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There are 3 key differences between Regular and Sun Protection Swimwear, Fabric Type, Design Style and Body Fit:

1. Fabric Type: Regular and sun protection swimwear are usually made from special type of stretch fabric that is suitable for use in water, mostly made from Nylon, Lycra, Elastane, Spandex or Polyester yarn. The quality and performance is linked to the fabric composition example Nylon/Lycra or Polyester/PBT and to the weight example 170 to 200 grams per square meter (5 to 5.9 oz per square yard), however to achieve UV protection status the fabric need to be tightly knitted in order to block the sun UV rays from getting through and reaching the skin, hence some regular swimwear fabrics are not suitable for sun protection. The highest UV protection ratings a fabric can achieve is UPF50+ which blocks over 97.5% of the sun UV radiation according to Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA).

2. Design Style: The design difference is quite visible between regular swimwear which tends to follow fashionable trends and personal tastes where more skin is exposed, while sun protection swimwear takes into consideration the need to cover as much skin as possible to ensure protection against the sun UV radiation; sun protective coverup swimwear designs such as stinger suits, dive skins and full body swimsuits covering the arms and legs have the ability to keep the skin protected all day long from the harsh UV rays which can cause sunburns, skin damage and worst case scenario skin cancer.

3. Body Fit: One piece full body cover swimwear are designed for a snug body fit which enhances performance and provide adequate UV protection. The snug fit style is similar to slim fit sizing, that is why it is recommended to choose one size up from your regular swimwear and clothing size.