Toddler sun shirts and rash guards

Should toddlers wear rash guards?

Kids have delicate skin that burns quickly in the sun. A rash guard prevents sunburn by covering the torso, shoulders, and arms.

Beyond sun protection, our toddlers’ swim shirts provide:

Skin protection: Smooth fabric prevents chafing and abrasion from sand, pool surfaces, and other rough textures.
Visibility: Our bright colors and patterns help you spot your child in crowded water areas. See what color bathing suit you should choose for your kids.
Temperature regulation: Lightweight fabric keeps skin cool while blocking harmful UV rays. A snug fit forms a warm water pocket between the rash guard and skin for mild insulation.
Comfort during play: Flexible materials move with active toddlers without restricting movement.

Rash guards with UPF 50+ sun protection

Our toddler rash guards feature maximum UV protection. That’s why we’ve earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation. UPF 50+ fabric blocks 98% of UV radiation, providing better protection than regular clothing or even SPF 30 sunscreen.

For complete sun safety, pair with kids’ sun hats and kids’ sunglasses.

Full-length zippers for easy dressing

Our signature front zippers make dressing squirmy toddlers quick and stress-free. The no-pinch zipper flap and hideaway zipper garage protect delicate skin during use. Our toddlers' swim shirts are kid-safe and parent-friendly.

Chlorine-resistant fabric

Durable rash guard construction withstands regular pool use, saltwater, and frequent washing without losing shape or sun protection effectiveness.

Comfort-first rash guard design

Tagless construction: No scratchy labels to irritate sensitive skin.
Flat seams: Reduced chafing and skin irritation.
Flexible fit: 4-way stretch fabric moves with your toddler during active play.
Quick-dry technology: Prevent uncomfortable dampness between activities.

Our toddler rash guards and swim shirts

Long-sleeve rash guards

Long-sleeve rash guards provide maximum coverage for extended sun exposure. Great for all-day beach trips, these offer full arm protection while maintaining breathability.

Popular options include:

Kids’ UPF 50+ long-sleeve zippered rash guard: Available in classic and neon colors.
Girls’ long-sleeve rash guard: Fun patterns and feminine cuts.
Solid color options: Navy, black, white, and bright safety colors.

Short-sleeve rash guards

Short-sleeve rash guards protect your toddler’s core while leaving their arms free. Best for active toddlers who want extra movement or beach days with limited sun exposure.

One-piece rash guard swimsuits

Kids’ zip-front sunsuits with built-in rash guard protection combine upper- and lower-body protection. These streamlined options prevent gaps in coverage while our full-front zipper makes dressing simple.

High-visibility rash guards for water safety

High-visibility swimwear helps parents keep visual contact with their toddler in busy water environments. Our neon rash guard colors include:

Neon pink: Highly visible in pool and ocean settings.
Neon yellow: Excellent contrast against blue water.
Neon green: Bright visibility for lake and river activities.
Neon orange: Superior visibility in all water conditions.

Our neon options maintain the same UPF 50+ protection while enhancing child safety through improved visibility.

Sizing and fit

Toddler rash guards should fit snugly without being restrictive. A proper fit provides:

Effective sun protection
Comfort during movement
Easy care
Layering for swim diapers or undergarments

Size up if your toddler is between sizes or growing quickly. Our size charts provide detailed measurements for the best fit.

Family matching sun-protective swimwear

Create memorable family moments with matching sun-protective swimwear options. Our coordinating patterns allow the whole family to enjoy sun-safe style together.

Here are some popular family-friendly patterns:

Care and maintenance

Our rash guards are tough, but you’ll get the most out of them by following these care instructions:

Rinse immediately to remove chlorine and salt residue after each use.
Machine wash in cold water.
Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
Air dry (Avoid high heat that can damage protective fibers).
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Gentle care protects the UPF layer and keeps your garment from stretching or shrinking.

Toddler rash guards FAQ

Is it okay to wear a rash guard in a swimming pool?

It's fine to wear a rash guard in a pool. While originally designed for ocean surfing to prevent board rash, kids' rash guards can be worn in pools too. They protect against chlorine irritation and harsh rays that reflect off the water. Quick-drying fabrics and breathable material also make them comfortable for the pool.

What can you use instead of a rash guard?

You can wear a regular T-shirt, swim dress, bikini, or any other top, but you won’t get the same level of protection. Rash guards are thick enough to protect against abrasion, and long-sleeve options provide the best sun protection. Always dress, and dress your children, according to conditions.

Do I wear anything under a rash guard?

Toddlers can wear swim bottoms or swim diapers underneath their rash guard. Girls' rash guards can go over one-piece swimsuits or swim shorts, while boys can wear rash guards with swim trunks. The breathable material is comfortable against the skin, so no additional layers are needed.

Do you need sunscreen with a rash guard?

Even if you wear a rash guard when you go swimming, apply sunscreen to exposed areas, like your face, hands, and feet. While rash guards block UVB rays on covered skin, you still need protection elsewhere. Check the UV index and follow the American Academy of Dermatology guidelines for complete sun safety.

Resources

Sun protection. (n.d.). https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection

Sun Protective Rash Guards for Toddlers