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Pasty friends, the summer sun is almost upon us. Cue the SPF 80, wide-brimmed sun hats, and never ending search for swimwear that’s sexy and protective.
Wearing UPF clothing protects you from the sun’s harmful rays. UPF stands for ‘ultraviolet protection factor’ and measures how well a fabric blocks the sun. An article of clothing with a UPF rating will block both UVA and UVB rays as well as ultraviolet rays.
UPF swimwear is a fantastic (and maybe even necessary) supplement to your typical SPF. But when it comes to UPF swimwear, what exactly should you be looking for?
According to NBC News, the best sun protective swimwear will have a tight weave but not a tight fit. The tighter a fabric’s weave, the more sun it blocks out. Hold up your clothing to the sun and make sure not too much sun gets through. Looser is better for sun protection. Too tight, and the material stretches, lessening the clothing’s protective factor.
Keep scrolling for some of our favorite UPF swimwear picks!
Lululemon Paddle Tight
Super cute and ready for a day in the sun, the Lululemon tights have a high rise and an impressive 28″ inseam. A back pocket and key loops are thoughtful touches.
Available sizes: 2 to 14.
Coolibar Long Sleeve Swimsuit
I love the thumb loops on this swimsuit, which keep the sleeves exactly where you want. Choose between neutral black or a cheery blue print.
Available sizes: XXS to XXL (00-0 to 22)
Seea Dara Surf Suit
The moody rose long sleeves on the Dara surf suit contrast well with the solid blue bodice and maroon shorts. The UPF swimsuit is also made from at least 50% eco-conscious materials and processes.
Available sizes: XS to L
Waterslide Protective Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Who wouldn’t want a sherbert-colored rash guard? No one, that’s who. For those swimmers who prefer not to look like dessert, there are neutral options as well. An internal key loop under the cuff keeps your stuff secure.
Available sizes: XS to XL
RIPCURL Sunset Haze Surf Suit
Trendy without seeming too of the moment, the RIPCURL surf suit has a twist back and retro floral print.
Available sizes: XS to XL
Nazare Surf Bodysuit
Dolphin-like swimwear, but make it fashion. This full-length bodysuit comes in three fun colors, as well as a neutral black. Rubber bindings keep the bodysuit snug against your body.
Available sizes: XS to L
Cici Surf Suit
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a retro surfer chick, then this is the suit for you. Colorblocking makes the modern surf suit look timeless, while the sun protection it offers is a thoroughly modern take.
Available sizes: XS to L
Coolibar Womens Deep Water Swim Capri
Made to swim, but designed for the streets, this swim capri has a UPF rating of 50+. Choose between a palm print or a handful of sea-inspired colors.
Available sizes: XXS to 3X
Athleta Pacifica Illume UPF Fitted Top
It’s rare that a company thinks about all the stuff you take with you to a day on the water, but Athleta (literally) has you covered. Zip pockets on this fitted UPF top keep keys and cards secure, while the UPF 50+ fabric protects you from the sun. Made with recycled plastic.
Available sizes: XXS to 3X
Ohana Long Sleeve Swimsuit
Give off serious Palm Beach vibes with the Ohana long sleeve swimsuit. The Lilly Pulitzer-inspired print would look home in the most glam setting, but the rash guard keeps the look practically-chic.
Available sizes: XS to XL
Lululemon High-Rise Paddle Crop
Like the idea of swim shorts, but don’t want to wear capris? These crop pants from Lululemon have an inseam of 15.75″, which makes for a nice in-between length. Choose between a dark floral and black.
Available sizes: 2 to 14
Seafolly Milea Mini Ribbed Long-Sleeve Rash Vest
This is the type of rash vest you wear when you want to dip your toes in the water at 2, but sip a colada poolside at 5.
Available sizes: XS to XL
SHOP AT NEIMAN MARCUS – $98.00
Which UPF swimsuit will you buy? Share your favorite sun protective swimwear looks in the comments below!
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