its quick-drying, icy-cool fabric ensures ultimate comfort all day long.
Key Features:
- UPF 50+ sun protection, dual-effect reflection and scattering of UV rays
- Made from 80% polyester and 20% spandex for high elasticity and tear resistance
- Breathable and instant cooling icy fabric for quick moisture absorption
- Specially developed anti-fading fabric, resistant to aging from pool water
- Comfortable fit with Raglan sleeves and tag-free design
- Machine washable for easy care
Pros:
- Professional-grade UPF 50+ sun protection
- Versatile for multiple outdoor and water sports
- Extremely comfortable with cooling, quick-dry fabric
- Highly durable, resistant to fading, loosening, and deformation
- Easy to care for (machine washable)
Cons:
- This is a swim shirt, so you’ll need to pair it with separate swim bottoms
- Primarily functional, with fewer decorative patterns
User Impressions: Parents love the versatility of this rash guard, using it for everything from swimming to hiking. The cooling fabric and exceptional sun protection are huge hits, with many noting how well it stands up to frequent washing without losing shape or color. The comfortable, non-restrictive fit is also a common compliment.
Why Choose an SPF Swimsuit for Your Child?
When it comes to sun safety for kids, a good SPF swimsuit, often called a rash guard, is your secret weapon. These garments offer a physical barrier against harmful ultraviolet radiation, minimizing the amount of skin exposed to the sun. Combined with sunscreen on exposed areas like the face, hands, and feet, they provide comprehensive protection, letting your kids enjoy their outdoor adventures without the risk of painful sunburns or long-term skin damage. Look for a UPF 50+ rating for the highest level of protection!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does UPF mean, and why is UPF 50+ important for kids’ swimsuits?
A1: UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It’s a rating system for clothing and indicates how effectively a fabric blocks ultraviolet (UV) radiation. A UPF 50+ rating means the fabric blocks 98% of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, allowing only 2% to penetrate. This is crucial for kids because their skin is more delicate and susceptible to sun damage, making maximum protection like UPF 50+ essential.
Q2: Is an SPF swimsuit the same as a rash guard?
A2: Yes, typically. “Rash guard” is a common term for swim shirts, usually long-sleeved, originally designed to protect surfers from rashes (from board wax) and sun exposure. Modern rash guards are almost always made with UPF-rated fabric, so they serve as best SPF swimsuits for kids by providing excellent sun protection.
Q3: Do I still need to apply sunscreen if my child is wearing an SPF swimsuit?
A3: Absolutely! While an SPF swimsuit provides excellent protection for the skin it covers, any exposed skin (like the face, neck, hands, and feet) still needs broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
Q4: How long do SPF swimsuits remain effective? Do they lose their sun protection over time?
A4: High-quality SPF swimsuits with a UPF 50+ rating are designed to maintain their protective qualities for a long time. However, excessive stretching, frequent exposure to chlorine, and harsh washing can slightly reduce their effectiveness over many years. Most good quality suits should last for several seasons if cared for properly.
Q5: Can SPF swimsuits help prevent heatstroke or overheating?
A5: While SPF swimsuits protect against UV rays, they don’t directly prevent heatstroke or overheating. In fact, wearing more fabric can sometimes make kids feel warmer. Look for features like “quick-drying” and “breathable” fabrics that can help manage body temperature better. Always ensure your child stays hydrated and takes breaks in the shade, regardless of their swimwear.
Q6: How do I choose the right size for an SPF swimsuit to ensure proper protection?
A6: For optimal sun protection and comfort, an SPF swimsuit should fit snugly but not be restrictive. If it’s too loose, the fabric might sag and expose skin. If it’s too tight, it can be uncomfortable and restrict movement. Always refer to the specific brand’s size chart and consider your child’s current measurements rather than just their age.
Q7: Are there any specific care instructions for SPF swimsuits to maintain their effectiveness?
A7: To prolong the life and effectiveness of your best SPF swimsuits for kids, rinse them with cool, fresh water immediately after use to remove chlorine or saltwater. Most are machine washable on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, but always check the care label. Avoid harsh bleaches, fabric softeners, and high heat in the dryer, as these can degrade the fabric and its UPF rating. Air drying is usually best.