10 Best Dive Skins 2025 in the United States

The O'NEILL Men's Standard Basic Skins 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt is designed for water sports enthusiasts seeking reliable sun protection. Made from a comfortable yet durable 6oz polyester/spandex blend, it offers a slim fit that stays close to the body without being too tight, which helps with range of motion during activities like surfing or paddle sports.

Its standout feature is the UPF 50+ rating, recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, ensuring excellent protection against harmful UV rays. The shirt also features minimal seam placement, which reduces irritation and helps prevent rashes, making it a good choice for prolonged wear in the water. The pull-on closure makes it simple to wear, though hand washing is required to maintain fabric quality.

This sun shirt provides a dependable option for anyone needing strong UV protection and comfort in water sports, especially if a slim fit and rash guard features without extra bulk are desired.

The Cressi Skin dive-skin is a lightweight and stretchy full-body suit designed for water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddle boarding. Made from a soft nylon and elastane blend, it fits snugly without feeling too tight, helping keep you warm while allowing freedom of movement. Its long sleeves and full coverage provide good protection against UV rays, jellyfish stings, and minor scratches, making it a solid choice for sun-sensitive skin and rocky or reef environments.

The front zipper makes putting it on and taking it off easier, which is especially handy when wet. While it can be worn alone, it also works well as a thin, warm layer under a thicker wetsuit. The suit dries quickly and is easy to care for, but you should avoid high heat drying or harsh chemicals to keep it in good shape. One downside is that the dive-skin is quite thin, so it offers limited thermal insulation compared to neoprene wetsuits and may not be ideal for colder water on its own.

Sizing is important since it needs to fit closely without squeezing, so checking the size chart carefully is recommended. Backed by a 2-year warranty and the trusted Cressi brand, this dive-skin is a versatile and comfortable option, particularly suited for warmer waters or as a protective layer for various water sports.

The O'Neill Men's Basic Skins UPF 50+ Rash Guard is a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight, protective layer for water activities like surfing, swimming, or paddle sports. Made from a comfortable yet durable polyester and spandex blend, it offers a snug, form-fitting design that feels like a second skin, which helps reduce chafing and irritation. Its UPF 50+ rating means it provides excellent protection against harmful UV rays, a big plus for long hours in the sun. The rash guard features minimal seams, which reduces the chances of skin irritation during active use.

The fabric weight (6oz) suggests it’s designed more for sun protection and light abrasion resistance rather than warmth. It’s easy to put on with a simple pull-on style but requires hand washing to keep it in good shape. The black color and basic design make it versatile, though it lacks additional features like zip closures or extra padding.

This rash guard performs well for those who want reliable UV protection and a tight, comfortable fit for summer water sports. However, it may not be the best choice if you need insulation or extra durability for rougher conditions.