Why UPF Swimwear Is the Summer Essential You Didn’t Know You Needed

There’s something magical about summer. The long beach days, salty skin, slow sunsets and spontaneous swims. But there’s also something most people forget until it’s too late – the sun’s bite. And while we’re all about that golden glow, your skin deserves protection that doesn’t mean hiding in the shade or slathering on sticky SPF every hour.

Enter UPF swimwear – your summer secret weapon.

At Ocean Soul Swimwear, we design long sleeve swimsuits and one pieces not just to look stunning, but to actively protect your skin while you play, paddle, dive, or lounge. And in places like Bali and the Mentawai Islands, where the sun beams strong year-round, UPF swimwear is the kind of wardrobe upgrade your future self will thank you for.

What Is UPF Swimwear, and Why Does It Matter?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. Just like SPF for sunscreen, UPF measures how much UV radiation a fabric blocks. A UPF 50+ rating, which our swimwear proudly holds, means that only 1/50th of the sun’s rays can get through. In other words, about 98% UV protection.

Why’s that important? Because water reflects sunlight, increasing your exposure. And most regular swimsuits? They’re not designed to block UV. That means while you think you’re covered, your skin is still soaking up the rays.

Our solution? Swimwear that shields your skin without compromising on comfort, style, or performance.

Long Sleeve Swimsuits That Don’t Sacrifice Style

There’s a misconception that UPF swimwear = conservative or clinical. We’re flipping that idea on its head.

Take our best-selling Sulawesi suit –  long sleeve one pieces that cinch the waist, sculpt the silhouette, and hold strong in the surf. No riding up. No pulling down. Just smooth, confident movement whether you’re catching waves, diving deep, or wading through reef pools.

And yes, they look incredible. Every panel is designed with intention. Every seam placed to flatter. With block colours that elongate and contour, our UPF suits make sun safety feel bold, not boring.

Why Mentawai and Sulawesi Are Your Best Travel Mates

We didn’t just name our swimsuits after these places for fun. They’re inspired by them.

The Mentawai one piece suit is made for adventure - from open ocean swims to spontaneous surfs at secret reef breaks. It’s ideal for travel where you’ll be moving constantly, switching between the water and the boat deck, and you want something that dries fast, stays put, and protects you from sunburn all day long.

The Sulawesi long sleeve one piece suit was born for depth - freediving, sunrise snorkels, yoga on the sand. Its sleek sleeves and high neckline keep your shoulders and chest shielded, while the signature panelling and soft compression give you that supportive, held-in feel that moves with you.

A Smarter Way to Pack for Bali or Beyond

One of the smartest swaps you can make for your next tropical trip? Pack one good UPF-rated long sleeve swimsuit instead of multiple flimsy ones.

Here’s why:

• It doubles as a rash guard and surf suit.
• It means less sunscreen (better for reef and skin).
• It replaces a cover-up when you’re walking to and from the beach.
• It’s travel-tested and lasts twice as long as most suits.

If you’re heading to Bali, we’d suggest wearing one of our UPF swimsuits as your everyday go-to. From Canggu to Uluwatu to the Gilis, the sun is strong, and your skin will thank you. Plus - you’ll be the best dressed on the beach without even trying.

Built for Women Who Move

Ocean Soul Swimwear was created out of necessity. We needed suits that wouldn’t slip in the surf, that felt flattering without fuss, and that held up to long days in and out of the water. What we couldn’t find - we made.

All our UPF suits are made from recycled Italian fabric that’s buttery soft, compressive in all the right ways, and double lined for strength and opacity. So not only are you protected from the sun, you’re wearing something that honours your body and the planet.

Don’t Just Swim. Stay Protected.

There’s freedom in not having to think about sunburn. In staying in the water longer without the sting. In knowing that your swimsuit isn’t just beautiful - it’s functional, sustainable, and ready for wherever you take it.

So next time you pack your bag for a summer holiday, make sure you include a long sleeve swimsuit that’s up for anything - from beach to reef, boat to board, sunrise to golden hour.

Sulawesi or Mentawai? That’s up to you.

Planning a beach trip soon? You’ll love these reads next:

How One Piece Swimwear Became the It-Girl Look of the Season

Best Bikinis for Summer - Styles That Stay On and Stand Out

Our Favourite Places to Freedive in Indonesia