You don’t want to buy a rash guard (also known as an exposure suit) that’s deficient for water sports.
Whether you’re slaying waves, climbing mountains, or just lounging at the beach, rash guards are a must-have for any active person.
They protect from UV rays and chafing and offer an extra layer of warmth on chilly days.
Plus, rash guards come in all sorts of different colors and styles, so there’s something for everyone!
We will share with you 21 of the best rash guards that we think are worth checking out in this post.
Contents
What We Looked For
First, we considered price and value for our analysis.
Price is a factor of how much rash guards cost across different brands and models.
Price also tells us how durable the rash guard will be over time, even if it is a high-quality rash guard.
We also looked at the material, sun protection, and thermal protection to see how well the rash guards protect you from warm and cold weather.
1. Material
We looked at rash guards made from a 50+ UPF material, meaning they will protect you from UVA and UVB rays.
Most rash guard brands have their proprietary blend of materials to ensure you are adequately protected from the sun’s UV rays.
UV rays can result in skin damage and even cancer over time if not cared for properly.
Some materials are also quick-drying or lightweight.
2. Sun Protection
All rash guards come with some sort of built-in sun protection, but we recommend going up a tier when it comes to quality and price (see our recommendations below).
We also like long sleeve rash guards because they give extra warmth on cold days and more coverage than short sleeves will afford you.
3. Thermal Protection
Thermal protection refers to how well the rash guard keeps you warm or cool, depending on what climate you are in.
We have rash guards that are great for keeping your body heat inside so they can help keep you warm during cold winter months and others that will let the sweat evaporate away from your skin to keep you cool when it’s hot outside.
4. Sleeve Type
Some rash guards have long sleeves, while others are short sleeve rash guards or sleeveless rash guards.
The sleeve type is mainly dependent on your personal preference, but if you’re unsure, then we recommend going with a long sleeve rash guard for the extra warmth and coverage they provide. You’ll need less sunscreen.
5. Color Options
There’s nothing worse than wearing an ugly shirt!
That’s why most brands offer so many color options.
You’ll find that most companies offer between five to ten colors at a minimum, depending on their brand model, making it easy for anyone to match any rash guard to any rash guard.
We recommend checking out our top rash guards below based on your color preference.
Best Budget-Friendly Rash Guards
Looking for a rash guard that fits your budget?
Here are some of our top picks for low-cost rash guards.
Speedo Short Sleeve UV Swim Shirt
- Quick-drying: low-moisture absorbtion for fast comfort right out of the water
- Lightweight: breathable and soft fabric
- Durable: long-lasting soft and durable fabric makes this rashguard last swim after swim without losing
- Loose fit: looser-fitting rash guard (for a tighter fit, purchase one size smaller than your normal
- Uv & upf 50+ protection: uv block the burn with upf 50+ protective fabric
This rash guard is a short-sleeve swim shirt that provides some UV protection.
It is hand-wash only but has a quick-drying fabric.
There is also UV & UPF 50+ protection available.
Specs
- Price: $17.65 to $57.12
- Material: This shirt is constructed of 100% polyester.
- Sun Protection: UV and UPF 50 protection reduces the impact of the sun’s rays
- Thermal Protection: Since this is a short-sleeve shirt, it has limited thermal protection
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Black, Blue, Red, White, and Gray
What We Like
- Quick-drying, with low moisture absorption that feels great out of the water and in it
- Stylish and looks great
- Gets the job done
What We Don’t Like
- It comes in a limited number of colors and styles
- Limited thermal protection
- Short sleeves could mean awkward tan lines
Sanabul Essentials Long Sleeve Rash Guard
- Just what you need: a rash guard created to go on the journey with you. we designed the essential se
- Fit right in: sanabul essentials sports a classic, uncluttered style that you can wear confidently
- Tested by pros, created for you: some of the top competitors in the world rep sanabul, like bjj
- Designed to perform: other rash guards constrict your movement and overheat your body. sanabuls mesh
- Good for multiple activities: we even added uv spf 50 protection so you can take our rash guards out
We recommend checking out this one if you’re looking for rash guards that don’t break the bank.
The Sanabul Essentials Long Sleeve Rash Guard is reasonably priced but still provides good protection from the sun’s harmful rays and injury.
It’s a fantastic value.
Specs
- Price: $25.49
- Material: The mesh underarms on these rash guards keep you agile and provide better ventilation
- Sun Protection: UV SPF 50 protection means you can use this rash guard outside with maximum sun safety
- Thermal Protection: Long sleeves trap extra heat
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Black, Blue, Red, White, Purple, and Gray
What We Like
- It feels like a high-quality product but is priced very reasonably
- It has a classic style that fits right in
- Often used by some of the top professional athletes
What We Don’t Like
- Sometimes the underarm mesh is uncomfortable
- Long sleeves can be encumbering
- May get hot in hot weather
Kanu Surf Platinum Rash Guard
- Raglan-sleeve rashguard featuring standing collar and logo at chest
Kanu rash guards are made of 83% nylon and 17% spandex, which means they offer a different feel than the options presented.
They’re great for general all-around protection.
They are also affordable.
Specs
- Price: $16 to $32
- Material: Made of 83% nylon and 17% spandex
- Sun Protection: Has a UPF 50+ rating
- Thermal Protection: Long sleeves trap extra heat to keep you warm
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Blue, Teal, Gray, Green, Orange, Red, White, Yellow, and Black
What We Like
- Many color options to choose from
- Long sleeves are great for keeping warm and preventing arm injuries
- The mock neck and the logo in the middle make for a great look
What We Don’t Like
- This material may feel different than what you are used to with other rash guards
- The arms tend to roll down and not stay up
- It may be encumbering to some users due to the long sleeves
Best High-Quality Rash Guards
Here are some high-quality rash guards.
Although they might be in a higher price range, these guards are sure to provide long-lasting protection.
O’Neill Men’s Premium Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard
- 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 quick dry properties
- Performance fit: form-fitting tight layers fits like a second skin
When rash guards first appeared on the surf scene, they were seen as a novelty that offered no real value.
Today, rash guards are used by surfers of all levels.
The O’Neill line provides some of the top-quality options for anyone serious about surfing or fun in the sun.
Specs
- Price: $44.95 to $46.66
- Material: Made of other fibers, Nylon, and Spandex
- Sun Protection: Has a UPF 50+ UV protection rating and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
- Thermal Protection: Long sleeves are great for retaining heat
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Blue/White, Gray, Black/White, Blue, Black, and White
What We Like
- Excellent for surfing, swimming, paddle sports, boating, and other beach activities
- The Nylon/Spandex combo includes a 4-way stretch technology that feels great
- Unique quick-dry properties are convenient
What We Don’t Like
- It fits great but can feel cumbersome
- Possible to overheat due to thermal retention
- Limited color options
O’Neill Men’s Premium Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard
- 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 quick dry properties
- Performance fit: form-fitting tight layers fits like a second skin
This rash guard is very similar to the one prior.
However, the sleeves are short rather than long.
This feature allows for some freedom of movement but at the cost of some thermal retention.
Specs
- Price: $26.29 to $93.97
- Material: As above, this rash guard is made of other fibers, Nylon, and Spandex
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ UV protection rating and is also recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
- Thermal Protection: Limited due to the short sleeves
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Blue/White, Gray, Black/White, Blue, Black, White, Red, and many others
What We Like
- Like the long sleeve option, this one is excellent for surfing, swimming, paddle sports, boating, and other beach activities
- Includes the Nylon/Spandex combo that features a 4-way stretch technology
- It dries quickly, and it feels great both in and out of the water
What We Don’t Like
- Limited insulation due to the short sleeves
- Possible to develop scratches or other injuries on the arms
- It fits very tightly, which can be great for some users but uncomfortable for others
O’NEILL Premium Women’s Long Sleeve Crew Rash Guard
- Skin cancer foundation recommended product; upf 50+ ultraviolet protection
- Perfect for surfing, swimming, paddle sports, boating, and beach days
- Comfortable yet durable 6oz polyester/spandex construction
- Minimal seam placement for maximum rash protection
- Performance fit: form-fitting tight layer fits like a second skin
This rash guard is designed specifically for women.
It features long sleeves and is highly rated by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
We consider it an excellent option for buyers concerned about getting a high-quality rash guard that will last a long time while looking great.
Specs
- Price: $44.99 to $47.45
- Material: Nylon and Spandex construction
- Sun Protection: Skin Cancer Foundation recommended product with UPF 50+ UV protection
- Thermal Protection: Excellent due to form-fitting design, sleeves, and material
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Slate with white, gray, or teal accents
What We Like
- Long sleeves keep you warm, even in cold water
- Highly rated sun protection factor in reducing the chances of skin cancer
- Quick-drying material is helpful for when you leave the water
What We Don’t Like
- Limited choice of colors
- The tight fit can be uncomfortable
- You may feel very hot in this rash guard due to the high thermal retention
Best Short-Sleeve Rash Guards
Looking for a rash guard that works with short sleeves? Here are some options.
Kanu Surf Women’s Plus-Size UPF 50+ Active Rash Guard & Workout Top
- Short-sleeve swim tee with raglan seams and screen print at side waist
- Upf 50+
This rash guard is designed specifically for plus-size women.
It features short sleeves and many colorful patterns.
This rash guard is great for wearers who want to express themselves with its many pretty designs.
Specs
- Price: $28.99
- Material: 86% Polyester, 14% Spandex
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ rated sun protection
- Thermal Protection: Limited, due to short sleeves and materials
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Many different patterns in colors like blue, pink, gray, black, green, and purple
What We Like
- Fantastic choice of colors and patterns
- Looser fit, with raglan sleeves and overlock seaming
- It still provides excellent sun protection
What We Don’t Like
- Material may feel a little less comfortable
- It might be challenging to choose from all the color options
- Limited thermal insulation from colder water due to the short sleeves
KaO’Neill Men’s Basic Skins UPF 50+ Short Sleeve Sun Shirt
- Skin cancer foundation recommended product; upf 50+ ultraviolet protection
- Perfect for surfing, swimming, paddle sports, boating, and beach days
- Comfortable yet durable 6oz polyester/spandex construction
- Minimal seam placement for maximum rash protection
- Performance fit: form-fitting tight layer fits like a second skin
Short-sleeve rash guards like this one offer a good balance of sun protection and thermal insulation while remaining cool.
The rash guards use fabric technology to keep you comfortable in hot conditions without compromising your skin safety.
Most rash guards made for this style come with at least 50+ UPF sun protection, which is more than enough for most people surfing on sunny days.
Specs
- Price: $33.95
- Material: 6oz Polyester/Spandex 4-Way Stretch
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ rated sun protection. A Skin Cancer Foundation recommended product
- Thermal Protection: Limited, due to short sleeves and materials
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Black, blue, gray, red, yellow, white, and teal
What We Like
- A broad range of color options
- Minimal seam placement means you have the best rash protection available
- It fits slim but isn’t tight or uncomfortable
What We Don’t Like
- No exciting patterns or designs in the fabric
- Must hand-wash this rash guard to preserve the material
- No insulation from colder water due to the short sleeves and the polyester material
Kanu Surf Men’s Cb Rash Guard UPF 50+ Swim Shirts (Regular & Extended Sizes)
- Short-sleeve rashguard featuring crew neckline and contrast panels at sides
- Upf 50+ rating
Like other short-sleeve rash guards, this one is comfortable without being cumbersome.
It also comes in regular and extended sizes, perfect for wearers of all shapes and sizes.
It looks great and fits in a slim and flattering way.
At less than $20, it’s also a great bargain.
Specs
- Price: $19.95
- Material: 100% polyester
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ rating
- Thermal Protection: Limited due to light material and short sleeves
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Black, blue, gray, red, yellow, white, green, and teal
What We Like
- Great color selection
- Flattering, with an excellent fit. Color contrast panels on the sides add to this look
- You can machine wash this rash guard without damaging the fabric
What We Don’t Like
- UPF 50+ rating but no other exceptional sun protection ratings or recommendations
- It fits great but lacks any unique patterns, colors, or logos
- Short sleeves mean you may be cold in certain weather conditions
Best Long-Sleeve Rash Guards
There are some great long-sleeve rash guards out there on the market as well.
Here are some of our favorites.
Hurley Men’s Nike Dri-fit Long Sleeve Sun Protection +50 UPF Rash Guard
- Relaxed fit long sleeve
- Nike dry-fit fabric. quick dry
- 50+ upf rating
This kind of long-sleeve rash guard is excellent for anyone who does not want to take the chance of sunburn or UV damage.
The rash guards offer some protection in hot conditions without compromising your skin safety by offering 50+ UPF sun protection in the fabric.
Specs
- Price: $27.50 to $53.99
- Material: 100% polyester
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ rating with long sleeves for extra protection
- Thermal Protection: Good, but the material is thinner
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: White and black
What We Like
- It fits great without being too heavy
- Strong sun protection
- Quick-drying Nike fabric means you won’t be soaked for long
What We Don’t Like
- The rash guard material will make you sweat more than short sleeve rash guards do because there is no air flowing through them
- Challenging to use your arms when surfing (especially if you need to swim)
- Sometimes on the higher side when it comes to price
Roxy Women’s Whole Hearted Long Sleeve UPF 50 Rash Guard
- Soft, resistant stretch, recycled polyester elastane jersey
- Fitted, snug fit
- Upf 50 protection
- Large collar binding
- Screen logo on left sleeve and center front
Since these are long-sleeve rash guards, the sleeve protection here is better than for the short-sleeve options.
They are priced affordably in some instances but be sure to mind the price when it comes time to purchase as sometimes you may overpay.
This particular rash guard is designed for women.
Specs
- Price: $21.00 to $69.99
- Material: 92% polyester, 8% elastane
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ rating with long sleeves for extra protection
- Thermal Protection: Great. Snug material traps heat
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: White, black, pink, seafoam green
What We Like
- The snug fit looks great
- Strong sun protection
- Large collar binding looks and feels great
What We Don’t Like
- Longer sleeves may make you sweat more
- Hand wash only
- Sometimes on the higher side when it comes to price
Quiksilver Men’s Always There Long Sleeve Rash Guard UPF 50+ Sun Protection
- 50+ upf sun protection
- Constructed using reprieve recycled materials
- Moisture wicking
- Loose fit
- Chlorine resistant
This particular rash guard is meant for men.
It has a sleek and standard style and comes in just one color.
It also provides good warmth and sun protection due to the material.
Specs
- Price: Starts at $20
- Material: 92% polyester, 8% elastane
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ sun protection. Long sleeves add more protection
- Thermal Protection: Like the above women’s option, the snug material traps heat
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: White with gray accent
What We Like
- Snug fit both looks good and can keep you warm
- Excellent protection from the sun due to the sleeve length
- Chlorine resistant
What We Don’t Like
- Longer sleeves may trap too much heat
- It only comes in one color and style
- Arms may be burdened due to the snug fit
Best Rash Guards for Swimming (Swim Shirts)
If you’re looking for rash guards that can hold up in the water, the following options might just suit you.
[product title=”Volcom Women’s Simply Solid Swim Bodysuit” products=”3034″][/product]
These rash guards are explicitly designed to be worn in the water and provide water-resistant protection.
These rash guards are different from others because they are typically thicker, providing more security against the water.
It comes with long sleeves, which means you can wear them comfortably while engaging in physical activity underwater without having to worry about your arms sticking out of the fabric.
Specs
- Price: Starts at $20
- Material: 78% Nylon, 22% Elastane
- Sun Protection: Long sleeves add some protection. No exceptional SPF rating.
- Thermal Protection: Good protection from sleeves
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Raglan color-blocked with green, black, and blue stripes
What We Like
- Pull-on enclosure looks and feels great
- Excellent material, with Italian fabric
- Cheeky coverage fit is both good-looking and practical
What We Don’t Like
- Longer sleeves may make the user uncomfortable in hot weather
- It only comes in one color and style
- Hand wash only
Speedo Men’s UV Swim Shirt Short Sleeve Loose Fit Easy Tee
- Quick-drying: low-moisture absorbtion for fast comfort right out of the water
- Lightweight: breathable and soft fabric
- Durable: long-lasting soft and durable fabric makes this rashguard last swim after swim without losing
- Loose fit: looser-fitting rash guard (for a tighter fit, purchase one size smaller than your normal
- Uv & upf 50+ protection: uv block the burn with upf 50+ protective fabric
This swim shirt has a fantastic and valuable wicking fabric that draws sweat away from the body, a loose fit that keeps rash away, and good color options.
It’s affordable and provides a good value.
Wearers will appreciate the comfortable fabric.
Specs
- Price: $17.65 to $57.12
- Material: 100% polyester
- Sun Protection: UV & UPF 50+ protection.
- Thermal Protection: Decent, thanks to quick-dry technology
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Black, red, teal, gray, and white
What We Like
- The pull-on enclosure makes this easy to slip on
- Quick-drying fabric is excellent for when you leave the water
- Classic color and style options
What We Don’t Like
- Short sleeves mean you may lose heat
- Not exceptionally sleek, slim, or tight
- Hand wash only
Body Glove Women’s Smoothies In Motion Solid Short Sleeve Rash Guard
- Upf 50+ ultraviolent protection factor
- Long sleeves
- Flatlock seams
- Click the logo above to shop our store
- Part of our smoothies collection, search body glove smoothies on amazon for entire collection
This swim shirt fits well and also looks fashionable.
A free 7-day try-on option is available for some sizes and colors.
The short sleeves will make it easy to move your arms while paddling or swimming in the ocean.
Specs
- Price: $20.98 to $33.00
- Material: 86% Nylon, 14% spandex
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ UV protection factor
- Thermal Protection: Short sleeves, so limited thermal protection
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Black, red, teal, gray, yellow, pink, blue, and white
What We Like
- Looks sleek and stylish
- Many color options to choose from
- Flatlock seams reduce rubbing
What We Don’t Like
- Short sleeves mean this isn’t ideal for cold water
- Material is not incredibly durable
- Hand wash only
Best Rash Guards for Men
Here are our top picks of rash guards for men.
Scubapro Men’s Rash Guard
- Upf 50 rating blocks 98% of uv radiation.
- Polyester is comfortable yet durable
- Abrasion-resistant
- And it does a good job of retaining its shape after repeated use.
- Flattering color panels and cut keep you looking good while enjoying excellent uv protection.
This long-sleeve rash guard is made in the USA.
It’s comfortable yet durable and abrasion-resistant.
It also does an excellent job of keeping its form and shape even after much wear and tear.
Specs
- Price: $76.00
- Material: 100% polyester
- Sun Protection: Long sleeves protect arms and have a UPF 50 rating, blocking 98% of radiation
- Thermal Protection: High due to its insulative material and long sleeves
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Blue, gray/slate, white, and black
What We Like
- Abrasion-resistant material keeps you from getting rashes
- Arm patterns look great and are very interesting and stylish
- Flattering color panels and cut while still being utilitarian
What We Don’t Like
- Snug fit may be uncomfortable if you’re in between sizes
- Limited color options
- Long sleeves may make arms feel uncomfortable in hot weather
O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins UPF 50+ Short Sleeve Sun Shirt
- Skin cancer foundation recommended product; upf 50+ ultraviolet protection
- Perfect for surfing, swimming, paddle sports, boating, and beach days
- Comfortable yet durable 6oz polyester/spandex construction
- Minimal seam placement for maximum rash protection
- Performance fit: form-fitting tight layer fits like a second skin
Men’s rash guards are essential to keep the skin safe from harmful UV rays like rash guards for women.
Men’s rash guards often come in long sleeves or rash shirts, which offer better protection against the sun.
This particular guard is a short sleeve model that is both affordable and practical.
Specs
- Price: $24.99 to $64.59
- Material: 6 ounce polyester/spandex with 4-way stretch
- Sun Protection: 50+ UV sun protection factor
- Thermal Protection: Short sleeves, offering limited thermal protection
- Sleeve Type: Short
- Color Options: Black, red, teal, gray, yellow, pink, blue, and white
What We Like
- The slim fit means this stays close to the body but isn’t skin-tight
- Wide variety of colors
- Machine washable
What We Don’t Like
- Short sleeves mean this isn’t ideal for cold water
- Pared-down graphics
- Loose fit is not flattering for all body types
O’Neill Men’s Thermo X Long Sleeve Insulative Top
- Skin cancer foundation recommended product; upf 50+ ultraviolet protection
- Perfect for chilly days when an extra layer of warmth under your wetsuit is needed
- Thermo-x layering fabric provides incredible insulation with low bulk and quick-dry properties
- 220g nylon/spandex includes water repellency and odor resistance
- ***super low neck: no interference with the neck of your wetsuit
This long-sleeve rash guard is imported.
Made by the legendary O’Neill company, it’s one of the best options for men looking for a durable and good-looking rash guard.
Notably, the low neck means no interference or uncomfortable rubbing in that region.
Specs
- Price: $46.33 to $109.89
- Material: 220g Nylon/Spandex blend repels water and resists odors
- Sun Protection: A Skin Cancer Foundation recommended product with UPF 50+ protection
- Thermal Protection: Very high thanks to the excellent insulation, low bulk, and quick-drying fabric
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Black
What We Like
- Excellent thermal protection
- Long-life due to durable materials
- Low neck means it feels comfortable in that region
What We Don’t Like
- May become hot in hot weather due to insulation
- Only a single color option
- Somewhat expensive – however, it is a great value
Best Rash Guards for Women
Don’t worry, women, there are options for you too!
Here are some of the best rash guards on our list for women.
Scubapro Women’s 1.5mm Everflex Long Sleeve Rash Guard
- Neoprene is lightweight, durable, water repellant and a highly efficient insulator for heat retention
- Assembled using solvent-free glue, a 100% green process.
- High-tech plush and fleece lining reduces water flow and provides both comfort and extra warmth.
- Design helps block water intrusion to reduce convection.
- Provides effective insulation under water as well as at the surface.
This type of rash guard is essential for women because they often come with sleeves, which can offer more protection against the water temperature and burning sun.
This style is expensive but very high-quality.
It’s made in the USA from Neoprene and looks excellent.
Specs
- Price: $188 to $189
- Material: Neoprene and plush
- Sun Protection: Good due to long sleeves
- Thermal Protection: Excellent due to the choice of materials and unique construction
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Black with gray or teal accent
What We Like
- Assembled using solvent-free glue, which is a 100% green process
- High-tech material combination to reduce water inflow and create extra warmth and comfort
- Reduces convention and acts as an effective insulator
What We Don’t Like
- May become hot in warmer weather
- Limited color options
- Although expensive, this is a high-quality design
Kanu Surf Women’s Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ Rash Guard
- Upf 50+ rating on rashguards and swim shirts for great sun protection
- Comfortable fit allowing full range of motion yet still form fitting
- Matching board shorts available for a great set
- High quality and durable quick dry fabric
- Weave type: knit
This type of rash guard has long sleeves.
It offers a free 7-day try-on which is available for some sizes and colors.
It’s an affordable option that also looks great.
Specs
- Price: $21.49 to $43.14
- Material: 87% Polyester and 13% spandex
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ rating that helps block the suns harmful rays
- Thermal Protection: Decent due to long sleeves and material
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: Many color options, including blue, teal, black, red, gray, green, and pink – all with accent options
What We Like
- Long raglan seam-sleeve rash guard featuring banded crew neckline and contrast logo screen print looks great
- A wide array of possible colors
- Easy machine wash option
What We Don’t Like
- The material doesn’t look quite as nice as more expensive options
- It may be challenging to choose a color you like from the many color options
- Fabric is breathable but not maximally absorbent
[product title=”Volcom Women’s Simply Solid Swim Bodysuit” products=”3034″][/product]
Like the prior long-sleeve option, this suit offers a free 7-day try-on for some sizes and colors.
It’s an affordable option that also looks great while being made of imported Italian fabric.
This option is hand-wash only.
Specs
- Price: Starts at $20
- Material: 78% Nylon, 22% Elastane
- Sun Protection: Good, thanks to its long sleeves. No particular SPF rating.
- Thermal Protection: Solid thermal protection thanks to the material
- Sleeve Type: Long
- Color Options: A single option with green, black, and blue vertical stripes
What We Like
- Stylish design
- Excellent Italian-made fabric
- Cheeky coverage fit looks great
What We Don’t Like
- Hand wash only
- Limited color options – just a single design available
- So popular it is rare to find it in stock
What Makes a Good Rash Guard?
Rash guards are essential for keeping you protected when you are in the sun.
Wearing rash guards will protect your skin from ultraviolet rays when outside in direct sunlight for short periods.
Rash guards should not be too tight or too restrictive so that you can fully enjoy the rash guard without any discomfort.
To determine if a rash guard is good, we need to examine three factors.
These factors are:
- Price
- Material
- Construction
Price
Rash guards can range in price based on the type and style you want.
For example, rash guards made of polyester are more affordable than rash guards with Lycra or spandex.
Price is different from value.
Price is what you pay.
Value is what you get.
Material
Rash guards come with different types of material, so choose wisely.
Some rash guards offer SPF protection, while others provide UV protection.
Rash guards can range in price based on the type and style you want, but rash guards should also not be very restrictive so that they do not interfere with physical activity.
Rash guards should also be made from a material that offers sun protection and thermal insulation if you are outside direct sunlight or cold water for long periods.
Construction
In terms of construction, rash guards should not feel restrictive, and they come in different shapes and sizes, so consider this when you are purchasing one.
Rash guards can be long-sleeve or short-sleeve, depending upon your preference.
Also, rash guards might go up over the shoulders or down under them with a boat neck cut for women’s rash guard styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rash guards are essential for keeping you protected when you are in the sun.
Here are answers to the most common questions we’ve gotten about rash guards so far.
What should I wear under a rash guard?
What you wear underneath your rash guard will depend on how warm it is outside.
You can wear a swimsuit underneath.
If the weather gets too hot, remove the rash guard altogether and just go with a swimsuit for sun protection that goes up over shoulders or under them, depending upon the style of rash guard chosen.
Can you wear a rash guard for swimming?
You can wear rash guards for swimming.
Rash guards are used as a base layer to keep your body warm and protected from the sun’s ultraviolet rays when outside during short periods in direct sunlight.
You’ve probably seen rash guards worn by athletes on the beach in commercials, and if they can swim in them, then so can you!
Can you swim laps in a rash guard?
You can wear some rash guards for swimming laps, but not all rash guards are designed to withstand the wear and tear of lap swimming.
Rash guards with Lycra or spandex will retain their shape better than rash guards made of polyester because Lycra/spandex is more durable than other materials used in rash guard construction.
Polyester rash guards may stretch and lose their shape over time when used for laps, so be sure to research what material your rash guard is made of before investing in one.
Wrapping Up
Rash guards are essential for keeping you protected when you are in the sun.
Wearing rash guards will protect your skin from UV rays when outside in direct sunlight for short periods.
The rash guard is an excellent investment for those who spend time in the sun.
They are also perfect for kids.
We recommend researching and finding out which rash guards offer the best protection based on what you need before making this purchase.
If you’re looking to learn more about rash guards and want to be sure to choose the correct one for you, visit us for more articles and tips to gain more information about this critical piece of equipment for active people.
For even more exposure protection, check out our list of the best wetsuits for any water activity.
