Best Rash Guards of 2024: 9 Rashies to Choose From
Last Updated on November 2, 2023 by Matt Hapgood
If you’re new to the world of watersports or just want to upgrade your beachwear game, you’ve likely heard the term rash guard, rash vest or rashie, floating around.
But what exactly is a rash guard, and why is it so crucial for your sun-soaked adventures?
In this blog post, I take a deep dive into everything you need to know about the trusty rashie, and pick out my best rash guards for 2023.
Let’s go!
Best for Surfing
The Vissla Easy Seas Eco long-sleeve rash guard is great in and out of the water.
UPF 50–rated and made with 100% recycled fabric, it’s my top pick for surfers – I’m sure you will not be disappointed!
Best Overall
O’Neill is a brand that’s been around as long as I can remember making great quality wetsuits, clothing and watersports accessories.
The Basic Skins long-sleeved rash guard is pretty much the best in the business for a no-frills rash guard at a great price.
Best for Kids
If you haven’t heard of the beach brand Snapper Rock you need to check them out.
Founded in New Zealand, all of their beach gear is UPF50+ and all kids styles have matching adult versions too! Pretty cool!
What is a Rash Guard?
A rash guard is a type of athletic shirt or t shirt designed for water activities like surfing, swimming, paddle boarding, and snorkeling.
These shirts are made from quick-drying, stretchy fabrics like polyester and spandex, which not only keep you dry but also allow for a full range of motion.
Unlike your standard cotton t-shirt, rash guards are specifically engineered to meet the needs of water enthusiasts and are designed to be used in and out of the water so they stand up to UV rays, seawater and other harsh environments.
Why Are Rash Guards Important?
UV Protection
One of the most significant benefits of a good rash guard is its Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating.
These shirts are designed to block harmful UV rays, helping to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Many rash guards offer UPF 50+ protection, which blocks over 98% of harmful rays.
Skin Protection
As the name suggests, rash guards also protect against skin irritation, which can be caused by surf wax and rough texture on the surface of a surfboard or by prolonged exposure to saltwater.
This is particularly useful for surfers who often lie on their boards while waiting for the next wave.
Temperature Regulation
In cooler conditions, a rash guard helps to retain body heat, making it a valuable asset for water sports that require extended periods in the water.
Aerodynamic Advantage
For competitive swimmers or surfers, the sleek fit of a rash guard reduces drag, helping you glide more smoothly through the water.
Versatility
Rash guards are incredibly versatile. They come in various styles, fits, and features, making them suitable for a wide range of water-based activities.
If you’re looking to enjoy your time in the water without worrying about sunburn or skin irritation, a rash guard is a must-have item in your beach bag.
With numerous options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you find the best rash guard for your needs.
Stay tuned as I break down the top picks of 2023, categorized by activity, budget, and unique features.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, an avid swimmer, or simply someone who loves to lounge by the water, I’ve got your back – literally!
Jump Straight To My Top Picks
Should you wear a rash guard when surfing?
Yes, wearing a rash guard while surfing is highly recommended for several reasons.
Firstly, a rash guard provides an extra layer of protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Secondly, it helps to prevent skin irritation caused by the rough texture of the surfboard or the friction between your skin and the board. Lastly, the quick-drying and breathable material keeps you comfortable for extended periods in the water.
How tight should a surf rash guard be?
The fit of a rash guard largely depends on your personal preference and the specific activity you’ll be doing. If you are just surfing, the trend is to go a bit looser. If you are doing more of a fitness activity, a tighter rash vest is probably the best.
For surfing, a snug but not overly tight fit is generally recommended. This ensures that the rash guard stays in place while you’re catching waves and minimizes drag in the water. However, it should not be so tight that it restricts your movement or makes it difficult to breathe.
What is the best material for rash guards?
The best material for rash guards is usually a blend of polyester and spandex or Lycra.
This blend provides the stretchiness needed for free movement, as well as quick-drying capabilities essential for water sports. These materials are also effective for UV protection, often offering a UPF rating of 50 or higher.
What is the difference between a rash guard and a rash vest?
The terms “rash guard” and “rash vest” are often used interchangeably, but there can be slight differences.
A rash guard typically refers to a shirt specifically designed for water activities and usually comes with long or short sleeves.
A rash vest, on the other hand, usually has a more straightforward design and is sleeveless. Both provide UV protection and are meant to prevent skin irritation, but rash guards offer more coverage and are generally preferred for activities like surfing or swimming.
Do Rashies need to be tight?
Like rash vests for surfing, the fit for general-purpose rash guards or “rashies” depends on the activity.
For swimming or activities where aerodynamic performance is important, a tighter fit is generally preferable. For more relaxed activities like snorkeling or lounging, some people prefer a looser fit for comfort.
However, it’s essential that the rash guard is not so loose that it hampers its primary function of skin protection and UV resistance.
How We Tested The Best Rash Guards
To ensure the most accurate and reliable recommendations, we put these rash guards through a series of rigorous tests. Our evaluation process included:
- Material Testing: Assessing the fabric for quick-drying capabilities, UV protection, and durability.
- Fit and Comfort: Wearing each rash guard for extended periods to evaluate its comfort level and fit.
- Performance: Testing the rash guards under various conditions, including surfing, swimming, and other water activities.
- User Feedback: Collecting reviews and testimonials from users who have tried these rash guards.
- Price Evaluation: Comparing the features and quality against the price to assess value for money.
How to Care for Your Rash Guard
Taking proper care of your rash guard will extend its lifespan and maintain its performance:
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your rash guard with fresh water after use to remove salt, chlorine, and other contaminants.
- Hand Wash: Use mild detergent and cold water to hand wash your rash guard. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
- Air Dry: Hang the rash guard to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can degrade the material over time.
- Avoid Ironing and Dry Cleaning: These can damage the fabric and affect its protective qualities.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your rash guard remains effective and durable over time.
My 8 Best Rash Guards
Best All-Around Rash Guard
1. O’Neill Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Product Description
Jack O’Neill, credited with inventing the neoprene wetsuit in Northern California, has left a legacy of creating great quality products in and out of the surf.
The Basic Skins rash guard is no different – and my pick for the best all-around rashie. Well-made using a high-quality polyester/spandex mix and flat locked stitching throughout.
Comes in a range of colors too, and at a good price, available for less than $40 at most stores.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- 50+ U.P.F. Maximum Protection
- Strategic Seam Placement
- 4-way stretch
- Rash Protection
- Performance Fit
- Reduces Fatigue From Sun Exposure
- 6oz Polyester/Spandex
- Flatlock Stitched Breathable Seams
My Thoughts
I have had a few O’Neill wetsuits and rash guards in my time, and they have always been well-made with quality workmanship.
The Basic Skins rash guard is no exception – and that’s why it’s my go-to for the best all-around rashie.
Take it on vacation, use it for beach days, snorkelling, or trips on the river – anywhere you will be exposed to the sun for an extended period of time.
Lightweight and breathable it ticks all the boxes – my top pick!
Best Rash Guard for Surfing
2. Vissla Easy Seas Eco Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Product Description
The Easy Seas rash guard is my top pick for surfing – available in short or long sleeve (although I prefer the long sleeve version).
Comes with an elastic loop at the bottom hem to attach to your boardies, and made from 100% recycled materials : 85% RECYCLED POLY 15% RECYCLED SPANDEX
Great choice, and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- Long-sleeve 5 oz. surf tee with screen printed design on chest
- Made with REPREVE® polyester—which contains recycled materials, including plastic bottles—and recycled spandex
- Elastic loop at front bottom hem for attachment to board shorts’ drawstring
- 50+ U.P.F. Maximum Protection
I remember when Vissla was formed way back when a bunch of ex-Billabong crew clubbed togtehr to start a fresh and new surf brand.
They have remained true to the ‘core’ of surfing making functional clothing, wetsuits and accessories.
The Vissla Eco Seas rash guard is no exceptions – and that’s why I think it’s the best rash guard for surfers.
Great for those warm summer surfs, or your next boat trip to the Ments, you should get one now!
Best Rash Guard for Swimming
3. Speedo UV Long Sleeve Swimshirt
Product Description
Speedo has been around since 1928 if you can believe it! And making quality gear for all manner of watersports ever since.
Not really on the radar for surf just yet, but they are dipping their toes into the water (see what I did there) with their rash guard lineup. – They have long and short sleeved versions, loose fitting and tight fitting and a whole host of colurwasy to chsose from .
The best one for swimming in my opinion is this one – the UV Long Sleeve Swimshirt. UPF50+, eco fabric, and tight-fitting, it will be a great addition if you swim a lot and need some sun protection.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- 100% Polyester
- Imported
- Polyester lining
- Pull On closure
- Hand Wash Only
- Block the burn UPF 50+
- Speedo Eco Fabric
My Thoughts
If ocean swimming is your thing and you need osmething to keep the rays off you while you’re in teh water, this is a great optin.
The Speedo UV Swimshirt is nicely made, and uses recycled fabric too.
Wear this one tighter than you would wear a regular t-shirt so swimming is easy – you don’t want the drag from a baggy rash guard slowing down your pace!
Best Budget Rash Guard
4. Body Glove Mens Rash Guard
Product Description
The iconic Hand logo from Body Glove has had a bit of a resurgence of late – with an awesome young team on the surfing side, their gear is timeless and great quality.
This short sleeve rashie is a perfect budget option if you want to save on the $$$’s – around $20 at the time of writing.
Made to be worn tight, this can be put under your wetsuit to prevent rash under your armpits, or if you are in warm water just pair it with some boardies for protection from the sun.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- UPF 50+ Sun Protection
- Form Fitting Rashguard
- Quick Dry Polyester Spandex
My Thoughts
I have a place in my heart for Body Glove – fond memories of the wetsuits when I was a kid growing up, and the iconic logo have stood the test of time.
In today’s World where the surf industry is ever-changing, Body Glove isits still going and expanding their line.
This basic rashie is great value, coming in at under 20 bucks on Amazon at the time of writing.
A great option for that sneaky trip away, or for beach or lake sessions in the Summer.
Best Womens Rash Guard
5. Roxy Whole Hearted Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Product Description
Quintessential surf brand Roxy has been making great beach gear for decades – they seem to always be on point with styling, colors and fit too.
The Roxy Wholehearted rash guard is perfect for those sunny afternoons at the beach, lake or on the boat. Super soft and comfortable Poly Elastane mix, this rashie will dry in super quick time too!
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- 50 UPF protective fabric
- Material: 92% Polyester 8% Elastane
- Thermal Protection : No
- Long sleeves
- No boardshort connector
My Thoughts
A great womens rashie from Roxy, the Whole Hearted rash guard ticks all boxes.
The only thing missing is a loop to hook onto boardshorts (if you are wearing them that is).
Other than that, it’s a great option, with loads of colors and sizes, quality materials and craftsmanship.
A perfect choice.
Best Loose-Fitting Rash Guard
6. Billabong Loose Fit Rashguard
Product Description
This loose fit rash guard is great – and I love the old retro ‘Arch’ logo from Billabong. Takes me back to my youth!
If you don’t like the tight-fitting style of some rash guards, this looser style may be for you – more like a t-shirt, but made from Billabong’s ‘silk-touch’ recycled polyester fabric.
Quick-drying and really comfortable, this is a great option and my pick for the best loose fitting rashie.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- Premium silk touch recycled polyester elastane blend solid and heathers fabric
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Loose fit
- Crew neck
- Short sleeves
My Thoughts
Billabong have it sorted with their offering of a loose-fitting rashie.
Quick drying, you’d be ok wearing this to the beach bar after a surf – it looks a lot like a regular t-shirt.
Conforatble in the water too, I like this option because personally, I prefer a looser fitting rash guard. Comfortable
Big thumbs up for Billabong on this one.
Best Hooded Rash Guard
7. O’Neill Premium Skins Hooded Rash Guard
Product Description
The O’Neill Premium Skins hooded rash guard is one awesome bit of kit. Great for those super hot locations, like the North Shore of Hawaii, or to use when you know you will be exposed to the sun for hours at a time.
It features a neat pocket on the small of your back too – great for stashing small items like keys, sunscreen or a credit card!
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- Pull On closure
- Hand Wash Only
- Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended Product; UPF 50+ Ultraviolet Protection
- Perfect For Surfing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Boating, And Beach Days
- Minimal Seam Placement For Maximum Rash Protection
- Premium 6oz Nylon/Spandex Incorporates 4-Way Stretch And Super Soft Rash Protection
My Thoughts
I did a deep dive into the best surf hats last year – but this rash guard with a combined hat may be a better solution for some of you.
If you regularly surf or SUP under intense sunshine, I would highly recommend this rash guard.
Maybe a little on the pricey side if you are just a weekend warrior – at the time of writing these are about $60, so about double what you would pay for a budget rash guard.
Having said that, for a piece of quality kit that will be a great addition to your watersports wardrobe, I think it’s totally worth the investment .
Best Kids Rash Guard – Girls
8. Snapper Rock Boho Tropical Rash Guard
Product Description
Made with eco-friendly fabric the Snapper Rock kids rash guards are super comfy and super sustainable!
Snapper Rock uses REPREVE material made from recycled polyester yarn in board shorts and rash guards, helping to remove and reuse plastic from our planet. They also use home compostable packaging and swing tags made from recycled paper.
Oh, and grab a matching rash guard for yourself too! Snapper Rock make adults and kids rashies with the same prints so you can really co-ordinate for the whole family!
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- UPF50+ sun protection
- Matching styles available for the whole family
- Lightweight
- Quick-drying
- Breathable
- Rash top length from front neck to hem – Size 2 = 11.8, Size 3 = 12.5, Size 4 = 13.3, Size 6 = 14.1, Size 8 = 15.3, Size 10 = 16.5, Size 12 = 17.9 inches
- In-studio Model is 15 yrs, 67 inch tall and is wearing our size 16
My Thoughts
I love what I’ve learned about this brand Snapper Rock.
After doing research for this post I found the brand mentioned across the internet – and I have to say I like what I see!
They are doing things right from an environmental standpoint, and actually putting a bit of thought into the prints for kids – not just slapping a logo on and making the sizing smaller.
Some folks will find the pricing a bit spicy, but if you have more than once child and can hand it down then it’s a no-brainer for me!
Best Kids Rash Guard – Boys
9. Snapper Rock Surf Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Product Description
Like I mentioned above, I really like what the brand Snapper Rock are doing – thumbs up!
Lovely quality rashies, this boys option is fun and the long sleeves reduce the time needed to slap sunscreen all over your beloved offspring!
I’m sure your kids will love them too.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Key Features
- UPF50+ Sun Protection
- Lightweight
- Quick-drying
- Breathable
My Thoughts
Snapper Rock are making some really cool beach gear these days – the kids stuff is the standout for me, but they do make rash guards and swimwear for adults too.
With cool prints and comfortable fabric, you will have happy kids. And we know the old saying, errr, happy kids, happy life (or something like that).
Anyway, Snapper Rock rash guards come highly recommended!
To Sum Up
I hope you enjoyed this deep dive into the best rash guards on the market. As with all of my reviews, I try to be open and honest so you can get the best productresearch without having to spend hours doing reaseach elsewhere.
And if you liked this post, check out my roundup of the best changing poncho’s here.
If you ended up buying something from this list, I’d love to hear about it – so reach out to me on X here.
