SOLARSEALZ™ UV PROTECTION
UV‑Protective Clothing for Kids: What Parents Should Know
BY ISABELLA WHARTON
JUNE 2026
Featured in this article
Broomhill
Broomhill
Kid's Foldable Cap with Neck Protector
2 colors available
Denton
Denton
Kid's Swim Shorts
2 colors available
Barford
Barford
Kid's Rash Vest
2 colors available
RASH VEST: ESSENTIAL UV PROTECTION FOR SWIMMING
If there is one item every parent should pack for their kids on a beach holiday or swimming trip, it's a rash vest.
Our Barford rash vest is designed to provide comfortable UV protection while children are in and around the water. Unlike sun cream, which can wash away during swimming, a rash vest continues to protect covered areas throughout the day. Rash vests help protect shoulders, upper arms, chest, back, and areas most exposed while swimming.
They can also help reduce skin irritation caused by sand, saltwater, and prolonged water exposure.
Because children spend so much time in direct sunlight when swimming, a UV-protective rash vest is often one of the most effective ways to reduce sun exposure while still allowing them to enjoy the water comfortably.
WHY PARENTS CHOOSE RASH VESTS
A rash vest, compared to sun cream alone, offers consistent sun protection while swimming. Our comfortable and lightweight construction means you can avoid tantrums about itching or uncomfortable swims. Wearing a rash vest throughout the day reduces the need for as much sun cream reapplication on covered areas, perfect for sensitive skin, and our quick-drying design means you can take Barford wherever you go on your travels.
DON'T FORGET HEAD, EARS AND NECK!
Our Oulton Foldable Cap offers lightweight protection for the face and scalp.
Its quick-drying design makes it ideal for active children moving between water and land activities.
PERFECT FOR:
- Beach trips
- Camping
- Family walks
- Everyday sun
For maximum all-around coverage, our Woodton Boonie Hat provides protection across the face, ears, and neck.
Its wider brim helps reduce direct sun exposure while the neck protector offers extra coverage during long days outdoors.
PERFECT FOR:
- Family holidays
- Hiking & camping
- Everyday sun
For increased coverage, Broomhill combines a practical cap design with an integrated neck protector. This additional coverage helps shield the back of the neck, your kids' ears and upper shoulders, some of the most commonly missed areas when applying cream.
PERFECT FOR:
- Summer holidays
- Building sandcastles
- Hiking & camping
BUILDING A COMPLETE SUN PROTECTION SYSTEM
Rather than relying on a single solution, the best approach combines several forms of protection.
For example:
- Apply broad-spectrum sun cream to any exposed skin.
- Wear a UV-protective rash vest or swim shorts for swimming.
- Use a cap or neck-protection hat outdoors.
- Seek shade during the strongest sunshine hours.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Together, these habits help create a more comprehensive approach to sun safety for children.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT UV CLOTHING FOR YOUR CHILD
When selecting UV-protective clothing, look for products that offer:
- Dedicated UV protection technology
- Comfortable fit for active movement
- Quick-drying fabrics
- Lightweight breathability
- Coverage for commonly exposed areas
Our Solarsealz™ Kids Collection combines all these features, helping children stay comfortable so they can stay outdoors longer.
Whether it's Barford and Denton for swimming, Oulton for everyday adventures, or Broomhill and Woodton for extended time in the sun, each product is designed to help families enjoy outdoor activities with greater confidence.
FAQs
Yes. UV rays are present in the UK even on cloudy days and during cooler weather. UV-protective clothing provides an additional layer of protection for children, particularly during spring and summer when they spend more time outdoors. It's especially useful for activities such as swimming, beach visits, hiking, and sports.
Yes, Sealskinz rash vests are UPF 50+ rated. Many rash vests are designed with UV-protective fabrics and may carry a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. A UPF rating indicates how effectively a fabric blocks UV radiation. Parents should always check the individual product specifications for the protection level provided.
Yes, UV rays can pass more easily through wet clothing. When fabric becomes wet, it can stretch and lose density, reducing its ability to block UV radiation effectively.
Yes. UV-protective clothing is designed for extended wear and can be worn throughout outdoor activities. Quick-drying, lightweight fabrics help children stay comfortable whether they're swimming, playing, travelling, or exploring outdoors.
High-quality UV-protective garments are designed to maintain their protection through normal washing and wear. However, protection can gradually reduce over time if garments become excessively worn, stretched, or damaged. Following the care instructions helps maintain performance for longer.
