Back in the early days of surfing, surfers would shiver in to
the water in little more than woollen swim suits. As time has
evolved, technology and invention have improved matters ten-fold
with the arrival of the wetsuit, with additional support coming
from the Rash Vest or Rash Guard.
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.