
Buying Guide for Long-Sleeve Swimsuits for Girls

Why buy a long-sleeve swimsuit for girls?
Sun protection is important to start young. Long-sleeve swimsuits are a great alternative to traditional swimsuits because they cover the skin to protect it from UV rays as well as potential scrapes on paddle boards or surfboards. They’re a fantastic option for kids with extra-sensitive skin, too.
What should you consider in a long-sleeve swimsuit for girls?
- UV Protection: All sleeved suits will offer some protection from the sun, but some materials are better than others. Some can offer UPF 50+ skin protection, which is great. Just know that these materials may have specific wash instructions, so read the care tag thoroughly before washing a new swimsuit.
- Patterns and Colors: What girl doesn’t love to express herself? There are so many bright, colorful selections in long-sleeve swimsuits. Whether your child prefers something simple or wants to be a real-life mermaid with an added flowing skirt, your child can show off her unique sense of style in the many options available.
- Coverage: Some long-sleeve swimsuits cover the arms but leave more of the back and legs exposed to the sun. Others cover more, including the tops of the legs and the whole back and neck. While some children love the feeling of full coverage in their suits, others like the freedom of having some skin exposed to dry off faster and potentially stay cooler. You can find the right level of coverage for your child with the range of options available.
Why is a long-sleeve swimsuit called a rash guard?
The term “rash guard” was used in Australia to define a long-sleeve swimsuit. It’s called a rash guard because it’s made to protect the skin against sunburn or a rash from skin rubbing on the sand. If your child is particularly active or plays water sports, a rash guard will help protect against abrasion.
Our Picks for the Best Long-Sleeve Swimsuits for Girls
Simple Joys by Carter's Toddler Girls' One Piece
This one-piece swimsuit with an easy-up zipper is perfect for kids to take on and off by themselves.
Pros: Your child will be ready to make a splash in this cute long-sleeve swimsuit. With its cute pattern and vibrant colors, it will be easy to spot your child wearing it in the water. It also comes with an easy-to-use zipper design so that she can put it on or remove it herself if needed, and it is made of durable and flexible polyester and elastane, so it can dry quickly after a day’s swim. The material has a UPF 50+ rating, and it comes in sizes from 3-6 months to 5T, so if you need to change a diaper, the snaps on the bottom make it easy. The swimsuit is made of high-quality materials, and the adjustable straps make it easy to get a good fit.
Cons: The colors may fade after several washes. While this is a natural process for any clothing item, it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re looking for a swimsuit that will maintain its brightness for a longer period of time. Additionally, some reviewers have noted that it may run a bit small, so it’s recommended to size up to ensure a comfortable fit for your child.
Bottom Line: This cute zip-up swimsuit with long sleeves offers top-notch UV protection. This zip-up swimsuit is a great choice for parents who want their little ones to be stylish and well-protected from harmful UV rays. The long sleeves provide extra coverage and protection from the sun, while the convenient zip-up design makes it easy to put on and take off. Additionally, the cute design and colors of the swimsuit are sure to make your child stand out and feel confident at the pool or beach. Whether your child is just learning to swim or is a seasoned swimmer, this swimsuit is sure to make them look and feel great. Overall, it is a practical and stylish choice for any parent who wants to keep their child protected from the sun while they enjoy the water.
RuffleButts® Girls Desert Blossoms Long Sleeve Zipper Rash Guard
These adorable long-sleeved bathing suits are vibrant and protective with UPF 50+.
Pros: This bathing suit is a wonderful option for parents who prioritize protecting their child’s delicate skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The swim collection features built-in UPF 50+ sun protection, which blocks out 98% of the sun’s harmful rays, offering peace of mind while your child plays in the sun. This level of sun protection is particularly important as it helps to minimize the risk of sunburn and potential skin cancer. In addition to the protective benefits, this swimsuit also boasts a cute design with sweet details and signature ruffles on every pair of bottoms. The adorable design is sure to make your child feel comfortable and confident while swimming or playing at the beach. Furthermore, the high-quality fabric used in this swimsuit is fade-resistant and durable, ensuring that it will last for many trips to the pool or beach. This is a great feature for parents who want to invest in a long-lasting swimsuit for their child.
Cons: Customers have reported issues with the sizing being too small or inconsistent and fading or discoloration after only a few wears. Some have also experienced issues with sand getting stuck in the lining and chemical smells. Additionally, some have reported the ruffles falling apart or the leg holes being too tight, making it uncomfortable for their child to wear.
Bottom Line: Overall, this bathing suit is a great choice for parents who are looking for a stylish yet practical option for their child’s swimwear needs. With built-in UPF 50+ sun protection, a cute design, and high-quality fabric, this swimsuit offers both peace of mind and durability for many seasons to come.
UNIFACO Toddler Girls' Swimsuit Rash Guard Set
The ultimate protection for your little mermaid.
Pros: Protect your sweet toddler in this precious long-sleeve swimsuit that comes in fun patterns like mermaid scales, unicorns, dinosaurs, and leopard print. Pair it with the adorable ruffled bottoms for the ultimate cute factor. The entire suit is made of quick-drying, skin-friendly, soft fabric that will keep your little one happy when wet. The polyamide and elastane materials are durable and provide a four-way stretch, making it comfortable for kids to wear and move in. The front zip design makes it easy to put on and take off, and the UPF 50+ rating offers excellent sun protection. The sizing is true to fit, and it provides good coverage, making it suitable for various water activities.
Cons: To maintain the quality of this bathing suit, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation to hand-wash it. Several customers reported having issues with the seams separating and the zipper breaking after only a short period of normal use. These problems suggest that the quality of the construction may not be durable enough to withstand regular wear and tear.
Bottom Line: Keep your baby girl’s sensitive skin protected in this cute swimsuit made for the outdoors. With a variety of colors and patterns, she is sure to stand out.
TFJH E Girls' Swimsuit
Surf's up in this cute suit that comes in adorable beachy designs and keeps the UV rays at bay.
Pros: We love this swimsuit’s sun protection, especially since it covers down to the knee. It’s made with breathable, stretchy materials, so your little girl can move freely as she swims. Its front-zip design makes it super easy to take on and off for quick bathroom breaks. Additionally, the front zip design and four-way stretch provide ease of movement and convenience for parents and kids alike. With a UPF rating of 50+, parents can feel confident that their child’s skin is protected from harmful UV radiation while they enjoy their time in the sun. The size chart provided by the manufacturer also ensures that you can choose the right fit for your child.
Cons: The colors may fade after wearing it in chlorinated water, and some mentioned that the fabric became see-through when wet. Many reported that the fabric stretched out or became loose after only a few uses, and some even experienced holes or tears in the fabric.
Bottom Line: Overall, the TFJH E Girls Swimsuit offers a good combination of comfort and sun protection, making it a great choice for kids who enjoy swimming and outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a surf-style swimsuit that covers most of the body, this may be an excellent selection for your child.
swimsobo Girls' Swimsuits
This breathable long-sleeve bathing suit provides pretty protection for your little one.
Pros: This two-piece set comes with a skirt to cover the bottom shorts. It comes in numerous fun patterns ranging from roses to pineapples to flamingos. On either side of the long-sleeve top are drawstrings that will keep it secure in every adventure. This rashguard set is an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a durable and high-quality swimwear option for their kids. The set offers UPF 50 protection, which means that it effectively blocks out harmful UV rays. This is especially important for children, who have more delicate skin that is more susceptible to sunburn and sun damage. It is also quick-drying, which is convenient for parents who want to avoid having to wait around for wet swimwear to dry before heading home.
Cons: This may run small. Some customers have reported that the seams on the swimsuit are itchy or uncomfortable for their children to wear. The material used to make the swimsuit may be stiff or have rough edges, which can irritate sensitive skin. This may cause discomfort and can make it difficult for children to wear the swimsuit for extended periods of time.
Bottom Line: Overall, this rash guard set is an excellent choice for parents who want to ensure their child’s safety and comfort while enjoying a day at the beach or the pool. The UPF 50 protection and durable fabric make it a high-quality option that both kids and parents will love.
Final Thoughts
Long-sleeved suits can be just as fun and vibrant as traditional bathing suits but with extra protection. These options should serve you well.