At its core, surfing can be perceived as a minimalist sport, one that doesn’t require much to get started. It can seem like you all need to do is grab a surfboard, find the right beach, and catch a good wave.
While it is entirely possible to get yourself a board and hit some waves, you will realize that the basics are not enough as your surfing experience advances.
Although some equipment might seem obvious, like a wetsuit or a surf leash, others, like a rash guard or rash vest, might not.
But what is a rash guard? Well, that is what we’re about to look at. Whether you’re new to the sport or you have some hours under your belt, a rash guard can be a good investment. So, let’s have a look at what they are and the six things you need to know when buying one.
What is a Rash Guard?
A rash guard may not be something that immediately springs to mind when it comes to essential surfing gear, but spend a few hours catching some summer waves and there may come a time when you realize how necessary it is.
With origins thought to have come from Australia, where they are commonly referred to as “rashies,” a rash guard is a type of swim shirt that both offers sun protection and prevents rashes caused by the friction and abrasion that is common with board sports.
Typically made from a combination of spandex and either nylon or polyester, a rash guard can be worn alone on hot summer days to protect from burns and body chaffing, or it can be combined with a wet suit for extra protection and an added layer of warmth.
6 Things Surfers Need to Know When Buying a Rash Guard
It might seem that a rash guard is something you don’t have to put much thought into; after all, it is simply a piece of clothing. However, there are some things to consider when trying to find the right one.
1. Material: One of the biggest things people look for when buying any article of clothing is comfortable, and a rash guard shouldn’t be any different. You’re not going to want to wear it if it isn’t comfortable. This is where the right material comes into play.
Rash guards are made from a blend of synthetic materials, each providing its own unique levels of comfort, protection, breathability, and warmth.
- Nylon-Spandex: The most common material used in rash guards, nylon-spandex will provide a form fit, excellent breathability, and it will be quick to dry while remaining stretchy and comfortable.
- Lycra: With even more stretch than nylon-spandex, lycra won’t restrict movement. Plus, it is highly breathable and quick to dry.
- Polyester: Polyester is another material that is highly breathable. It is also moisture-wicking, meaning it will disperse sweat and keep you cool even on the hottest day. What polyester does lack is the stretchability than other materials offer, possibly restricting movement.
- Neoprene: Neoprene provides insulation against cold water. While it may not be right for all-around use, a neoprene rash guard can work as a stand-alone, or provide an extra layer of warmth in colder water. er.
2. Fit: Second to the material when it comes to comfort is fit. While you can find rash guards that fit either snug or loose, the snug ones will result in less rubbing and chafing as they move with your body and have less excess material getting in the way. Less excess material also provides less resistance in the water, making paddling that much easier.
3. Stitching: Stitching is something that easily gets overlooked until after the rash guard is purchased and worn. The wrong stitching on a tight-fitting piece of clothing can be more uncomfortable than many people realize.
High-quality rash guards will use a stitching process called flat locking to produce an almost seamless feel and reduce the chances of any rubbing and chafing from the garment itself.
4. Dry Time: Keeping yourself comfortable and warm while on the water is key to enjoying the time spent there, but what about when it’s time to take a break? Remaining wet on a hot summer day may not be too big of a deal, but on those days when it’s cooler, staying wet can quickly reduce your body temperature and, in turn, make you uncomfortably cold and reluctant to get back into the water. Try and find a rash guard that is both moisture-wicking to remove excess sweat and will dry quickly so that your body can better regulate temperature.
5. Style: Style isn’t just about looking good. When it comes to rash guards, style is an important factor in function. Rash guards can come in various styles, each with its own benefits.
- Long Sleeve: Long-sleeve rash guards can provide protection not for just those colder days on the water, but also for those days when the sun is beating down on you and you want the best protection from its harmful rays. The right long-sleeve rash guard can be perfect for just about any type of surf session.
- ShortSleeve: Short-sleeve rash guards will typically offer a better range of motion than their long sleeve-counterparts – depending on the material they are made from -whilesacrificing some of the protection offered with longer sleeves. A short-sleeve rash guard can be great for hotter days or can be easily worn under a wet suit for an added layer of warmth.
- Tank: Tanks are the perfect rash guards for those days when overheating might be a problem. While they offer less protection from the sun, they will keep you cooler than styles with long sleeves.
6. Extra Features: When buying a rash guard, you’re going to want to get the best possible protection you can for your money. While you may have to spend a little extra, some rash guards will come with features like added UV protection or high-collared neck guards that protect one of the most vulnerable areas on your body from getting sunburnt.
