The Best 13 Men’s Rash Guard Shirts For The Water

Last Updated 18 Apr 2024 by Fiona Perisone

EDITOR'S PICKS

Recommended
Best Overall    
Vilebrequin Regular UV-Protection Rash Guard T-Shirt thumbnail

4.9/5

  • It has a great fit
  • Offers UPF 50+ protection
  • Made from an environmentally friendly material using a polyamide fibre that recycles waste textiles
Recommended
Best For Paddling
Nike Swim Long-Sleeve Hooded Hydroguard thumbnail

5/5

  • Affordable price point
  • UPF 40+ protects from the sun's rays
  • Internal neck taping prevents chafing
  • Recycled fibers are Earth-friendly
Recommended
Bets For Water Activities
O'Neill Reactor-2 Men's Front-Zip Jacket thumbnail

4.5/5

  • Easy to put on and take off
  • The thickness and material are really comfortable
  • It will keep you warm in the water

MORE PICKS TO CHOOSE FROM

Rash guards are protective shirts designed to be worn in and around the water. Their aim: minimize sun exposure and prevent rashes, chafing, and skin irritation. Though originally devised to protect surfers from their board's sandy, wax-covered surface, they're now used for all sorts of water activities: swimming, boating, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and more!

Below, we've highlighted 13 versatile rash guards from top brands in the beachwear sphere. We've included styles of every fit, sleeve length, and fabric weight to ensure you find one suitable for your sport of choice.

13 Men's Rash Guards for Skin and Sun Protection

Vilebrequin Regular UV-Protection Rash Guard T-Shirt

Best Overall

overall 

4.9/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Vilebrequin Regular UV-Protection Rash Guard T-Shirt

Features:

  • Shape retention
  • Oil resistant

Vilebrequin was born in Saint Tropez during the early 70s, and fifty-some-odd years later, the French heritage brand still brings the same free-spirited vibe and forward-thinking approach to its swimwear. This Regular UV-Protection Rash Guard T-Shirt is made from 78% ECONYL® Polyamide, an eco-friendly material made from recycled textile waste. It's sunscreen-resistant, ultra-stretchy, and rated UPF 50+ for superior sun protection.

Material

78% ECONYL® Polyamide, 22% Elasthane

Care

Air-dry your Rashguard and do not use tumble dryer. Do not dry clean.

Best For

N/A

Pros:

  • It has a great fit
  • Offers UPF 50+ protection
  • Made from an environmentally friendly material using a polyamide fibre that recycles waste textiles

Cons:

  • Lack of color options

Nike Swim Long-Sleeve Hooded Hydroguard

Best For Paddling

overall 

5/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Nike Swim Long-Sleeve Hooded Hydroguard

Features:

  • Lightweight and airy
  • Dri-Fit fabric is soft and fast-drying

Long days on the lake deserve Nike Swim's Long-Sleeve Hooded Hydroguard. Its UPF 40-rated Dri-Fit fabric is lightweight, fast-drying, and ideal for boating, paddle-boarding, and fishing. Internal neck tape helps minimize chafing and maximize comfort as you move. Made from 100% recycled polyester, it's a long-lasting, eco-friendly option that won't break the bank.

Material

100% recycled polyester

Care

N/A

Best For

Lake paddling

Pros:

  • Affordable price point
  • UPF 40+ protects from the sun's rays
  • Internal neck taping prevents chafing
  • Recycled fibers are Earth-friendly

Cons:

  • It is hooded (which can a be pro for some)

O'Neill Reactor-2 Men's Front-Zip Jacket

Best For Water Activities

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

O'Neill Reactor-2 Men's Front-Zip Jacket

Features:

  • Ultraflex fabric moves with you and offers impressive durability
  • Jacket that blends performance and value to get you on the water

Cold water surfers will love O'Neill's Reactor-2 Front-Zip Jacket. Cut from 1.55 mm-thick Ultraflex neoprene, its compressive, body-hugging fit feels like a second skin without restricting your range of motion. Flatlock seams prevent irritation, while a board short connector keeps everything in place while you're on the waves. A convenient front zipper allows for easy on-off as you move through the day.

Material

UltraFlex (neoprene)

Care

N/A

Best For

surfing

Pros:

  • Easy to put on and take off
  • The thickness and material are really comfortable
  • It will keep you warm in the water

Cons:

  • It can feel a little short around the waist
  • Getting the zipper to connect can be a little difficult

L.L. Bean Men's Swift River Cooling Rash Guard

Best For Hot Summer Days

overall 

4.7/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

L.L. Bean Men's Swift River Cooling Rash Guard

Features:

  • UPF sun protection and thumb loops.
  • With a side pocket

No matter the water sport or seaside activity, L.L. Bean Men's Swift River Cooling Rash Guard is up for the task. It's cut from lightweight, stretchy polyester fabric that wicks moisture to keep you dry and comfortable in any conditions. Plus, it's UPF 50+ rated to keep you safe from the sun. Contrasting flatlock seams and thumb loops add style while increasing functionality too.

Material

88% polyester, 12% spandex

Care

Machine wash, tumble dry

Best For

land and water activities

Pros:

  • Lightweight for the hot days
  • Comfortable and keeps you dry
  • Have a UPF 50+ sun protection
  • Quality rash guard that does not stretch and become floppy

Cons:

  • It can be looser fitting rash guard for some

Quiksilver Dredge Long-Sleeve Hooded Rash Guard

Hooded Rash Guard

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Quiksilver Dredge Long-Sleeve Hooded Rash Guard

Features:

  • UPF protection and moisture-wicking comfort

The Dredge Long-Sleeve Hooded Rash Guard from Quiksilver is the perfect lightweight layer for long, sunny days on the boat. It's made from moisture-wicking performance polyester with UPF 50+ sun protection and 45% recycled content for a reduced environmental impact. Slip it on for a day of fishing, boating, or hanging out at the beach. The hooded long-sleeve shirt is stylish enough to wear off the water too.

Material

46% polyester, 45% recycled polyester, 9% elastane

Care

Machine wash, tumble dry

Best For

beach activities

Pros:

  • Have a UPF 50+ sun protection
  • Moisture-wicking fabric engineered for dryness and comfort

Cons:

  • Does have an attached hood (can be a pro for some)

HUGE SPORTS Men's Long-Sleeve Rash Guard

Most Stylish

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

HUGE SPORTS Men's Long-Sleeve Rash Guard

Features:

  • Super Elasticity
  • Moisture Wicking
  • Multi-Use
  • UV Protection

For all-around protection, water enthusiasts turn to HUGE SPORTS' Men's Long-Sleeve Rash Guard. It's made from four-way stretch fabric that's lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. A body-hugging fit and UPF 50+ rating offer sun and rash protection without interfering with your movement. With nearly twenty color options to choose from, there's something to suit everyone's tastes.

Material

80% Polyester, 20% Elastane (Spandex)

Care

N/A

Best For

water sports

Pros:

  • A large color selections
  • Feels cool and comfortable
  • It has a 50+ UPF rating

Cons:

  • It can be difficult to put on and take off
  • Run small

Vissla 7 Seas Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Jacket

Best for Cold Water In Summer

overall 

5/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Vissla 7 Seas Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Jacket

Features:

  • Flat-lock stitched
  • Short back zip
  • Side Toggle and Boardshort Compatible Secure Cord

Vissla's 7 Seas Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Jacket was designed with surfers in mind. It's cut from 1mm thick limestone neoprene for added warmth without added bulk or a restricted range of motion. Flatlock seams prevent chafing, while a lower back zipper makes for easy on-off once you're back on shore. Slip it on to prevent sunburns during long summer surf sessions and to stay warm in cold waters.

Material

100% limestone-based neoprene

Care

N/A

Best For

surfing

Pros:

  • 1mm thickness thrives in warmer weather swells
  • Wetsuit jacket designed for coverage on the water
  • Short back lower zipper makes for easy on and off
  • This lightweight jacket traps heat without restricting our movement

Cons:

  • Lack of color options

Patagonia R1 Lite Yulex Long-Sleeve Top

Best For Surfing

overall 

5/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Patagonia R1 Lite Yulex Long-Sleeve Top

Features:

  • Design reduces drag
  • Flatlock, glued
  • Rubberized waist gasket
  • Solution-dyed recycled polyester linings

Those seeking something more akin to a wetsuit should slip into Patagonia's R1 Lite Yulex Long-Sleeve Top. It's cut from Yulex natural rubber for lightweight, stretchy performance and a recycled polyester lining for quick-drying comfort. Sourced from FSC-certified rubber plantations, it'll keep your skin safe from the sun and the world's forests protected from deforestation. A compressive pullover design and adjustable drawcord waist create a secure fit that minimizes chafing.

Material

body: 85% Yulex natural rubber, 15% synthetic rubber (external face fabric), 88% recycled polyester, 12% spandex

lining: 100% recycled polyester jersey

Care

N/A

Best For

surfing

Pros:

  • Earth-conscious wetsuit top for cool water sessions
  • Polyester lining provides quick-drying flexibility
  • Pullover design for a smooth fit with no chafing

Cons:

  • Lack of color option

Coolibar Men's Tulum Long-Sleeve Surf Rash Guard

Best for Swimming

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Coolibar Men's Tulum Long-Sleeve Surf Rash Guard

Features:

  • Chlorine and saltwater resistant with 4-way stretch
  • Raglan full-length sleeves
  • Underarm and side seam panels

Stay fully protected from the sun in this Skin Cancer Foundation-recommended Coolibar Men's Tulum Long-Sleeve Surf Rash Guard. It's made from the brand's stretchy, quick-drying Aqua Classic™ fabric, with a UPF 50+ rating that blocks 98% of UV rays. The innovative material is chlorine- and saltwater-resistant, and its protective treatment won't ever wash out. Strategically-placed flatlock seams and sporty raglan sleeves make for an incredibly comfortable fit.

Material

Polyester

Care

N/A

Best For

swimming and water sports

Pros:

  • Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation
  • Offers a UPF 50+ fabric
  • It's silky smooth on the inside with a figure-flattering matte surface on the exterior.

Cons:

  • Not recommended for active fitness as it is not moisture-wicking and may cause overheating

Speedo Men's Quick-Dry UPF 50+ Rash Guard

Most Budget Friendly

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Speedo Men's Quick-Dry UPF 50+ Rash Guard

Features:

  • Loose fit rash guard styling for more comfortable, forgiving fit
  • Core solid with contrast splicing
  • Exclusive Vapor Plus water repellant fabric that dries twice as fast

Long days at the pool require added protection from the sun. Minimize your risk of sunburn and skin cancer without compromising comfort in this versatile Speedo Men's Quick-Dry UPF 50+ Rash Guard. The short-sleeve t-shirt is cut from water-friendly fabric that dries quickly, washes easily, and resists pilling. Cut close to the body, it can easily be worn under a life vest or windbreaker.

Material

Polyester

Care

Machine washable

Best For

beach and pool

Pros:

  • UPF 50+ protection
  • It is quick-dry
  • Pilling-resistant
  • Comfortable and lightweight material

Cons:

  • Short sleeves
  • Runs small

Lands' End Men's Long-Sleeve Rash Guard

Best For Beach Days

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Lands' End Men's Long-Sleeve Rash Guard

Features:

  • Comfy lightweight fabric repels water, dries quickly, stretches
  • Moisture-wicking finish

This classic Long-Sleeve Men's Rash Guard from Lands' End works in any season. Throw it on with swim shorts to prevent sunburns on summer beach days, or layer it under your wetsuit for additional warmth in cold waters. The lightweight, water-repellent fabric is UPF 50+ rated and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Material

83% polyester, 17% spandex

Care

machine wash

Best For

beach

Pros:

  • UPF 50+ protection
  • Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
  • Offers a good fit and figure-flattering
  • Quick dry

Cons:

  • It can feel heavy when it's wet

Billabong Men's Short-Sleeve Rash Guard

Made from Recycled Polyester

overall 

5/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Billabong Men's Short-Sleeve Rash Guard

Features:

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  • Stretchy blend of recycled materials
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Tired of your life jacket rubbing your underarms? Slip on this Billabong Men's Short-Sleeve Rash Guard. The ultra-lightweight, ultra-stretchy fabric is made from 85% recycled polyester for a reduced environmental impact and UPF 50+ rated for total sun protection. Plus, it's machine-washable for easy care between trips to the beach. Snag one to stay ready for any water adventure that comes your way.

Material

85% recycled polyester, 15% elastane

Care

Machine wash, tumble dry

Best For

water sports

Pros:

  • Made from recycled polyester
  • UPF 50+ protection
  • Comfortable and stretchy

Cons:

  • Material can feel thin, and the light color can feel transparent
  • Short sleeve (can be pro for some)

Quiksilver Men's All-Time Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Shirt

Best For Snug Fit

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Comfort

Cost

Quiksilver Men's All-Time Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Shirt

Features:

  • Reprieve recycled materials
  • Pull On closure
  • Moisture wicking
  • Snug fit

This Quiksilver All-Time Long-Sleeve Men's Rash Guard Shirt is versatile enough for any water sport or outdoor adventure. The classic long-sleeve surf shirt is made from a blend of recycled polyester and elastane with UPF 50 sun protection. It's moisture-wicking and chlorine-resistant, making it an excellent option for pool days too.

Material

100% Spandex

Care

Machine Wash

Best For

N/A

Pros:

  • UPF 50 sun protection
  • Durable and strong
  • Very light material

Cons:

  • Can be very tight

About the Author

Fiona is a veteran travel consultant, photographer and travel writer at planetrider.com. She has spent many years as a corporate travel consultant and decided to actually live the life rather than plan it for others!

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