what is the purpose of a rash guard

Do you really need a rash guard?

Are they necessary? Do you really have to wear a rash guard while surfing? The short answer is no. However, it is highly recommended to protect you against rashes and major sun exposure.

What is the difference between a rash guard and a swim shirt?

The main difference between a swim shirt and a rash guard is the fit. Because rashguards are designed for surfing or other higher intensity water sports, they are more like a water-ready compression shirt. By contrast, swim shirts are designed to protect against UV rays while also being comfortable.

Do you wear anything under a rashguard?

The vast majority of men do not wear anything under their rash guard and can be used directly on the skin. When it comes to the leggings, it can also be worn without anything under but for hygienic reasons, it is recommended to wear swim briefs or swim boxers.

Do rash guards keep you warm?

A rashguard holds a little heat close to your body and blocks constant bouts of cold water. It keeps the muscles warm to prevent cramps and muscle weariness, and helps with muscle support. They also help prevent abrasions caused from boards, life vests or wetsuits.

When should you wear a rash guard?

For water or beach sports: The rash guard is the gold standard for surfing. It protects your skin from the harsh waves, from scrapes and cuts if you wipe out, and from the harmful UV rays. It's also a great option for beach sports like jogging, volleyball, or swimming laps.

Do rash guards keep you cool?

Unlike wetsuits, rash guards are not meant to keep your body warm. They are not as thick as wetsuits, so they do not trap body heat as well. They actually can have a cooling effect on the body because of their material and how tight they lay on your skin.

Do you swim in rash guards?

If you are a surfer, odds are you have a rash guard in your wardrobe, and you may be wondering if it is appropriate to wear when you go swimming. The answer is yes — a rash guard can be used for swimming, though it may not be as comfortable as other options.

Do you need to wear sunscreen under a rash guard?

All exposed skin, including the arms, legs, torso and head, should be covered as much as possible with a hat, sunglasses and rash guards. You don't need to apply sunscreen under their gear, but be sure to extend your application to spots that might peek out, like under sleeve cuffs and around leg openings.

Do black rash guards get hot?

It's essential the fabric will dry quickly, so it won't affect your body temperature. If you're going to use your rash guard for active sports, such as surfing, look for rash guards that have flat-locked seams to minimize any chafing.

How tight should a rash guard fit?

Fit: Rash guards are supposed to fit tight to the body to keep chafing or uncomfortable rubbing at a minimum. However, some styles are made to fit a little looser to be more forgiving to the body-image conscious.

Will rash guards protect from jellyfish?

For surfers, snorkelers, and scuba divers who opt not to wear a wetsuit, the rash guard will offer adequate protection from waterborne irritants and jellyfish stings.

Do rash guards prevent sunburn?

Protection Rash guards provide added coverage to protect against the sun's harmful rays and help prevent sunburn. Some rash guards even include UPF 50+ properties for built-in UV protection, but remember to still use sunscreen.

Can I use rash guard in swimming pool?

Can you Wear a Rash Guard in the Pool? Unlike cotton T-shirts, rash guards are fine for swimming pools. An old shirt can harbor bacteria, requiring the use of more chemicals to keep the pool safe and hygienic.

Can you swim laps in a rash guard?

If you are a surfer, odds are you have a rash guard in your wardrobe, and you may be wondering if it is appropriate to wear when you go swimming. The answer is yes — a rash guard can be used for swimming, though it may not be as comfortable as other options.

Are swim shirts worth it?

Swim Shirts Provide Extra UV Protection So You Can Focus on Having Fun. Having to constantly slather on sunscreen can be a real buzz kill, and it's even less fun when you have little kids who refuse to come out of the water for reapplication. That's why a swim shirt is great.

What kind of shirt is best for swimming?

Short-sleeve shirts are perfect for swimming in warmer waters or wearing underneath your wetsuit or outdoor clothing, while long-sleeved options are better suited to those who like to surf, swim, and board in cooler waters.

Why wear a rash guard?

Worn as a protective layer, a rash guard is used to shield from damaging sun-rays, harsh ocean conditions and uncomfortable chafing. Below are the top reasons you should rock a rashie this season.

What are rash guards made of?

Rash guards, generally known as an additional type of water wear, are a fitted athletic shirt made of spandex, nylon or polyester.

Why do surfboards have rash guards?

A rash guard's primary purpose is to protect surfers from the abrasions that can be caused by sand and waxy residue on their surfboards. Although the typical rash is caused by sliding on and off a rough board, rash guards also protect children from their enthusiastic days on the sandy shore.

Why wear rash guards in swimsuits?

Today, rash guards are designed to add extra coverage to your basic swimwear in order to prevent sunburns.

Is a rash guard cold or warm?

Sea Armor. No matter how warm the sun feels on the sand, it is always colder under water. Not to be confused with a wetsuit, a rash guard's basic purpose is not to keep you warm; the extra layer that a rash guard provides is an easy alternative when the weather a too warm for a full wetsuit.

What is a Rash Guard?

The primary purpose of a rash guard is to provide warmth, sun protection, and rash protection.

What is thermal rash guard?

Thermal rash guards are commonly used for aqua aerobics and ocean sports (in water that is too warm for a wetsuit, but too cold for bare skin). Aside from the word "thermal," look for "thermo" in the title of the product. These terms means that it is made of thick, insulating fabric. Thermal means the rash guard is made for warmth.

What connectors attach rash guards to shorts?

Boardshort connectors attach the rash guard to shorts to prevent it from riding up.

What does mm mean on rash guard vest?

If the rash guard vest is made for thermoregulation (warmth) it will have an "mm" in the title.

What sports use rash guards?

Sports that commonly use full-body rash guards are: Canoeing, kayaking, wake boarding, water skiing, windsurfing, kite surfing, and surfing. The downside of these suits is that they can sometimes restrict freedom of movement.

Can you wear a rash guard under a wetsuit?

While surfing, the rash guard can be worn alone (to protect skin from a surfboard rash), or under a wetsuit (to protect skin from wetsuit irritation). Some information on rash guards in general:

Does a rash guard protect against UV rays?

Every rash guard provides at least some UV protection (even if not specifically stated).

Why do people wear rash guards?

The name rash guard reflects the fact that the shirt protects the wearer against rashes caused by abrasion, or by sunburn from extended exposure to the sun . A rash guard shirt is usually worn by itself when surfing in weather too warm for a wetsuit to prevent chafing from sliding on and off of the waxed surface of the surf board.

What is a rash guard made of?

The combination of products used to construct a rash guard differ slightly depending on the designer. The use of nylon and spandex create a garment that is lightweight, quick drying, flexible, durable, naturally antibacterial and water wicking.

What is a rash vest?

Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. A rash guard, also known as rash vest or rashie, is an athletic shirt made of spandex and nylon or polyester. The name rash guard reflects the fact that the shirt protects the wearer against rashes caused by abrasion, or by sunburn from extended exposure to the sun.

What is a cropped rash guard?

Cropped rash guard: A rash guard that is similar to a crop top and is made specifically for females. It can be paired with swimwear bottoms.

Where did rash guards originate?

Rash guards are thought to have originated in Australia, where they are commonly referred to as "rashies" or "rashys". Important features of a rash guard include flatlock stitching and multi-panel construction. Flatlock stitching creates a seam where the seam allowances lies flat to the garment instead of hanging loose from it.

Do MMA rash guards have UV protection?

In most cases, BJJ and MMA rash guards are thinner than traditional rash guards meant for surfing or diving. They also don’t offer UV protection. Over the years MMA rash guards evolved and most have the following distinct features: enforced stitching; a gel panel on the bottom of the rash guard to keep it from rolling up while sparring; fewer stitches, and a mix of 80% polyester and 20% spandex. They also carry unique designs, usually martial arts-centered but not strictly.

Do BJJ athletes wear rash guards?

In competition, BJJ athletes are allowed to wear rash guards with long or short sleeves. Some organizations and promotions, like IBJJF, require the participants to wear a solid color - usually black, or black with at least 10% of their belt color. Other organizations allow the competitors to wear a rash guard of their choice. The same rule goes for gyms and academies with each one setting their own requirements from their students.

What is a rash guard?

As the name suggests, a rash guard is an athletic wear that protects the wearer from rashes caused by abrasion, or by sunburn from extended exposure to the sun. It was invented by Aussie surfer bros in the 1970s. It is also known as rash vest or rashie. It is made up of synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and spandex. It is usually worn by the surfers while riding the waves or hanging out on the shore. It can be worn while surfing in warm weather to prevent chafing on and off the waxed surface of the surfboard as these surfboard’s wax holds sands from the beach that can run against a surfer while paddling. They are sometimes worn under the wetsuit to prevent chafing.

Why do athletes wear rash guards?

They are also used for training in various grappling sports and mixed martial arts. Athletes wear rash guards to protect themselves from mat burns and cuts. Also worn with the purpose of practicing good hygiene. It provides protection against jellyfish stings and also prevents irritation caused by the rapid impact of surface water as well as the waves.

What is a thermal rash guard?

You can wear it under a wetsuit which will provide you protection from the cold water. Thermal rash guards are made of thicker fabrics and are used for aqua aerobics and other water sports.

Why are swim shirts good for kids?

But since sunscreens are not suitable for everyone because of the chemicals used in them especially children skin can be sensitive to sunscreen. So swim shirts are the best option for children as they are loose and easily slipped on. Even though the name suggests that it is designed for water activities but people use it for other activities such as Brazilian jiu-jitsu, mixed martial arts, and for regular wear as well.

Is rash guard good for the environment?

The combination of products used in making rash guards vary depending upon the company and designer. However, studies claim that synthetic fibers are not good for the environment.

Can a baby girl wear a rash guard?

This rash guard is designed for kids especially for boys but can be worn by baby girls as well. It has a full front zipper which makes slipping in and out easier.

What Does A Rash Guard Do?

The purpose of a rash guard is to protect your skin from irritation by salty water. Rashguards also have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) to protect you from harmful UV rays. When surfing, a rash guard is essential since it protects you from friction and discomfort caused by contact with the surfing board.

How do rash guards work?

Rash guards should fit like a second skin: snugly to your body for ease of movement and to prevent rubbing and chaffing. A body-hugging rash guard will allow you to maneuver easily in the water without hindering speed. Loosely fitting rash guards are mostly meant for lounging around the pool or beach.

What Do You Wear Under A Rash Guard?

What you wear under a rash guard is a matter of preference. Most people prefer to wear either a sports bra or a bikini. You can also wear a swimsuit or swim brief for men if you like. Always ensure you try out whatever you plan to wear under your rash guard before you go into the water. Trying out your swimsuit or bra will ensure that you choose something comfortable and well-fitting.

Why do you wear a rash guard under a wetsuit?

A rash guard is often worn under a wetsuit to reduce friction and irritation.

Why do you wear rash guards when you go swimming?

Prevents Rashes And Skin Abrasions. The main reason for wearing rash guards is to protect your skin from rashes and irritation. When surfing or swimming, sand comes into contact with our bodies, causing friction and irritation.

What to know before buying a rash guard?

Before buying a rash guard, you need to know the features that are crucial in these garments. We researched and came up with some of the features that make up a good quality rash guard. Read on. 1. Material. Water garments are made from a variety of stretchy and waterproof materials.

What material is used for rash guards?

The most common rash guard materials are lycra, neoprene, polyester, and spandex-nylon blend. Most garments will have a blend of different materials, thus, different qualities.

What is rash guard?

If you didn’t, allow us to explain. A rash guard is almost always a shirt, specifically one that’s worn in or around water.

Why is it called a rash guard?

But the original Australian rash guard was called a rash guard (or “rashie”) for its ability to protect against rashes. In the beginning, rash guards were almost exclusively for men. Almost all of these men were surfers and most of the rashes came from chafing – against fast-moving water, or against sand caught in waxed surfboards.

Do you have to surf to wear a rash guard?

All of the above is still true today. But nowadays you don’t have to surf to wear a rash guard (in fact there are specialized rash guards for a variety of sports including baseball).

Do rash guards protect against UV rays?

Much of this is because many of the “rashes” that today’s rash guards prevent are not caused by surfboards or saltwater or too much body motion. Rash guards today actually guard against the sun’s UV rays – good old-fashioned sunburn. That means UPF 50+ sun protection.

Rash Guards and Swim Shirts: the Main Difference

Generally, people are not aware of the main differences between a rash guard and a bathing top. A rash guard is a top designed to guard the wearer against the sun, while the bathing shirt's main purpose is to provide an athletic edge.

What is the Rash Guard?

Protection rash guard is an essential part of your surfing gear. Rash guards are tops that are made of a material that guard your skin against being exposed to the sun. They are made of a material that also helps keep your skin cool. Rash guards are worn under your wet suit to provide extra protection for your skin.

What Is the Swim Shirt?

Bathing tops are a type of shirt that is worn when swim. This type of shirt is usually loose and comfortable, and it helps to provide coverage and protect the wearer from the sun. bathing tops are generally made from lightweight and durable materials, such as cotton or nylon, and they come in a variety of designs and colors.

What Is the Best for Swimming

Swimming is a recreational activity enjoyed by many all over the world. From the arctic to the tropics, swimmers are out there. So are rashes! Swirling around in chlorine, saltwater, and other pool chemicals makes the skin sensitive. One of the most common ways to avoid rashes is to wear a bathing shirt or rash guards.

How to Choose the Right Swim Shirt or Rash Guard Shirt

What Should You Look for in a Swim Shirt or Rash Guards Tops? You want a bathing shirt that is not only comfortable and breathable but one that has UPF protection. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a swim top is the level of protection from the sun.

To Wrap Things Up

Even if they seem very similar, there are some main differences between those two. For start, rash guards are made to protect from sun and water, especially people like surfers, fishermen, etc. While bathing shirts are made for a swim. They are more comfortable, and they can’t protect you from the sun as well as rash guard.

Most Common Questions

Swim shirts, also commonly referred to as rash shirts, are protective clothing that some individuals like to wear while swimming.

Overview

Swim shirts

Variations

Rash guards for grappling / mixed martial arts

See also