Buy zinc stick for surfing, kiting and windsurfing
A zinc stick is a solid or semi-solid sunscreen stick based on zinc oxide, developed specifically for athletes who spend long hours exposed to sun, wind and water. Unlike regular sunscreen, zinc oxide stays on the skin without washing off in waves or spray. This makes a zinc stick the standard choice among surfers, kitesurfers and windsurfers who spend a full day on the water. You apply the stick directly to the most vulnerable areas: nose, cheekbones, lips and the back of the neck.
Which type of zinc stick suits you?
Not every brand works the same way. Colour, zinc percentage and application vary by type. The table below helps you choose.
| Type | SPF | Waterproof | Colour on skin | Best for | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| White (classic) | 50+ | Yes | Visibly white | Surfing, beach | Thin layer on nose and cheeks |
| Coloured | 50+ | Yes | Colour visible | Kitesurfing, lifestyle | Nose, cheekbones, lips |
| Tinted | 30-50+ | Yes | Skin tone | Sailing, daily use | Full face application possible |
| Mineral | 50+ | Yes | White to tinted | Sensitive skin, children | Nose, neck, ears |
Rule of thumb: use SPF 50+ if you're spending more than an hour continuously on the water. Tinted variants offer slightly less coverage but work better for the full face. Coloured sticks are popular among kitesurfers and add a functional surf identity to your look.
Combining your zinc stick with your surf outfit
Protection doesn't start with skin alone. Pair your zinc stick with a well-fitting wetsuit that covers your torso and arms, so you only need the stick for exposed areas like your face, neck and hands. In warmer weather, a bikini combined with a zinc stick on the key spots is a popular choice for female surfers.
Frequently asked questions about zinc sticks
What is a zinc stick and why do surfers use it?
A zinc stick is a compact sunscreen stick based on zinc oxide, a mineral filter that reflects UV radiation rather than absorbing it. Surfers choose this product because it doesn't wash off when exposed to salt water and waves, unlike regular sunscreen cream. The solid formula stays on the skin even after repeated submersion. Zinc oxide also provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, which is essential during prolonged outdoor sports. The stick can be applied precisely to vulnerable areas like the nose and cheekbones, and leaves no greasy film on the rest of the face. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a wetsuit pocket or boardshorts pocket.
What SPF do I need for watersports?
For watersports, SPF 50+ is the recommended minimum. Water reflects UV radiation, increasing your total exposure compared to land-based activities. Wind also creates a cooling effect that makes it easy to underestimate how intense the sun is. SPF 50+ blocks around 98% of UVB radiation; a lower factor like SPF 30 blocks 97%, but that extra percentage makes a noticeable difference over a full day on the water. Apply the stick well before entering the water so the zinc oxide can bond to the skin, and reapply every 2 hours or after a long wipe-out.
Can a zinc stick be used as regular sunscreen?
Yes, a zinc stick works as face sunscreen too, but it's designed for targeted application on small areas. For the whole body, a liquid sunscreen is more practical. The stick leaves a white or coloured residue on some skin types that can stand out at the beach or campsite. Tinted variants are formulated to blend closer to the skin tone and are therefore more comfortable for everyday use outside of watersports. Keep in mind that a zinc stick contains a smaller amount of product than a tube of cream, so if you use it as a daily face protector you may need a new one more often.
How do I apply a zinc stick correctly?
Apply the zinc stick to a dry and clean face at least 15 minutes before entering the water. Stroke the stick directly onto the skin in thin, even layers over the most exposed zones: nose, cheeks, cheekbones, upper lip and ears. Blend the layer lightly with your finger to help the protection bond. Repeat after intensive swimming, after a wipe-out, or every 2 hours. Replace the cap immediately after use to prevent the stick from drying out. Don't store it in a hot car or on the dashboard, as heat changes the consistency of the solid formula.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
