Rash guards were originally developed for surfers. Paddling out on a surfboard can cause a friction rash and, if you are out on the water long enough or often enough, this can get really painful and unsightly.
Rash guards provide protection from friction, the water, and, more often, the sun too. But which is the best rash guard to buy?
With so many different manufacturers and designs to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start.
In this review, we’ve tried and tested the 12 most popular rash guard shirts so you can make an informed choice.
We’ve included well-known and lesser-known brands, models made for men and women, long and short-sleeved models, and a range of fits too. Whatever type of rash guard you want, we’ve got you covered.
Avoid painful rashes and potentially dangerous sunburn, and wear the best rash guard for your needs.
Best Rash Guards
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1. O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins
O'Neill Basic Skins
$29.95 in stock
3 used from $20.98
Free shipping
Features
- 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
O’Neill has been making surf and watersports gear over 60 years. This men’s Basic Skins long sleeve top might not have lots of fancy features or be the most stylish, but it’s functional, well-priced, and should last well too.
Key Features
- Stretchy polyester/spandex construction
- Form-fitting
- UPF 50+
- Long sleeves
- Available in 14 colors
- Sizes from small to XXXXL
- Flatlock seams
Whether you surf, swim, kayak, paddleboard, or just want protection from the sun on the beach, this form-fitting rash guard could be the one for you. It’s snug but won’t restrict your movements, and it’s also breathable so you won’t overheat on a sunny day.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Breathable to prevent overheating
- Wicking effect to carry moisture away from your skin
- Superb UV protection
- A classic design
Cons
- Not the trendiest or most eye-catching rash guard on review
If you want something that’s functional but understated, this is the rash guard for you. Whatever your sport, this product will protect you from the sun, as well as unpleasant salt and friction rashes.
2. O’Neil Women’s Basic Skins
O'Neill Womens Basic Skins
$31.95 in stock
1 used from $20.51
Free shipping
Features
- 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
While there is nothing to stop a woman wearing a man’s rash vest, most women will be more comfortable wearing one designed specifically for their body shape. This plain but functional rash guard by O’Neill is good value and comes in a range of colors and sizes.
Key Features
- Made from polyester/spandex blend
- Breathable, wicking material
- UPF 50+
- Form-fitting
- Available in 11 colors
- Sizes from small to XL
- Flatlock seams
This snug-fitting rash guard will protect you from sun, sand, and saltwater. It’s breathable so you won’t overheat, but you’ll be protected from damaging ultra-violet radiation even on the sunniest day. Made with minimal seams, this guard won’t rub or ride up.
Pros
- Fits like a second skin
- Non-restrictive design
- Plain, classic design
- Well-made
- Suitable for all watersports
Cons
- Quite conservative colors
This might not be the flashiest rash guard you can buy, but it will undoubtedly get the job done. Well-made and competitively priced, this vest is ideal for all water and beach sports, and perfect for those who prefer solid colors over garish designs.
3. Speedo Men’s UV Swim Shirt
Speedo Men's Uv Swim Shirt
$31.32 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- UV Block the Burn with UPF 50+ protective fabric
- Dries quickly
- Long-sleeve solid loose-fitting swim shirt
Most rash guards and vests fit like second skins. However, while form-fitting designs can be appealing for some, others prefer a looser fit. This swim shirt from Speedo isn’t fitted and looks quite casual, making it ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed cut and fit.
Key Features
- Loose, easy-fit design
- Long sleeves
- UPF 50+
- Quick-drying
- Available in seven colors
- Sized small to XXL
- Water repellent outer layer
This loose-fitting pullover T-shirt won’t restrict your movements. It’s breathable, slightly stretchy, and comfortable and is at home on the beach or out on the water. Durable and fast-drying, this rash guard is perfect for more leisurely water activities.
Pros
- Relaxed fit
- Comfortable
- Cool
- Fast drying
- Hardwearing
- Well-priced
Cons
- Must be hand washed
Providing you don’t mind handwashing this rash guard, it’s an excellent product for those people who don’t want to wear a skintight Lycra shirt out on the water or on the beach. Despite not being form-fitting, it’s still every bit a “real” rash vest.
4. Kanu Surf Men’s
Kanu Surf Men's CB Rashguard
$14.85 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- Short-sleeve rashguard featuring crew neckline and contrast panels at sides
- UPF 50+ rating
Activewear can be expensive, sometimes prohibitively so if you’re on a budget. Kanu Surf clearly didn’t get the memo, though, and have produced a very well-priced rash guard that’s both functional and good quality.
Key Features
- Short-sleeved
- UPF 50+
- 100% polyester
- Relaxed fit
- Available in 13 colors with contrasting side panels
- Quick-drying
- Breathable
This loose-fitting T-shirt will protect you from the sun and can be worn in the water and on dry land. It’s not stretchy, so it won’t hug your body like a second skin. This means it’s not ideal for wearing under a wetsuit. But, as a standalone garment, and for the price, this guard is tough to beat.
Pros
- Very well priced
- Light, breathable, and quick-drying
- Good range of colors and sizes
- Relaxed fit
Cons
- Not as form-fitting as other rash guards
- Not a well-known watersports label
This rash guard is perfect for those people who want protection from the sea and sun, but don’t want to break the bank doing it. Basic but functional, this well-made protective T-shirt is a good choice for men, women, and even kids.
5. O’Neill 24-7 Traveler
Features
- Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended Product; UPF 50+ Ultraviolet Protection
- Perfect For Surfing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Boating, And Beach Days
- 24-7 Fabrics Are Designed To Be Worn Both In And Out Of The Water, 24 Hours A Day, 7 Days A Week
- 5oz HyperDry With 24-7 Technology Is The Most Breathable, Lightweight, Quick-Dry Fabric Available
- Loose Fit: Relaxed Fit Similar To Traditional T-Shirt
This shirt is not strictly a rash guard, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear it as one. Instead, it’s a technical T-shirt with a very high UPF rating that’s at home on dry land as well as the sea. It’s cut for comfort, so you’ll be happy wearing this at the beach bar or out on your board.
Key Features
- 93% nylon/7% elastane for a relaxed, flexible fit
- Short sleeves
- 11 colors
- Six sizes, from small to XXXL
- UPF 50+
- Breathable, fast-drying material
- Fits like a regular T-shirt
This product is called the 24/7 shirt because you can, in theory, wear it 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s at home on the beach, in the bar, and out on the water. And, because it’s light and fast-drying, it’s also perfect for travel. It’s a great do-it-all shirt.
Pros
- Wear for any activity – water-based or on dry land
- Light and comfortable
- Relaxed fit
- Good range of colors
- Well-priced
Cons
- Users report that these shirts run a little small
Because they aren’t very stretchy, these shirts aren’t very forgiving if you buy a size too small. For that reason, it may be worth buying one size bigger than usual, so you have room to breathe and move. But, once you have got the right size, this shirt is as practical as it is comfortable.
6. NRS H2Core Women’s
NRS Women's H2Core
Features
| Part Number | 10021.06.100 |
| Color | Fjord |
| Size | X-Small |
Rash vests can be a struggle to put on and take off. Plus, once you are wearing yours, if you start to get hot, it’s not easy to regulate your temperature. This guard from NRS addresses both these problems to make a functional and good-looking shirt for women.
Key Features
- Nylon/spandex construction
- Long sleeves
- Strategically placed seams
- Low profile quarter-zip at the front
- Moisture-wicking, breathable material
- Friction-free underarms with no seams in those areas
- Form-fitting
- Available in two colors and five sizes
Unless you are looking for it, you probably won’t see the quarter-length zip on the front of this rash guard. But you’ll be glad of it when you’re putting it on, taking it off, or start to get warm during your paddle or surf. This is a very handy feature!
Pros
- Easier to put on and take off than many other rash guards
- Very comfortable
- Perfect for swimming and paddling
- Very well made
Cons
- Quite expensive
This isn’t the cheapest rash guard you can buy, and it’s only available in two plain colors, but the zip adds some extra functionality, which makes this model very popular and highly recommended.
7. O’Neill Basic
O'Neill Short Sleeve
$25.60 in stock
2 used from $22.34
Free shipping
Features
- Slim Fit: Fits Close to Body, But Is Not Tight
- 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
While long sleeve rash guards over excellent protection from the sun, they can get a little warm. Some people also find them restrictive. This shirt from O’Neill has short sleeves, so you’ll stay cooler and enjoy freer upper body movement. Just don’t forget to put some sunscreen on your arms!
Key Features
- Slim fit
- UPF 50+
- Made from 4-way stretch polyester/spandex blend
- Available in 12 colors and 12 sizes
- Flatlock seams for reduced friction
- Fast-drying and breathable
Unlike a lot of rash guards, this item is slim fit and not designed to be skintight. This will allow air to circulate around your body, keeping you cool while protecting you from the sun. If you prefer not to be wrapped tightly in spandex, this shirt could be the one for you.
Pros
- Cool and comfortable
- Practical design
- Easy care fabric
- Hardwearing
Cons
- Some users report that this product runs a little small
This is more of a sun shirt than a rash guard, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be worn as one. Because it’s quite loose-fitting, it may ride up during some activities, but for more leisurely pursuits, like paddleboarding, it could be a good choice.
8. Speedo Loose Fit Easy Tee
Speedo Men's UV Short Sleeve
Features
| Model | MEASYSSLOOSWIMSHIRT |
Speedo has a good reputation for making quality swimwear, and this relaxed-fit shirt maintains that tradition. Light, soft, and quick-drying, this swim shirt is ideal for on and off the water and offers good protection from the sun too.
Key Features
- Made from 100% polyester
- UPF 50+
- Low water absorption
- Breathable
- Available in seven colors and seven sizes
- Water-repellent outer layer
This rash guard looks a lot like a regular T-shirt. But, unlike a typical T-shirt, it won’t soak up water, protects you from the damaging effects of the sun, and dries in minutes instead of hours. At home on or in the water, as well as on the beach, this product is a good allrounder for anyone who wants to be prepared for all eventualities.
Pros
- Proven design
- Hardwearing
- Light and comfortable
- Understated design
Cons
- Handwash only
Providing you handwash this shirt, it should provide years of protection from the sea and sun. As well as being a good rash guard and swim shirt, you could also wear this item for running and gym workouts. It’s a very versatile T-shirt.
9. Billabong Women’s Long Sleeve
Billabong Women's Classic Long Sleeve
Features
- Classic Long Sleeve Rashguard
- CLASSIC LONG SLEEVE RASHGUARD: The perfect piece for a day at the beach. Layer over your favorite swim top or one piece for ultimate comfort and UPF 50+ protection
- FIT: Fitted through the body and arms, perfect for any beach or outdoor activity or sport. Providing both coverage and comfort
- ASSORTMENT: Available in a variety of colors to compliment every swim piece you own
Rash guards come in a range of colors, but many are very plain. They’re made to be worn under a wetsuit, so it doesn’t matter much what they look like. But in warmer weather, you might want to wear your rash guard as your outer layer. These long sleeve rash guards from surf company Billabong look great and are made to be worn on their own.
Key Features
- Made from 87% polyamide and 13% elastane
- UPF 50+
- Four-way stretch
- Flatlock seams
- Available in five eye-catching designs
- Four sizes – small to XL
These nice-looking rash guards are made to last. They’re light, stretchy, and breathable. While they aren’t the cheapest on review, these shirts offer plenty of protection against the sun and sea. If you want your rash guard to stand out from the crowd, this the product for you.
Pros
- Attractive designs
- Made for women
- Slim fit
- Light and breathable
- Very comfortable
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Only a few sizes available
Billabong rash guards are true to size and are designed to be snug. If you prefer a looser fit, order up a size. Made specifically for women, this high-quality product might not be the cheapest, but it should be very comfortable and hardwearing.
10. Kanu Surf Mercury
Kanu Surf
$19.77 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- 86% Polyester, 14% Spandex
- Imported
- No Closure closure
- Machine Wash
- Elbow-sleeve rashguard with contrast-raglan seaming, logo screenprint at front, and contrasting side panels
Kanu Surf makes some of the best-selling watersports clothing around. Always budget-friendly, their gear if functional and well-made. This short-sleeved rash guard continues this trend and offers good protection from the sun, sea, and sand.
Key Features
- Made from 86% polyester and 14% spandex
- UPF 50+
- Slim fit
- Available in 32 different colors and designs
- Sized small to XXL
- Breathable and quick-drying
- Flatlock seams
Well-made and available in lots of different colors, this rash guard from Kanu Surf is also very well priced. The high sun protection factor means you won’t burn in the sun and, because it’s breathable, you shouldn’t get too hot either. The slim fit means it won’t bunch up and restrict your movements either.
Pros
- Well-made
- Great price
- Good choice of designs
- Functional and comfortable
Cons
- Some users report that this product is sized a little small
For the price, this short-sleeved rash guard is hard to beat. There are lots of color options available, and it should stand up to even heavy, regular use. Kanu Surf might not be one of the most well-known activewear companies around, but their products never disappoint.
11. Hurley Men’s Long Sleeve
Features
- Relaxed fit long sleeve
- Four-way stretch
- 50 plus UPF rating
- Hurley one and only branding on chest
Tight-fitting rash vests are great if you are built like Adonis, but not so appealing if you are a regular-shaped person. Very tight rash guards can be hot and uncomfortable too. This product from Hurley has a relaxed fit for comfort, but will still protect you from the sun, sea, and sand.
Key Features
- 88% nylon and 12% spandex
- UPF 50+
- Relaxed fit
- Four-way stretch
- Flatlock seams
- Available in three colors
- Sized small to XXL
With their comfortable fit and stretchy material, this rash guard won’t impede your movements. It’s light, flexible, and breathable, and won’t soak up water. The flatlock seams mean it won’t rub, no matter how active you are.
Pros
- Hardwearing
- Relaxed fit
- Very comfortable
Cons
- Only available in three plain colors
Providing you are happy with one of three very conservative colors, this is a good rash vest for people who don’t want to wear skintight Lycra. With a relaxed and comfortable fit, it should appeal to men who don’t like tight clothing. It may also be cooler than a very tight rash guard, making it ideal for hot weather.
12. RVCA Men’s Short Sleeve
Features
- Standard fit midweight short sleeve tee with pigment dye
- Front and back raglan seams, and side seams
- Internal back bottom hem hey loop
- Uva/UVB protection
RVCA men’s short sleeve rash guard is a classic, slim-fit design that should appeal to anyone who spends time on or in the water. Understated, this guard is ideal for wearing under a wetsuit, but can also be worn on its own. Snug but unrestrictive, this guard is perfect for energetic watersports.
Key Features
- 88% polyamide and 12% elastane construction
- UPF 50+
- Four-way stretch
- Flatlock seams
- Available in three colors
- Sized small to XXL
- Form-fitting design
This shirt can be used for water sports, but it’s equally useful for gym workouts and running. It’s light and breathable and fits very well. It only comes in three colors, but so long as you don’t mind plain designs, this is a very nice rash guard.
Pros
- Well-made
- Comfortable
- Breathable and fast drying
- Well-priced
- Machine washable
Cons
- Some users report this product runs a little small
This short-sleeved rash guard will protect you from the sun and sea, but it’s equally at home in the gym or out on the running track. Some users wear this product for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, so it’s clearly made to last. A few more colors would be nice, but apart from that, this rash guard is a good buy.
Bottom Line
The right rash guard can add a lot to your time on or in the water. It will provide a barrier between you and any equipment you are using, reducing friction, and preventing irritation. They’re especially useful for things like paddling out on a surfboard, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
You can also wear a rash guard under your wetsuit, to provide an extra layer of insulation, and also protect you from rubbing under your arms and around your neck.
Most rash guards offer sun protection too. Sunscreen creams and lotions are fine, but can wash off, and need to be reapplied frequently. They can also make you sweat and your skin slippery. With a UPF of 50+, rash guards can protect you from the harmful rays of the sun.
The best rash guards are light, breathable, flexible, and very comfortable. Available in a range of designs and fits, with long or short sleeves, and to suit most budgets, you should have no problem finding the right rash guard for your needs.
As always, visit the OutdoorWorld Reviews homepage for more expert product reviews!
The Review
12 Best Rash Guards
We've covered the best rash guards available to help you find a suitable option!
Review Breakdown
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O'Neill Basic Skins
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O'Neill Womens Basic Skins
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Speedo Men's Uv Swim Shirt
-
Kanu Surf Men's CB Rashguard
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O'Neill Men's Traveler
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NRS Women's H2Core
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O'Neill Short Sleeve
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Speedo Men's Short Sleeve
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Billabong Women's Classic
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Kanu Surf
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Hurley Men's One & Only
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RVCA Men Va
12 Best Rash Guards DEALS
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