UPF 50+ swimwear is for kids and all-day sun.

Yes, there’s a real difference, but you probably don’t need it unless you’re spending hours in direct sunlight.

Regular swimwear blocks some UV rays just by being fabric — think a white cotton shirt gives about UPF 5. But the dark, tight weave of most swimsuits already provides decent protection. UPF 50+ fabric is specifically tested to block 98% of UV radiation, and it doesn’t lose much protection when wet. Regular suits? They can lose up to 50% of their UV blocking power when soaked.

For a quick trip to the pool or a half-hour at the beach? Regular swimwear is fine. For kids, fair-skinned folks, or full days under the sun where you’re not reapplying sunscreen every hour? UPF 50+ is a no-brainer. It’s also better for places you can’t easily reach with sunscreen — like the back of your shoulders or your kid’s neck.

Just don’t think UPF means zero sun exposure. You still need sunscreen on exposed skin, and UPF suits can stretch and lose effectiveness over time.

Bottom line: Buy UPF for the people who’ll be in the water all afternoon. For everyone else, your regular suit plus sunscreen works fine.