Kids’ Protective Swim Wear That Will End The Sunscreen Battle Once And For All

Summer is almost upon us, and that means plenty of time playing outside, soaking up that glorious fresh air. But whether you’re splashing by the pool, hitting the beach or cruising the playground, that hot sun is unavoidable. And for your little ones, this means the sunscreen battle can officially commence. We can’t say we blame them. We don’t particularly like being slathered with white gloppy gunk either, but it is a necessary evil that kids (understandably) can’t quite wrap their minds around, so resistance is almost inevitable.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that SPF 30+ sunscreen should be reapplied every TWO hours, or after a child has been sweating or swimming. This essentially equals a constant battle of sunscreen application. All. Day. Long.

So to alleviate a few tantrums (for your child and yourself), we highly suggest dressing your little ones in as much UV protective clothing as possible. Although those itsy-bitsy bathing suits may look cute, we promise they can look just as stylish covered up a wee bit more. We’ve found some super chic swim wear options that also offer great sun protection, so you and your kids will be happy and sunburn free all summer long.

WE CHOSE OUR FINDS BASED ON THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

UPF 50 protection – think of it as SPF for your clothes
Stylish – goes without saying
Easy to get on and off – we’d rather avoid the my-kid’s-head-is-going-to-pop-off-while-taking-off-this-soaking-wet-swim-shirt effect
Easy to wash and wear – machine washable and fast-drying

Get ready to make a splash!

GIRLS’ RASH GUARDS & SETS

Seafolly Girls' Memphis Meow Rashguard Set

Seafolly Memphis Meow Rashguard Set

Best features: neon colors and super cute boy shorts for extra coverage

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Available in sizes 2 to 6 years

Cabana Life Girls' 2 piece Azalea Shores Rashguard Set

Cabana Life 2 piece Azalea Shores Rashguard Set

Best features: Fashionable print, embroidered zipper neck, side-ties on rash guard can adjust length to convert to a cover-up

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Available in sizes 6-12 months to 6 years

Toobydoo Girls' Flamingo Long Sleeve Rashguard

Toobydoo Flamingo Long Sleeve Rashguard

Best features: fun flamingo print, zipper neck

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Available in sizes 1 to 14 years

J.Crew girls' rash guard in elephant safari

J.Crew Rash Guard in Elephant Safari

Best features: geometric elephant print, zippered neckline

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Available in sizes 2 to 16 years

Hanna Andersson Sun-Ready Zipfront Rash Guard

Best feature: full-length zipper

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Available in size 18 months to 18 years

Garnett Hill Girls' Mixed-Print Bikini & Rashguard Set

Garnett Hill Mixed-Print Bikini & Rashguard Set

Best features: awesome boho print; full-zip rash guard can be layered over adjustable halter bikini

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Available in size 2 to 14 years

Hatley Girls’ Classic Horses Rash Guard Set

Hatley Classic Horses Rash Guard Set

Best features: wider button neckline; fun graphic print

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Available in size 2 to 8 years

Coolibar Zippy Rash Guard

Best features: Gripper elastic on back hem to keep shirt in place, asymmetrical neckline zipper

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Available in size XS (4) – L (10-12)

Seafolly Galaxy Bliss Surf Set

Best features: Sporty, graphic design older girls will love

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Available in size 10 to 16 years

Snapper Rock Girls' Surf Medallion Sports Set

Snapper Rock Surf Medallion Sports Set

Best Features: stylish 3-piece set that isn’t super skimpy

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Available in size 2 to 14 years

GIRLS’ SWIM SHORTS

Wondering what to pair with some of the above rash guards? Look no further. We advocate a little extra coverage on the other end too! Check out our picks for protective swim shorts below.