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Rash Guard: 10 Of The Stylish Designs For Women

Swimming with dolphins? Snorkeling radiant reefs? Lounging by the hotel infinity pool? You might find a rash guard helpful. Whether you're a surfing siren, devoted boogie boarder babe or just need an aqua-appropriate cover-up to play in the waves or pool without getting a sunburn, skin irritations or simply too cold, rash guards have come a long way from basic black.

Woman Wearing Rash Guard

Check out our 10 favorite rash guard brands and designs for women. No rash decisions went into our careful selections of swim shirts, which range from ruched, feminine and figure-friendly to sporty and minimalist styles. Besides, UPF clothing is the new sunscreen.

Quick Navigation
Product FAQ
How We Reviewed
Overall Price Range Of This Product (and similar products)
What We Reviewed
The Verdict

PRODUCT COMPARISON TABLE

PRODUCT NAME

PRODUCT IMAGE

WHERE TO BUY

CARVE Designs Cruz

CARVE Designs Women's Cruz Rashguard, Mariposa, Small

Shop now at Amazon.com

Body Glove Performance Women's L/A Fitted

Body Glove 13211W Women's L/A Basic Fitted Long Sleeve Rashguard Top

Shop now at Amazon.com

LEANI Longsleeve Rashguard One Piece

LEANI Women Long Sleeve Rashguard One Piece Swimsuit Zip UV Protection...

Shop now at Amazon.com

Lole Women's Navagio Onepiece

LOLE Women's Navagio Onepiece,Black,Medium

Shop now at Amazon.com

Roxy Women's XY Short-Sleeve

Roxy Women's XY Short-Sleeve Rashguard

Shop now at Amazon.com

Kanu Surf Women's Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+

Kanu Surf Women's Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ Rashguard, Black, X-Small

Shop now at Amazon.com

O'Neill Women's Basic Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve

O'Neill Women's Basic Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

Shop now at Amazon.com

Speedo Women's PowerFLEX Eco UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Zip-Front

Speedo Womens Long Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit (X-Small, Black/White)

Shop now at Amazon.com

Kanu Surf Women’s Short-Sleeve Rushguard

Kanu Surf Women's Short-Sleeve Rashguard

Shop now at Amazon.com

Aqua Design Women’s Short Sleeve Shirt

Aqua Design Short Sleeve Rash Guard Women: UPF 50+ UV Protection Swim...

Shop now at Amazon.com

Product FAQ

1. What is a Rash Guard?

A rash guard is a close-fitting top for swimming or surfing, worn under a wetsuit, over swimwear, or with a pair of bikini bottoms or trunks.

2. What Does it Do?

A rash guard has many purposes under the blazing sun and cool waves. Worn as a protective layer, a rash guard is used to shield from damaging sunrays, harsh ocean conditions, and uncomfortable chafing.

3. How Does it Work?

Rash guards are orchestrated with flatlock stitching and lightweight, quick-drying material so wave enthusiasts can endure a longer, more comfortable ride. The extra layer that a rash guard provides is an easy alternative when the weather a too warm for a full wetsuit. Temperature aside, a rash guard can also serve as a defense against foreign sea particles. With its added coverage, a rash guard will keep your heat in and ocean scraps out. Rash guards are designed to add extra coverage to your basic swimwear in order to prevent sunburns.

4. Where Can You Buy It?

Rash guards can be purchased in retail stores or online. Amazon has many excellent rash guards for sale.

5. Price Range

Rash guards range from average to upwards.

How We Reviewed

The following products were reviewed based on the following parameters Features, Pros & Cons, Price, Where to Buy, and Warranty.

Overall Price Range Of This Product (and similar products)

The products we reviewed range from average to more.

What We Reviewed

  • CARVE Designs Cruz
  • Body Glove Performance Women's L/A Fitted
  • LEANI Longsleeve Rashguard One Piece
  • Lole Women's Navagio Onepiece
  • Roxy Women's XY Short-Sleeve
  • Kanu Surf Women's Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+
  • O'Neill Women's Basic Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve
  • Speedo Women's PowerFLEX Eco UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Zip-Front
  • Kanu Surf Women’s Short-Sleeve Rashguard
  • Aqua Design Women’s Short Sleeve Shirt


CARVE Designs Cruz 

CARVE Designs Women's Cruz Rashguard, Mariposa, Small
CARVE Designs Women's Cruz Rashguard, Mariposa, Small
  • Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex
  • Style: mock-neck
  • Fit: regular
Shop now at Amazon.com

Features

Whether paddle boarding or hiking, carve out your place in the sun with this fitted, long-sleeve model boasting a standard 50+ UPF Rating. Available in pretty pastels, minimalist prints and classic solid colors, the CARVE Designs Cruz Rash Guard is a fast-drying, flattering beauty. Made from 82% Nylon and 18% Spandex, it has straight shoulders, with long sleeves and a zippered standup collar. In black and teal, it looks rather elegant! This beach lifestyle brand is all about functional design for real women living an active life. We like the lightweight simplicity.
  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for around more than average.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

This can be found on Amazon.

                       PROS

  • Quck-dry fabric is a necessity. There's nothing worse than heavy, soggy tops that take forever to dry when you're aching to get back into the waves.
  • lightweight
  • flattering style
  • standard 50+ UPF rating

CONS

  • Colors displayed online might vary in the actual product as per several customer reviews
  • Some buyers deplored the absence of a built-in bra shelf
  • It runs a bit big, but that's not necessarily a real negative


Body Glove Performance Women's L/A Fitted

Body Glove 13211W Women's L/A Basic Fitted Long Sleeve Rashguard Top
Body Glove 13211W Women's L/A Basic Fitted Long Sleeve Rashguard Top
  • Provides great skin protection from the sun and ocean elements
  • Offers strategically placed moisture wicking performance fabric throughout the body and arms
  • The non-chafe flat lock seams and double needle wrist, arm, and waist finish with the low profile crew neck creates a...
Shop now at Amazon.com

Features

Around since 1953, Body Glove stands for quality. After all, their wetsuits that "fit like a glove" revolutionized surfing and diving. The Body Glove Performance Women's L/A Fitted Rash Guard comes in four solid colors and features strategically placed moisture-wicking performance fabric throughout the body and arms. Featuring a timeless crew neck, it is made from 85% polyester and 15% spandex. Body Glove a trusted brand for sun and surf adventures. Safe choice, we think.

  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for around more than average.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

This can be found on Amazon.

                       PROS

  • Bring on the comfortable fit
  • Moisture wicking performance
    fabric
  • Enhanced breathability
  • temperature
    management system
  • Body Glove is a pro in the beach biz

CONS

  • Colors might fade quickly due to prolonged sun and water exposure and washing
  • Oddly, the UPF is not listed


LEANI Women Long Sleeve Rashguard One Piece

LEANI Women Long Sleeve Rashguard One Piece Swimsuit Zip UV Protection...
LEANI Women Long Sleeve Rashguard One Piece Swimsuit Zip UV Protection...
  • Size Reference: S=US 4-6, M=US 8-10, L=US 12-14, XL=US 16, XXL=US 18
  • Rashguard style one-piece swimsuit;Long sleeves, slightly high neck zipped on front;Trendy one-piece swimsuit with...
  • Unique Style: Round neck with zip front or slightly high neck with back zipper, Chic block pattern with different...
Shop now at Amazon.com

Features

Romance in the sea? Sure, let's make some waves! But also be sure to protect your skin from sun and scrapes! Ruched sides add a feminine twist to the LEANI Woman Long Sleeve Rashguard , while also cleverly masking middle imperfection. Something most women can appreciate. This top is breathable and conveniently stretchy with a UPF 50+ rating. It's the most femme piece in our mix here!

  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product is currently out of stock on Amazon. Check availability!

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

This can be found in Amazon.

                       PROS

  • Ruched sides for a flattering fit
  • zipper for enhanced cleavage (should you desire to show off your sexy side)
  • 100% money-back guarantee. Nice!

CONS

  • This slim fit might not be for every sun and sea worshipper
  • It seems a bit flimsy for athletic activities


Lole Women's Navagio Onepiece

LOLE Women's Navagio Onepiece,Black,Medium
LOLE Women's Navagio Onepiece,Black,Medium
  • Zipper at back
  • Four-way stretch
  • Chlorine-resistant fabric
Shop now at Amazon.com

Features

 Lole is lovely. Perfect for extended hours under the sun, this statement-making option is available in cool and flattering patterns. The Lole Women's Navagio Onepiece rash guard features chlorine-resistant Swim Tech fabric (80% Nylon/20% Lycra Spandex) and 50+ UPF protection. We think it's the most fashion-forward of the bunch, but do keep in mind that one-pieces are tricky to get off when wet. Thankfully, Lole addressed this disrobing issue via an oversized zipper pull in the back and four-way stretch. Smart in looks and function!


  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for around $17-$100.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

This can be found in Amazon.

                       PROS

  • A very stylish choice made of chlorine-resistant fabric
  • Featuring a zipper at the back for getting in and out in a cinch

CONS

  • Keep in mind that a one-piece can be inconvenient to take on and off, such as in the bathroom
  • Customers have complained about the lack of lining.


Roxy Women's XY Short-Sleeve 

Roxy Women's XY Short-Sleeve Rashguard
Roxy Women's XY Short-Sleeve Rashguard
  • Color-blocked rashguard with short sleeves and raglan seaming
  • UPF 50+ sun protection
Shop now at Amazon.com

Features

Roxy is music to our ears. Their designs are playful but not frilly, and the poly-elastane fabric doesn't irritate delicate skin and will keep its shape over time. The Roxy Women's XY Short-Sleeve Rash Guard is a pretty, color-blocked option offering standard UPF 50+ sun protection for all types of athletic water and workout endeavors. The only problem is, it runs very small, so unless you're an ultra petite beach belle, this cute top may not be the way to go.


  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for around above average price.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

This can be purchased in Amazon

                       PROS

  • Very cute color-block design
  • Soft fabric make this one a top pick.

CONS

  • Bear in mind that this top runs extra small.


Kanu Surf Women's Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ 

Kanu Surf Women's Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ Rashguard, Black, X-Small
Kanu Surf Women's Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ Rashguard, Black, X-Small
  • Long raglan seam-sleeve rashguard featuring banded crew neckline and contrast logo screenprint
  • UPF 50+ rating to block sun's harmful rays
Shop now at Amazon.com

Features

 "Can u" say no to a steal? Whether you're looking to lounge by the pool or hang ten, the Kanu Surf Women's Keri Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ Rashguard wins our price award. You can't beat it. Quick-drying and featuring UPF 50+ rating, it's sold in gorgeous colors for bright days of sun and water play. Matching styles for the wee set are also available
  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for around $12-$25.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006TAEB1Y/ref=as_at?creativeASIN=B006TAEB1Y&linkCode=w61&imprToken=nTOovMzhHEv71r7sswEWTw&slotNum=19&tag=top10reviewof-20

                       PROS

  • Great price point
  • classic good looks
  • sweet color options
  • Great for mother-daughter or bestie style matching!

CONS

  • Size inconsistencies have been reported, but that's a common complaint with most swim shirts.


O'Neill Women's Basic Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve

O'Neill Women's Basic Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt
O'Neill Women's Basic Skins Upf 50+ Long Sleeve Sun Shirt
  • Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended Product; UPF 50+ Ultraviolet Protection
  • Perfect For Surfing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Boating, And Beach Days
  • Comfortable Yet Durable 6oz Polyester/Spandex Construction
Shop now at Amazon.com

Features

​O'Neill is synonymous with quality Cali surfwear, and the O'Neill Women's Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard is no exception. It's a classic with timeless good looks and classic fit. Perfect for the current athleisure wear craze. We love the range of colors and that it has received the seal of approval from the international Skin Cancer Foundation for safe and effective UV sun protection. Looks like Cali king O'Neill has you thoroughly covered.
  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for an affordable price

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

This can be purchased in Amazon.

                       PROS

  • We appreciate the athletic good looks
  • Functional design
  • Top UV sun protection from a trusted beachwear maverick

CONS

  • We couldn't really come up with any negatives. It's a solid brand and choice.


Speedo Women's PowerFLEX Eco UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Zip-Front 


Speedo Womens Long Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit (X-Small, Black/White)
Speedo Womens Long Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit (X-Small, Black/White)
Shop now at Amazon.com
  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for average price.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

This can be purchased in Amazon.

                       PROS

  • Simple good looks
  • Eco-friendly fabric
  • 98% UV sun protection

CONS

  • No complaints so far. It's a trusted brand, after all; so we don't expect many downsides.


Kanu Surf Women’s Short-Sleeve Rashguard


Kanu Surf Women's Short-Sleeve Rashguard
Kanu Surf Women's Short-Sleeve Rashguard
  • Short-sleeve rashguard with banded V-neckline, raglan seaming, and contrasting side stripe
  • UPF 50+ protection
Shop now at Amazon.com
  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for average price.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

You can purchase this on Amazon.

                       PROS

  • Simple good looks
  • eco-friendly fabric
  • 98% UV sun protection

CONS

  • There must be cons, right? As with any rash guard, be careful when choosing a size, as inconsistencies have been reported.


Aqua Design Women’s Short Sleeve Shirt


Aqua Design Short Sleeve Rash Guard Women: UPF 50+ UV Protection Swim...
Aqua Design Short Sleeve Rash Guard Women: UPF 50+ UV Protection Swim...
  • X-SMALL THROUGH CURVY PLUS-SIZED: Shirts to fit every woman with a figure-flattering option; Four-way stretch fabric...
  • VISUALLY SLIMMING WATER-RIPPLE PRINT: Available in 5 distinctive water-inspired colors, the attractive and unique aqua...
  • SUN PROTECTION & DIVE SHIELD: Unlike SPF rating for sunscreen lotions that must be reapplied, our fabric has been tested...
Shop now at Amazon.com
  • PRICE
  • WARRANTY
  • WHERE TO BUY

This product can be found on Amazon for around $30-$65.

Please contact the seller directly for warranty information for this product.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0118F8CS2/ref=as_at?creativeASIN=B0118F8CS2&linkCode=w61&imprToken=nTOovMzhHEv71r7sswEWTw&slotNum=15&tag=top10reviewof-20

                       PROS

  • Great fit flexibility, right between "compression fit" and a "loose fit"
  • We love that this machine washable top is available in plus sizes up to 6XL

CONS

  • Some customers complained of pilling fabric after washing.

The Verdict

So what's the final word on the women's rash guard front? There's something for everyone, from surf pros to sun-worshipping pool loungers, The agony of choice is yours. Kudos to Aqua Design for offering plus-sized options, as not all of us water babes are tiny waifs. High five to Speedo for their eco-friendly pick made from pre and post-consumer waste. How cool is that? High marks to O'Neill for nabbing the Skin Cancer Foundation's seal of approval. And a sunny shout-out to Lole for coming up with some very innovative designs.

For us, being athletic out in the sun and in or on the water is all about maximum comfort and sporty style. It's annoying when swim tops hike up, are too tight or don't fit right in the bust. While we appreciate the more girly-looking options, we really like the classic, minimalist athleisure wear looks and styles, and we trust the better known, established brands. It's a bias but we can back it up with experience and are willing to shell out a little more $$$ for a trusted label like Speedo or Body Glove.

Basically, all ten picks share the same issue: sizing. When it comes to shopping for garments online, meticulously selecting a size is always key and cannot be overemphasized. Always scrutinize the size chart and enough customer reviews carefully to get a clear understanding of what might fit your body. Tops run too small, too large; it's all highly subjective. The stuffed sausage look is unflattering, not to mention extremely uncomfortable, while a too-loose top is equally pointless.

At least we have plenty of options and in the end, all that really matters is covering up in style to protect delicate skin from sunburn, abrasions and a rash of other sea and sand related issues.

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Last update on 2021-01-25 at 12:04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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