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10 Best Rash Guards
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Rain Guards
Buying Guide for the Best Rash Guards
When shopping for a rash guard, it’s important to keep in mind how and where you’ll use it. Rash guards are designed to protect your skin from irritation, sun exposure, and even minor scrapes during activities like surfing, swimming, or Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Think about your main activity, how much you’ll be moving, and the climate you'll be mostly in. The right choice will keep you comfortable, protected, and active for longer sessions.MaterialMaterial refers to what the rash guard is made from, and it's crucial because it affects comfort, durability, and performance. Most rash guards are made from blends of polyester, nylon, and spandex. Polyester blends are common for their durability and colorfastness, while nylon is smoother and a bit stretchier. Spandex (or Lycra) is what makes the rash guard flexible and snug. For extremely active water sports or grappling, a higher percentage of spandex provides better stretch and a closer fit, while more polyester or nylon can be slightly cooler and more durable for sun protection or casual use. Pick the material blend that matches your activity level and comfort preference.
FitFit describes how snug or loose the rash guard feels on your body. Rash guards generally come in 'skin-tight' or 'loose fit' styles. A skin-tight fit is best for surfing, swimming, or martial arts because it minimizes drag in the water and prevents the shirt from riding up. A looser fit is more comfortable for relaxed beachwear or if you prefer a less restrictive feel. Decide how active you’ll be, how much freedom of movement you want, and if you mind the garment being very close to your skin.
Sleeve LengthRash guards typically come in short-sleeve and long-sleeve styles. Long sleeves offer the best protection against sun, abrasion, and stings—ideal for extended time in the sun or contact sports. Short sleeves allow more airflow and are cooler in hot conditions or for those who want more freedom of movement. If you’ll be outdoors for long periods, consider long sleeves for better coverage, but if you’re active in warm weather or indoors, short sleeves may be more comfortable.
UPF RatingUPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and shows how well the fabric blocks UV rays. A higher UPF number means better sun protection, which is especially important for time spent outside, on the water, or in places with strong sun. Ratings range from UPF 15 (good) to UPF 50+ (excellent). If sun protection is a big concern—like for surfing or outdoor swimming—look for a UPF of 30 or higher. If you’re mostly indoors or out of direct sunlight, UPF may be less important.
Seam ConstructionSeam construction refers to how the rash guard is stitched together. Flatlock seams are the most comfortable for active wear because they sit flat against the skin and reduce chafing. Overlock or regular seams can be bulkier and might cause irritation during movement or long sessions. If you plan to wear the rash guard for extended active periods, opt for flatlock seams for maximum comfort, especially for sports or water activities.