This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Curvy Fashionista!
A category that doesn’t get much attention in the plus size space is plus size rash guards and swim tops. It’s not because there’s no demand, that’s absolutely trueBut the market has historically treated sunscreen and moderate swimming as an afterthought for plus-size bodies.
That’s starting to change. And that’s what we’re here for.
In this guide, we’ll explain what to look for, why it’s important, and where to actually find plus-size options worth buying.
Why plus size rash guards are getting more attention
Sunscreen is a health issue, not a style preference. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and UV exposure is a major preventable risk factor. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing, which blocks UV rays the way SPF blocks them in sunscreen, is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin during long water days.
problem? Most UPF swimwear and rash guard brands stop at a size L or XL. The “extended sizing” conversation that has reshaped plus size fashion in recent years has been painfully slow to reach the technical swim and sun protection category.
Another is low-key swimming. For many people, whether for religious observance, personal preference, sensory reasons, or simply because they like more coverage, a swimsuit alone doesn’t work. Swim tops and rash guards aren’t consolation prizes. It’s the actual product they need. And plus size bodies deserve good options in their category just like anyone else.
We have summarized the brands and styles that are actually distributed.
What to look for in a plus size rash guard or swim top
UPF rated. Look for a UPF 50+ that blocks 98% of UV rays. This is the gold standard in swimwear sunscreen. UPF 30-49 is still good and provides 96-97% protection. Anything with a UPF less than 15 won’t provide any meaningful protection, so it’s not worth buying specifically for sun protection.
Composition of the fabric. A blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex or elastane dries quickly, holds its shape in water, and maintains its UPF rating no matter how many times you wash it. Avoid 100% cotton products for swimming. 100% cotton is heavy when wet, loses its shape quickly, and provides minimal UV protection when saturated.
fit and length. Consider what you pair with your rash guard or swim top. When worn over a bikini or swim bottoms, a longer hem that hits at or below the hips provides more coverage and won’t ride up. Cropped rash guards are great for layering over dresses or swim dresses. Please check the length description before ordering.
Closure and neckline styles. Long sleeve front zipper rash guard provides maximum body coverage and is easy to put on and take off, even when wet. Pull-on styles tend to be comfortable to wear all day. V-neck and scoop-neck swim tops are versatile and transition well from waterside to walking.
Expanded size. Please be sure to check the brand specific size chart. The “plus size” coverage of rash guards and swim tops varies widely. Some brands end up with 2x, others with 6x or more. The following brands were specifically chosen because they offer meaningful extended sizes.
Best plus size rash guards and swim tops to buy now
For active swimmers and maximum coverage
Juno active:Up to 6x
Juno Active is one of the most consistently recommended brands for active plus size swimmers at TCF. Their swim tops and rash guards are built for actual water activity, full UPF 50+ coverage, chlorine-resistant fabric, and a size range that goes up to a 6X.Front zip rash guards are especially suitable for swimmers who want a secure fit without the hassle of a pull-on style when wet. The color options are bright and really fun for activewear.
super fit hero:Up to 7x
SuperFit Hero’s swim line includes rash guards and swim tops with some of the widest sizing in the category, going up to a 7X, which represents a waist measurement of 79 inches. Color-blocked long-sleeve styles are perfect for active water use, and the brand’s entire approach is built around plus-size athletes. If you’re over 5X and having trouble finding a swim top that fits well, this is the brand to try first.
For moderate swimming and daily coverage
Calypsa by ModLi:Up to 6x
Calypsa is a standout, especially in the modest swimming category. Their swim tops, swim tunics, and swim tees are designed with coverage as the priority, not as an afterthought, and the extended sizing goes up to a 6X with a waist measurement of 54-56 inches.Long sleeve, three-quarter sleeve, and loose tunic cut styles are available, as well as nursing-friendly options.プラスサイズの控えめな水着を購入する人にとって、カリプサはリストの一番上にあるはずです。
everyone’s swimwear:Up to size 44
At Swimsuits for All, we carry a selection of swim tops in a variety of styles and coverages. Their O-Ring long-sleeve and tie-back swim tops offer more coverage than a standard bikini top without being overly structured, and some styles go up to a size 44. Use the size filter on their site to confirm what’s available in your specific size, not every style goes to the top of the range.
Woman Within:Up to size 40
For those looking for reliable, affordable plus size swim tops in a wide range of sizing, Woman Within always has it. Their plus size rash guards and swim top selection tends toward classic and functional… high necklines, full coverage sleeves, and practical construction.The styling isn’t flashy, but considering the size range and price range, it’s worth bookmarking.
lane bryant:Up to size 28
Lane Bryant’s swim rash guard selection delivers exactly what you’d expect from them: accessible price points, reliable coverage, and extended sizing that actually extends. Quarter zip long sleeve swim rash guard Featuring UPF 50+ sun protection, chlorine-resistant fabric, and a quarter-zip front for easy on and off when wet.
Available in sizes up to 28, the style is simple and functional. Lane Bryant isn’t trying to reinvent the rash guard, they’re just making sure plus-size women have access to effective rash guards. Pair it with swim shorts or bikini bottoms for a full water look that prioritizes coverage without the markup.
Coverage with an emphasis on style
intense heat:Up to 6x
Torrid’s selection of swim tops and rash guards are more style-oriented than others in this category. Long sleeve swim tops come in prints and patterns and come in sizes up to 6x.
Tomboy X:Up to 6x
TomboyX brings gender-inclusive designs and bold prints to the plus-size rash guard category. their Rainbow wave swim rash guard T-shirt A true style swim top, proving that coverage doesn’t have to be boring. UPF 50+ protection, quick-drying fabric, and a fit that suits body sizes from XS to 6X.
The brand’s entire swim line is designed without unnecessary gendering, so you’re choosing based on what you actually want to wear, not what a label tells you to. Pair your rash guard T-shirt with swim shorts or bikini bottoms for a look with personality and purpose.
Plus-size rash guard styling: It’s not all about surf shop beauty
Let’s face it: rash guards don’t have to look like they were borrowed from a surfing competition. The styling possibilities are wider than the reputation of this category suggests.
Pair a printed long-sleeved swim top over high-waisted swim shorts for the perfect, sophisticated beach look. Wearing a swim tunic over bikini bottoms provides coverage and doubles as a cover-up. Layering a cropped, long-sleeved rash guard over a dress adds interest and UV protection without adding bulk. Color-blocked rash guards in bold shades are really cool and not a consolation prize for those who don’t like to show any skin.
The key is to think of your rash guard or swim top as an actual part of your swim wardrobe, rather than something you’re wearing but not wearing. Because that’s exactly what it is.
At the end of the day…
Plus size rash guards and swim tops are not a niche category. They’re a real need for a huge portion of the plus size community, swimmers, sun-sensitive skin, modest swim preferences, outdoor water sports, beach days with kids, and more.The brands mentioned above are working, although the market has been slow to respond.
Bookmark this list and take your measurements before ordering. Don’t let it make you feel like you’re somehow lacking the coverage you need. It’s all about choosing a swimsuit. Create what works for you.
Are there any plus size rash guards or swim top brands we’ve missed? Write them in the comments…this is truly the kind of community knowledge that helps everyone shop smarter. Learn more about TCF Swim Week and see all our plus size swimwear content here.
Source: The Curvy Fashionista – thecurvyfashionista.com
