It’s common for watersports fans to develop skin rashes or inflammations when out on the water. There are many causes of such skin aggravations, particularly when the skin remains unprotected from the wetsuit material and seams. Where the material bunches up or when your body moves inside the suit, this can cause constant rubbing and result in abrasions – especially under the arms or around the neck. Rash vests (or guards) were therefore initially created to prevent such rubbing and potential skin rashes from forming.
Rash vests can also protect your bare skin from rubbing against your surfboard or bodyboard if you are riding without a wetsuit.
Nonetheless, rash guards are not limited to use while surfing. In fact, many watersports enthusiasts choose to wear a rash guard for extra protection against harmful UV sun rays. Rash vests are also commonly worn with a wetsuit to add a layer of insulation. People often wear them alone during the warm months of the year too.
Depending on your specific preferences and needs, there are a range of rash vest styles to choose from.
Thermal rash vests
If you feel the cold, a thermal rash vest can be a great addition to your watersports wardrobe. Thermal rash vests are often made of neoprene material or fleece-line Lycra, which traps heat between the suit and body to keep you warm in the water for extended periods of time. They are therefore ideal for use during the colder months of the year. Many divers opt to wear a thermal rash vest under a wetsuit, as it can help regulate body temperate in deeper waters.
Alternatively, some surfers (and other board-based sports enthusiasts) prefer to wear a thermal rash vest when it’s too warm to wear a wetsuit, but too risky to expose skin. They are the perfect compromise, providing protection from windchill and the sun, without being too restrictive.
Short and long-sleeved rash vests
A short-sleeved rash vest is the perfect all-round option. Offering great versatility and comfort, many people choose them as an accompaniment to a pair of shorts on warm days. They provide extra defence from sun exposure, especially around the neck and shoulders, and can also be worn as an under layer to provide additional skin protection and insulation in the water.
These rash vests are designed to offer freedom of movement and dry quickly, making them ideal for those who are constantly active, in and out of the water.
There is generally not much difference between long- and short-sleeved variations. Inevitably, long-sleeved rash guards will provide increased protection from all the elements, whilst affording slightly more insulation. Some people them a little more restrictive, especially if you are using your arms energetically e.g. when surfing, kayaking or water skiing.
Full-body rash guards
Full-body rash guards look like full-length wetsuits. However, being made from the same materials as a rash guard, they are mainly designed to prevent rubbing and abrasions. They offer full-body protection and can be worn alone or underneath a wetsuit. Despite being incredibly stretchy, the only real negative is that getting changed can be somewhat inhibited.
Rash vest checklist
Deciding which type of rash vest will suit you best doesn’t have to be complicated. Consider the following points:
Style: You may prefer long sleeves for increased protection from the elements, or a short-sleeved option which is cooler in warm weather and more flexible.
Fit: A close fit is generally recommended for enhancing performance, as it’s skin-tight and more streamlined which prevents extra material from getting in the way. A looser fit is a great option for laid-back excursions and will provide considerable protection on the beach.
Resistance level: Be sure to check that your rash vest provides ample UV protection. You may also wish to consider a chlorine-resistant style.
Thermal properties: During colder months, a thermal rash vest could be your new best friend. Thermal rash vests are also a great alternative to a wetsuit in the summer months.
Colour: You’ll want a rashie that suits your personality and taste. Choose from subtle shades, patterns and bold colours which are usually designed to match classic black shorts.
Find the right rash vest for you
Whether you’re a casual paddleboarder or a hardcore surfer, we have the perfect rash vest for you, guaranteed to keep you warm all year round.
Our range caters to men, women and children. If you are looking for extra warmth, rash prevention or sun protection, our rash guards are bound to meet your needs. We also sell wetsuit jackets which can be a great accompaniment to a rash vest. They are versatile, offering extra insulation for those without a wetsuit.
There are many styles and colours to choose from, including thermal vests. What are you waiting for?
