A rash guard, also known as a rashie, or a rash vest, is a tightly-fitted garment made from either lycra, nylon or polyester, that is specifically designed for athletic wear or water sports to prevent the upper body from chaffing or getting rashes. Originally designed to prevent surfers from chaffing or grazing their skin against the surfboard, the use of this garment has extended well beyond surfing. These days rash guards are used for a wide variety of water sports ranging from, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, wakeboarding, body surfing, body boarding, windsurfing, kayaking, or even simply for swimming.
featured above: Pinnacle Rash Guard Short Sleeve Womens available at Leisurepro.com
The rash guard is a versatile garment that serves many purposes and can be worn both as an inner layer or outer garment. Scuba Divers normally wear a rash guard inside of their wetsuits as extended periods in a wetsuit can cause chafing injuries with the skin constantly in friction with the wetsuit. Additionally the extra layer of clothing offers a tiny bit more insulation to the diver underwater by adding an extra layer. Rash guards may be used for light coverage in warm temperatures as a substitute for a wetsuit when the water is warm enough. For surfers, snorkelers or scuba divers that opt not wear a wetsuit, the rash guard will offer adequate protection from water borne irritants or jellyfish stings.
featured above: XS Scuba Rash Guard Long Sleeve available at Leisurepro.com
Back on the boat or above water while scuba diving or performing any kind of water sport, a rash guard is the best form of UV protection against getting sun burnt. Special UV ray protection rash guards are available made from fabrics that may provide up to UPF 50+ protection. While sunscreen is only as effective as you apply it, and leaves room for missed spots, a full sleeved rash guard can protect your upper body completely. This is especially useful to snorkelers, kayakers and surfers who spend extended periods of time with their backs exposed to the sun.
featured above: Pinnacle Rash Guard Long Sleeve Mens available at Leisurepro.com
While selecting a rash guard here are a few pointers:
- For complete protection from the sun as well as protection from chaffing, opt for a full sleeve rash guard rather than a short sleeve one, especially if you have sensitive skin
- Not all rash guards offer UV Protection, look for fabrics treated with a special UV coating, some offer up to SPF 200+ protection from the sun’s harmful rays and are tested and approved.
- See which material works best for you, rash guards are available in nylon, lycra, spandex or polyester.
- Look for flat lock stitching which creates a seam that lies flat to the garment instead of hanging loose from it, providing comfort and strength for active wear and exercise.
- Lightweight and quick drying rash guards are key to your comfort, some manufacturers offer antibacterial fabrics as well.
- Rash guards are usually tight-fitted, however they do not need to be perfectly fitted to be fully functional
