How to Choose Kids Swimwear for an Aussie Summer
Beach mornings, pool afternoons, swimming lessons and endless sandy toes: summer in Australia means our little ones practically live in their swimmers. But with our strong UV, choosing kids swimwear is about more than a cute print (although we love a cute print!).
Here's our simple guide to finding swimmers that keep little ones comfy, covered and ready for adventure.
1. Cover as much skin as possible
When it comes to sun protection, clothing is one of the simplest and most effective tools we have. Cancer Council recommends covering as much of your child's skin as possible, so long-sleeve swimmers are a great choice for Aussie summers. They mean less skin to sunscreen, less reapplying, and more time for play.
2. Look for UPF 50+
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) tells you how much UV a fabric lets through. UPF 50+ is the highest rating, meaning the fabric blocks at least 98% of UV radiation. Unlike sunscreen, it doesn't wear off in the water or rub off in the sand.
Not every swimwear fabric carries a UPF rating, so check the product details before you buy. If sun protection is a priority, look for UPF 50+ on the label.
3. Extra care for babies
Babies' skin is especially delicate. Cancer Council recommends keeping babies under 12 months out of direct sunlight when the UV Index is 3 or above, and doesn't recommend sunscreen for babies under six months. That means shade, a hat and covering clothing do the heavy lifting for our littlest ones.
Tip: check the daily UV and sun protection times on the free SunSmart app before heading out.
4. Choose comfort they'll actually wear
The best swimmers are the ones your little one is happy to stay in. Look for:
- Soft, stretchy fabric that moves with them
- Quick-drying material, so they're not sitting in wet, cold swimmers
- Gentle fabric that's kind to sensitive skin after a day of salt and sand
- A fit that's snug but not tight, and check the size chart, as brands vary
5. Don't forget the post-swim wrap
Every parent knows the post-swim struggle: shivering, sandy, and refusing to stand still for a towel. A hooded towel with an easy slip-on design is a game changer. Little ones can pop it on themselves, and the hood keeps their head covered while they warm up.
6. Complete the sun-safe kit
Swimmers are just one part of the picture. For every beach or pool day, pack:
- A hat that shades the face, neck and ears
- Shade, like an umbrella, beach tent or a shady tree
- SPF 50+ water-resistant sunscreen for exposed skin (for children over six months), reapplied every two hours and after swimming
- Sunglasses, if they'll keep them on!
Our pick for this summer: the Zahli range
Our Zahli Swimmers were designed with all of the above in mind: long sleeves for extra coverage, buttery-soft UPF 50+ fabric, quick-drying stretch, and a sweet frill detail in our signature Zahli floral. They come in sizes 6–12 months up to 5–6 years.
Pair them with the matching Zahli Hooded Towel, an oversized, ultra-soft microfibre towel that's easy for kids to pop on themselves. Or save on the pair with The Zahli Set.
Shop our full swim collection here.
Unsure on sizing? Just reach out. We're always happy to help you find the right fit.
For more sun safety information, visit Cancer Council's SunSmart guide.