Why Wear a Rash Guard?

Rash guards were originally designed for surfers to prevent skin rashes caused by the combination of salt water, wet skin, sand and wetsuits. They are basically close-fitting nylon/Lycra tee shirts. While today they are still worn by surfers, nonsurfers have found them useful in other ways.

  1. Sun Protection

    • Most rash guards today are made with special fabrics and treatments that block the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. While wearing sunscreen is still a must, rash guards provide an extra layer of protection.

    Style

    • Someone who aspires to be a surfer, or at least look like one, can throw on a pair of flip-flops, board shorts and a rash guard to instantly project a "surfer-dude cool" image. Additionally, as rash guards have caught on with the masses, they're being made in a wide variety of sporty colors, styles and prints.

    Modesty

    • With bikinis seeming to get itsy-bitsier each design season, some women and girls have taken to wearing rash guards for added coverage. Some bikini sets are even sold with a matching rash guard.

    Additional Uses

    • Other sports are adopting the use of rash guards. They are often worn under karate robes, in the sport of grappling, and by fishermen and boaters who appreciate their quick-drying fabric.