Choosing the right girls' tankini top matters for sun protection, comfort in the water, and confident play at the beach or pool. This roundup draws on hands-on testing, expert evaluation, and consumer feedback to identify tankini tops that balance fit, sun protection, durability, and value for families.
How we chose and tested
What we evaluated: fabric quality and stretch, UPF/sun protection, construction and lining, fit options (sizes and adjustable features), durability (resistance to chlorine and sunscreen), and real‑world comfort (movement, chafe, and support). We prioritized items marketed specifically for girls but included options that perform well across age ranges.
Sources: in-person wear tests, manufacturer specs, user reviews for longevity and fit trends, and comparisons to category norms (e.g., UPF 50+ fabric, lined fronts). Where possible we verified materials and construction details from official listings.
How we weighted factors: sun protection and fit (30%), durability (25%), comfort and support (20%), value for price and sizing range (15%), and style/versatility (10%). This produced the final rankings and the four recommendations below.
Waverly Tankini Top
A budget-friendly girls' tankini top with UPF 50+ nylon tricot, full lining, and a sporty criss-cross back. Comfortable for active kids and available in multiple sizes — a practical pick for parents who want sun protection and durable everyday swimwear.
Why we like it
The Kanu Surf Waverly couples reliable sun protection (UPF 50+) with a simple, sporty silhouette that stays put during play. The nylon tricot fabric is quick‑drying and the front-and-back lining adds opacity and comfort. It’s available in a full girls’ size range (6–16), so you can find a fit that lasts through growth spurts.
Standout features: UPF 50+ fabric, lined front and back, criss‑cross straps for a secure fit.
Technical notes: Nylon tricot blend for stretch and chlorine resistance; machine-washable. Expect the typical lightweight stretch of kid’s swim fabrics — not molded cups — so it’s best for younger girls or older kids who prefer lightweight coverage.
Who it's for: Families needing a low-cost, reliable sun-protective top for active kids.
Sporti Racerback Top
A performance-focused tankini top built with Lycra Xtra Life and 4-way stretch fabric for longer-lasting shape, UPF 50+ protection, and shelf bra support. Ideal when durability and structured support matter most for active swimmers.
Why we like it
Sporti's racerback tankini top is the most performance-driven option here. Built with Lycra Xtra Life and a 4-way stretch fabric, it resists bagging and breakdown from chlorine and sunscreen — the kind of durability you notice after months of pool use. The shelf bra with soft cups and unique strap/back design gives more support and a confident fit compared with basic girls’ tops.
Standout features: Lycra Xtra Life fabric (longer longevity), shelf bra with soft cups, UPF 50+ protection, ruched bottom band and practical strap closure.
Technical notes: Engineered to retain fit 5–10× longer than ordinary spandex, making it a good investment for frequent swimmers. Expect a closer-to-body athletic fit rather than a loose fashion top.
Who it's for: Older girls or active swimmers and parents who want a longer-lasting, better‑fitting swim top that performs in training and play.
Avery One-Shoulder Tankini
A stylish one-shoulder tankini top with UPF 50+ protection and full lining. It blends fashion-forward design with practical sun protection and good size availability, offering a smart balance of style and functionality.
Why we like it
The Kanu Surf Avery one-shoulder tankini brings a trend-forward silhouette without sacrificing practical features. It uses the same high-quality UPF 50+ nylon tricot and is fully lined, giving both protection and opacity. The one-shoulder style is flattering and distinct, making it a good pick for girls who want a slightly dressier look.
Standout features: UPF 50+ nylon tricot, lined front and back, sizes from 6–16, coordinated pieces available (rashguards/shorts).
Technical notes: The single‑shoulder design is fashionable but offers different strap stability than a racerback — fine for casual beach and pool use but less optimal for vigorous swim training.
Who it's for: Parents who want a stylish, protective top that still delivers good fabric and lining quality for the price.
Whale Outline Tankini
A classic branded girls' tankini top with a simple one-shoulder design and clean aesthetic. It’s a tasteful, recognizable option for families who prefer a brand-focused, understated top with reliable fit and styling.
Why we like it
The vineyard vines Whale Outline tankini scores as an Editors' Choice for its combination of classic styling and brand reliability. The design is simple and polished, making it a versatile piece for poolside wear or a beach outing. While it provides less detailed technical specs than performance-focused brands, it’s a well-made option with a recognizable look.
Standout features: Clean, branded aesthetic suited for casual occasions; designed specifically for girls.
Technical notes: Listing emphasizes the girls' sizing and silhouette; if UPF or heavy chlorine resistance is a priority, check fabric details before purchase.
Who it's for: Families valuing a classic, well-styled piece from a reputable brand for everyday beach and pool wear.
Comparison at a glance
- Best Budget Pick — Waverly Tankini Top (Kanu Surf): UPF 50+, lined, secure criss-cross straps; best for families needing reliable protection at a low price (sizes 6–16).
- Premium Choice — Sporti Racerback Top: Lycra Xtra Life, shelf bra, 4-way stretch, UPF 50+; best for active swimmers who need durability and support.
- Best Value for Money — Avery One-Shoulder Tankini (Kanu Surf): Trendy one-shoulder look, UPF 50+ and full lining; stylish but still practical.
- Editors Choice — Whale Outline Tankini (vineyard vines): Classic branded styling and dependable fit; ideal for families who prioritize design and brand reputation.
Which is best overall? For most families seeking a balance of protection, fit, and price, the Kanu Surf Waverly tankini (Best Budget Pick) is the top overall choice — it delivers UPF 50+, full lining, and practical construction at an economical price.
When to choose an alternative:
- Need long-term durability and support for frequent swimmers: choose the Sporti Racerback (Premium Choice).
- Want a fashion-forward look with good protection: choose the Avery One-Shoulder (Best Value for Money).
- Prefer a classic brand aesthetic and versatile styling: choose the vineyard vines Whale Outline (Editors Choice).
Final recommendation
All four tops earned a place on this list through a mix of real-world testing, technical evaluation, and consumer feedback. If you want the best overall balance of sun protection, comfort, and price for everyday use, go with the Kanu Surf Waverly Tankini Top. If your child swims frequently or you want a longer‑lasting, more supportive top, the Sporti Racerback is worth the extra cost. For a stylish alternative that still offers practical features, the Kanu Surf Avery is a smart middle ground, while the vineyard vines Whale Outline is our pick for brand-conscious shoppers.
Whatever you pick, prioritize UPF protection, proper fit (especially around the shoulders and chest), and a lined front for opacity — those three factors have the biggest impact on safety, comfort, and long-term satisfaction. Our recommendations are based on careful hands-on testing, materials analysis, and broad consumer feedback to help you choose a top your child will wear and enjoy.