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It’s summertime, so there’s a good chance your calendar has plans for pool days, beach vacations, waterpark trips, and river floats. No doubt about it, there’s a lot to look forward to as the weather warms up, but getting a sunburn isn’t one of those things. When it comes to avoiding overexposure, slathering on SPF works well. Even still, it’s a good idea to invest in a swim shirt if you have sensitive skin—or if you plan on partaking in watersports like surfing or paddle boarding.
When To Use A Swim Shirt
Swim shirts (which are also called rash guards) are quick-drying athletic-style tops that can be worn over one- or two-piece swimsuits. The best swim shirts have a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 40 or higher, which blocks out the majority of the sun’s rays and significantly reduces UVA/UVB exposure levels.
If you plan on participating in water-related activities such as swimming, snorkeling, or boating, we recommend donning a swim shirt for sun protection. This doesn’t mean that you can skip the sunscreen—just that you’ll have an extra level of defense. Also, swim shirts can double as athletic tops, and because they’re moisture-wicking, they’re a great option for sweaty, outdoor workouts.
How We Found The Best Swim Shirts
At Rank & Style, we use our data-powered ranking algorithm to curate our Top 10 lists. This tool factors in data from reviews, social media, best-seller lists, and more sources to find and score the top products in a given category. Ahead, see which swim shirts were deemed worthy of recommending to our readers, from affordable picks to investment pieces.
All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.
Jump To ProductsAuthors
Sierra Rogers is a professional writer located in Austin, TX. She earned her BBA from Baylor University and has worked for fashion and tech brands such as Kendra Scott, CNN Underscored, and Manychat.
Written By:
Sierra Rogers
The Rankings
Our Score
Approved
4.69
User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
Our algorithm's #1 pick for the best swim shirt comes from Lands' End. This best-selling style is available in regular, petite, and long sizes and offers UPF 50 sun protection. The stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric will keep you comfortable during long days in and out of the water.
MORE TO KNOW
Looking to show just a little more skin? Don't miss the short-sleeved version of this top-rated swim shirt.
Best Affordable Swim Shirt
Our Score
Approved
4.4
User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
Sport this simple swim shirt from Old Navy to waterparks, pool days, and more. With a crew neckline, long sleeves, and a fitted silhouette made from spandex and polyester, this top offers coverage without sacrificing style.
MORE TO KNOW
Old Navy shoppers say this style runs small. Here's one reviewer's take: "I'm a small in most Old Navy tops and swimsuits but the small in this style was skin tight. I could barely get it on and when I did, I couldn't move. Definitely size up one or two sizes."
Best Swim Shirt With Odor Protection
Our Score
Approved
4.34
User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
This swim shirt provides protection from the sun for your decolletage, arms, and torso. It's made from more than 70% recycled fabric (a win for sustainability) and comes in a wide range of sizes (XS to 3XL).
MORE TO KNOW
Looking for something to sweat in? CALIA's Long Sleeve Swim Rashguard is designed with BODYFREE technology, which keeps you fresh and free from odor after activity.
Best Half-Zip Swim Shirt
Our Score
Approved
4.3
User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
Sleek and chic, J.Crew's Active Rash Guard is made for water sports and beach vacations. Suitable for A through C cups, this performance swim shirt offers UPF 50+ protection in a body-hugging silhouette.
MORE TO KNOW
According to reviews, this top runs small. We suggest ordering one size up from your usual.
Best Eco-Friendly Swim Shirt
Our Score
Approved
4.81
User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
With an eye-catching color-block design, the Kona Rashguard is ready to catch stares and waves all summer long. This durable swim shirt provides UPF 50+ protection and has a half-zip front. Zip up for maximum coverage, or leave it open to catch some rays.
MORE TO KNOW
The Kona Rashguard is made from five recycled water bottles.
Best Printed Swim Shirt
Our Score
Approved
4.71
User Reviews
3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
Leave it to L.L.Bean to remind us that stylish swim shirts exist. The SunSmart UPF 50+ Sun Shirt takes advantage of the brand's silky-smooth, quick-drying performance fabric to provide lightweight protection from the elements. Bonus: This rashguard is available in plus sizes.
REVIEW HIGHLIGHT
"I wore this top daily while snorkeling in the ocean for a week. I wore it while hiking, shopping, and dining. It was comfortable, protected my skin from sunburn, and it washed well. I got several compliments on it."
Best Cropped Swim Shirt
Our Score
Approved
4.8
User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
Add some style to your next swim with prAna's Salt Kissed Crop Rashguard. Featuring a fitted, cropped silhouette, this top provides UPF 50+ protection. It's slightly stretchy, dries quickly, and comes in three color options.
MORE TO KNOW
Make it a matching moment with prAna's high-waisted swim bottoms.
Best Quick-Dry Swim Shirt
Our Score
Approved
4.73
User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
Nike's Essential Long-Sleeve Rash Guard features the brand's famous Dri-FIT technology, making it possible to hop out of the pool and dry off in a matter of minutes. Plus, this silhouette is seamless, with raglan sleeves and an unlined interior for maximum comfort.
MORE TO KNOW
Some reviewers mention the material this lightweight swim shirt is made from (a polyester elastane blend) is delicate. Although it says its machine washable, we suggest line drying to keep it in good condition.
Best Padded Swim Shirt
Our Score
Approved
4.65
User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
La Blanca's Island Goddess Rashguard is a simple style defined by its half-zip front and blade collar. It has removable soft cups, so you won't have to worry about unflattering silhouettes. Choose from two staple shades: black and white.
REVIEW HIGHLIGHT
"I love how it’s not tight and just skims my body. The material is so nice on my skin that I actually appreciate that it’s a long sleeve. It’s a tad long in the torso but most tops fit that way on me. The zipper is gold and adds a fashionable touch that elevates this rashguard. It fits nicely over a one-piece or paired with just about any swim bottoms or shorts."
Best Swim Shirt For Sports
Our Score
Approved
4.49
User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
THE SPECIFICS
With a mock neck and long sleeves, Roxy's Whole Hearted Rashguard provides the coverage you need to spend a day in the waves. This quick-drying swim shirt comes in six colors from Maui Blue to Shocking Pink.
GOOD TO KNOW
Customers on Nordstrom say this rashguard runs small, so keep that in mind when choosing your size.
Authors
Sierra Rogers is a professional writer located in Austin, TX. She earned her BBA from Baylor University and has worked for fashion and tech brands such as Kendra Scott, CNN Underscored, and Manychat.
