Adults and children alike have adopted swim shirts as an effective means for protecting against the sun's damaging rays. As the popularity of these shirts has grown, so have consumer choices for design and fit. A few basic considerations will ensure a comfortable product that can be worn repeatedly for the long run.
These protective shirts, also called rashguards, were invented out of a crucial need rather than a simple sun block option. In Australia the sun's strength is much greater than other parts of the world. In addition, one of the greatest oceanic attractions, the Great Barrier Reef, resides off the country's shores. A day in the water here is risky simply due to exposure. While sun block must be reapplied and provides only partial protection, a swim shirt blocks UV rays completely.
Surfers were the first consumer group for the shirts. On a warm day they could provide sun protection and mild insulation, and on a cold day they could be worn under a wetsuit for added warmth and comfort. In both cases the shirts helped prevent rashes on the stomach and chest -- thus the name rashguard.
Consider the type of activity and environmental aspects in which the shirt will be worn. Long-sleeve tops will provide maximum sun protection but may limit movement slightly. Short-sleeve options are cooler for hot weather but also offer less coverage.
Although sun screen is helpful for limited time in the sun, extensive exposure should be approached with the complete protection of a swim shirt. The long-sleeve variety is essential for those who often experience sun burn or are at risk for melanoma. Although it may seem uncomfortable to sport a long-sleeve shirt in hot weather, each time the wearer enters or exits the water, the transition will cause a cooling effect making the shirt a reasonable option.
Determining the size of the swim shirt is fairly easy. Always match the fit with the situation. A very fitted design is essential for water sports such as wake boarding or water skiing. This ensures that the shirt will stay in place through wind and waves. Choose a rashguard just a little tighter than a regular shirt for leisurely beach activities with infrequent dips in the water.
Swimming shirts are made of durable material that is resistant to chlorine and salt water. Most also include a layer of UV protection, providing maximum resistance to the sun's rays. Frequent athletic activity can be done safely and comfortably. Damage to shirts is usually caused by direct contact with hard and abrasive surfaces that scratch or fray the material.
As with regular swimwear, careful washing will prolong the life of a swim shirt. Rinsing the garment with fresh water after use is essential to eliminate chlorine and salt water, which can wear down material over time. When a thorough cleaning is needed, using a washing machine works fine. Line drying is ideal but the material can sustain dryer heat if necessary.
The ever-changing array of swim shirt fits and fashions makes this sun safety purchase a must-have for heading to the beach. Offering complete protection from the damaging rays of the sun, the rashguard is also easy to maintain and provides added comfort. With such obvious benefits, it's no wonder the swim shirt has become a world-wide summer staple.
These protective shirts, also called rashguards, were invented out of a crucial need rather than a simple sun block option. In Australia the sun's strength is much greater than other parts of the world. In addition, one of the greatest oceanic attractions, the Great Barrier Reef, resides off the country's shores. A day in the water here is risky simply due to exposure. While sun block must be reapplied and provides only partial protection, a swim shirt blocks UV rays completely.
Surfers were the first consumer group for the shirts. On a warm day they could provide sun protection and mild insulation, and on a cold day they could be worn under a wetsuit for added warmth and comfort. In both cases the shirts helped prevent rashes on the stomach and chest -- thus the name rashguard.
Consider the type of activity and environmental aspects in which the shirt will be worn. Long-sleeve tops will provide maximum sun protection but may limit movement slightly. Short-sleeve options are cooler for hot weather but also offer less coverage.
Although sun screen is helpful for limited time in the sun, extensive exposure should be approached with the complete protection of a swim shirt. The long-sleeve variety is essential for those who often experience sun burn or are at risk for melanoma. Although it may seem uncomfortable to sport a long-sleeve shirt in hot weather, each time the wearer enters or exits the water, the transition will cause a cooling effect making the shirt a reasonable option.
Determining the size of the swim shirt is fairly easy. Always match the fit with the situation. A very fitted design is essential for water sports such as wake boarding or water skiing. This ensures that the shirt will stay in place through wind and waves. Choose a rashguard just a little tighter than a regular shirt for leisurely beach activities with infrequent dips in the water.
Swimming shirts are made of durable material that is resistant to chlorine and salt water. Most also include a layer of UV protection, providing maximum resistance to the sun's rays. Frequent athletic activity can be done safely and comfortably. Damage to shirts is usually caused by direct contact with hard and abrasive surfaces that scratch or fray the material.
As with regular swimwear, careful washing will prolong the life of a swim shirt. Rinsing the garment with fresh water after use is essential to eliminate chlorine and salt water, which can wear down material over time. When a thorough cleaning is needed, using a washing machine works fine. Line drying is ideal but the material can sustain dryer heat if necessary.
The ever-changing array of swim shirt fits and fashions makes this sun safety purchase a must-have for heading to the beach. Offering complete protection from the damaging rays of the sun, the rashguard is also easy to maintain and provides added comfort. With such obvious benefits, it's no wonder the swim shirt has become a world-wide summer staple.
About the Author:
Robert Mann has written textbooks, poetry, and many consumer articles. He outfits his family in uv swimming shirts and suggests visiting http://www.swimshirtsanduvclothing.com
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