Protecting your skin from the sun's damaging rays is becoming more crucial every year. The rash guard shirt allows people to enjoy more time in the sun and water without having to constantly reapply sunscreen to the back and shoulders. (But you still need sun blocks, hats and other UV protection for the rest of your body.)
WHO NEEDS A RASH GUARD SHIRT?
Swimmer, divers, surfers, snorkellers, wake boarders, kayakers, skim boarders, body boarders, water skiers, windsurfers and just about anyone else who likes to play in the water, whether at the beach, river, lake or a pool. All need rash guard shirts to protect their skin form cumulative sun damage. They also help to prevent chafing rashes obtained from water sports.
Children who play in the sand by the water's edge are especially vulnerable. Putting a rash guard shirt on them means you don't have to reapply their sun block every time they come out of the water. Of course, their faces and any other exposed areas need it, but that's a lot less hassle than the whole body, which is often all sandy or wet or both!
Many people with sensitive skin can't wear suntan lotion at all. White tee-shirts with a bathing suit are a common sight, but provide little protection from the sun, especially when wet. Not to mention, a wet cotton tee-shirt is very uncomfortable looks quite silly when wet and saggy.
The rash guard shirt, on the other hand, is sleek, lightweight and dries fast. Most importantly, it provides a good amount of UV protection. Nobody likes to be sun burnt, but skin cancer and premature aging (leathering) of the skin is no fun either.
WHAT TYPES ARE THERE?
Also known as rashguards, rashguard surf shirts and swim shirts, they come in both short sleeve and long sleeve models. There are rash guard shirts made explicitly for men, women, kids and toddlers. Unisex are available also. They come in a variety of colors, mostly solids or two and three tone. There are some print designs as well, though not very many.
When shopping for a rash guard shirt, consider its UPF (ultra violet protection) rating. Cheaper ones may be lighter weight and not offer as much protection. It should fit snugly, but not too stretched, as this reduces the UV protection.
WHERE DO YOU FIND ONE?
Your local sporting goods shop may have a selection of rashguards to try on. It's even better if they carry more than one brand to choose from. Beach and surf shops that sell swimsuits and wetsuits many have them also.
There are many stores on the web now, which carry rash guard shirts. This is great for finding the most variety and selection. The downside is that you can't try them on in advance. Try and use a reputable company with a good return policy just in case.
MORE SUN PROTECTION ADVICE
It is still recommended that everyone limit their sun exposure between the hours of 10 and 4 and to stay in the shade whenever possible. A wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, lip balm and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and/or protective clothing is advisable. Even waterproof sun block comes off through sweat and water play and needs to be reapplied every 2 hours.
So come prepared and your beach vacation will be that much more enjoyable!
Laura Eggers is a beach lover with a website. Visit http://www.southern-california-beaches-vacation-guide.com to find out about all the great Southern California beach vacation spots, where to stay, what to see and do.