Rash vests were invented primarily to give comfort to the surfer. They are light-weight vests, either with a long or short sleeve, and often contain lycra, nylon and polyester. They also fit quite tight to the body and are normally worn underneath a wetsuit.

The main purpose of a Rash Vest is to prevent several types of chafing occurring while surfing. Chafing can produce unpleasant rashes and sores when you are sliding up on the board, when board wax melts in hot temperatures, and when sand sticks to it. This could also be unpleasant for men with hairy chests.

Rash Vests are also popular in colder climates as they can provide some warmth and insulation from the weather. On the flip side parents and surfers in the tropics often use them to protect skin on the beach as they also have UVF protection.

Rash Vests A Fashion Item?
Along with surfing, rash guards have also found a market among other water sports, such as Scuba Diving, Wind Surfing and Kayaking. Similar products have also been used in Water Polo, Baseball and some Martial Arts.

However water sports fans and surf enthusiasts haven’t just embraced the Rash Vest for its practical qualities, it has now become a fashion item. Most of the big name beachwear/surfing brands produce them including Quiksilver, Billabong, Rip Curl and O’Neill.

Prices don’t differ too much between brands, and start around £18/£20. There are also thermal models on the market, which are heat retentive and breathable. These are more expensive and come in around £35 to £40.

Buying a Rash Vest couldn’t be simpler. Most stockists of surf gear/equipment will sell them, as will companies providing equipment and clothing to other water sports. Many of these companies will have online shops, special offers, and sales if you’re searching for a bargain.

Rash Vests are thought to have originated in Australia, but have become essential pieces of kit for water-sports fans all over the world, whatever the reason they may be buying them for.