Guide To Buying Rash Vest & Guards
Rash vests are designed to protect your skin and improve comfort during water-based activities such as swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Worn on their own or as an extra layer under a wetsuit, rash vests help reduce irritation, provide sun protection, and keep you comfortable during long periods in the water.
Rash Guards
Discover rash vests for water babies of all ages right here at Trespass. Surf the waves without worrying about abrasions from your board, and protect yourself from the sun's rays with a high-performing rash guard.
A thermal rash vest offers extra protection in the sea, and we've got a whole range of rash guards suited to the whole family. Beach-lovers will adore our women's Azad rash guard vest while our stylish aqua shoes will keep your feet protected in the water.
Rash vests are available in different styles to suit activity level, water temperature, and coverage needs.
- Short sleeve rash vests: Lightweight and breathable, suitable for warm water swimming, pool use, and casual beach days.
- Long sleeve rash vests: Offer increased coverage for arms and shoulders, ideal for extended sun exposure, surfing, or snorkeling.
- Thermal rash vests: Designed to add warmth in cooler water, often worn as a base layer under a wetsuit.
- Compression rash vests: Close-fitting styles that reduce fabric movement and help minimise chafing during high-energy water sports.
- Swim shirts: Relaxed-fit rash vests that combine casual comfort with sun protection for beach and pool use.
Together, these options allow you to choose a rash vest that matches both your activity and the conditions you expect to face.
Materials and How They Work
The materials used in rash vests are chosen to perform well in water while remaining comfortable against the skin.
- Polyester and nylon: Durable, quick-drying fabrics that resist wear from saltwater and chlorine.
- Elastane blends: Add stretch for unrestricted movement and a secure fit during active use.
- UPF-rated fabrics: Help block harmful UV rays, offering reliable sun protection during outdoor water activities.
- Flatlock seams: Reduce irritation and chafing, especially during long periods of wear.
These materials ensure rash vests stay lightweight, flexible, and comfortable both in and out of the water.
Certain features improve how rash vests perform during regular use.
- A close but comfortable fit helps prevent fabric movement and irritation.
- Stretch fabrics allow full freedom of movement while swimming or surfing.
- Flat seams reduce rubbing during extended wear.
- Quick-drying materials improve comfort when moving between water and land.
- UPF-rated fabrics provide consistent sun protection in outdoor conditions.
These features help ensure your rash vest performs reliably across different water activities.
Matching your rash vest to how you plan to use it improves comfort and performance.
- Swimming and pool use: Lightweight short sleeve rash vests or swim shirts for comfort and sun protection.
- Surfing and paddleboarding: Long sleeve rash vests to protect against board contact, surf wax, and UV exposure.
- Snorkeling and open water swimming: UPF-rated rash vests with close-fitting designs for extended sun exposure.
- Cooler water activities: Thermal rash vests worn as a base layer under a wetsuit to add warmth.
- Beach and casual wear: Relaxed-fit rash vests that work comfortably both in and out of the water.
Choosing the right style ensures your rash vest supports both your activity level and the environment.
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What is a rash vest?
- A rash vest – also known as a rash guard or UV top, is a fitted swim top designed for the water. The original function of a rash vest was to protect surfers from the friction caused by their boards – which often resulted in a rash. It's also worn under a wetsuit to prevent chafing. Nowadays, rash guards are popular with anyone that loves the sea – not only does it protect you from chafing, but it also acts as a UV sun protector.
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Do rash vests offer UV protection for sun exposure?
- Yes. Most rash vests are made with UPF-rated fabric that helps block harmful UV rays. They provide reliable sun protection during swimming, surfing, and other outdoor water activities, especially when worn for long periods.
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Should a rash vest fit tight or loose for best performance?
- A rash vest should fit close to the body without feeling restrictive. A snug fit reduces fabric movement, helps prevent chafing, and improves comfort during active water sports, while still allowing full freedom of movement.
