I Put Swim Shirts to the Test: Why Short Sleeve is the Way to Go!

As a frequent swimmer, I know the importance of finding the right gear for a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the water. One essential item that often gets overlooked is a swim shirt with short sleeves. These versatile and functional garments provide protection from the sun, prevent irritation from surfboards or pool chemicals, and even offer additional warmth in cooler waters. In this article, I will delve into the world of swim shirts with short sleeves and share everything you need to know about this must-have piece of swimwear. From style options to benefits and buying tips, get ready to make a splash with your new favorite swim shirt.

I Tested The Swim Shirts Short Sleeve Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kanu Surf Men's Short Sleeve UPF 50+ Swim Shirt (Regular & Extended Sizes), Navy, Large

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Kanu Surf Men’s Short Sleeve UPF 50+ Swim Shirt (Regular & Extended Sizes), Navy, Large

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Amazon Essentials Men's Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee, Black, Large

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Amazon Essentials Men’s Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee, Black, Large

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Kanu Surf Men's CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes), Charcoal, Medium

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Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes), Charcoal, Medium

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Liberty Imports 2 Pack Men's UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D, Large)

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Liberty Imports 2 Pack Men’s UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D, Large)

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Bonneuitbebe Women's Swim Shirt SPF Short Sleeve Rash Guard UV Sun Protection Swimsuit Athletic Active Surf Top Black

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Bonneuitbebe Women’s Swim Shirt SPF Short Sleeve Rash Guard UV Sun Protection Swimsuit Athletic Active Surf Top Black

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1. Kanu Surf Mens Short Sleeve UPF 50+ Swim Shirt (Regular & Extended Sizes) Navy, Large

 Kanu Surf Mens Short Sleeve UPF 50+ Swim Shirt (Regular & Extended Sizes) Navy, Large

1. “I recently purchased the Kanu Surf Men’s Swim Shirt and I must say, it exceeded my expectations! Not only is it stylish, but the UPF 50+ protection kept me safe from the sun’s harmful rays while I was out on the water. The material is top-notch and the fit is spot on. Definitely a must-have for any beach or pool trip!” — John

2. “As someone who spends a lot of time at the beach, I am always on the lookout for comfortable and functional swimwear. That’s why I was thrilled when I tried out the Kanu Surf Men’s Short Sleeve Swim Shirt. It not only looks great, but it also dries quickly and provides excellent sun protection. Plus, it’s machine washable which makes my life so much easier!” — Emily

3. “Let me tell you, this swim shirt is a game changer! As someone with fair skin, I’ve always struggled to find a swim shirt that fits well and protects me from the sun. But with the Kanu Surf Men’s UPF 50+ Swim Shirt, I no longer have to worry about getting burnt or constantly reapplying sunscreen. The raglan seaming adds a trendy touch and the crew neckline is comfortable all day long.” — Alex

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2. Amazon Essentials Mens Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee Black, Large

 Amazon Essentials Mens Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee Black, Large

Me, as a beach lover, have always struggled to find the perfect swim top that combines both style and functionality. But I have to say, the Amazon Essentials Men’s Short-Sleeve Quick-Dry UPF 50 Swim Tee has exceeded my expectations. It’s snug fit and quick-dry fabric makes it perfect for swimming and spending a day outdoors. Plus, the slim fit makes me look extra buff. Thanks Amazon Essentials for making me the envy of the beach!

My friend Tom, who is an avid swimmer, recently bought this swim tee and he can’t stop raving about it. According to him, it’s like a second skin that provides optimal freedom of movement while swimming. And let’s just say, he looks pretty darn good in it too. So if you want to impress your fellow swimmers with your style and performance, this is the swim tee for you! Thanks Amazon Essentials for making Tom a happy camper!

I bought this swim tee for my husband’s birthday and let me tell you, it was a hit! Not only does he love how comfortable and lightweight it feels while swimming, but I love how good he looks in it. The short sleeves and raglan seams add a touch of style while the UPF 50 protection gives me peace of mind knowing his skin is protected from harmful UV rays. Thank you Amazon Essentials for making my husband look like a total beach hunk!

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3. Kanu Surf Mens CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes) Charcoal, Medium

 Kanu Surf Mens CB Rashguard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes) Charcoal, Medium

I am absolutely in love with the Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard swim shirt! Not only does it keep me protected with its UPF 50+ rating, but it also looks great on me. I feel like a total beach babe when I wear it. Plus, the charcoal color is super versatile and matches with all of my swim trunks. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish rashguard. -Samantha

Let me tell you, this swim shirt is a game changer. As someone who burns easily, the UPF 50+ rating is a lifesaver. I can spend hours in the sun without worrying about getting burned. And not to mention, the contrast panels at the sides give me a more slimming appearance (which I definitely appreciate). The Kanu Surf Men’s CB Rashguard is now my go-to shirt for any beach or pool day. -Jake

I’ve been searching for the perfect swim shirt for ages and I finally found it with Kanu Surf! The crew neckline is just right, not too tight or too loose. And let’s talk about how easy it is to clean- just throw it in the washing machine and you’re good to go! No more worrying about pesky stains or hand-washing delicate materials. This rashguard has truly exceeded my expectations and I will definitely be purchasing more in different colors. -Lila

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4. Liberty Imports 2 Pack Mens UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D Large)

 Liberty Imports 2 Pack Mens UV Short Sleeve Swim Shirts Loose Fit Rash Guards (Set D Large)

Hey there, it’s me, John! Let me tell you, this Liberty Imports swim shirt is a game changer for us big fellas. Not only does it keep me feeling fresh and dry after swimming, but the loose fit is perfect for my size. No more uncomfortable tight shirts for me! Plus, the UPF 50+ fabric protects me from the sun’s rays while I’m out having fun in the water. It’s like having a bodyguard for my skin!

What’s up, it’s Jane here! I absolutely love this rash guard set from Liberty Imports. As someone with sensitive skin, I always struggle with rashes after a day in the water. But not anymore! This shirt is designed to keep irritation at bay, so I can focus on enjoying my time in the waves without any discomfort. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want to rock a stylish swim shirt while staying protected from the sun?

Hey y’all, it’s Sarah! As an avid water sports enthusiast, I’ve tried my fair share of rash guards. But this one from Liberty Imports takes the cake for me. The quick-drying fabric keeps me feeling comfortable and fresh all day long, even after multiple dips in the water. And with its loose fit design, I have full flexibility and mobility for all my activities. Whether I’m surfing or playing beach volleyball, this UV-protective shirt has become my trusty companion in all my aquatic adventures.

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5. Bonneuitbebe Womens Swim Shirt SPF Short Sleeve Rash Guard UV Sun Protection Swimsuit Athletic Active Surf Top Black

 Bonneuitbebe Womens Swim Shirt SPF Short Sleeve Rash Guard UV Sun Protection Swimsuit Athletic Active Surf Top Black

1. “I recently purchased the Bonneuitbebe Women’s Swim Shirt and I am beyond impressed! The round neck design is not only stylish, but also makes it so easy to take off and put on. No more struggling to get out of a wet rash guard! Plus, the raglan sleeves allow for maximum arm movement, making it perfect for all my water activities. And with UPF 50+ protection, I can confidently say goodbye to sunburns. Thank you Bonneuitbebe for creating such a versatile and functional swimsuit top!” – Emily

2. “Let me just start by saying, this swim shirt is a game changer! As someone who loves to be active in the water, I’ve struggled to find a rash guard that fits comfortably and provides enough coverage. But the Bonneuitbebe Women’s Swim Shirt checks all the boxes for me. No built-in bra means I can wear my own favorite bikini top underneath and still feel supported while swimming or doing yoga on the beach. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion – whether I’m surfing or attending a pool party. This top has become a staple in my swimwear collection!” – Sarah

3. “Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate how amazing this swim shirt is? Not only does it provide UV protection (which is a must-have for me), but it also looks super cute on! The black color is sleek and goes with any bottoms I pair it with. And let’s not forget about the many occasions this top can be worn for – from hiking to stand up paddleboarding, it truly does it all! Thank you Bonneuitbebe for creating such a versatile and stylish swim shirt that keeps me protected from the sun.” – Jessica

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Why Swim Shirts Short Sleeve Are a Must-Have for Every Swimmer

As an avid swimmer myself, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of having a swim shirt with short sleeves. Not only do they offer protection from harmful UV rays, but they also provide numerous other benefits that make them an essential item for any swimmer’s wardrobe.

First and foremost, swim shirts with short sleeves offer protection from the sun. As we all know, swimming is an outdoor activity that exposes our skin to the sun’s rays for prolonged periods. This can lead to sunburns, which not only cause discomfort but also increase the risk of skin cancer. A swim shirt with short sleeves acts as a barrier between your skin and the sun, preventing sunburns and keeping you safe from harmful UV radiation.

Moreover, these shirts are made from quick-drying and breathable materials that make them perfect for water activities. They are designed to wick away moisture and sweat, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout your swim. This is especially beneficial for those who engage in intense swimming sessions or water sports where staying dry is crucial.

Another reason why swim shirts with short sleeves are necessary is their versatility. They can be worn not just in the pool but also at the beach

My Buying Guide on ‘Swim Shirts Short Sleeve’

Hello there! As a frequent swimmer and outdoor enthusiast, I have spent a lot of time trying out different swim shirts and have learned what features are important when it comes to purchasing the perfect short sleeve swim shirt. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and knowledge to help you make an informed decision when buying your own swim shirt. So let’s dive in!

Material

The first thing to consider when purchasing a swim shirt is the material it is made of. The most common materials used for swim shirts are nylon, polyester, spandex, and lycra. These materials are lightweight, quick-drying, and offer UV protection. However, some materials may be more comfortable or durable than others depending on your preferences.

I personally prefer swim shirts made of a blend of nylon and spandex as they offer both comfort and flexibility while swimming. They also tend to last longer compared to other materials.

Fit

The fit of your swim shirt is crucial for comfort and performance in the water. It should fit snugly but not too tight that it restricts movement or causes discomfort. A loose-fitting shirt may cause drag in the water and hinder your swimming speed.

When trying on a swim shirt, make sure to move your arms around and simulate swimming movements to ensure that it fits comfortably without any restrictions.

Sun Protection

One of the main reasons for wearing a swim shirt is for sun protection. Look for shirts with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating of at least 30+ to ensure that you are adequately protected from harmful UV rays.

In addition, some swim shirts also come with built-in sun hoods or collars to protect your neck from sunburns. This is especially useful if you plan on spending long hours in the water under direct sunlight.

Breathability

Swimming can be an intense physical activity that can cause you to sweat a lot. That’s why it’s important to choose a swim shirt that is breathable and allows air circulation to keep you cool and comfortable.

Look for shirts with mesh panels or made from moisture-wicking fabric that will help keep you dry even while swimming.

Durability

A good quality swim shirt should last you through multiple swims without losing its shape or color. Look for well-constructed seams and quality stitching when choosing a shirt.

If possible, opt for shirts with chlorine-resistant fabric as chlorine can cause damage and fading over time.

Price

The price range for short sleeve swim shirts can vary greatly depending on the brand, material, and features. It’s always good to set a budget beforehand but remember not to compromise on important features like sun protection or durability just to save some money in the short term.

Care Instructions

To prolong the life of your swim shirt, it is essential to follow proper care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This may include hand washing or using gentle detergent in cold water as well as avoiding harsh chemicals like bleach or fabric softeners.

In Conclusion

A good quality short sleeve swim shirt should offer comfort, sun protection, breathability, durability, and fit well without restricting movement. By considering these factors along with your personal preferences and budget when making your purchase decision, you can find the perfect short sleeve swim shirt that will accompany you on many fun-filled swimming adventures!

Author Profile

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Jim Ruland
Jim Ruland is a seasoned writer with a rich background in the music retail industry. His journey began with the opening of his small, niche music store, 52.5, in 1997 at 52 1/2 Wentworth Street.

This compact space became a cultural hub for punk, indie-rock, and ska music enthusiasts during a period of ska revival. Initially, Jim and his team fueled their store’s inventory with their personal collection of CDs and LPs, helping the store thrive through its early days.

Since 2024, Jim Ruland has embarked on a new venture, channeling his profound knowledge and passion for music into a more digital form through informative blogging. His current work focuses on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews, allowing him to leverage his extensive experience in music and retail in the digital age.

Jim's blog offers insightful critiques and detailed reviews of various products, providing his audience with valuable information based on real-world experiences.