1. Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Best Overall for Athletes
Coppertone Sport has been the GOAT of sport sunscreens for over 75 years, and honestly? The hype is deserved. This formula goes through the wringer – sweat, heat, water, you name it – and comes out swinging with full protection intact.
What I love: The 4-in-1 protection is no joke. It handles heat, humidity, sweat, AND water without breaking a sweat (pun intended). The formula rubs in smooth without that gross greasy film, and at around $12 a bottle, you can actually afford to use enough of it. Voted Most Trusted Sunscreen Brand by American shoppers in the 2024 BrandSpark study – so I'm clearly not the only one who's obsessed.
2. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55
Best Lightweight / Non-Greasy Formula
If you hate that slimy sunscreen feel mid-workout, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is about to become your new best friend. Their Dry-Touch technology is legit – it absorbs fast and leaves this clean, almost matte finish that actually feels good on your skin.
What I love: The Helioplex technology delivers killer UVA/UVB protection in a formula that feels practically weightless. It's like wearing nothing at all while still being fully protected. I've used this on ocean kayaking trips and it handled saltwater spray like a champ. The #1 dermatologist-recommended suncare brand for a reason.
3. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Best for Beach & Surf Lifestyle
Trust the Bum – that's their motto, and they've earned it. Sun Bum was literally created by people who live on the beach and need protection that can handle the most intense days under the sun. If surfers trust it, you know it's the real deal.
What I love: This stuff smells like summer in a bottle – people literally stop me to ask what I'm wearing. The Vitamin E-enriched formula keeps skin moisturized even after hours in salt water, and the Hawaii 104 Act compliance means you're not wrecking the reefs while you ride the waves. It's the perfect blend of effective protection and beach vibes.
4. EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Best Dermatologist-Recommended
If your derm could only recommend one sport sunscreen, it'd probably be this one. EltaMD UV Sport was specifically engineered for athletes who demand the best – we're talking outdoor enthusiasts, golfers (it won the Golf Digest 2022 Editor's Choice Award), and anyone who takes their skin protection as seriously as their training.
What I love: The hybrid zinc oxide formula is gentle enough for sensitive skin but tough enough to handle extreme conditions. The best part? It doesn't drip or sting when sweat starts pouring. I've worn this through HIIT workouts in 90-degree heat and my eyes stayed completely comfortable. Worth every penny if you're serious about protecting your skin during performance.
If eye irritation is a concern for you, our Best Under-Eye Sunscreens guide also highlights formulas specifically designed for that delicate area.
5. Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
Best Natural & Reef-Safe Option
Okay, eco-warriors – this one's for you. Badger Sport was the first sunscreen EVER to earn the rigorous Protect Land + Sea Certification, and it does all that with just 4 simple ingredients. Yes, FOUR. That's cleaner than most face washes.
What I love: The 98% organic formula feels more like skincare than sunscreen. Made by a women-owned, family-run B-Corp in New Hampshire using 100% solar power, this is about as guilt-free as sun protection gets. The 22.5% zinc oxide provides legit broad-spectrum protection, and the sunflower oil base keeps skin moisturized without any synthetic junk. Perfect for ocean swimmers who actually care about the reefs they're swimming around.
For a broader look at effective reef-safe SPF options beyond just this one, check out our Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens guide.
6. Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
Best Cosmetically Elegant Formula
Supergoop basically exists to make sunscreen that you actually WANT to wear. Their PLAY formula was designed to correct everything you've ever hated about sunscreen – and it actually delivers. This has been a fan-favorite for 15+ years for good reason.
What I love: Zero white cast, zero stickiness, and this light fresh scent that disappears after a few minutes. The antioxidant-rich formula (sunflower and rosemary extracts) nourishes your skin while protecting it. Fun fact: PLAY was actually the first traditional sunscreen ever created without oxybenzone. Plus, it comes in an 18 oz family pump for those of us who go through sunscreen like water.
Quick Comparison: Best Sport Sunscreens at a Glance
Mineral vs. Chemical Sport Sunscreens: What's the Deal?
Real talk – both types work great for sports. Here's the breakdown so you can pick what vibes with you. If you want a deeper look at what sets chemical and mineral sunscreens apart — including how they work, key benefits, and when to choose which — we cover it in more detail in our Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen guide.
How to Pick the Right Sport Sunscreen
By Activity
Swimming/Water Sports: Go with 80-minute water resistance minimum. Coppertone Sport, Sun Bum Original, or Badger Sport for reef-friendly oceans.
Running/Cycling: Choose lightweight, non-greasy formulas that won't drip. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer or Supergoop PLAY are clutch.
Golf/Tennis: You need something that won't affect your grip. EltaMD UV Sport is literally designed for this.
Hiking/Outdoor Adventures: Long-lasting protection and easy reapplication matter. Coppertone Sport or the 18 oz Supergoop pump.
By Skin Concern
Sensitive Skin: EltaMD UV Sport (hybrid formula) or Badger Sport (100% mineral) – both fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
Acne-Prone: Non-comedogenic formulas like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer or Supergoop PLAY won't clog pores.
Darker Skin Tones: Supergoop PLAY and chemical formulas generally leave zero white cast — and if you want even more top picks specifically crafted for deeper tones, check out our Best Sunscreens for Dark Skin Tones guide.
How We Tested
Every sunscreen on this list was put through real-world athlete testing:
- Sweat resistance: Did it hold up during intense workouts and runs?
- Water resistance: How did it perform after swimming and towel-drying?
- Eye sting factor: Does it burn when sweat drips down?
- Texture & feel: Greasy? Heavy? Does it affect your grip or feel uncomfortable?
- White cast: How visible is it on different skin tones?
- Reapplication ease: Can you reapply quickly mid-activity?
- Value: Price per ounce and overall effectiveness
Best Waterproof & Sport Sunscreens FAQ
What is the best waterproof sunscreen for swimming
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 and Sun Bum Original SPF 50 are top picks for swimming. Both offer 80 minutes of water resistance and stay put during laps. For a reef-safe option, Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 is Hawaii and Mexico approved while still providing excellent water protection.
How often should I reapply sport sunscreen?
Reapply sport sunscreen every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming, heavy sweating, or towel drying. Even water-resistant formulas rated for 80 minutes should be reapplied after water activities for maximum protection during athletic activities.
What's the difference between water-resistant and waterproof sunscreen?
No sunscreen is truly waterproof - the FDA banned that term. Water-resistant sunscreens are tested to maintain SPF protection for either 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating. Sport sunscreens like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer and EltaMD UV Sport are rated for 80 minutes of water resistance.
Which sport sunscreen won't sting my eyes when I sweat?
EltaMD UV Sport SPF 50 is specifically formulated not to drip into eyes or sting during athletic activities. Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen is another excellent choice as zinc oxide-based formulas are generally less irritating. Both are fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested.
Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better for sports?
Both work well for sports. Chemical sunscreens like Coppertone Sport and Supergoop PLAY absorb quickly with no white cast but need 15 minutes to activate. Mineral sunscreens like Badger Sport work immediately and are gentler on sensitive skin but may leave a white cast. EltaMD UV Sport combines both for best results.
What SPF should athletes use?
Dermatologists recommend SPF 30 minimum for outdoor activities, but SPF 50 is ideal for prolonged athletic activities. SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays while SPF 50 blocks 98%. The key is consistent application and reapplication every 2 hours during extended outdoor sports.
Are sport sunscreens reef-safe?
Not all sport sunscreens are reef-safe. Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 is certified reef-friendly and approved for Hawaii and Mexico waters. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 is also Hawaii 104 Act compliant, meaning it's free from oxybenzone and octinoxate that harm coral reefs.
Can I use sport sunscreen on my face?
Yes, most sport sunscreens like EltaMD UV Sport, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer, and Supergoop PLAY are formulated for both face and body. Look for non-comedogenic formulas if you're acne-prone. For sensitive facial skin, EltaMD UV Sport with zinc oxide is the gentlest option.
The Bottom Line
The best sport sunscreen is the one you'll actually wear and reapply consistently. If I had to pick just one, Coppertone Sport SPF 50 delivers the best combination of protection, wear, and value for most athletes. But if you're rocking sensitive skin, EltaMD UV Sport is worth the splurge, and Badger Sport is the move if reef protection matters to you.
Whatever you choose, just promise me you'll stop skipping SPF during your workouts. Your future skin will thank you big time.
Looking for more sun protection tips? Check out our guides to the best mineral sunscreens for face and best sunscreen sticks for easy reapplication on the go.
