10 Best Surf Shirts for Sun Safety and Skin Comfort That Pros Recommend

When you’re out catching waves, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is just as important as mastering your technique. The right surf shirt not only shields you from the sun but also enhances your comfort in the water. Discover the best surf shirts that combine sun safety with skin-friendly fabrics, ensuring you can ride the waves without worry.

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Best Surf Shirts for Sun Safety and Skin Comfort

When you hit the waves, protecting your skin from UV rays is essential. A high-quality surf shirt can make a significant difference in your comfort and safety. Here are some top picks to consider:

1. O’Neill Men’s Hyperfreak Long Sleeve Rash Guard

This shirt features UPF 50+ protection, which blocks over 98% of harmful rays. It’s lightweight, stretchy, and dries quickly, perfect for all-day surfing.

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1. Patagonia Women’s Capilene Cool Daily Shirt

Made from recycled materials, this shirt offers breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Its UPF 50+ rating keeps you safe while you enjoy those summer waves.

1. Roxy Girls’ Printed Long Sleeve Surf Shirt

Designed for younger surfers, this vibrant option has UPF 50+ protection and a comfortable fit. It’s fun and functional, making sun safety appealing.

1. Billabong Men’s Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

With a built-in micro-fiber and 50+ UV protection, this stylish shirt keeps you safe against sunburn. It’s perfect for those long sessions under the sun.

1. Under Armour Women’s Long Sleeve UV Tee

This shirt combines comfort with strategic ventilation and UPF 30+ protection. It’s ideal for active days on the water and casual beach outings.

By choosing surf shirts with excellent UV protection and quick-drying features, you can stay comfortable and safe while enjoying your favorite aquatic adventures. Always consider your local weather conditions, as well, and reap the benefits of sun safety and skin comfort all season long.

Top Features to Look For in Surf Shirts

When choosing the perfect surf shirt, you’ll want to focus on features that ensure maximum sun protection and comfort in the water. Here are the top elements to keep in mind.

UV Protection Ratings

Look for a surf shirt with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+ or higher. This rating means that less than 2% of UV rays can penetrate the fabric, offering you top-tier protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Shirts like the Quiksilver Everyday Short-Sleeve Surf Tee and the TSLA Men’s UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard excel in this category, keeping your skin safe while you catch those waves.

Moisture-Wicking Fabrics

Choose surf shirts made from Moisture-Wicking Fabrics, as these help regulate your body temperature by quickly pulling sweat away from your skin. This feature is vital for staying dry and comfortable during long surf sessions. Options like the Quiksilver Everyday Short-Sleeve Surf Tee and JumGear Men’s Sun Shirt use high-quality recycled polyester-elastane blends, promoting superior moisture management.

Stretch and Fit

Prioritize a shirt that offers a comfortable stretch and a snug fit. A well-fitted surf shirt will move with you as you paddle and ride waves, enhancing your overall surfing experience. Look for features like flatlock seams, which minimize chafing, and stretchy materials that allow free movement. The O’Neill Men’s Hyperfreak Long Sleeve Rash Guard provides an excellent balance of snug fit and flexibility, making it a favorite among surfers.

Comfort and Breathability

Select surf shirts that are both comfortable and breathable to enhance your enjoyment while in the water. Look for lightweight fabrics that promote airflow, helping to keep you cool under the sun. Shirts, like the Patagonia Women’s Capilene Cool Daily Shirt, not only provide UV protection but also incorporate breathable designs for maximum comfort on hot days. Prioritizing comfort ensures you can ride the waves longer without discomfort.

Best Brands for Surf Shirts

When it comes to choosing surf shirts for sun safety and skin comfort, several brands have made their mark with unique features tailored for water enthusiasts. Below are some top picks that you should consider while selecting your next surf shirt.

Brand A: Quality and Innovation

Hoka offers the Moabi LS Sun Top, which shines with its durable, high-end feel. Enjoy the lightweight and breathable material that keeps you comfortable during long days on the beach. With thumb holes, a high neck, and a scuba hood, you’ll get unparalleled coverage from the sun, making it a solid choice for sun protection while engaging in various activities like surfing or hiking.

Brand B: Eco-Friendly Choices

ECOALF stands out for its commitment to sustainability, producing surfwear from high-quality, recycled materials. Their wetsuits, made from Yulex® natural rubber, focus on comfort and mobility while adhering to ethical practices. Eco-conscious surfers will appreciate their efforts to recover waste and recycle plastics, ensuring your surf gear is kinder to the environment.

Brand C: Performance-Driven Designs

O’Neill is synonymous with performance in the surf community. Their Hyperfreak Long Sleeve Rash Guard combines technological advancements with stylish design, providing excellent UV protection and moisture-wicking properties. You’ll experience freedom of movement and quick-drying fabric, essential for those intense surf sessions on warm ocean days.

Brand D: Affordable Options

Billabong offers affordable yet high-quality options like the Men’s Long Sleeve Sun Shirt. This shirt delivers good UV protection and comfort without breaking the bank. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers, you’ll find that its lightweight fabric and relaxed fit make it suitable for all-day wear, ensuring you can maximize each outing on the water without worrying about costs.

Best Surf Shirts for Men

Finding the right surf shirt can make all the difference in your surfing experience, providing sun safety and comfort whether you’re riding the waves or chilling on the beach. Here are the top options to consider for both long sleeve and short sleeve shirts.

Long Sleeve Options

1. TSLA Men’s UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard

Enjoy excellent sun protection with this shirt that blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays. Experience comfort with its raglan sleeves that allow free movement and flatlock seams that minimize chafing. Being lightweight and quick-drying makes it ideal for surfing and kayaking.

1. JumGear Men’s Sun Shirt

Secure a great fit with this breathable, quick-drying option that also boasts a UPF 50+ rating. Designed for activities like fishing and hiking, it features flatlock seams for added convenience. Plus, the machine-washable fabric makes upkeep a breeze.

1. KPSUN Men’s Swim Shirts

Benefit from UPF 50+ protection with KPSUN’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric. Perfect for long days spent surfing, these shirts keep you comfortable and dry while you enjoy the sun.

1. O’Neill Men’s Hyperfreak Short Sleeve Rash Guard

Feel the freedom of movement with its lightweight design, crafted to dry quickly. With solid UV protection, this shirt’s comfortable fit makes it perfect for surfers who prioritize both performance and style.

1. Patagonia Men’s Capilene Cool Daily Shirt

Navigate warm conditions with ease while benefiting from its moisture-wicking fabric. This stylish option combines breathability with UPF protection, making it excellent for both water sports and casual beach days.

1. Billabong Men’s Short Sleeve UV Tee

Stay covered with this affordable option that offers UPF features, keeping sun damage at bay. Its soft fabric ensures comfort throughout the day, whether you’re in the water or lounging on the shore.

Best Surf Shirts for Women

When you’re out surfing, having the right apparel is essential for both sun protection and comfort in the water. Here are some top picks that combine functionality and style.

Long Sleeve Options

• Ewedoos Rash Guard for Women: This rash guard features UPF 50+ fabric, blocking 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. It’s crafted from lightweight, breathable material that wicks moisture. Plus, it has adjustable cinching side seams for a snug fit and an easy quarter-zip closure, making it ideal for long surf sessions.
• Coolibar Women’s Bal Harbour Long Sleeve Rash Guard: This option also offers UPF 50+ protection. It includes a convenient 1/4″ zip-up closure and a mock neckline for added comfort. The lightweight fabric is resistant to chlorine and saltwater, perfect for prolonged exposure in the ocean.

• Under Armour Women’s Short Sleeve UV Tee: Designed with UPF 30+ technology, this tee ensures you stay sun-safe while enjoying your time in the water. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry, and its loose fit allows for maximum movement.
• Roxy Girls’ Printed Short Sleeve Surf Shirt: This vibrant surf shirt combines style with functionality. Its UPF 50+ rating offers excellent sun protection, and it’s made from quick-drying fabric, perfect for when you hit the waves.

These surf shirts aren’t just about style; they’re your essential allies in sun safety and comfort while you enjoy your surfing adventures.

Best Surf Shirts for Kids

When your little ones are ready to hit the waves, making sure they’re protected from harmful UV rays and comfortable is essential. Here’s what to look for in surf shirts designed specifically for kids.

UV Protection for Young Surfers

Selecting surf shirts with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+ is crucial for young surfers. This rating ensures the fabric blocks 98% of harmful UV rays, making it an ideal choice for your child’s sensitive skin. Even when wet, these shirts will provide superior sun protection, allowing your kids to focus on the fun rather than worrying about sunburn. For example, consider brands like Roxy or O’Neill, which offer great UPF-rated options for kids.

Comfortable Fabrics for Active Play

Choosing lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics is key to keeping your kids comfortable while they’re in and out of the water. Look for shirts made from breathable materials that dry quickly, reducing the chance of discomfort or chafing during active play. For instance, polyester and spandex blends not only provide stretch but also enhance freedom of movement for all those energetic surf sessions. Keeping comfort in mind will ensure they enjoy every minute in the sun, splash, and surf.

Conclusion

Choosing the right surf shirt is crucial for enjoying your time in the water while keeping your skin safe from harmful UV rays. With options that provide excellent UV protection and comfort you can focus on catching waves instead of worrying about sun damage. Whether you’re looking for performance-driven designs or eco-friendly materials there’s a perfect shirt out there for you.

Remember to consider the fit and fabric type to ensure maximum comfort during your surf sessions. By investing in a quality surf shirt you’ll not only enhance your overall surfing experience but also protect your skin for years to come. Embrace the waves with confidence knowing you’re equipped for sun safety and skin comfort.