Rash guards for men by SwimZip

About rash guards

Rash guards are form-fitting athletic shirts that protect your skin from chafing, sunburns, and surfboard rash. They typically feature long-sleeve rash guards, but short-sleeve styles offer more breathability and range of motion.

Rash guards are the perfect sun shirts for water activities. The tight-fitting surf shirts prevent two common rashes that can occur during water sports and beach activities: surf rash and sun rash.

Surf rash comes from friction and abrasion when surf wax, sand, and saltwater rub against the skin. Sun rash is an immunological reaction to UV exposure that causes patches of red, raised, often painful, and itchy bumps. It can cause sun poisoning and even premature aging.

Rash guards block these uncomfortable irritations. Every rash guard in our men's collection uses ultra-durable fabric with UPF 50+ fabric, providing premium abrasion and sun protection.

Our functional rash guards for men

Our functional rash guards for men put comfort and practicality first. The full-length zipper runs from collar to hem, so you slip in and out without struggling. A protective neck collar blocks your throat and neck from the sun, while the zipper garage stops chin irritation.

We've added smart details you'll appreciate:

A zipper guard that blocks heat transfer and prevents rubbing
A tagless neck that won't itch
Thumb holes that keep your sleeves perfectly positioned while you swim.

These practical touches mean you can focus on your water activities instead of adjusting your gear.

When to wear a rash guard

Rash guards are great to wear anytime, anywhere. Here are some examples:

Surfing: Rash guards block abrasion from surfboard wax and protect against sun and saltwater irritation.
Water sports: With rash guards, you can stay protected during kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and kitesurfing.
Outdoor swimming: Cover your skin during long sunny sessions in the pool or ocean.
Snorkeling and diving: Move freely underwater while guarding against stings and scrapes. Bright colors increase your visibility.
Sun safety: Pull on a rash guard for reliable UV protection during any outdoor adventure.
Open-air workouts: Stay cool and covered during exercise under the sun.
Combat sports: MMA fighters, wrestlers, and judo practitioners wear rash guards to prevent mat burn and skin irritation.
Yard work: Get sun protection while gardening, washing cars, and tackling outdoor tasks.

Water sports enthusiasts love rash guards, but you can wear them during any sunny outdoor pursuit, from beach volleyball to backyard BBQs.

What is UPF?

Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) is a rating system that measures a fabric's ability to block UV rays from reaching the skin. Ratings go from 15 to 50+, with higher numbers meaning greater protection.

Fabrics rated UPF 50+ block at least 98% of UV rays, while UPF 30 fabrics block around 96.7%. Dermatologists recommend choosing UPF 30 or higher for good sun protection.

All our sun-protective swimwear features UPF 50+ fabric—the maximum UV protection level a fabric can offer. The tight weave allows less than 2% of UV radiation to pass through, significantly reducing the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Our swimwear fabrics

SwimZip selects fabrics that perform. Our focus on quality delivers a perfect blend of functionality with athletic performance.

Our quick-dry, lightweight materials prevent waterlogging and stay light in and out of water. The moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin, while durable fabric resists chlorine, salt, and sun exposure without breaking down.

Every piece includes built-in UPF sun protection rated at 50+, blocking 98% of UV rays. Our fabrics protect against premature aging and reduce your risk of skin cancer during outdoor activity.

Our quality materials stretch in four directions for a snug, flexible fit. This all-around comfort means you can swim, surf, or lounge without tugging or adjusting your swimwear.

For cold water performance, our fabric maintains warmth while staying breathable. The ultra-durable fabric construction prevents tears and snags, so your swimwear lasts season after season.

Rash guards vs swim shirts

While both offer comprehensive sun protection, rash guards and swim shirts for men are similar but not the same. Rash guards fit close to your body to prevent chafing and resist drag in the water. They provide more coverage than swim shirts, with high necklines and snug sleeves that stay in place during active water sports.

Swim shirts have a looser cut similar to a T-shirt. While comfortable for casual beach days and swimming, they can ride up, balloon with water, and create drag when you're surfing or diving. They offer sun protection but won't guard against friction like a rash guard does.

Men’s rash guards FAQ

Why do men wear rash guards?

Men wear rash guards to protect against sunburn, chafing, and board rash during water activities. The UV protection and tight fit prevent skin damage and irritation. Athletes particularly value rash guards for surfing, swimming, and water sports where sun exposure and friction are constant threats.

Can you wear a rash guard without a swimsuit?

You should always wear swimwear with your rash guard. Pair your rash guard with swim trunks, board shorts, or other appropriate swimwear for proper coverage and extra comfort.

Is a rash guard just a compression shirt?

A rash guard is not just a compression shirt. Rash guards utilize quick-drying fabrics with built-in UPF sun protection. They guard against rashes, sun exposure, and abrasion. Compression shirts lack these protective qualities.

Can you swim in a rash guard?

You can swim while wearing a rash guard. Their form-fitting, quick-drying construction makes rash guards good for your next water adventure.

Do rash guards shrink in the water?

Rash guards do not typically shrink in the water. Rash guards are made of stretchy, synthetic materials, such as spandex and nylon, that maintain their shape and fit even when wet. The close-fitting design of rash guards is meant to prevent them from billowing or riding up in the water and losing their form.

Men’s rash guards by SwimZip