The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Swim Shirts for Men

Whether you’re gearing up for a swim in the pool, hitting the waves on your surfboard, or just lounging by the beach, having the right gear can make all the difference. Swim shirts for men are not only stylish but also functional, offering a combination of comfort, sun protection, and performance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about choosing the best swim shirt for men…covering features, fabrics, fit, durability, top brands, and more.

Why You Should Wear a Swim Shirt

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of fabrics and brands, let’s talk about why swim shirts are such a game-changer. Traditionally, swimsuits have been the go-to for beach or pool activities, but swim shirts have become increasingly popular for several reasons:

• Sun Protection: Swim shirts with UPF ratings help protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially during prolonged exposure to the sun. This is essential for those who spend long hours outdoors.
• Comfort: If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in the sun after hours of swimming or surfing, a swim shirt can help prevent chafing and irritation, keeping you comfortable throughout the day.
• Versatility: Swim shirts aren’t just for the water. Many designs are great for casual wear, making them versatile for a range of outdoor activities—from hiking to beach volleyball.

Key Features to Look for in the Best Swim Shirts

When choosing a swim shirt, there are many important features to consider. Understanding these will help you pick the best option for your needs.

Fabric and Material

UPF Rating

One of the most important features of a swim shirt is its UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. Think of this as a sunscreen for your clothing. A shirt with a high UPF rating (typically 30 or higher) blocks a significant amount of UV rays from reaching your skin, which can help protect against sunburns and long-term skin damage.

For example, check out this Speedo Long Sleeve Rash Guard with UPF 50+ for maximum sun protection.

The higher the UPF rating, the better the protection. For example, a shirt with a UPF rating of 50 will block about 98% of UV rays, offering excellent protection for your skin.

Quick-Drying Fabric

Nobody likes to feel soggy all day long. This is where quick-drying fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex come into play. These materials not only dry quickly after you leave the water but also wick moisture away from your body, keeping you comfortable and dry for the rest of the day.

Consider the Columbia Men’s PFG Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt  which features quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric.

They’re especially beneficial for water sports like surfing, where you might be in and out of the water constantly.

Breathability

Breathable fabrics are crucial when you’re active in the sun and water. Moisture-wicking fabrics will pull sweat away from your skin and allow it to evaporate quickly, keeping you cooler. This is particularly important for hot days when you’re doing high-intensity activities like swimming or surfing. Make sure the shirt has good ventilation to avoid overheating.

Fit and Comfort

Loose vs. Fitted

When it comes to fit, you’ll typically see two main options: loose and fitted. A loose-fitting swim shirt provides more comfort and freedom of movement, making it ideal for relaxed activities like beach lounging or casual swimming. On the other hand, a fitted swim shirt is designed for performance—perfect for swimmers who need something hydrodynamic, or surfers who need a shirt that stays in place while they paddle.

For a snug fit, check out this O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins Rash Guard.

Elasticity

Another important factor is elasticity. You’ll want a swim shirt that has some stretch to it, which allows you to move freely. Fabrics like spandex and Lycra offer excellent flexibility, which is essential if you’re engaging in activities that require a lot of movement, such as surfing or kayaking.

Durability

Chlorine Resistance

If you frequent pools, chlorine resistance is a must. Chlorine can degrade fabric over time, causing your swim shirt to lose its shape, color, and protective qualities.

Look for chlorine-resistant options like this Speedo Men’s Long Sleeve Rash Guard.

Chlorine-resistant materials, such as polyester blends, are designed to hold up to the harsh chemicals found in pool water, ensuring the longevity of your swim shirt.

Saltwater Resistance

For those who love the ocean, saltwater resistance is also important. Saltwater can break down certain fabrics and cause them to lose their elasticity and durability.

Consider the Quiksilver All Time Long Sleeve Rash Guard designed for saltwater resilience.

Look for swim shirts designed to withstand the elements of the sea, particularly for activities like surfing or beach volleyball.

Design and Style

Swim shirts are not only functional—they can also make a statement. The design and style of your swim shirt are important for both personal preference and functionality.

Variety of Colors and Patterns

Whether you prefer bold, vibrant colors or subtle, muted tones, swim shirts come in a variety of designs to suit your personal style. From classic solid colors to intricate patterns like tropical florals, stripes, or geometric designs, there’s a swim shirt out there for every taste.

Long Sleeve vs. Short Sleeve

Another style consideration is the sleeve length. Swim shirts come in both long-sleeve and short-sleeve options, each offering distinct advantages.

• Long Sleeve: Provides more sun protection, which is great for activities like fishing or hiking where prolonged sun exposure is a concern. It’s also ideal for those who want maximum coverage to prevent sunburn.
• Short Sleeve: A short-sleeve shirt is more breathable and ideal for swimming or surfing in warmer conditions. It’s also less restrictive, which can be important if you’re doing high-energy activities in the water.

Types of Swim Shirts for Different Activities

Depending on what you’re planning to do, you might want a different type of swim shirt. Let’s break it down:

For Swimming

For serious swimmers, you’ll want a swim shirt like those from Speedo, designed to reduce drag and provide a snug fit. Tight-fitting materials like Lycra and spandex are ideal because they allow for streamlined movement through the water. These shirts are usually lightweight and hydrodynamic, so you can glide through the water with ease.

For Surfing and Water Sports

Surfers and those involved in other water sports need a shirt like this O’Neill Basic Skins, that can withstand the rough conditions of the ocean. Look for shirts made from abrasion-resistant fabrics that won’t tear or wear out after repeated exposure to the board or rough water. Additionally, a fitted style helps prevent the shirt from riding up during intense movement.

For Casual Beach Days

If you’re simply lounging by the beach or enjoying a day at the pool, you can opt for loose-fitting shirts like Roxy’s stylish options are perfect.. These shirts are comfortable, breathable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns. They won’t impede movement, making them perfect for casual beach days or light water activities.

For Hiking or Outdoors

Swim shirts that can transition from water to land are perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, or camping. Look for shirts made from moisture-wicking fabrics that provide both UV protection and breathability, ensuring you’re comfortable whether you’re on land or in the water.

Top Brands and Recommendations for Men’s Swim Shirts

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some top brands that offer high-quality swim shirts for men.

Speedo

Key Features: Speedo is known for its performance-driven swimwear, and their swim shirts are no exception. Made from chlorine-resistant fabrics, these shirts offer excellent durability and comfort. Their UPF 50+ rating ensures maximum protection against harmful UV rays.

Best For: Serious swimmers or anyone who spends a lot of time in the pool.

Product Recommendation:

• Speedo Men’s Long Sleeve Rash Guard
  This rash guard is made from 87% polyester and 13% spandex, offering a snug fit that reduces drag in the water. The UPF 50+ rating ensures maximum sun protection, while the quick-drying fabric makes it a comfortable choice for both swimming and lounging.

Columbia Sportswear

Key Features: Columbia is renowned for creating versatile, outdoor-ready clothing. Their swim shirts offer excellent UV protection (UPF 50+), moisture-wicking technology, and are quick-drying, making them perfect for outdoor activities beyond the beach.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, surfers, and casual beachgoers.

Product Recommendation:

• Columbia Men’s Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt
  Made from 100% polyester, this shirt features Columbia’s Omni-Shade™ sun protection and Omni-Wick™ moisture management. The lightweight and breathable fabric make it perfect for long days under the sun, whether you’re swimming, hiking, or fishing.

O’Neill

Key Features: O’Neill’s swim shirts are known for their durability, especially in saltwater environments. They offer a range of styles, from casual to performance-driven, and are made with lightweight, flexible materials for enhanced mobility.

Best For: Surfers and water sport enthusiasts.

Product Recommendation:

• O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins Long Sleeve Rash Guard
  This rash guard is made from 100% polyester and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s perfect for active use, with a slim fit that allows for excellent freedom of movement during surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

Other Notable Brands

Under Armour

Key Features: Under Armour’s swim shirts are known for their durability and comfort. They feature their signature HeatGear® fabric, which is lightweight, breathable, and designed to wick away moisture to keep you dry and cool. With added UV protection, Under Armour is a top choice for those who need reliable gear for intense activity in the sun.

Best For: Athletes, swimmers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a high-performance, moisture-wicking swim shirt.

Product Recommendation:

• Under Armour Men’s UA Iso-Chill Swim Shirt
  This shirt is made from a blend of polyester and elastane and features Iso-Chill fabric to cool your skin as you wear it. With UPF 30+ protection, it’s ideal for intense activities like surfing, running, or swimming.

Quiksilver

Key Features: Quiksilver is a popular brand among surfers and water sports enthusiasts, offering high-quality swim shirts that are designed for active use in the water. Their swim shirts feature water-resistant, quick-drying materials, and UV protection, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to stay cool and protected while riding the waves.

Best For: Surfers, paddleboarders, and beachgoers who need performance gear that looks good and functions even better.

Product Recommendation:

• Quiksilver Men’s All Time Long Sleeve Rash Guard
  This rash guard is made with 87% polyester and 13% spandex, providing a comfortable, snug fit that’s perfect for surfing and water sports. It also offers UPF 50+ protection, ensuring you stay safe in the sun while enjoying your favorite activities.

Honorable mention

• Roxy: Known for their stylish swim shirts, Roxy offers great options for women’s and men’s swimwear. Their designs are trendy and functional, with UPF protection and lightweight, quick-drying materials.
• Patagonia: A great choice for eco-conscious shoppers, Patagonia offers sustainable swim shirts that perform well in the water while providing excellent UV protection.
• Billabong: Billabong’s swim shirts combine performance with style, providing great options for surfers and water sports enthusiasts who want functional, durable shirts.

How to Choose the Right Swim Shirt for You

Choosing the right swim shirt depends on several factors. Here are some tips:

• Consider Your Activity: Are you swimming competitively, surfing, or lounging by the pool? Your choice of swim shirt will depend on how active you plan to be in the water.
• Material and UV Protection: Make sure the shirt offers good UV protection (at least UPF 30) and is made from materials that suit your activity, whether it’s quick-drying for water sports or breathable for land-based activities.
• Fit Preferences: A loose fit is perfect for comfort, while a fitted shirt is ideal for performance. Choose what suits your body type and activity level.
• Price vs. Quality: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s important to balance price with quality. Investing in a high-quality swim shirt ensures better durability and protection, which can save you money in the long run.

How to Care for Your Swim Shirt

To make your swim shirt last longer, it’s essential to take good care of it:

• Rinse After Use: Always rinse your swim shirt in fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine or saltwater, which can break down the fabric over time.
• Avoid High Heat: Never use hot water or high heat settings on the dryer, as this can damage the fabric and reduce the shirt’s elasticity.
• Store Properly: Dry your swim shirt flat or hang it in the shade to prevent fabric distortion.

Conclusion

In summary, swim shirts are an essential piece of gear for anyone who spends time in or around the water. Whether you’re looking for protection from the sun, comfort during your water activities, or durability for frequent use, there’s a swim shirt out there that’s perfect for you. Keep in mind key features like UPF protection, fabric choice, and fit, and consider your specific needs when selecting a brand.

If you’re looking for a reliable swim shirt, Speedo, Columbia, and O’Neill are all excellent options to consider, each catering to different needs and activities.

Ready to dive in? Start exploring your options today and find the perfect swim shirt that will keep you comfortable and protected all day long!