UPF50+ Sun Protection: Why It Matters for Australian Swimmers
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Australia has some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, and swimmers — who spend extended time outdoors in reflective water environments — are particularly at risk. UPF50+ swimwear is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your family.
What Does UPF50+ Mean?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A garment rated UPF50+ blocks 98% of UV radiation from passing through the fabric to your skin. By comparison, a standard white cotton t-shirt has a UPF rating of around 5 — meaning it blocks only 80% of UV rays.
For swimmers spending hours in the water under the Australian sun, UPF50+ swimwear is the gold standard of protection.
Who Needs UPF50+ Swimwear?
The short answer: everyone who swims outdoors in Australia. But it's especially important for:
- Children and babies — young skin is more vulnerable to UV damage, and sun exposure in childhood significantly increases lifetime skin cancer risk
- Open water swimmers and triathletes — who spend long periods in direct sunlight
- Surfers and snorkellers — who are exposed to both direct and reflected UV
- Anyone with fair skin — who burns more quickly and easily
UPF50+ Swimwear Options at Swim Fit Gear
We stock a wide range of UPF50+ swimwear for the whole family:
- Women's rash guards — long sleeve and short sleeve styles with UPF50+ protection
- Men's rash guards — surf and swim styles for full upper body coverage
- Long sleeve swimsuits — one-piece suits with built-in UPF50+ protection
- Kids' swimwear — rash guard sets and one-pieces with sun protection for all ages
- Modest swimwear — full coverage options with UPF50+ fabric
UPF50+ vs Sunscreen: Do You Still Need Both?
Yes. UPF50+ swimwear protects the skin it covers, but exposed areas — face, neck, hands and feet — still need sunscreen. Use a water-resistant SPF50+ sunscreen on all exposed skin, reapply every 2 hours and after towelling off.
The combination of UPF50+ swimwear and SPF50+ sunscreen gives you the best possible protection for a day in the water.
Shop Sun-Safe Swimwear at Swim Fit Gear
Browse our full range of women's rash guards, kids' swimwear and swimming accessories. Free shipping on all orders over $10 AUD. Easy 30-day returns.