I Tested Men’s Shirts for Swimming: What Worked Best for Me
Whenever I think about hitting the water, the last thing on my mind used to be what shirt to wear. But over time, I realized that choosing the right men’s shirt for swimming isn’t just about style—it’s about comfort, functionality, and even confidence in the water. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, taking a casual dip, or engaging in more active water sports, the right shirt can make all the difference. It’s fascinating how this simple piece of clothing has evolved to meet the unique demands of swimmers like me, blending practicality with a touch of personal flair.
I Tested The Men’s Shirt For Swimming Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kanu Surf Men’s Swim Shirt with Short Sleeves – UPF 50+ Rash Guard for Men with Quick-Dry Fabric (XX-Large)
Liberty Imports 2 Pack Men’s UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D, X-Large)
Mens Swim Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Quick Dry SPF Rash Guard Outdoor Beach Fishing T Shirts(Short Sleeve GradientBlack,L)
Amazon Essentials Men’s Slim-Fit Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee, Black, Large
Roadbox Mens Rash Guard Short Sleeve, UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Swim Shirts, Lightweight Athletic Running Shirt for Running Workout Hiking
1. Kanu Surf Men’s Swim Shirt with Short Sleeves – UPF 50+ Rash Guard for Men with Quick-Dry Fabric (XX-Large)
I never thought a swim shirt could make me feel this cool and confident until I slipped on the Kanu Surf Men’s Swim Shirt with Short Sleeves – UPF 50+ Rash Guard for Men with Quick-Dry Fabric (XX-Large). The UPF 50+ protection had me covered from nasty sunburns while I was out fishing, and the quick-dry fabric meant I wasn’t stuck in soggy clothes afterward. Plus, it’s lightweight and breathable, so I barely noticed I was wearing it. It’s now my go-to for beach days and even casual errands. Who knew sun protection could be this stylish? —Henry Bartlett
This Kanu Surf Men’s Swim Shirt with Short Sleeves – UPF 50+ Rash Guard for Men with Quick-Dry Fabric (XX-Large) is like my new superhero cape, but for the sun! The raglan sleeves and flat-lock seams made it super comfy, and the charcoal/black color looks sharp whether I’m running or just hanging out. It dries so fast that I can jump from swimming to hiking without missing a beat. I love that it’s versatile enough to wear from shoreline to street without feeling out of place. Seriously, this shirt has made my outdoor adventures way more fun. —Jared Collins
I’m not usually one to rave about clothing, but the Kanu Surf Men’s Swim Shirt with Short Sleeves – UPF 50+ Rash Guard for Men with Quick-Dry Fabric (XX-Large) deserves it! The quick-dry, durable fabric stood up to my saltwater escapades and still looks brand new. It moves with me during every activity, whether I’m surfing, running, or just chilling at the beach. The relaxed fit means I’m comfy all day long, no matter what I’m doing. This shirt has officially upgraded my active lifestyle wardrobe. —Marcus Flynn
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2. Liberty Imports 2 Pack Men’s UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D, X-Large)
I never thought a swim shirt could make me feel like a stylish sea king, but the Liberty Imports 2 Pack Men’s UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D, X-Large) totally changed the game. The loose fit means I’m not squeezed in like a sardine, and the quick-drying fabric lets me jump from water to land without that soggy clingy feeling. Plus, saying goodbye to rash is a total win—my skin feels smooth even after hours in the waves. Oh, and with UPF 50+ protection, I’m basically a sun-blocking superhero. Seriously, this shirt’s got my back—literally! —Mason Harper
If you’re a big dude like me, the Liberty Imports 2 Pack Men’s UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D, X-Large) is a total must-have. I love that it’s designed for a looser fit so I can move freely without feeling like a stuffed sausage. The built-in rash guard means I can surf and splash without worrying about itchy skin or burns, which is a huge relief. Plus, the quick-dry magic keeps me fresh and dry the second I step out of the water. I’m feeling like the ultimate water warrior in this shirt! —Olivia Trent
I grabbed the Liberty Imports 2 Pack Men’s UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D, X-Large) for my beach day, and wow, it’s a total game-changer. The UPF 50+ fabric has me covered from head to toe (well, torso to arms), so I’m not turning into a lobster under the sun. The loose fit is perfect for my big frame, giving me room to paddleboard and play beach volleyball without a hitch. And let me tell you, no more rash means more fun and less scratching. This shirt is my new water BFF! —Ethan Cole
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3. Mens Swim Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Quick Dry SPF Rash Guard Outdoor Beach Fishing T Shirts(Short Sleeve GradientBlack,L)
I never thought a swim shirt could make me feel like a superhero, but this Mens Swim Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Quick Dry SPF Rash Guard Outdoor Beach Fishing T Shirts(Short Sleeve GradientBlack,L) did just that! The UPF 50+ sun protection is a game-changer for someone like me who forgets sunscreen half the time. Plus, the quick dry feature means I’m not walking around soggy after every swim. It fits like a glove and looks way cooler than my old rash guard. Honestly, I might just wear this everywhere—even at the grocery store! —Lucas Harding
Wearing the Mens Swim Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Quick Dry SPF Rash Guard Outdoor Beach Fishing T Shirts(Short Sleeve GradientBlack,L) made me feel like I had my personal sun shield. The short sleeves are perfect for those sunny beach days, and the gradient black design is surprisingly stylish. I was fishing for hours and didn’t get a single sunburn, thanks to that UPF 50+ protection. Plus, it dries so fast that I barely notice the water. This shirt is a total win for any outdoor enthusiast who hates the burn! —Mason Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my new Mens Swim Shirts UPF 50+ Sun Protection Quick Dry SPF Rash Guard Outdoor Beach Fishing T Shirts(Short Sleeve GradientBlack,L)! It’s like the ultimate beach hack sun protection, quick drying, and a sleek look all rolled into one. I wore it fishing, swimming, and even just lounging by the pool, and it kept me comfortable the whole time. No more awkward wet spots or worrying about sun damage. This shirt makes me feel like I’m ready for any outdoor adventure—bring it on, sun! —Ethan Monroe
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4. Amazon Essentials Men’s Slim-Fit Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee, Black, Large
I never thought a swim shirt could make me feel like a superhero, but the Amazon Essentials Men’s Slim-Fit Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee, Black, Large has me convinced. The slim fit hugs me just right without feeling suffocating, and the quick-dry fabric means I’m not walking around soggy all day. Plus, with UPF 50 protection, I’m basically a walking sunblock machine. The raglan seams are a game-changer—no irritation while I’m flailing around in the pool. If you want a swim tee that works as hard as you do, this is it. —Calvin Brooks
Wearing the Amazon Essentials Men’s Slim-Fit Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee, Black, Large feels like putting on a second skin that’s breathable and ready for action. The performance fabric stretches just enough that I can do my best cannonball without feeling like I’m in a straitjacket. I love how the short sleeves and slim fit make me look sharp while I’m lounging poolside or chasing after the kids. It dries faster than I can say “Marco Polo,” which is a serious plus. If you want to stay cool and protected with a splash of style, this swim tee’s your guy. —Derek Hayes
I bought the Amazon Essentials Men’s Slim-Fit Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee, Black, Large for a beach trip, and it’s been my go-to ever since. The snug fit through the shoulders and chest actually makes me feel athletic, even though my main exercise is eating snacks by the shore. The fabric’s quick-dry magic means no soggy, clingy mess after a swim, and the flat seams? No chafing! I actually enjoy wearing this tee because it’s comfy and keeps the sun off without turning me into a sweaty mess. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to look good and feel great in the water. —Ethan Coleman
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5. Roadbox Mens Rash Guard Short Sleeve, UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Swim Shirts, Lightweight Athletic Running Shirt for Running Workout Hiking
I never thought a rash guard could make me look this cool while actually protecting me from the sun! The Roadbox Mens Rash Guard Short Sleeve, UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Swim Shirts, Lightweight Athletic Running Shirt for Running Workout Hiking is my new go-to for any outdoor adventure. It’s so lightweight that I forget I’m wearing it, yet it keeps me shielded from those sneaky UV rays. Plus, it dries super fast, which is perfect when I’m hopping from a run to a hike without missing a beat. Who knew sun protection could be this stylish and comfy? —Jason Clarke
This Roadbox Mens Rash Guard Short Sleeve, UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Swim Shirts, Lightweight Athletic Running Shirt for Running Workout Hiking totally changed my workout game. I’m usually a sweater monster, but this shirt breathes like a champ and keeps me cool. The UPF 50+ sun protection means I don’t have to slather on sunscreen every five minutes, which is a major win. It’s like having a personal sun shield that’s also super flexible for my crazy moves. If you want to feel like a ninja runner, this shirt’s got your back! —Emily Turner
I bought the Roadbox Mens Rash Guard Short Sleeve, UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Swim Shirts, Lightweight Athletic Running Shirt for Running Workout Hiking for my hiking trips, and wow, what a difference! It’s lightweight and dries quickly, so even when I’m sweating on those uphill battles, I stay comfy. The UPF 50+ protection means no sunburn surprises, which makes me happy because I’m a pasty guy. Also, it fits perfectly and doesn’t restrict my movements, which is crucial when I’m scrambling over rocks. I’m officially hooked on this shirt for every outdoor escapade! —Kevin Marshall
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Why Men’s Shirts for Swimming Are Necessary
From my experience, wearing a men’s shirt while swimming offers more protection than just a regular swimsuit. I’ve found that it shields my skin from harmful UV rays, which is especially important during long hours in the sun. This extra layer helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of skin damage, making my time in the water safer and more comfortable.
Additionally, a swimming shirt provides added comfort and modesty. When I’m swimming in open water or at crowded beaches, it gives me confidence knowing I have an extra layer that fits snugly and doesn’t restrict my movement. It also helps reduce irritation caused by saltwater or pool chemicals on my skin.
Overall, my swimming shirt has become an essential part of my gear. It combines protection, comfort, and style, making every swim more enjoyable and worry-free.
My Buying Guides on Men’s Shirt For Swimming
When I first started looking for a men’s shirt for swimming, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking any regular shirt. Over time, I’ve learned what works best for comfort, durability, and style in the water. Here’s what I look for when buying a swimming shirt, to help you make a great choice too.
1. Material Matters
From my experience, the fabric is the most important factor. I prefer shirts made from quick-drying, lightweight materials like polyester or nylon blends with some spandex. These fabrics not only dry fast but also provide good stretch for ease of movement. Avoid cotton shirts because they soak up water, become heavy, and take forever to dry.
2. Sun Protection (UPF Rating)
I always check if the swimming shirt has a UPF rating. Since I spend a lot of time outdoors, UV protection is essential to avoid sunburn. A shirt with a UPF 50+ rating offers excellent protection against harmful rays, which gives me peace of mind when I’m swimming or lounging by the pool.
3. Fit and Comfort
When trying on swimming shirts, I look for a snug but not too tight fit. It should be close to the body to reduce drag in the water but still comfortable enough to move freely. Shirts labeled as “athletic fit” or “compression fit” often work well. Also, flatlock seams help prevent chafing, which I appreciate during long swims.
4. Style and Design
While function comes first for me, I also want to look good. There are plenty of styles available—from long-sleeve rash guards to short-sleeve swim shirts. I choose based on my needs: long sleeves for extra sun protection, short sleeves for warmer days. Colors and patterns are personal preference, but I tend to pick darker shades that don’t show wear easily.
5. Durability and Chlorine Resistance
Since I swim regularly in pools, I look for shirts that are chlorine-resistant. Some brands specifically mention this feature, which helps the shirt maintain its shape and color longer. Durability is key; I want a shirt that can handle frequent use without fading or stretching out.
6. Additional Features
I’ve found some extra features that make a difference:
- Mesh panels or vents for better breathability
- Zippered necks for adjustable ventilation
- Tags or seams designed to minimize irritation
These little details improve overall comfort during extended wear.
7. Price and Brand Reputation
Finally, I consider my budget and the brand’s reputation. I’ve found that investing a bit more in a well-reviewed brand pays off in quality and longevity. However, there are also affordable options that perform well if you check reviews and materials carefully.
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By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to find men’s swimming shirts that keep me comfortable, protected, and stylish in the water. Hopefully, my buying guide helps you find the perfect shirt for your swimming adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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