12 Best Rash Guards for Summer Travel
Although rash guards were originally designed for surfers, these days, tons of people wear them to the beach to protect themselves against the elements — like sun, sand, salt, etc. The great thing about rash guards is that they’re much lighter than a typical wetsuit, but they’re super durable and can make a big difference for sensitive summer skin.
If you’re in the market for a rash guard of your own, then you’ve definitely come to the right place! We’ve rounded up the best rash guards in just about every style you can imagine.
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12 best rash guards for snorkeling, swimming, and surfing
1. Best loose fit rash guard: Billabong
While most rash guards fit close to the body, this pick from Billabong is actually on the looser side of things. This relaxed top is made from recycled polyester and a bit of elastane, and has UPF protection built right in for added convenience and ease of wear. Overall, we love this rash guard for its performance features and style points — and we think it’d make a perfect look for splashing around, grabbing your snorkel, or popping up on your ‘board.
Price range: starting at $45
2. Best affordable rash guard: TSLA
This rash guard from TSLA has tons of amazing features at a really reasonable price. It’s made from a mix of spandex and polyester to give it enhanced elasticity (plus resilience) for truly flexible movement. But it also has built-in sun protection that’ll prevent you from getting burnt while you’re out on the water. And if that wasn’t enough, this pick’s quick-drying properties will wick moisture and provide a cooling effect for all-day comfort.
Price range: starting at $21
3. Best stylish rash guard: AXESEA
Who says rash guards shouldn’t be stylish, right? We love all these designs from AXESEA, which are sure to look great whether you’re catching a wave or catching a nap on the sand. This one-piece suit has a zipper closure, flatlock seams, and a flattering fit for all shapes and sizes. Plus, it comes with a removable padded bra for extra support up top, as well as UPF 50+ protection to help block out those harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Price range: starting at $38
4. Best full-length rash guard: Skyone
This full-length rash guard from Skyone is a top pick for surfing, diving, snorkeling, and more. Because this rash guard is made from 100% spandex, it has an extremely soft, smooth, and flexible fit. What’s more, this long-sleeve design will protect you against cold temperatures, jellyfish stings, and a *bunch* of other things you might encounter at the ocean. It’s safe to say all your bases are covered with just this one, water-ready garment.
Price range: starting at $34
5. Best high neck rash guard: Coolibar
Coolibar’s Paros Sailing Tee is made from the brand’s signature Aqua Juno fabric — a smooth and stretchy material that comes with built-in intelligent features. For example, this fabric is breathable, quick-dry, sun protective, and somehow chlorine- and saltwater-resistant. But in spite of these incredible qualities, the most notable feature might be the fitted gaiter neckline. It even comes with an adjustable toggle on the back for totally customized comfort.
Price range: starting at $75
6. Best UV protection rash guard: O’Neill
Okay, to be fair, all the recommendations on our list have some level of UV protection. With that said, we had to name this design from O’Neill as the *best* UV rash guard since it’s earned a seal of approval from the Skin Cancer Foundation. This high-quality UV protection is sure to keep you safe from the sun whether you’re spending time in or out of the water. On top of that, the performance fit offers comfortable, yet durable wear for hours on end.
Price range: starting at $38
7. Best color block rash guard: ATTRACO
Color blocking is sort of a trendy design element, but it also creates a really flattering silhouette for the wearer. This rash guard from ATTRACO has color-blocked sleeves and side panels for a nice visual effect and a great fit on every body. In addition, this polyester design also blocks out the sun (thanks to its UPF 50+ protection), and has 4-way stretch for free and flexible movement. Choose from several different designs and color combo options.
Price range: starting at $24
8. Best zippered rash guard: Roxy
If you’d rather not pull a wet rash guard over your head, you might be interested in this zip-up design from Roxy. This long-sleeve top is made of elastane and recycled polyester that comes from repurposed plastic bottles. We love to see this kind of sustainability, especially when it produces such a beautiful and durable result. And we feel confident you’ll love this one, too, thanks to its tremendous versatility and handy zipper closure.
Price range: starting at $40
9. Best bodysuit rash guard: Daci
Daci’s one-piece rash guard is a highly rated, best selling design — and it’s not too hard to see why. This long-sleeve bodysuit has a zipper down the front for easy closure, plus a built-in bra to offer some extra support. There’s also UPF 50+ sun protection, a comfortable crew neckline, and quick-drying properties that’ll make this a go-to piece. And with all the great patterns and colors to choose from, you’re sure to make a statement out on the water.
Price range: starting at $34
10. Best t-shirt rash guard: Kanu Surf
This top from Kanu Surf is a bit deceiving at first glance, considering it looks like your average V-neck tee. But on closer inspection, you’ll notice all the wonderful qualities this t-shirt (slash rash guard) has to offer. This polyester design features a banded neckline, raglan seaming, and solid UPF protection. It’s also a looser fit than most traditional rash guards, making it a comfortable option for whatever beach activities you’ll be getting into.
Price range: starting at $21
11. Best cropped rash guard: Body Glove
Crop tops are a summer stable, which is why we’re such big fans of this cropped rash guard from Body Glove. This one is made from a blend of spandex and nylon, and comes with full-length sleeves, a low profile crewneck, and flatlock seams to keep chafing at bay. You can count on this top to be lightweight and offer a flexible fit that caters to your comfort. While there are definitely some cute color options, we’re partial to the ‘feline’ print ourselves.
Price range: starting at $31
12. Best rash guard set: COCOSHIP
COCOSHIP’s rash guard set might be the cutest thing we’ve ever seen? Seriously, this long-sleeve tankini and high-waisted, full coverage bottom are all kinds of chic. We’re obsessed with the vintage vibe and the fact that there’s so many classic patterns available — dots, stripes, gingham, and more. As far as functionality goes, there’s padded cups in the top and lining all throughout the bottom to keep you feeling secure and supported.
Price range: starting at $35
Rash guard FAQs
What is a rash guard used for?
A rash guard is an athletic shirt that protects your skin from harmful UV rays and rashes caused by the ocean. While most rash guards are long-sleeve tops, you’ll also find short-sleeve, bodysuit, and full-length styles that all are great for surfing, swimming, and more.
What is the best rash guard material?
The best rash guard materials are typically spandex, nylon, and polyester. Each of these fabrics are stretchy and lightweight, making them an ideal choice for staying active on/in the water.
How do I choose a rash guard?
When choosing a rash guard, look for a style that has flat stitching, as this will help you avoid chafing and other discomforts. Additionally, the best rash guards tend to have quick-drying properties, and come with ample UPF protection to keep you safe out in the sun.