Swim Shirts

Staying Safe in the Sun

Not all climates are the same, even where beaches are concerned. Beaches that run along the equatorial regions will experience the hottest, most brutal amounts of ultra-violet rays. This sort of UV attack can have severe consequences on the skin. In fact, the sunburns you experience as a child will greatly influence your chances of developing skin cancer as an adult. Frequently, the damage takes decades to manifest itself as a melanoma, which is why it's so important to protect your skin, especially in the summer.

How prevalent is skin cancer in the United States? It's only the most common form of cancer, and most often occurs in adults who have spent a great deal of time in the sun and have experienced multiple sunburns. People who have fair skin and light eye color are most susceptible to this form of cancer, and it is even more likely that you will get it if you are genetically predisposed. Many dermatologists recommend that their patients avoid the sun altogether, and, if they wish to maintain good skin throughout their lifetime, it is expedient for them to start an intimate relationship with SPF 50 sun block. The earlier, the better.

Yet, what of those people who really enjoy the beach and all types of water sports? Are they now doomed to the indoors? Not necessarily. Water equipment such as swim shirts, rash guards, and even swim tights make it possible for most of the body to remain protected from the sun.

The Advantage of Swim Shirts

Bottom line, even sun block can thin out, wear off, or expire, but the line of defense that clothing has to offer is far superior to any lotion or cream. Not all swim clothing provides the same amount of coverage, however. Some shirts have long sleeves, and others have none at all.

The very best of swim shirts will offer a high UV protection. "High" indicates around 98-99% ultra-violet blockage. Moreover, these shirts tend to be very protective against elements such as chlorine and saltwater. The material should be lightweight, supple, and more importantly, not retain heat. Your skin should be able to breathe. After all, in hot sun your body is bound to execute some quality sweating. The most useful swim shirt apparel will have a high neck collar, since this area of the body often takes a massive beating from the sun.

Swim clothing doesn't just protect from the sun, it protects your body from the water and everything that's in it! Many surfers employ these shirts to protect their skin from the water as well. Rash guards are just one type of swim shirts that attempt to save your body from the assault of saltwater waves. If you're a real fan of water sports, or any other sport that finds you constantly at the beach or in the pool, swim-related clothing is your best bet against developing skin cancer in your older years.

Swim shirts can be very effective when:

• Surfing
• Body boarding
• Wake boarding
• Snorkeling
• Jet skiing

Where to Purchase

As with all sports-related gear, your best bet for quality swim clothing is to check out a local water sports store or surf shop. The heaviest duty sports will require the highest quality equipment, so it is best to look for a water sports store before purchasing your swim shirt from a place like Target. However, if you aren't an avid water athlete and you're merely trying to protect your shoulders from the sun, then most available swim shirt styles will offer adequate sun defense.

Remember to always pair up your swim clothing with the use of sun block on any exposed skin areas such as the face, the neck, and the tops of your feet. Even your hair and scalp could use a hearty dose of SPF-included shampoo!