As the warmer months arrive in New Zealand and Australia, protecting little ones from the sun’s harsh rays is more important than ever. One of the best ways to safeguard their delicate skin is with UPF-rated swimwear. But what exactly is UPF, and why should it be top of mind when choosing swimwear for babies and kids?
What does UPF mean?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It’s a rating that measures how much UV radiation a fabric blocks from reaching the skin. Similar to how SPF rates sunscreen, UPF ratings tell us how protective clothing is against harmful rays. The higher the number, the better the protection. For example, a UPF 50+ garment lets only 1/50th of UV radiation through, giving children superior coverage.
Why does UPF matter for kids?
Children’s skin is far more sensitive than adults’ and burns faster under intense sun. In New Zealand and Australia, where UV levels are some of the highest in the world, this is especially concerning. Babies and toddlers, with their thinner skin, are particularly vulnerable. Sunburn can happen quickly and may increase risks later in life.
How UPF swimwear keeps kids safe
UPF swimwear provides reliable protection where sunscreen might rub off, like shoulders, backs, and chests. Unlike sunscreen, it doesn’t need reapplying, making it ideal for wriggly little ones who love to splash about. Modern fabrics are lightweight, quick-drying, and comfortable, with added features like Crywolf’s 4-way stretch for easy movement in and out of the water.
Crywolf Swimwear
At Crywolf, we design swimwear built for little adventurers. Our UPF 50+ styles, the highest rating available, block out 98% of harmful rays while keeping kids free to explore, play, and enjoy every sunny adventure.
Don’t forget:
- Sunscreen: While UPF swimwear covers most of the body, always apply sunscreen to exposed areas like faces, hands, and feet. We recommend Skinnies Kids Gel Sunscreen SPF50, a broad-spectrum, no-nasties formula that’s gentle on skin and water resistant for up to 2 hours.
- Seek shade: The sun is strongest between 10am and 4pm. Take breaks in shaded spots and plan outdoor play for early morning or late afternoon when possible.
Discover our latest Crywolf UPF 50+ Swimwear collection and keep your little wolves protected while they splash, play, and explore.