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10 Best Surf Rash Shirts 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hurley Boys' Long Sleeve Rash Guard Shirt, Tropical Twist, S

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,204
Material
Fit
UV Protection

Most important from
946 reviews

Material
Protective and comfortable, it’s a favorite for its super lightweight material and quick-drying feature.
Fit
The fabric is very soft and the shirt fits true to size, making it a great choice for kids.
UV Protection
This shirt lasts well over time, providing excellent sun protection, a lightweight feel, and quick-drying capability.

The Hurley Boys' Long Sleeve Rash Guard Shirt in Tropical Twist color and size S is made from double jersey fabric, ensuring warmth and comfort during surfing or other water activities. Its material is 100% polyester, which is both durable and quick-drying. The H2O-Dri moisture-wicking technology keeps the wearer dry, while UPF 50 protection offers excellent UV shielding, making it a good choice for sunny days at the beach.

The shirt features a crew neck and long sleeves, providing full coverage and comfort for easy movement. It has a regular fit, which suits a casual and relaxed look. The iconic Hurley logo adds a trendy touch to the design, appealing to brand-conscious users. One of the key strengths is its moisture-wicking capability combined with high UV protection, making it practical for prolonged outdoor use.

The long sleeves and crew neck offer good coverage, but some might find the regular fit less snug compared to more fitted rash guards, which could be a drawback for those seeking a tighter fit. Additionally, while the double jersey fabric is comfortable, it might not be as lightweight as other materials available. Machine washable care instructions make it easy to maintain. Imported from Vietnam, this rash guard is suitable for boys who need reliable sun protection and comfort during water sports. It’s a solid option for parents looking for quality and functional surf-rash shirts for their kids.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,204
Material
Fit
UV Protection

Most important from
946 reviews

Material
Protective and comfortable, it’s a favorite for its super lightweight material and quick-drying feature.
Fit
The fabric is very soft and the shirt fits true to size, making it a great choice for kids.
UV Protection
This shirt lasts well over time, providing excellent sun protection, a lightweight feel, and quick-drying capability.
#2

O'Neill Wetsuits Men's Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard, Black, Large

Rating
9.8
Material
Fit
UV Protection

Most important from
7245 reviews

Material
Material is strong and helps prevent scratches from coral without any damage.
Fit
Fits extremely tight as designed, similar to a 'second skin'.
UV Protection
Provides excellent sun protection and covers the back well while swimming.
Seam Construction
Collar stitching is not flat like the rest of the seams, which could be a minor inconvenience.

The O'Neill Wetsuits Men's Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard is a well-rounded option for those engaging in various water sports like surfing, swimming, and paddle sports. The material is a blend of 87% polyester and 13% spandex, which offers excellent durability and flexibility due to its 4-way stretch properties. This fabric composition ensures a comfortable fit that moves with you, which is essential for active water activities. The high UPF 50+ rating provides significant protection from harmful UV rays, making it ideal for long days out in the sun. It's also endorsed by the Skin Cancer Foundation, adding credibility to its UV protection claim.

The flatloc stitching minimizes skin irritation, and the minimal seam placement enhances comfort and reduces the risk of rashes, a common issue for water sports enthusiasts. The performance fit is very form-fitting, which some may find snug but is designed to fit like a second skin, reducing fatigue from sun exposure. However, this tight fit may not be comfortable for everyone, particularly those who prefer a looser fit. The long sleeves offer additional coverage, which is advantageous for both sun protection and reducing friction. In terms of care, it requires hand washing, which might be less convenient compared to machine-washable options. This rash guard is an excellent choice for those needing reliable sun protection and a comfortable, durable fit for active water sports, although the tight fit and hand-wash care might be minor drawbacks for some users.

Rating
9.8
Material
Fit
UV Protection

Most important from
7245 reviews

Material
Material is strong and helps prevent scratches from coral without any damage.
Fit
Fits extremely tight as designed, similar to a 'second skin'.
UV Protection
Provides excellent sun protection and covers the back well while swimming.
Seam Construction
Collar stitching is not flat like the rest of the seams, which could be a minor inconvenience.
#3

Kanu Surf Men's standard Short Sleeve UPF 50 Swim Rash Guard Sun Shirt (Regular & Extended Sizes), Charcoal, Medium

Rating
9.6
Material
Fit
UV Protection

Most important from
33478 reviews

Material
The fabric is soft, breathable, and incredibly comfortable for all-day wear.
Fit
The Kanu UPF 50 swim shirt provides excellent sun protection and fits like a dream, making it perfect for a day at the beach or by the pool.
UV Protection
With UPF 50 protection, you can enjoy beach days without worrying about sunburn.
Design and Style
This shirt is not just functional but also stylish, with a variety of colors and patterns available.

The Kanu Surf Men's Standard Short Sleeve UPF 50 Swim Rash Guard Sun Shirt offers a great blend of comfort, durability, and protection. Made of 100% polyester, this shirt is designed to be quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which helps you stay cool and comfortable during any outdoor activity. The flat-lock seams and raglan sleeves add to the comfort, reducing chafing and allowing for free movement, making it ideal for activities like swimming, fishing, running, and even hiking.

The fabric is lightweight and breathable, contributing to all-day wearability without feeling restrictive. Another strong point is the UPF 50 sun protection, which effectively shields your skin from harmful UV rays, a crucial feature for extended hours in the sun.

The shirt's durability is notable, as it maintains its shape and performance after multiple washes, making it a reliable long-term addition to your wardrobe. However, the shirt is imported, which might be a consideration for those who prefer locally made products. Additionally, while the design and style are functional, the shirt may not have the most fashionable appeal if aesthetics are a priority. The pull-on closure type is straightforward and fuss-free, adding to the convenience. In essence, this rash guard is highly versatile and well-suited for a wide range of outdoor activities, particularly for those who need effective sun protection and comfort in a durable package.

Rating
9.6
Material
Fit
UV Protection

Most important from
33478 reviews

Material
The fabric is soft, breathable, and incredibly comfortable for all-day wear.
Fit
The Kanu UPF 50 swim shirt provides excellent sun protection and fits like a dream, making it perfect for a day at the beach or by the pool.
UV Protection
With UPF 50 protection, you can enjoy beach days without worrying about sunburn.
Design and Style
This shirt is not just functional but also stylish, with a variety of colors and patterns available.

Buying Guide for the Best Surf Rash Shirts

When choosing a surf rash shirt, it's important to consider several key factors to ensure you get the best fit and functionality for your needs. A surf rash shirt, also known as a rash guard, is designed to protect your skin from irritation caused by sun exposure, sand, and saltwater, as well as to provide some warmth in cooler water. Here are the key specifications to consider when selecting a surf rash shirt.
MaterialThe material of a surf rash shirt is crucial because it affects comfort, durability, and performance. Most rash shirts are made from a blend of spandex and polyester or nylon. These materials are chosen for their stretchability, quick-drying properties, and resistance to wear and tear. For warm water, a lighter, more breathable fabric is ideal, while for cooler conditions, a thicker material that provides more insulation might be better. Consider your typical surfing environment to choose the right material.
FitThe fit of a surf rash shirt is important for both comfort and functionality. Rash shirts come in various fits, from tight (compression) to loose. A tight fit reduces drag in the water and prevents the shirt from riding up, which is ideal for active surfing. A looser fit might be more comfortable for casual wear or for those who prefer more freedom of movement. Think about how you will use the shirt and your personal comfort preferences when choosing the fit.
UV ProtectionUV protection is a key feature of surf rash shirts, as they are often worn in sunny conditions. The level of UV protection is usually indicated by a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. A higher UPF rating means better protection against harmful UV rays. For example, a UPF 50+ rating blocks 98% of UV radiation. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, opt for a rash shirt with a high UPF rating to protect your skin.
Seam ConstructionSeam construction affects the comfort and durability of a surf rash shirt. Flatlock seams are commonly used because they lie flat against the skin and reduce chafing, which is important for long sessions in the water. Some rash shirts also feature reinforced seams for added durability. If you are prone to skin irritation or plan to surf for extended periods, look for shirts with flatlock or seamless construction.
Sleeve LengthSurf rash shirts come in different sleeve lengths: short sleeve, long sleeve, and sleeveless. Short sleeve shirts offer more freedom of movement and are suitable for warmer conditions. Long sleeve shirts provide better sun protection and warmth, making them ideal for cooler water or extended sun exposure. Sleeveless options are less common but can be useful for maximum arm mobility. Choose the sleeve length based on your typical surfing conditions and personal preference.
Design and StyleWhile not as critical as other specs, the design and style of a surf rash shirt can still be important for personal satisfaction. Rash shirts come in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs. Some also feature logos or graphics. While choosing a design, consider visibility in the water for safety, as well as your personal style preferences. A shirt that you feel good wearing can enhance your overall surfing experience.

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