Long Sleeve Swimwear: More Than Just a Cover-Up

Long sleeve swimwear is one of those things you do not fully appreciate until you have spent a few hours in the Aussie sun and realise you have missed a spot with the sunscreen. Again.

I have spent a lot of time designing swimwear that is practical, protective and genuinely lovely to wear because feeling sun-safe should not mean settling for something that makes you feel covered up in every sense of the word.

Our swim dresses and rash tops are designed to move with you, whether you are swimming, paddleboarding, chasing kids along the shoreline or settling in for a long lunch by the water. They feature a deep front zip, so you can zip right up when you want extra coverage or leave it open for a more relaxed, easy-going look.

If understated is more your style, there are classic navy and black options that feel timeless and flattering. And if you love a little more colour in your beach day, we also have bright shades and beautiful prints made to stand out, in the best possible way.

Australian summers are hard to beat. There is nothing quite like a sunny beach day, a walk along the coast or an afternoon out on the water. A little golden glow can feel lovely too but the Australian sun is incredibly strong, and it does not take long to feel the effects.

For me, a long sleeve rash top or swim dress has become an easy beach-bag essential. I love being in the sun, but after a while I would much rather throw on an extra layer than spend the rest of the day worrying about burning or trying to apply sunscreen to the middle of my back.

That became especially clear on a recent sailing trip. Being out on the boat meant very little shade, plenty of reflected sun from the water, and no easy way to reapply sunscreen to those tricky spots. I popped on a long sleeve rash top and did not burn at all.

The photo above was taken on a sailing boat in Sardinia. I was having the best time soaking up the sunshine, but when I needed a little extra protection, I reached for my favourite Thai Pink Rash Top. It was easy, comfortable and meant I could stay out enjoying the day without constantly thinking about sunscreen.

Cancer Council Australia recommends clothing that covers as much skin as possible, with long sleeves offering greater physical coverage from UV radiation. UPF50 and UPF50+ fabrics are considered excellent sun protection, blocking around 98% of UV radiation through the fabric’s yarns and construction.

Of course, sun-protective swimwear is not a replacement for being sun smart overall. Exposed skin still needs sunscreen, and the best approach is to combine protective clothing with SPF50 sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

But there is something wonderfully simple about pulling on a rash top or swim dress. It can be much easier than constantly reapplying sunscreen, especially when you are wet, sandy, on a boat, keeping an eye on the kids or simply trying to relax. It also means you can rely a little less on sunscreen for the areas your swimwear already covers.

You can check the day’s UV rating before heading out using the SunSmart App.

For even more coverage, pair your swim dress or rash top with swim leggings. It is a combination that gives you a little extra peace of mind while still feeling stylish, comfortable and ready for anything.

Swim leggings are great for swimming, beach walking, paddleboarding or even popping into the café, pub or shops after the beach. No need to rush home and change, you can simply keep enjoying your day.

Personally, I love swim leggings for the added comfort they bring. They help protect against thigh chafe on long beach walks, offer a bit more coverage when I am on a paddleboard, and mean I am not constantly worrying about what might be on show when I bend, sit or move around.

They are not just about comfort either. Your legs get plenty of sun exposure, particularly when you are walking along the beach, sitting on a boat or spending long days outdoors. 

Covering up with lightweight UPF50+ swim leggings can be a simple way to protect more of your skin while still feeling cool and free to move.

Suncheeter began with a focus on UPF50+ sun protection, but over time it has grown into something more than that.

We have heard from so many customers who tell us our swimwear has helped them feel comfortable getting back to the beach, the pool and the water again. That means everything.

Because swimwear should not make you feel like you need to hide. It should help you feel confident, comfortable and ready to enjoy the day exactly as you are, whether you choose classic black, timeless navy or a bright, beautiful print that makes you feel a little more bold.

With Suncheeter, you do not have to choose between looking good, feeling confident and protecting your skin. You can have all three.