Nobody wants to face a rash, sunburn, or chafe after surfing. But if you’re not properly prepared, these are only too likely to happen. This is why rash guard tops for women are so important.
Rash guards add an extra layer of protection while you’re in the water or on the beach. They will protect your skin from harmful UV rays so you can enjoy surfing to the fullest. Many Rash guard tops come with beautiful designs and patterns that look amazing and serves the purpose too. So if you are struggling to find the perfect rashie for your holiday, we have created a detailed guide to find the best women’s rash guard tops. Continue reading!
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What are Rash Guard Tops?
If you don’t know what a rash guard is, it is a special type of clothing used for watersports to protect your skin against rashes, chafe, and sunburn. These tops are generally made from a thin type of spandex and nylon or polyester material.
You can use rash guards for surfing, diving, snorkeling, swimming, wakeboarding, or for any other watersport. In short, rash guards are relatively tight-fitting, fast-drying, and made from a stretchy material.
How to Choose the Best Rash Guard Tops?
Rash guard tops for women comes in all shapes and sizes but not each one of them can provide the protection. Here are some of the important features you need to make sure before buying one for yourself.
Long-Sleeves or Short-Sleeves
The first thing you’ll notice about swim shirts for women is their sleeve length. You will find tops with different sleeve lengths, including long sleeve rash guards, short sleeve rash guards, and even ¾ sleeve options.
Long sleeves offer the best sun protection when you are on the beach. They cover the entire arm, so your upper body will stay safe. Moreover, they offer protection against abrasion on the arms. The only downside of long sleeves is you might feel a bit more constricting, and difficult to wear.
On the other hand, short-sleeved rash guards are extremely comfortable. They are easy to wear, cooler on hot days, and allow your arms to move freely. However, they don’t offer as much protection against the sun.
Even though we suggest getting longer sleeves, both types of rash guards are good options. In short, whatever style you like and choose to purchase, make sure it protects your skin under rough weather conditions.
Rash Guard Top Material
Rash guard tops for women come in a wide range of materials. They’re generally made from a blend of polyester and elastane, but could be made from lycra, nylon, or even neoprene (wetsuit material).
Most importantly, always look for a women’s rash guard top that allows your skin to breathe well and dries quickly. It should be soft against your skin, and shouldn’t cause any irritations – like scratchy seams. Moreover, the material should be flexible and stretchy to allow you to move freely in the water.
The Loose Fit or Performance Fit
Not every rash guard top is tight-fitted, you can find them in different fits. Some are quite loose-fitted, while others offer a tight performance fit. Make sure you choose the right fitting that matches how you’ll be using the rash guard.
For example, tighter fits are better for water sports because they don’t cause any drag, while looser fits are more comfortable for wearing on beach and pool days.
While choosing a suitable fitting for your rash guard top, you need to pay extra attention towards the neck. Some tops have a banded crew neckline, while others have a turtleneck collar. To sum up, this will make a big difference to how the top feels, how easy it is to put on, and how much water it lets through.
Some people like to wear rash guards for activities like yoga, running, diving, or wakeboarding. Most importantly, choose the fit that is flexible enough to support the activity.
Simple or Bright Design
Rash guards are practical athletic outfit, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look good in them. There are all kinds of different colors and design options available. Therefore, you can choose the one that best matches your personal style.
Some are bright and bold, some have detailed designs, while some of them are subdued and simple. Moreover, some rash guards come with matching bottoms so you can buy a complete outfit if you want to wear them as a full suit.
Why Do You Need a Women’s Rash Guard?
Rash guard tops are always a great idea, especially if you are planning an outdoor activity. Here are some of the main benefits of wearing a rash guard on a bright sunny day.
No Rash!
Firstly, rash guards are important to wear as they protect your skin from rashes. This is really important for surfing, as it protects your body against abrasion on the board. Moreover, rash guards are quite helpful when you wear them underneath a wetsuit or during any other water activity – like SUP boarding or kayaking.
No More Sunburns!
Another important reason is that rash guard tops protects your skin from the harmdful sun rays. Most rash guards offer UPF 50+ protection that will keep your skin safe from getting burned. They’re light and comfortable enough to wear on hot days while keeping your upper body completely protected.
The sun protection from these swim tops is a major advantage for long surf sessions, beach days, snorkeling trips, and any other outdoor activity.
Extra Warmth in the Water
Although rash guards are not ideal for warmth, some of them comes with an extra layer of thermal protection. For example, the Scubapro Pyroflex rash guard is made from a thin layer of neoprene and acts like a thin wetsuit.
Versatility of Rash Guard Tops
Women’s rash guard tops are suitable for many different uses. You can comfortably wear them on land and in the water. For instance, you can wear them when surfing, or just for a lazy day by the pool. In addition, you can wear them to your yoga class, wear them on a jog, and any other outdoor activity. The right rash guard will serve you plenty of uses.
The 10 Best Women’s Rash Guard Tops to Choose From
We have rounded up 10 of the best women’s rash guard tops to help you find the perfect top for your needs.
Body Glove Women’s Long Sleeve Rashguard
Key Features
- Zipper closure
- Soft and comfortable to wear
- Fast-drying
- Highly stretchy fabric
- Long sleeve rash guard
Review
This bright and colorful women’s rash guard is an excellent choice for use on land and in the water. Its versatile material is soft and comfortable to wear. Moreover, it dries quickly. The flatlock minimize chafing from movement, making this a comfortable rashguard to wear on the beach, while surfing, or doing yoga.
The rashguard top is colorful and fun with its detailed design. There are also matching pants to go with the top. However, you can choose to buy only top. Buying the set gives you a stylish waterproof outfit for all kinds of activities
One of the best features of this rash guard is the zipper closure system. We all know how hard it can be to pull off a wet rash guard that sticks to your skin. Well, the front zipper makes it way easier to take the rash guard on and off. Most importantly, the Body Glove rash guard comes with long sleeves to ensure better sun protection.
Scubapro Pyroflex Women Rash Guard Tops
Key Features
- Made from lightweight Neoprene
- Provides a layer of thermal protection
- A short sleeve rash guard
- Plush and fleece interior linings
Review
Most rash guard tops won’t keep you warm, but this one does with its thermal protection. The Scubapro Pyroflex rashguard is made from a thin layer of Neoprene, which is a great material for wetsuits. Moreover, it makes the rash guard lightweight and durable while providing a layer of warmth in cold water.
With a high-tech plush and fleece interior lining, the rashguard reduces water flow and provides extra warmth. However, it is a short-sleeved rash guard top. All of the openings are designed in a way to block water intrusion. This reduces convection for effective thermal regulation. And once the chest area is warm, it will help the rest of your body to stay warm.
Besides the warmth, this rash guard top is soft and comfortable. It isn’t particularly stylish with its simple black and grey design, but it’s serves the purpose by providing warmth and comfort in the water. In short, if you’re looking for a rash guard top for diving, surfing, or other cold-water activities, then this would be a perfect choice.
HydroChic Women’s Rash Guard Tops
Key Features
- Made from Lycra and Nylon
- ¾ length swimsuit top
- 100% Chlorine resistant
- UPF 50+ sun protection
Review
Here’s the perfect women’s rash guard top for a day at the pool or at the beach. This top looks great with its colorful tribal sleeves and black torso. Its vibrant look will keep you stylish in all kinds of activities, while keeping you protected from the sun.
The rash guard has ¾ length sleeves for plenty of sun protection. In addition, the material provides UPF 50+ sun protection to keep your skin safe for an extended period of time. This top is made from lightweight and quick-drying Lycra and Nylon. It’s completely breathable, dries in an instant, and will keep you comfortable all day.
Above all, it’s a 100% Chlorine-resistant swim top which makes it more convenient to wear in the pool. Swim skirts, sports, shorts, and fitness pants are also available to perfectly match your rash guard top.
Tutublue Pullover Swim Shirts for Women
Key Features
- Long sleeve rash guard top
- Durable four-way stretch fabric
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Quick-drying and comfortable
- Made from Polyester and Spandex
Review
When it comes to rash guards for women, this option by Tutublue is just as stylish as it is functional. These tops come in a vivid pink or kaleidoscope design. The slimming printed fabric maintains its color in the water and is comfortable to wear for all kinds of outdoor activities. Whether it’s yoga, surfing, beach volleyball, snorkeling, or swimming, this rash guard is ideal sunny weather.
The Tutublue rash guard is made from a durable four-way stretch fabric that supports a flattering feminine fit. Most importantly, the design features long sleeves, a close-fitting turtle collar, and thumbholes for maximum coverage. With this rash guard, you’ll stay safe from the harmful UV rays as it comes with the UPF 50+ sun protection.
These water shirts are made from a blend of recycled Polyester and Spandex. They’re breathable, fast-drying, and offer a relaxed fit.
Roxy Women’s Whole Hearted Short Sleeve Rashguard
Key Features
- Short sleeve rash guard top
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Made from Polyester and Elastane
- Soft and snug fitting
Review
Roxy is one of the leading female surfwear brands, so it’s no surprise that they offer some of the best women’s rash guard tops. Their Whole Hearted short sleeve rash guard tops are made from recycled Polyester blended with some Elastane. This makes the tops soft, stretchy, and fast-drying. Moreover, they offer a snug first for all sizes.
These short-sleeved rash guard tops for women are simple. They’re available in a range of solid colors, finished with the Roxy logo. Above all, the material offers UPF 50+ protection.
If you’re looking for a perfect rash guard top for surfing, swimming, or any kind of water activity, then this is indeed one of the most comfortable, practical choice.
Daci Zipper Bathing Suit
Key Features
- Front zipper closure
- Built-in bra swim top
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Long sleeve rash guard top
Review
This women’s rash guard top is full of great features. It has a front zipper closure which makes it easier for you to pull on and off the top. There’s a built-in bra swim top to offer support and comfort. The rash guard has long sleeves for complete sun protection, and provides UPF 50+ to keep you safe during long days on the beach.
The rash guard is made from 85% Polyester and 15% Spandex. This creates a perfect material blend that’s soft, quick-drying, breathable, and durable for long-term use. Moreover, it will protect you against rashes, abrasions, and harmful UV rays while surfing, swimming, wakeboarding, or just chilling on the beach.
Daci also has some of the most stylish women’s rash guard tops out there. These tops are available in a range of different colors and designs to make sure you look great.
Kanu Surf Women’s Keri Long Sleeve Rash Vest
Key Features
- Long sleeve rash guard top
- Made from Polyester and Spandex
- Wide range of colors and designs available
- UPF 50+ sun protection
Review
The Kanu Surf women’s rash guard tops are ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities. They have a completely comfortable fit with a banded crew neckline and long raglan seam sleeves. You can easily pull on these rash guards when wet or dry.
The long sleeves and 50+ UPF rating offer superior sun protection. The Polyester and Spandex blend also creates a rash guard that is breathable, fast-drying, lightweight, and soft to wear. These rash guards protect you against rashes and abrasions for far better surfing or watersport experiences.
Finally, these rash guards are available in one of the widest selections of colors and designs. Whatever your style or size is, you’ll be able to find a rash guard that perfectly matches your preferance.
O’Neill Women’s Basic Skins Long Sleeve Rash Guard Tops
Key Features
- Long sleeve rash guard top
- 50+ UPF sun protection
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Comfortable and durable Polyester/Spandex design
Review
You can’t talk about the best rash guard tops for women without including O’Neill in the list. O’Neill has always been one of the best surfwear brands, and this rash guard top ticks all the right boxes. It’s simple, comfortable, durable, and perfectly designed for longer use in the water.
The top has minimal seam placement to offer maximum rash protection. Made from Spandex and Polyester, this rash guard is stretchy and durable. It comes with a form-fitting performance design for absolute comfort while surfing, swimming, or doing any kind of watersports.
And these rash guards don’t just feel good – they are also available in many different colors to match your style.
O’Neill Women’s Basic Skins Short Sleeve Rash Guard Tops
Key Features
- Short sleeve rash guard top
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Minimal seam placement for maximum rash protection
- Form-fitting performance fit
Review
If you don’t want long sleeves, then this O’Neill women’s rash guard top is perfect. The short sleeve design is comfortable and easy to wear. The durable Polyester and Spandex material makes this rash guard stretchy, soft, and fast-drying.
It comes with a performance fit that tightly fits the body, which makes it perfect for watersports and active use. And with minimal seam placement, you don’t have to worry about uncomfortable rashes.
Even though your arms won’t fully covered, but the rash guard still offers solid UPF 50+ ultraviolet protection. Most importantly, the Skin Cancer Foundation has approved this rash guard top. In conclusion, this is a high-quality, simple rash guard top to keep you safe during all kinds of activities.
Roxy Womens Rash Guard
Key Features
- Long-sleeved rash guard top
- Made from Polyester and Elastane
- Banded crew neckline
- UPF 50+ protection
Review
Roxy women’s rash guard tops are some of the best, including this long-sleeve option. The long sleeves and banded crew neckline offer an easy and comfortable fit while providing complete protection against the sun. The fit is easy to pull on and off, but it’s also tight enough that allows you to move freely in the water.
The Polyester and elastane blend of the material provides stretchiness, softness, and breathability. The rashguard has a simple color-blocking design that looks great. It’s also a recommended product by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
In short, if you’re after a high-quality rash guard that feels great and keeps you protected, then this rash guard is a great option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rash guard tops for women are incredibly important for protection against sunburn, chafe, and rash. The right rash guard will make your time in the water so much more enjoyable, and you won’t leave the beach in discomfort.
However, it can be tricky to narrow down the best rash guard, which is why we have put together this list. The products listed above are some of the best quality and best-looking rashies for all kinds of uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are rash guard tops for women?
Swim shirts for women, also known as rash guards, are lightweight, waterproof shirts to protect your body against sunburn, rashes, and chafe. You can use them for surfing, snorkeling, wakeboarding, diving, or any other water activity.
Should a rash vest be tight?
Rash vests are lightweight and breathe very well. They should fit snug while still being stretchy and flexible so you don’t feel uncomfortable.
Do rash guards tops stretch when wet?
No. Rash guards are specially designed for use in the water, so they’ll keep their fit and remain light when wet.