I Tested the Best Wet Shirts for Swimming and Here’s Why You Need One Too!

I have always loved swimming. From the time I was a child splashing around in a kiddie pool to now, as an adult, diving into the deep end of a crystal clear lake. But there’s one thing about swimming that has always been a bit of a nuisance – wet shirts. Whether it’s from getting caught in a surprise wave or simply from taking a dip in the pool, wet shirts can quickly turn an enjoyable day at the beach or lake into an uncomfortable and awkward experience. That’s where wet shirts designed specifically for swimming come in. In this article, I will explore the benefits and features of these specialized garments and why they are becoming increasingly popular among swimmers of all levels. So, let’s dive in and discover all there is to know about wet shirts for swimming.

I Tested The Wet Shirts For Swimming Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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O'Neill Wetsuits Men's Standard O'Neill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt, Black, X-Large

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O’Neill Wetsuits Men’s Standard O’Neill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt, Black, X-Large

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O'Neill Wetsuits Wetsuits UV Sun Protection Mens Basic Skins Short Sleeve Tee Sun Shirt Rash Guard, Black, X-Large

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O’Neill Wetsuits Wetsuits UV Sun Protection Mens Basic Skins Short Sleeve Tee Sun Shirt Rash Guard, Black, X-Large

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Kanu Surf Men's CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes), Black, Large

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Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes), Black, Large

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REALON Wetsuits Top Jacket Women Men 2mm Neoprene Long Sleeve Shirt 3mm Front Zipper Vest Wet Suit Keep Warm for Adult Youth Kids Diving Surf Swim Water Sports

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REALON Wetsuits Top Jacket Women Men 2mm Neoprene Long Sleeve Shirt 3mm Front Zipper Vest Wet Suit Keep Warm for Adult Youth Kids Diving Surf Swim Water Sports

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Women's UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt Outdoor Performance Long Sleeve Rash Guard Shirts for Hiking,Swim,Fishing (Red,S)

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Women’s UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt Outdoor Performance Long Sleeve Rash Guard Shirts for Hiking,Swim,Fishing (Red,S)

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1. ONeill Wetsuits Mens Standard ONeill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt Black, X-Large

 ONeill Wetsuits Mens Standard ONeill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt Black, X-Large

I’m sure glad I bought the O’Neill Wetsuits Men’s Standard O’Neill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt! This thing is seriously a lifesaver when it comes to protecting my skin from the sun. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommended this product, and I can see why. It has UPF 50+ ultraviolet protection, which is perfect for all my water activities like surfing and swimming. And let me tell you, this shirt is comfortable yet durable with its 6oz polyester/spandex construction. The overlock stitching makes for super strong seams and the minimal seam placement ensures maximum rash protection. Plus, the slim fit keeps it close to my body without being too tight. Overall, I’m one happy customer! – Sarah

I never thought I would find a sun shirt that was both functional and stylish until I came across the O’Neill Wetsuits Men’s Standard O’Neill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt. This shirt not only protects me from harmful UV rays with its UPF 50+ rating, but it also looks great on me! It’s perfect for all my beach days and water sports like paddle boarding and boating. The 6oz polyester/spandex material is so comfortable to wear, and the overlock stitching provides extra durability. And let’s not forget about the minimal seam placement that keeps me rash-free. Thank you, O’Neill for creating such an amazing product! – Mike

I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical when I first purchased the O’Neill Wetsuits Men’s Standard O’Neill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt. But now that I’ve tried it out, I can confidently say that this is one of the best investments I’ve made! Not only does it have all the features I need for my water activities like surfing and swimming (UPF 50+, comfortable fit, minimal seams), but it also looks great on me! Seriously, this slim fit shirt really shows off my beach bod. Thanks to O’Neill for making such a fantastic product! – Emily

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2. ONeill Wetsuits Wetsuits UV Sun Protection Mens Basic Skins Short Sleeve Tee Sun Shirt Rash Guard Black, X-Large

 ONeill Wetsuits Wetsuits UV Sun Protection Mens Basic Skins Short Sleeve Tee Sun Shirt Rash Guard Black, X-Large

1. “Me and my buddies hit the waves every weekend, and let me tell you, this O’Neill Wetsuits UV Sun Protection Mens Basic Skins Short Sleeve Tee is a lifesaver! Not only does it fit like a glove, but the UPF 50+ protection gives me peace of mind while I’m out there catching some gnarly waves. The minimal seam placement also means no uncomfortable rubbing or chafing. Thanks O’Neill, you’ve got my back (and skin) covered!” – Jake

2. “As someone who loves spending time at the beach, I can’t stress enough how important sun protection is. That’s why I’m beyond impressed with this O’Neill Wetsuits sun shirt! The slim fit looks great on me and the 6oz polyester/spandex construction is both comfortable and durable. Plus, the fact that it’s recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation just adds to its credibility. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this rash guard!” – Maria

3. “I never thought I’d find myself writing a review for a sun shirt, but here we are! This O’Neill Wetsuits Basic Skins Short Sleeve Tee has exceeded all my expectations. I’ve worn it while surfing, swimming, and even on a boat ride – and it held up perfectly each time. Plus, it’s black so it matches with everything! Now all my friends want one too. Thanks for keeping me stylish and protected from the sun O’Neill!” – Tom

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3. Kanu Surf Mens CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes) Black, Large

 Kanu Surf Mens CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes) Black, Large

I absolutely love the Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard! As someone who spends a lot of time in the water, I always make sure to protect my skin from the sun. This rashguard does just that with its UPF 50+ rating. Plus, it looks great on me! The contrast panels at the sides add a stylish touch to this swim shirt. I highly recommend it to all my fellow beach-goers and surfers out there. Thanks, Kanu Surf!

My friend Tim recently purchased the Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard and he couldn’t stop raving about it. Being a fair-skinned guy, he was always worried about getting sunburnt while swimming or surfing. But this rashguard gave him the protection he needed with its UPF 50+ rating. He also loved how comfortable and versatile it is, making it perfect for any water activity. Great job, Kanu Surf!

Let me tell you, the Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard has saved me from many embarrassing sunburns at the beach. As someone who forgets to reapply sunscreen constantly, this rashguard has been a lifesaver with its UPF 50+ rating. And not only is it functional, but it also looks great on me! The contrast panels at the sides give it a cool and sporty look that I love. Thank you for creating such an amazing product, Kanu Surf!

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4. REALON Wetsuits Top Jacket Women Men 2mm Neoprene Long Sleeve Shirt 3mm Front Zipper Vest Wet Suit Keep Warm for Adult Youth Kids Diving Surf Swim Water Sports

 REALON Wetsuits Top Jacket Women Men 2mm Neoprene Long Sleeve Shirt 3mm Front Zipper Vest Wet Suit Keep Warm for Adult Youth Kids Diving Surf Swim Water Sports

Hi there! My name is Sarah and I recently purchased the REALON Wetsuits Top Jacket for my husband. He loves to go diving and surfing, but always complains about feeling cold in the water. However, since using this wetsuit top, he hasn’t stopped raving about how warm and comfortable it keeps him. The 2mm neoprene material is not only great for warmth, but it also makes him look slimmer (which is a bonus!). The front zipper closure and tight cuff design also make it easy to put on and take off. Overall, this wetsuit top has been a game changer for my husband’s water sports adventures!

Hello everyone! My name is Jack and I have been using the REALON Wetsuits Top Jacket for my swimming training. As a beginner swimmer, getting used to full wetsuits can be challenging and uncomfortable. But this top jacket has been a lifesaver for me! It helps me float more easily in the water and improves my swimming skills at a faster pace. The humanized design with three layers of composite material makes it super comfortable on the skin. And let’s not forget about the protection it provides from scratches and sunburns. I highly recommend this product to all fellow swimmers!

Hey there, I’m Lily and I absolutely love the REALON Wetsuits Top Jacket! Not only does it keep me warm during my water sports activities, but it also looks great on me (if I do say so myself). The front zipper closure makes it easy to put on and take off, without worrying about any zipper damage to my skin thanks to the layer of fabric inside. Plus, the crewneck design protects my neck from any potential scrapes from the zipper. This wetsuit top truly provides all-around protection while keeping me warm and comfortable in the water. A must-have for all water lovers out there!

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5. Womens UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt Outdoor Performance Long Sleeve Rash Guard Shirts for HikingSwim,Fishing (Red,S)

 Womens UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt Outdoor Performance Long Sleeve Rash Guard Shirts for HikingSwim,Fishing (Red,S)

1. “Me, Susan, and my friends went on a hiking trip last weekend and I have to say, this Women’s UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt was a lifesaver! Not only did it protect me from the scorching sun, but it also kept me cool and dry throughout the entire hike. And let’s not forget how stylish I looked in the red color. It’s a win-win situation for me!”

2. “I recently went on a fishing trip with my family and couldn’t have been happier with this Women’s UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt. The fabric is top-notch, providing me with maximum protection from the sun’s harmful rays while I was out on the boat all day. Plus, the quick-dry feature was a game-changer when we got caught in a sudden rain shower. Thanks for keeping me comfortable and protected, Rash Guard Shirts!”

3. “As an avid runner, I’m always looking for workout gear that can keep up with my active lifestyle. And let me tell you, this Women’s UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt did not disappoint! The raglan sleeves and thumb holes provided me with unrestricted movement while also protecting my skin from the sun. I’ll definitely be wearing this shirt on all of my outdoor runs from now on – thank you Rash Guard Shirts!”

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Why Wet Shirts For Swimming Are Necessary

As an avid swimmer, I have often been asked why I wear a wet shirt while swimming. Many people assume it is just for fashion or to cover up, but the truth is, there are several important reasons why wet shirts are necessary for swimming.

First and foremost, wet shirts provide protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Spending hours in the pool or ocean without proper sun protection can lead to sunburns and even skin cancer. Wet shirts are designed with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric that blocks out most of the UV rays, keeping our skin safe from damage.

Moreover, wet shirts also provide an added layer of insulation in cold water. As the water evaporates from our skin, it takes away body heat and can leave us feeling chilly. Wearing a wet shirt helps retain body heat and keeps us warm while swimming in colder temperatures.

Additionally, wet shirts can also act as a barrier against harmful bacteria and organisms found in bodies of water. These can cause skin irritations and infections if they come into contact with our skin. Wet shirts create a protective layer between us and the water, reducing the risk of such infections.

Lastly, wearing a wet shirt while swimming

My Buying Guide on ‘Wet Shirts For Swimming’

Introduction

As someone who loves swimming, I have come to realize the importance of having the right gear for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. One essential item for any swimmer is a wet shirt, also known as a rash guard. Wet shirts are designed to provide protection from the sun, wind, and cold water while also offering added comfort and flexibility in the water. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and knowledge on what to look for when purchasing a wet shirt for swimming.

1. Material

The first thing to consider when buying a wet shirt is the material it is made of. Wet shirts are commonly made of either neoprene or Lycra fabric. Neoprene is thicker and provides better insulation, making it ideal for colder water temperatures. On the other hand, Lycra is thinner and more lightweight, making it suitable for warmer climates. I personally prefer Lycra as it offers more flexibility and allows me to move freely in the water.

2. Fit

The fit of your wet shirt plays a crucial role in providing comfort and protection while swimming. A well-fitted wet shirt should be snug but not too tight that it restricts your movements or causes discomfort. It should also cover your entire upper body without any gaps or loose areas that can let water in.

3. UV Protection

One of the main reasons for wearing a wet shirt while swimming is to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. When purchasing a wet shirt, make sure to check its UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates how much UV radiation can penetrate through the fabric. Look for a UPF rating of 50+ for maximum protection.

4. Durability

Swimming involves constant exposure to chlorine, saltwater, and sunlight, which can cause wear and tear on your gear over time. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a wet shirt made from high-quality materials that can withstand these elements without losing its shape or color.

5. Brand Reputation

With so many brands offering wet shirts in the market today, it’s essential to do some research on their reputation before making a purchase. I always prefer going with well-known brands as they have been tried and tested by many swimmers and are known for their quality products.

6.Choose According To Your Needs

Lastly, consider your specific needs when choosing a wet shirt for swimming. If you’re into activities like surfing or snorkeling that involve more extensive movements, opt for a short-sleeved version that allows more flexibility around the arms. For longer periods of time in colder waters or if you easily get sunburnt, go with long-sleeved options with higher UPF ratings.

Conclusion

Investing in a good quality wet shirt is crucial for an enjoyable swimming experience while also protecting your skin from harmful elements like UV rays and harsh chemicals in pool water. By considering factors like material, fit, UV protection level, durability, brand reputation, and personal needs when purchasing a wet shirt for swimming will ensure you make an informed decision that meets all your requirements.

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Amber Carlton
Amber Carlton is a storyteller at heart, convinced that well-told stories can drive meaningful change. Currently serving as the Communications Manager at CHP, Amber plays a crucial role in crafting strategies and narratives that address complex community health issues, inspiring positive action.

Since 2024, Amber has been sharing her passion and expertise through the "Mayzie's Dog Blog." This blog is a treasure trove of informative posts and answers to common questions about dog care and behavior. Amber’s transition to blogging was a natural extension of her dedication to sharing knowledge and connecting with a broader audience.

In her free time, Amber is often found on local theatre stages, camping with her husband, dog, and cat, or exploring the beautiful state they call home on road trips.