Rash Guards & Sun Shirts

Vissla UPF Rash Guards and Sun Shirts: Surf UV Protection That Stays in Place All Session

Sunscreen applied to wet skin during active surfing loses effectiveness fast and reapplication is inconsistent, waterproof formulas break down during paddling, and the back of the neck and shoulders are the hardest areas to keep covered. A UPF 50+ rash guard solves this completely: consistent UV protection that blocks over 97% of UVA and UVB rays throughout the entire session, regardless of how many wipeouts or paddle-outs happen. Vissla rash guards and sun shirts use quick-dry, 4-way stretch performance fabric that moves with you and dries fast out of the water.

When to Choose a Rash Guard Over Sunscreen Alone

Rash guards are the practical choice for sessions longer than two hours, any tropical surf trip with multiple sessions per day, any high-UV environment, and for groms who are in the water before sunscreen can be consistently reapplied. UPF 50+ fabric provides more reliable protection than SPF 30 sunscreen applied to wet skin, without needing reapplication between sessions. Plus, it's way better than asking a stranger to lather up your back.

Vissla Rash Guard and Sun Shirt Styles

• Short Sleeve Rash Guards: Designed for surfing. Check our Warm Seas Rash Guards and Pro Comp Rash Guards for performance fitting designs. Fitted construction with UPF 50+ protection. Maximum freedom of movement for paddling and pop-ups. Warm water surf standard for tropical destinations and California summer sessions.
• Long Sleeve Sun Shirts: Full-arm coverage for maximum UV protection on long sessions and extended surf travel. Slightly looser fit for all-day wearability in and out of the water.
• Layering Under a Spring Suit: Rash guards can layer directly under spring suits with the fitted construction that prevents bunching under neoprene while adding UV protection when the suit is rolled down between sessions.

Benefits of Vissla UPF Rash Guards

• UPF 50+ Protection: Blocks over 97% of UVA and UVB rays throughout the entire session — more consistent than sunscreen during active water use.
• 4-Way Stretch: No restriction on paddling, pop-ups, or turning. Technical fabric moves with the body.
• Quick-Dry Construction: Dries fast out of the water which is critical for multi-session days where staying comfortable between surfs matters.
• Rash Prevention: Prevents wax rash, board rash, and wetsuit chafing, especially on the chest and underarms during extended paddling.

Also available: Youth Rash Guards. Pair with Boardshorts for a complete surf kit or layer under a spring suit. Size Guide.