Many surfers liken the feeling of catching a wave to the way a bird feels gliding along with the wind. Whether you’re an old pro or a newbie looking to find your water wings, when you want to catch the surf you must have the right gear. And one of the most versatile surfing essentials is the best rash guard you can find. This is your buyer’s guide to the best rash guards for surfing the gnarliest waves.
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1. Hyperflex Wetsuits Rashguard
Pros:- Lightweight
- Warmth
- Prevents Rash
Cons:- One color
- Short-sleeved
- Limited sizes
This short-sleeved style is the only featured one on our list. And for good reason. It offers more flexibility while still adding warmth and protection to your upper body.
It’s also made 50% mesh skin neoprene and 50% rashguard material, a hybrid fabrication that helps wick away moisture and keeps lingering odors at bay. It also clearly feels thicker and more durable than the standard nylon of other rashguards.
Find more Hyperflex Wetsuits Rashguard information and reviews here.
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2. Kanu Surf Men’s Long-Sleeve Platinum UPF 50+ Rashguard
Pros:- UPF 50+
- Machine washable
- Durable
Cons:- Neckline fits a little larger than is desirable
- Fits tighter/smaller
- Some users felt the fabric stretched out after a few uses
Kanu Surf specializes in beachwear essentials that combine performance and great design. Their Platinum Rashguard is an overall pleaser too.
The fabric feels very durable and maintains its shape and look after multiple wears and washes. The material also provides for an unlimited range in the shoulders which makes paddling all the more comfortable.
Find more Kanu Surf Men's Long-Sleeve Platinum UPF 50 Rashguard information and reviews here.
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3. Platinum Sun Mens Rash Guard
Pros:- UPF 30+
- Silicone waistband
- Money-back guarantee
Cons:- Some may find silicone waistband uncomfortable
- Not as durable as other options
- Minimal colors
Here’s a bit of a bolder take from Platinum Sun. The sublimated printing stays vibrant after continued saltwater wear and offers a more fashion-forward style than other options.
It’s also highly functional and comfortable, with antibacterial fabric and a special, inside silicone lined waistband that helps prevent it from riding up while you ride heavy surf.
Find more Platinum Sun Mens Rash Guard information and reviews here.
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4. O’Neill Wetsuits Basic Skins Crew
Pros:- UPF 50+
- Quick drying
- Comfortable
Cons:- Not as durable as other options
- Sizes run a bit small
- No boardshort loop
An excellent choice for added insulation under a wetsuit, the O’Neill Men’s Wetsuits Basic Skins Crew also features a four-way stretch. This ensures a quality fit that won’t shift or ride up when you’re in the water.
Prime style, performance, and comfort—What else would you expect from a surfwear brand that originated on the California coast all the way back in 1952?
Find more O’Neill Wetsuits Basic Skins Crew information and reviews here.
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5. Quiksilver Performer Rashguard
Pros:- UPF 50+
- Color options
- Flattering fit
Cons:- Hand wash
- Sizing runs small
- Coloring of shirt tends to bleed after repeated use
The Quiksilver Men’s Performer Rashguard is a standout.
It’s not too thick and not too thin. It fits snugly, but won’t make you feel like a stuffed surf sausage.
Plus, the style and colors are really sharp and allow you to stand out and be seen in the water, without being too obnoxious.
Find more Quiksilver Performer Rashguard information and reviews here.
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6. Phantom Aquatics Rashguard
Pros:- UPF 50+
- Four-way stretch
- Color options
Cons:- Sizing runs small
- Some users found the color bled after use
- Not as durable as other options
While Phantom Aquatics products are designed with underwater sports in mind, their Rashguard is a winner for snagging some serious waves above too.
Each product is also tested by divers, which explains why their Rashguard is a great pick if you’re looking for added warmth or a rashguard that performs more like a wetsuit. The four-way stretch also provides for an optimum range of motion.
Find more Phantom Aquatics Rashguard information and reviews here.
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7. Meister Rush Rashguard
Pros:- Comfortable
- Rubberized waistband
- Reflective for added visibility
Cons:- No UPF
- Only three color options
- Not as durable as other options
This is a rashguard for more than just surfing. While many of us primarily think of rashguards when it comes to surfing, the rise of MMA and other grappling sports has seen an uptick in demand for high-performance, quality rashguards for the more physical indoor sports circuit.
This last option is exactly that. While it doesn’t offer UPF protection, it still ticks off many surfing-need boxes: a rubberized inner waistband to keep it in place, thick and durable material, and a form-fitting yet comfortable fit.
Find more Meister Rush Rashguard information and reviews here.
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8. DRSKIN Compression Rash Guard
Pros:- UPF 50+
- Color options
- Good absorbtion layer
Cons:- Sizing runs small
- Thinner fabric than other options
- Some users sa threads around the wrist area unravel after a few uses
DRSKIN creates sportswear that is the “harmony of comfort and safety.” Their products feature an “odd ramp sewing method” that results in no overlapping of fabric and also provides strong elasticity.
All of these elements really shine in their rash guard. It’s quick-drying, comfortable and durable for long time use so you can stay out in the water as long as you’re in the zone.
Find more DRSKIN Compression Rash Guard information and reviews here.
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9. O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Pros:- Lightweight
- UPF 50+
- Many colors
- Trusted brand
Cons:- Sizing may be an issue
- Long-sleeve only
- Pull-on closure, no zipper
Whether you are a beginner or a pro surfer you know that the name Oneill has been fueling the surfing game with top-notch gear for decades. The brand prides itself on protecting surfers from the harshest of waves with these stellar wetsuits and rash guards. When you are picking your next rash guard make sure you pay attention to sizing. Luckily there are sizing guides on Amazon to help, but the one thing most surfers say about rash guards is that the sizing varies from brand to brand.
This particular rash guard wet suit is UPF 50+ to not only protect you from the harsh waves and cold temperatures but from the sun’s harmful rays so the only thing you have to worry about when riding waves is just that, riding those barrels. The rash guard is made from 6 ounce polyester which is light enough to not weigh you down but strong enough to protect you. There are a bunch of colors available so you can fill your surfing closet with new styles and colors.
Find more O'Neill Men's Basic Skins Long Sleeve Rash Guard information and reviews here.
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10. Kanu Surf Rashguard
Pros:- UPF 50+
- Flat-lock stitching
- Quick-drying
Cons:- Only comes in one color combination
- Sizing runs small
- Black fabric gets hot in the sun
The XStream Rashguard looks basic but has some nice details that elevate it beyond boring. The high neckline and sleeves are designed to provide maximum sun and rash coverage while still allowing the most comfortable ride possible.
The understated styling looks sleek and sharp and is designed to resist salt water and sun fading. Finally, the flat-lock, parallel stitching offers strength and durability. This one’s definitely a keeper.
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11. Cressi Rashguard
Pros:- SPF 40
- High collar
- Flat-lok stitching
Cons:- Sizing runs small
- Three colors only
- Not as durable as other options
Cressi is a brand rooted in a passion for the sea and performance, so they know what they’re doing when it comes to a rashguard.
While this handsome style only comes in blue/white, it’s still mighty good looking and boasts multi-stretch fabric for the ultimate in comfort. The fit is a bit more generous around the waist too—which is a pro or a con depending on your personal preference.
Rashguards are primarily designed to protect surfers' chests from surfboard or boogie board rashes. They also provide warmth in colder water as well as protection from the sun (every rashguard provides at least some sun protection even if not specifically stated).
Some water goers choose to wear their rashguard alone or layered under their wetsuit for extra heat too. Another cool characteristic is that most rashguards come with connectors that you can attach to board shorts so they don't ride up.
When looking for a rashguard there are a few important things to keep in mind:
1. Fit: Most rashguards are made to fit tighter/snug. Size up for a looser, yet still form-fitting look.
2. Fabric: The best selections are made from a combination of polyester or nylon with elastane which makes them breathable and quick-drying.
3. Details: Quality seams and a mock- or higher-neck are two features that denote quality and performance.