Water sports enthusiasts know that the right gear can make all the difference in their experience. Whether you’re surfing, paddleboarding, or just swimming, a rashguard is one of the essential pieces of clothing for protection and comfort. Urban Buck understands the importance of high-quality water sports gear, and their range of rashguards offers both style and function. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know to select the perfect rashguard for your next adventure. Before diving into choosing a rashguard, it’s essential to understand what it is and why it is such a crucial part of your water sports attire. A rashguard is a form-fitting, lightweight shirt designed to protect the skin from irritations caused by sand, surfboards, or even harsh sun exposure. Created for surfers, rashguards have evolved into versatile garments used for many water activities like swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, and even beach volleyball.
Urban Buck offers a variety of rashguards tailored for all kinds of water sports, ensuring you get the perfect mix of protection, style, and performance.
In the photos I am modeling the Eva UV Protection Hooded Long Sleeve Rash Guard.
How to Choose the Right Rashguard for Water Sports
With so many different types of rashguards available, it can be overwhelming to select the right one for your needs. Here's what you should consider when picking your perfect rashguard.
Sleeve Length: Short Sleeve or Long Sleeve?
The first decision you'll need to make is whether you prefer a short-sleeve rashguard or a thumbhole long-sleeve rashguard. Both options have their pros and cons, depending on your activity and the environment you'll be in.
Short Sleeve Rash Guards: These are great for warmer climates and less intense water sports. They offer a balance between protection and breathability, making them ideal for paddleboarding or casual swimming. If you plan to be in the water for shorter periods or in milder sun conditions, a short-sleeve rashguard could be the best option.
Long Sleeve Rashguards: For more protection against the sun and potential abrasions, opt for a long-sleeve rashguard. They're perfect for surfing, snorkelling, or any activity where you'll be exposed to the sun for extended periods. A long-sleeve rashguard offers full arm coverage and better protection against UV rays, making them ideal for individuals who are prone to sunburn or sensitive skin.
Urban Buck long-sleeve rashguards also come with a hooded option, providing even more coverage for your head and neck perfect for those really sunny days.
Short Sleeve Rash Guards: These are great for warmer climates and less intense water sports. They offer a balance between protection and breathability, making them ideal for paddleboarding or casual swimming. If you plan to be in the water for shorter periods or in milder sun conditions, a short-sleeve rashguard could be the best option.
Long Sleeve Rashguards: For more protection against the sun and potential abrasions, opt for a long-sleeve rashguard. They're perfect for surfing, snorkelling, or any activity where you'll be exposed to the sun for extended periods. A long-sleeve rashguard offers full arm coverage and better protection against UV rays, making them ideal for individuals who are prone to sunburn or sensitive skin.
UPF Rating: Why UPF 50+ is a Game-Changer
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially on or near the water, sun protection is non-negotiable. That’s where UPF 50+ comes in. UPF stands for "Ultraviolet Protection Factor," and it measures how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin. A UPF 50+ rashguard blocks 98% of the sun's harmful UV rays, significantly reducing your risk of sunburn.
The best thing about Urban Buck rashguards is that many of them feature UPF 50+ protection, ensuring you stay safe while enjoying the outdoors. This is particularly important for those engaging in summer rashguard outdoor adventures, where sun exposure can be more intense.
UPF Rating: Why UPF 50+ is a Game-Changer
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially on or near the water, sun protection is non-negotiable. That’s where UPF 50+ comes in. UPF stands for "Ultraviolet Protection Factor," and it measures how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin. A UPF 50+ rashguard blocks 98% of the sun's harmful UV rays, significantly reducing your risk of sunburn.
The best thing about Urban Buck rashguards is that many of them feature UPF 50+ protection, ensuring you stay safe while enjoying the outdoors. This is particularly important for those engaging in summer rashguard outdoor adventures, where sun exposure can be more intense.
Fit: How Snug is Too Snug?
The fit of your rashguard is another crucial factor. Generally, a rashguard should be snug but not too tight. You want it to stay in place without feeling restrictive.
Tight-Fit Rash Guards: These are great for more active water sports like surfing or wakeboarding. A snug fit ensures that the rashguard won’t bunch up or create drag in the water. Urban Buck range includes both tight-fit short sleeve rash guards and long-sleeve rashguards, giving you flexibility based on your preference.
Loose-Fit Rash Guards: If comfort is your top priority, opt for a loose-fit rashguard. These provide more breathability and movement but may offer less protection against chafing or irritation during intense water activities.
Tight-Fit Rash Guards: These are great for more active water sports like surfing or wakeboarding. A snug fit ensures that the rashguard won’t bunch up or create drag in the water. Urban Buck range includes both tight-fit short sleeve rash guards and long-sleeve rashguards, giving you flexibility based on your preference.
Loose-Fit Rash Guards: If comfort is your top priority, opt for a loose-fit rashguard. These provide more breathability and movement but may offer less protection against chafing or irritation during intense water activities.
Choosing the right rashguard for water sports is essential for protecting your skin, enhancing your comfort, and boosting your performance. Whether you need a short-sleeve rashguard for a casual swim or a long-sleeve rashguard with UPF 50+ for long days of surfing, Urban Buck has you covered. Their high-quality materials, variety of designs, and commitment to sun protection make them a top choice for water sports enthusiasts. So, before you head out on your next outdoor adventure, make sure to pick up an Urban Buck rashguard that meets your needs.
