Best Waterproof Sunscreens for the Pool

Waterproof sunscreen protects your skin and is essential if your aquatic fitness takes place in an outdoor pool.  I’ve tried a ton of different brands, and have a few favorite water resistant sunscreens for pool workouts. I look for:

  • Sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB (broad spectrum)
  • Water resistant sunscreen
  • Non comedogenic sunscreen
  • Sunscreen that absorbs easily without a residue
  • High SPF sunscreen

Please note: the above criteria is what to look for in a sunscreen for the pool. If you are going to the ocean or a lake, then you need to add another important factor: does the lotion contain chemicals that can harm the natural environment? When I go to the beach, I use chemical-free sunscreen that is “coral safe.” It contains natural ingredients that will not harm the marine ecosystem.)

Below are links to top sunscreens for the pool I love that are available on Amazon. What I like about shopping for sunscreen on Amazon is that I can take the time to read ingredients and reviews. Amazon has competitive prices as well. I found that it is worth it to spring for slightly more expensive but higher quality sunscreen. I advise getting a small or medium size container as if a large container sits in your bathroom for years it may lose effectiveness as it ages.

ALWAYS wear suntan lotion if you do aqua fitness outside on a regular basis.  All that sun adds up.  I highly recommend wearing sun protective rashguard to protect your shoulders, a hat to provide shade, and sunscreen on your face and neck and even back of hands. Important tip: Let sunscreen absorb and dry for a minimum of 10 minutes before getting wet, otherwise it may just wash off.

Water Resistant Sunscreen Recommendations

 

If you want the best sunscreen, reach for La Roche-Posay. This top brand is recommended by dermatologists. It uses something called  with ANTHELIOS that combines UVA/UVB filters for advance protection + antioxidants to defend against free radicals.  What is great about this high end suncreen is that it protects using an ultra-light formula that has a subtle matte finish. It absorbs so quickly and feels like you are wearing nothing. You can use it plain or under make up.  It is water resistant. Works for most sensitive skin and is paraben-free, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. You can buy this at your dermatologist office or at some stores, but Amazon often has the best prices. Read the detailed information and reviews on Amazon to learn more.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3% (sunscreen), Homosalate 10.72% (sunscreen), Octisalate 3.21% (sunscreen), Octocrylene 6% (sunscreen), Oxybenzone 3.86% (sunscreen)

 

Australia has thousands of miles of beaches so it makes sense that Australian companies have developed some of the best sunscreens. Blue Lizard has been a top brand in the land down under for decades and it sells well here in the states as well. The good news is that it is carried on Amazon, so it is easy to buy. If you read reviews, you will see that many people swear by Blue Lizard sunscreen.  It is mineral-based with zinc oxide one of the protective ingredients. What that means is that you get immediate protection from a barrier that acts like little mirrors reflecting off both UVA and UVB rays. Unlike some zinc products, it rubs in clear and does not leave a sticky white film all over.  And this brand stays on and lasts, even in water.  Surfers love it. It costs a bit more than bargain brands, but a little goes a long way. Put a small amount on, rub it in well, and you are good to jump in the pool and forget about it for at least an hour or even two. An added bonus: the bottle changes color after prolonged exposure to UV light to remind you to reapply. Dermatologists recommend this brand.

 

Neutrogena SheerZinc Face is a great sunscreen to throw in your bag. And this is a deal because Amazon offers a really good price on it as an Add-On Item. This is a 2-fluid ounce tube of naturally sourced 100% zinc oxide face sunscreen that protects against harmful UVA and UVB rays. It goes on easily with a non-greasy formula that is lightweight and it layers invisibly under makeup. Recommended for sensitive skin.

Amazon Add-on Items are low-priced items that can only be purchased as part of a larger order of $25 or more. You can read more about the benefits on Amazon, but the program is a great way to qualify for free shipping on our total order while you enjoy savings on the added items.

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Aqua Shoes: Best Pool Shoes for Aquatic Fitness

Aqua shoesFit4Ever | Aqua Awesome

Best Aqua Shoes for Aquatic Fitness Review

Find the best aqua shoes for aquatic fitness workout. You want pool shoes that are comfortable and lightweight so they don’t drag you down, but also ones that give you cushion and support and are sturdy and durable. The best aquatic shoes also dry out quickly. Here are four top aqua workout shoes that are well reviewed. You can use them for aquatic fitness as well as the beach, swimming, surf, pool, sailing, boating, kayaking, windsurfing and other water activities. Click on the Amazon link for full details, photos, and reviews.

What I like about Putu aqua shoes is that they are made out of a  stretchy breathable light-weight fabric for fast drying. They also go on easy with elastic bands that do not require lacing up. They feature a sturdy, no-slip rubber sole, with several holes so water drains. The Putu shoes are great for aquatic fitness, but they are also great beach shoes because they offer protection walking over rocks.

What I like about Aleader shoes is that they are cute and sporty without being too flashy. They look almost like a regular shoe, only with mesh on top and a hole on the sole to provide for breathability and quick drying. They also have sturdy soles that make them versatile. I love the look.

Merrell water shoes are more expensive, but they are top quality with a real Vibram sole. Merrell makes great hiking shoes, and these look like a water version of their hiking shoes. If you have issues with your back or knees, the extra cushioning of the Merrell pool shoes might be worth the added cost. You can wear these all over as well.

Why Aqua Shoes are Important

The best Aqua workouts include at least part of the routine in the shallow end of the pool so that you get the benefit of some weight-bearing exercise. Weight-bearing aqua exercises help to build up bone health and get you in shape to better engage in land exercise. Aqua shoes protect your joints and give you a good grip. They also increase the intensity of the workout.

Aquatic Fitness Expert

Get advice on aquatic fitness from someone who been taking water aerobics classes for more than 10 years and is a certified aqua instructor. I have used several different brands of aqua shoes and seen the kinds of shoes others use as well. The technology in pool shoes has improved over the years! While it is possible to do aqua classes without aquatic fitness shoes, I highly recommend them. Even though you are in water and thus do not have as much weight on your feet, the shoes will further protect your joints and help you achieve a better workout. This is especially important for older aqua class participants as well as those with back or knee issues.

Disclosure: I am a participant in the Amazon Services Associates Program and may earn fees at no added cost to you if you purchase through my link.