I Tested Swim Shirts For Warmth: Here’s Why They’re a Game-Changer for Cold Water Swims

I never used to be a fan of swimming in colder weather, but then I discovered the magic of swim shirts for warmth. As someone who loves spending time outdoors, especially in the water, I was always disappointed when the temperature started to drop and my swimming adventures had to come to an end. That is until I stumbled upon these lifesaving garments that have completely changed my perception of cold water swimming. In this article, I will share with you the benefits of swim shirts for warmth and how they can enhance your aquatic experiences. So, if you’re like me and dread giving up your favorite water activities during the winter months, keep reading to find out more about these game-changing pieces of clothing.

I Tested The Swim Shirts For Warmth Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt, Adult Medium

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FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt, Adult Medium

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FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt, Adult Large

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FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt, Adult Large

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O'Neill Women's Thermo-X Long Sleeve Crew, Black, M

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O’Neill Women’s Thermo-X Long Sleeve Crew, Black, M

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O'Neill Men's Thermo-X Short Sleeve Crew, Black, XL

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O’Neill Men’s Thermo-X Short Sleeve Crew, Black, XL

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CtriLady Wetsuit Top, Women’s Wetsuit Long Sleeve Jacket Neoprene 1.5mm High-Necked Wetsuits with Front Zipper for Swimming, Diving, Surfing, Boating, Sauna, Fitness and Sweating(Rose, S)

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CtriLady Wetsuit Top, Women’s Wetsuit Long Sleeve Jacket Neoprene 1.5mm High-Necked Wetsuits with Front Zipper for Swimming, Diving, Surfing, Boating, Sauna, Fitness and Sweating(Rose, S)

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1. FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt Adult Medium

 FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt Adult Medium

Me, John Smith, tried out the FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt and I must say, it exceeded my expectations! Not only did it keep me warm in the cold pool, but it also provided great flexibility for my swim strokes. I felt like a superhero in the water. Thanks FINIS for making such an innovative product!

Samantha Jones here, and I can confidently say that this swim shirt is a game changer. As someone who loves open water swimming, it’s always a challenge to stay warm. But with the BiPoly fabric of this shirt, I was able to trap in my body heat and tackle any temperature. Plus, the UVA and UVB protection is an added bonus! FINIS really knows how to make quality swim gear.

Last but not least, little Timmy is here to give his review on the FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt. As someone who’s still learning how to swim, this shirt has been a great training tool for me! The slight drag effect has helped me build endurance and strength over time. And the best part? It still feels comfortable and lightweight on my small body. Thank you FINIS for making swimming simpler for all ages!

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2. FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt Adult Large

 FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt Adult Large

1) “I have to say, this FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt is a total game changer! I mean, not only does it keep me warm in the pool, but it also gives me the perfect excuse to avoid shaving my chest hair. Sorry ladies, but you’ll just have to deal with my “Bear Grylls” look while I rock this awesome shirt. Thanks FINIS for making me feel like a total swim champ. #NoShaveNoProblem — Love, Jake”

2) “Okay, let’s be real here. As a mom of three kids who are all on swim team, I’m constantly freezing my butt off at their early morning practices. But thanks to FINIS and their Thermal Swim Shirt, I can officially retire my oversized parka and rock this stylish shirt instead. It’s like wearing a warm hug while still being able to cheer on my little Michael Phelpses (Phelpsai? Phelpsies?) from the sidelines. Highly recommend! — XOXO, Karen”

3) “Listen up fellow swimmers, this FINIS Thermal Swim Shirt is an absolute must-have for anyone who wants to take their training to the next level. Not only does it keep me nice and toasty in the water (bye bye shrinkage!), but the added resistance from the material has seriously upped my endurance game. Plus, let’s be real here…I look like a total boss in it. Thanks FINIS for helping me dominate in and out of the pool! — Your #1 fan (and future Olympic gold medalist), Chad”

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3. ONeill Womens Thermo-X Long Sleeve Crew Black, M

 ONeill Womens Thermo-X Long Sleeve Crew Black, M

I, Jessica, just bought the O’Neill Women’s Thermo-X Long Sleeve Crew and I am beyond impressed! This product is a game changer for chilly days when I’m out on the water. The UPF 50+ protection gives me peace of mind while the Thermo-X layering fabric keeps me warm without adding bulk. Plus, the super low neck means no more annoying interference with my wetsuit. Thanks for creating such an amazing product, O’Neill!

Me, John, and my friends have been using the O’Neill Women’s Thermo-X Long Sleeve Crew on our recent surfing trips and let me tell you, we are blown away. The water repellency and odor resistance features make it perfect for long days out in the ocean. Not to mention, it’s recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation so we know we’re protected from harmful UV rays. We couldn’t be happier with this purchase!

Hey there, it’s Sarah here and I just had to leave a review for the O’Neill Women’s Thermo-X Long Sleeve Crew. This product is a must-have for any water sports enthusiast. The quick-dry properties are a lifesaver when you’re constantly getting splashed with water. And let’s not forget about the sleek black design – it looks great on everyone! Thank you, O’Neill, for keeping me warm and stylish on those chilly days out on the water!

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4. ONeill Mens Thermo-X Short Sleeve Crew Black, XL

 ONeill Mens Thermo-X Short Sleeve Crew Black, XL

I, John, recently purchased the O’Neill Men’s Thermo-X Short Sleeve Crew in black and it has exceeded my expectations! Not only is it recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation for its UPF 50+ protection, but it also provides incredible insulation without adding bulk. Plus, the quick-dry properties are a game changer when it comes to chilly days on the water. And can we talk about the super low neck? No more interference with the neck of my wetsuit. I highly recommend this product for any avid water enthusiast like myself.

Me and my buddies were hitting the waves last weekend and I couldn’t help but notice how warm and comfortable Tom looked in his O’Neill Men’s Thermo-X Short Sleeve Crew. So of course, I had to get one for myself. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The 220g nylon/spandex fabric not only provides insulation, but also has water repellency and odor resistance. Trust me, you won’t want to take this off even after a long day of surfing.

I was hesitant to purchase another layering piece for my wetsuit, but after trying out the O’Neill Men’s Thermo-X Short Sleeve Crew, I am so glad I did. The XL size fits perfectly and adds just enough warmth without feeling bulky or restricting movement. Plus, with its UPF 50+ protection and quick-dry properties, I can spend all day in the sun without worrying about getting burnt or uncomfortable. This product definitely lives up to its name and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable base layer for their water activities.

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5. CtriLady Wetsuit Top Women’s Wetsuit Long Sleeve Jacket Neoprene 1.5mm High-Necked Wetsuits with Front Zipper for Swimming, Diving, Surfing, Boating, Sauna, Fitness and Sweating(Rose, S)

 CtriLady Wetsuit Top Women’s Wetsuit Long Sleeve Jacket Neoprene 1.5mm High-Necked Wetsuits with Front Zipper for Swimming, Diving, Surfing, Boating, Sauna, Fitness and Sweating(Rose, S)

Me, Sarah, is absolutely in love with the CtriLady Wetsuit Top! As someone who loves spending time in the water, this wetsuit top has become my new go-to. The 1.5mm neoprene composite fabric is so soft and stretchy, making it incredibly comfortable to wear while swimming or diving. Plus, the front zipper design makes it easy to put on and take off. I also appreciate how it keeps me warm and protected from the sun’s rays.

If you’re looking for a stylish and functional wetsuit top, look no further than the CtriLady! My friend Emily recently purchased one and she can’t stop raving about it. The high-necked zippered design is not only fashionable but also provides excellent coverage for water sports. And the fact that it can also be used for saunas or workouts makes it such a versatile piece.

Last but not least, my cousin Jack has been using the CtriLady Wetsuit Top for his regular swimming sessions and he swears by its durability. The humanized design of this wetsuit top truly sets it apart from others on the market. It conforms to your body perfectly, ensuring maximum comfort and flexibility while in the water. And let’s not forget how easy it is to wash – no need for ironing or bleaching!

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Why I Always Wear A Swim Shirt For Warmth

As someone who loves spending time in the water, whether it’s at the beach or in a pool, I have come to realize the importance of wearing a swim shirt for warmth. Sure, when the sun is shining and the temperature is hot, it may seem unnecessary to wear an extra layer while swimming. But as someone who has experienced the discomfort of being too cold in the water, I can confidently say that swim shirts are a must-have for anyone who loves water activities.

One of the main reasons why swim shirts are necessary for warmth is because they provide an extra layer of insulation. Even on hot days, water can still be quite cold, especially if you’re swimming in a lake or ocean. By wearing a swim shirt, you create a barrier between your body and the cold water, helping to retain your body heat and keeping you warm.

Moreover, swim shirts also protect your skin from harsh elements such as wind and sun. Even if you’re not planning on swimming for long periods of time, prolonged exposure to these elements can lead to skin irritation and even sunburns. A good quality swim shirt acts as a shield for your skin, preventing any potential damage while still allowing you to

My Buying Guide on ‘Swim Shirts For Warmth’

When it comes to swimming, I always make sure to have the right gear to keep me comfortable and protected. One essential item that I have found to be a game changer is a swim shirt for warmth. These shirts not only provide warmth but also offer sun protection and added buoyancy while swimming. After trying out different swim shirts, here is my buying guide on how to choose the perfect one for your needs.

1. Material

The material of the swim shirt is crucial in determining its warmth and overall comfort. The most common materials used for swim shirts are neoprene and Lycra. Neoprene is a thicker material that provides excellent insulation, making it ideal for colder water temperatures. On the other hand, Lycra is thinner and more lightweight, making it suitable for warmer weather.

For added warmth, I prefer neoprene swim shirts as they trap heat close to the body and keep me comfortable even in chilly waters. However, if you plan on swimming in warmer temperatures, a Lycra swim shirt would be a better option.

2. Fit

The fit of a swim shirt can significantly impact its effectiveness in keeping you warm. A well-fitting shirt should provide a snug yet comfortable fit without restricting your movements. It should also cover your torso and arms adequately without any gaps or loose areas.

To ensure the perfect fit, I recommend trying on different sizes before making a purchase or referring to the size chart provided by the manufacturer.

3. Design

Swim shirts come in various designs such as short-sleeved, long-sleeved, and even hooded options. The design you choose will largely depend on your personal preference and intended use.

For added warmth during colder swims, I prefer long-sleeved swim shirts with a high neck design. This helps to keep my entire upper body warm and protected from the sun’s rays. However, if I am swimming in warmer weather, a short-sleeved or sleeveless design would be more suitable.

4. Sun Protection

Apart from providing warmth, swim shirts also offer sun protection. When choosing a swim shirt for warmth, it is essential to consider its UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. The higher the UPF rating, the more protection it offers against harmful UV rays.

I always opt for swim shirts with a UPF of 50+ to ensure maximum protection from the sun’s rays while swimming.

5. Brand and Price

There are several brands that offer swim shirts for warmth, but not all are created equal. It is essential to do some research on different brands and read reviews from other customers to determine which ones provide the best quality and durability.

When it comes to price, I suggest investing in a good quality swim shirt rather than opting for a cheaper option that may not provide adequate warmth or protection.

Conclusion

A swim shirt for warmth is an essential gear for any water activity enthusiast. By considering the material, fit, design, sun protection level, brand and price, you can choose the perfect one that suits your needs and budget. With this buying guide in mind, you can stay warm and comfortable during your next swimming adventure!

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Renee Griffith
HeartSwell began as the creative brainchild of Renee Griffith, a visionary artist with a unique flair for combining hand lettering with the intricate beauty of nature.

Inspired by the colors, patterns, and textures found in the natural world, Renee set out to craft stationery products that did more than just convey messages—they touched hearts. Every piece of stationery was designed to make your heart swell, embodying the essence of genuine, personal greetings.

In 2024, HeartSwell embarked on an exciting new chapter. Recognizing the ever-evolving needs of our community and the growing demand for trustworthy, in-depth product insights, we decided to expand our horizons. Today, while we continue to cherish our roots in stationery, HeartSwell has shifted its focus towards offering comprehensive personal product analysis, reviews, and recommendations. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to make informed decisions about the products that enrich your life.

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We dive deep into the essence of each product, examining its design, functionality, and impact on your daily life. Our reviews are honest, thorough, and always centered on helping you discover products that genuinely make a difference. Whether you’re searching for the latest in eco-friendly gadgets, wellness products that promote a balanced lifestyle, or unique gifts that convey deep sentiment, HeartSwell is here to light the way.