Comprehensive Guide to the Best Swim Shirts for Men in 2023

#1 Pick

Speedo Men’s UV Swim Shirt

Runner-up

O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins Short Sleeve Sun Shirt

Best Budget

Kanu Surf CB Swim Shirt

We are about to drop some serious knowledge about the best men’s swim shirts out in the market this 2023. We’ve put our nose to the grindstone, weeded through the average Joe’s and identified the crème de la crème when it comes to men’s swim trunks and tops. Welcome to the big leagues, folks.

We’ve come up with a selection of picks for the best swim shirts out there. Gear up for the lowdown on everything from materials used, fit, sleeve styles, right down to UV protection capabilities. Let us dive right into it.

Must-Have Swim Shirts for Men

You wanna step up your game and look good doing it, right? Well then, you can’t beat swim shirts that combine comfort and practicality with a dash of style. we are talking 100% polyester construction, raglan sleeves and – icing on the cake – moisture-wicking technology. These shirts will make you look sharp and keep you cool all day long, no matter how hard you are pushing yourself.

Detailed Review of Our Top Picks

You’ve been patient with us and now it’s time to bring out the big guns. These are the best of the best, the cream of the crop. So, let us not mess around any longer and dive straight into our detailed review of our top picks. We’ll walk you through the strengths and weaknesses of each, so you can make an informed decision. After all, knowledge is power.

From swim shirts tailor-made with surfers in mind to MVPs with UPF 50+ fabric, we’ve got it all. We’ll be covering it all – the long sleeve designs, the loop attachment features and how they can stop your shirt from turning into a crop top in the water.

1. Best Overall Choice: Speedo Men’s UV Swim Shirt

Score 9.2 OUT OF 10
Speedo Men’s UV Swim Shirt

Look no further than the Speedo Men’s UV Swim Shirt if you are in the market for the best men’s swim shirt overall. Designed to keep you safe from the harmful sun’s rays, this shirt’s UPF 50+ protection is something to write home about. It’s constructed from a light, breathable fabric to keep you cool and comfortable, even when the mercury starts to climb.

This shirt comes in both short and long sleeve versions, giving you the freedom to pick what’s best for you. It’s available in sizes from XS all the way up to the big leagues. To top it all, you can choose from an array of colors to find the perfect match for your style and personality. Remember folks, the safe swimmer is the stylish swimmer. Now, let us get down to the nitty gritty – the pros and cons.

Pros

  • Provides excellent UPF 50+ protection
  • Lightweight and breathable fabric for absolute comfort
  • Available in multiple colors and sizes

Cons

  • May have a looser fit than preferred
  • Some colors may fade after repeated washing cycles

2. Top Slim Fit Option: O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins Short Sleeve Sun Shirt

Score 8.6 OUT OF 10
O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins Short Sleeve Sun Shirt

If you are all about showing off those gains while staying safe from the sun, the O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins Short Sleeve Sun Shirt is just the ticket. This slim fit swimwear is like the stylish cousin of the normal t-shirt, designed to hug your body while still letting you move freely. Now, what we are really digging about this shirt is the four-way stretch fabric. Imagine doing your lap swimming and not feeling like you are wrapped in cling film. Trust us, it’s a game-changer.

But we are not just talking about any swim shirt, this is the O’Neill Basic Skins Rash Guard we are dealing with. It’s got that strategic seam placement that ensures tight fit and prevents any chafing. Plus, it comes with a handy board short connector. No worries about your shorts floating away while you are enjoying the waves.

Pros

  • Slim fit that enhances your physique
  • Four-way stretch fabric allows freedom of movement
  • O’Neill Basic Skins Rash Guard for extreme comfort
  • Handy board short connector to keep everything in place

Cons

  • Some might find the fit too tight

3. Highly Recommended for a Loose Fit: Kanu Surf CB Swim Shirt

Score 9OUT OF 10
Kanu Surf CB Swim Shirt

Moving on to a more relaxed territory, we’ve got the Kanu Surf CB Swim Shirt. It’s like the regular shirt for kids who hate tight clothes. Only difference is, it’s designed for adults who’d prefer a looser fit. Now, do not let the lightweight of the material fool you. This shirt is a bit of a dark horse. It’s loaded with features that make it ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities, not just a surf and swim routine.

Designed with a quick-drying fabric, this Kanu Surf Men’s swim shirt will keep you cool, whether you are hitting the waves or just lounging by the pool. Plus, it’s got the backing of the Skin Cancer Foundation for its excellent UV protection.

Pros

  • Designed for a comfortable looser fit
  • Made with breathable and quick-drying fabric
  • Offers excellent UV protection
  • Recommended for various outdoor activities

Cons

  • May not be as lightweight when wet
  • Short-sleeve version might not provide adequate sun protection

4. Best Lightweight and Quick-Drying Option: KPSUN Men’s Swim Shirt

Score 9.4 OUT OF 10
Best Lightweight and Quick-Drying Option

If you are seeking something light as a feather that won’t weigh you down in the pool, KPSUN Men’s Swim Shirt’s your best bet. This long-sleeve shirt is incredibly light and perfect for hotter days in warmer climates. Its design allows moisture to evaporate quickly, keeping you dry both in and out of the water.

It goes beyond being just an ordinary rash guard or swim shirt. With a brilliant UPF rating of 50, it safeguards you from those harsh rays. Also, it doesn’t lose comfort when underwater. Do not worry about the style; they’ve got you covered with five different color options.

Pros

  • Lightweight and perfect for warmer climates
  • Rapidly dries due to excellent moisture-wicking technology
  • Comfortable both dry and wet
  • Provides UPF rating of 50 for maximum sun protection
  • Available in a variety of colors

Cons

  • Fabric may be too thin for some people’s liking

5. Best Budget-Friendly Choice: Amazon Essentials Men’s Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry Swim Tee

Score 9.2 OUT OF 10
Amazon Essentials Men’s Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry Swim Tee

For those of us with an eye on our wallets, the Amazon Essentials Men’s Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry Swim Tee is a top-notch affordable swim shirt. It’s like they say — you do not have to break the bank to look good, and this shirt proves it. It’s crafted from 100% polyester, making it both durable and quick-drying. The fit, well, it leans more towards being relaxed, making it a comfortable wear.

Our favorite part about this swim shirt for men is the variety of solid colors available. No flashy patterns or wild prints, just good, solid colors. But do not worry, they still managed to sneak in a logo printed elegantly to add a touch of style. The raglan seams are also a key feature, providing a sleek look and extra comfort. They truly balance affordability with quality.

Pros

  • Excellent value for money
  • Durable and quick-drying due to 100% polyester material
  • Relaxed fit ensures comfort
  • Available in a variety of solid colors
  • Elegantly printed logo and raglan seams for added style
  •  

Cons

  • Sizing may run small, consider ordering a size up

6. Experience Maximum Comfort With NAVISKIN Men’s Quick-Dry Long-Sleeve Shirt

Score 9.2 OUT OF 10
Experience Maximum Comfort With NAVISKIN Men’s Quick-Dry Long-Sleeve Shirt

Look no further for the perfect swim shirt than the NAVISKIN Men’s Long-Sleeve model. It is not just another pretty face on the rack, we are talking functionality at its best here. This is one of those numbers that are so well-padded and finished, they put those fancy designs to shame. It’s all about quick-drying and durable fabric, not to mention the broad spectrum of hues available – perfect for swimmers and outdoorsy guys.

It has the UPF protection feature, paired with the moisture-wicking attribute. It’s built to protect you from the sun while keeping you dry, making it the ideal choice for those long swim sessions. It’s like a suit of armor, but for swimming. The only downside is the loose fit, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But if you are into that relaxed, easy-breezy vibe, this one’s a keeper.

Pros

  • Quick drying and durable fabric, just like your favorite pair of jeans
  • Offers an array of beautiful hues, a dream come true for the color aficionado
  • Excellent UPF protection, like having a personal sun shield
  • Moisture-wicking feature to keep you dry. 

Cons

  • The loose fit may not suit everyone

7. Blend Style and Functionality With Quiksilver Men’s Solid Streak Swim Shirt

Score 9.4 OUT OF 10
Quiksilver Men’s Solid Streak Swim Shirt

In search of a swim shirt that will have you covered without cramping your style? No worries, the Quiksilver Men’s Solid Streak’s got your back. It has a blend of polyester and elastane that gives you the comfort of a worn-in tee and the performance of a wetsuit. It’s even got that iconic logo, smack dab in the middle of the chest. Shopping for sizes is a walk in the park, with options from S to 3XL. Depending on the activities you plan, you’ll find the looser fit ideal for a day at the beach, or a tighter fit if you are more into swimming laps and burning calories.

The material even has moisture-wicking properties to keep you fresh and dry. However, if you are a tall drink of water, you may find this shirt to be a tad too short. No worries though, it comes in a variety of styles so you’ll just have to pick up a few more!

Pros

  • Soft, skin-friendly blend of polyester and elastane.
  • Generous size range.
  • Superb UPF 50+ protection. 
  • Moisture-wicking properties

Cons

  • If you are tall, this shirt might seem short

8. Reap the Benefits of Versatility With Satankud Men’s UPF Swim Shirt

Score 9.2 OUT OF 10
Satankud Men’s UPF Swim Shirt

The Satankud Men’s UPF Swim Shirt mates durability with adaptability, and it doesn’t shirk on comfort either. It’s a top-notch choice for those who appreciate variety and function in their swimwear. The shirt’s fabric is lightweight and breathable – a much-needed feature when hitting the pool or beach. This makes it a perfect shield for the skin against those harmful UV rays from the sun. With its comfortable fit and its high-quality polyester fabric, this shirt makes ripples in the swimwear market.

Now, this is not the Speedo Men’s UV Short Sleeve, but it carries its weight well. The breathable fabric keeps you cool and keeps odors at bay. So you can expect to be safe from the harmful effects of the sun while keeping yourself fresh and dry. No need to worry about being overly restricted or dealing with any discomfort. 

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable fabric
  • Great UV protection against harmful UV rays
  • Comfortable fit perfect for the pool or beach
  • High-quality polyester fabric
  • Flatlock seams for added comfort

Cons

  • No available long sleeve version
  • No thumb hooks to keep sleeves from riding up
  • Color may fade with long term sun exposure

Key Features of a Good Swim Shirt

A good swim shirt needs a few things to hit the mark. Here’s the general consensus.

Material

When it comes to the material of a swim shirt, we have three major players on the field: polyester, nylon, and elastane. These materials are designed to offer softness against the skin to ensure you are comfortable while you are out in the sun. Plus, they provide protection against harmful UV rays. We are not just talking about any old UV rays, but the harmful ones that can do damage to your skin. UPF 50+ protection is often the standard when it comes to these materials, and it ensures your skin stays safe from the sun’s damaging rays.

Moreover, swim shirts made from these materials have moisture-wicking properties. That means they help your skin to breathe and keep odors at bay. And let us not forget about the shirt’s quick-drying capabilities. 

Fit

The fit should be just right. Neither too tight, nor too loose. Too tight, and it’ll restrict your swimming movements, too loose, and it’ll cling to you once it gets wet.

Remember, rash guards are meant to protect, not squeeze. Look for swim shirts that give you the freedom to move comfortably while providing enough coverage to protect your skin from the sun. Checking size charts and going through customer reviews should give you a pretty good idea of how the shirt measures up. Do not wing it; make sure you are picking up the right size.

Sleeves

A key thing to ponder on when buying a swim shirt is the type of sleeves. Some folks prefer the coverage of long sleeve rash guards and feel reassured by the full arm sun protection they offer. Especially if you are starting out with water sports like surfing or trying those fancy electric surfboards. 

On the flip side, some prefer the freedom a short-sleeve or t-shirt-style rash vest allows. The thought of thicker rash guards being restrictive can be off-putting for some. 

UV Protection

Another essential feature to consider in a swim shirt is UV protection. It is not just about looking slick in the water; we must keep in mind the need for protecting our skin. A swim shirt with UV protection helps reduce sun exposure and risk of skin damage. Imagine having a shield that can block out almost 99% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. That’s exactly what swim shirts with UV protection do for you.

Most swim shirt manufacturers mention the level of protection provided by a specific shirt. So, that’s a useful detail to look out for when making your purchase. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some queries you might have about the topic. We have the answers for you right here.

1. Do swim shirts protect you from the sun?

Absolutely! When you are out enjoying the sun, sea, and sand, a swim shirt is not just about looking the part. These shirts come with UV protection of UPF 50+. That’s top-of-the-line protection from harmful sun rays right there. Plus, if it features moisture-wicking properties, you’ll stay cool and dry even under the scorching sun. So, get yourself a swim shirt and let your worries about sun exposure fade away.

But let us be clear. A swim shirt is not an excuse to throw your sunscreen in the back of the drawer. Sun protection is a holistic approach that involves protecting your skin from sun damage using various means. Your swim shirt and sunscreen work together to give you that A-class sun protection your skin needs.

The answer is yes. What’s a swim shirt if not for swimming, right? Brands like Speedo Men’s UV Long Sleeve, Speedo Men’s UV Short Sleeve and other lightweight and breathable swim shirts are designed with swimming in mind. They provide superior sun protection to keep those harmful UV rays at bay while you are doing your laps or just splashing around, having a good time.

The long-sleeve options often offer additional coverage, so it’s not just your torso but also your arms getting that sun shield. And let us not forget, these shirts come in an array of different colors to match your style. So, when it comes down to swimming, a swim shirt is not just an option; it’s a wise choice.

Let us settle this once and for all. Yes, swimming shirts, whether you call them rash guards or surf tees, do step up to the plate when it comes to keeping you from turning into a popsicle while swimming in cold water. They’re not miracle workers, mind you, do not expect them to work like a full-blown wetsuit does for cold water swimming. But their snug fit, typically from a blend of polyester and nylon, helps trap a thin layer of water between your skin and the shirt. This water warms up from your body heat, forming a temporary insulation layer that keeps the chill at bay.

Many swim shirts, especially men’s rash guards with long sleeves, are designed with this purpose in mind. They hug the skin and reduce the rate of body heat escaping into the surrounding chilly water. So, if you are planning on diving into the deep blue where the temperature leaves something to be desired or even swimming in warmer climes, wearing a swim shirt has got your back. Not only can you flaunt your beach style with their array of colors and designs, but your skin is also shielded from the harsh hit of UV radiation. Now that’s hitting two birds with one stone.

The Verdict: Final Recommendations 

You see, when it comes down to it, the best swim shirts for men are ones that can pull double duty in the sun and the sea. The Speedo Men’s UV Swim Shirt comes in as our top choice; it’s the all-rounder, with a fancy balance of fit, comfort, and durability. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of swim shirts – does everything you want it to and more.

You see, in the grand scheme of things, these swim shirts are like guardians for your skin. They’re resistant to the sun, salt, and chlorine. Plus, most of these come in a smorgasbord of colors and sizes, so you are bound to find one that speaks to your soul. Just remember, the best swim shirt for you is the one that checks all your must-haves. So whether you are a surfer dude or a beach bum, these swim shirts are ready to keep your skin safe and your style game strong.

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