UV Rashies + Rash Guards UV Rashies + Rash Guards

UV Rashies + Rash Guards

All-day sun protection starts with a good rashie. Vaikobi's rashie range is lightweight, UPF50+ and built to move, with full arm and neck coverage that won't restrict your stroke whether you're paddling, surfing, sailing or foiling.

Filter by: Filter by:

DESIGNED TO PERFORM

Out on the water, the sun hits you twice: direct overhead, then again off the glare bouncing up from the surface. A long sleeve rash guard is the simplest way to cut that exposure and protect your skin long term.

This is home to the full Vaikobi rashie range (also called rash tops, rash guards or UV rash vests) in long sleeve, hooded and youth. All built for warm-water performance, not cold-water bulk. What sets them apart:

  • UPF50+ fabric that blocks over 98% of UV rays
  • Extremely lightweight, designed for warm conditions rather than heavy thermal cover
  • Full arm and neck coverage without restricting movement
  • Hooded rashie options for extra head and neck protection, with a foam-reinforced mini peak to cut glare
  • Youth rashies in the same UPF50+ fabric, built to protect younger skin on the water
  • Cut alongside pro athletes for a genuine full range of motion through your stroke

They protect against more than sun, too. The high-coverage cut guards against abrasion and chafe, including the friction from a lifejacket or harness on long sessions.

New to rashies, or not sure which to pick? Our blog on wearing a rash shirt during watersports covers why they matter, and our rash vest vs tech top guide helps you choose.

FAQs
What is a rashie?

A rashie (also known as a rash guard, rash vest, or UV sun top) is a close-fitting, quick-dry lycra top worn during watersports like kayaking, sailing, surfski paddling, surfing, foiling, and SUP. Designed to fit like a second skin, a quality rashie won't restrict your movement or weigh you down if you get wet. Most rashies offer UPF50+ sun protection, shielding your arms, shoulders, and back from harmful UV rays - particularly important for watersport athletes who spend extended time on the water with reflected sunlight increasing UV exposure. Read more about the importance of wearing a rash shirt during watersports.

Do rashies keep you warm?

Rashies (also known as rash guards, rash vests, or UV sun tops) are not designed for warmth - they're built to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and abrasion during watersports, covering your arms, neck, and back. With 2 in 3 Australians diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70, a UPF50+ rashie is one of the simplest ways to reduce your risk on the water. Read more about the importance of wearing a rash shirt during watersports.

If you need warmth on the water, check out our thermal tops for watersports instead.

Which Vaikobi tops are sun-safe?

All tops in the Vaikobi UV range are made with UPF50+ fabric, blocking over 98% of harmful UV rays — essential for paddlers, sailors, surfers, and foilers who spend long hours training and racing in direct sunlight. Here's how to choose:

  • UV Ocean Tech Range — Vaikobi's premium sun protection top, combining UPF50+ coverage with a performance fit and advanced technical fabric. Ideal for all-day sessions on the water where comfort and UV protection are equally important.
  • Hooded Rashies — built for long days in and around the water, with a foam-reinforced mini peak to reduce glare and keep the sun off your face. The integrated hood delivers maximum coverage for surfers, paddlers, and foilers in harsh sun conditions. Features a rear zip pocket for stashing essentials on longer sessions.
  • Long Sleeve Rashies — the classic choice for full arm and torso sun protection across all watersports. Constructed with V-Light fabrication for a breathable, fast-drying feel, with a snug yet flexible fit that minimises skin irritation from saltwater, sand, and equipment friction.

For complete sun protection on the water, pair your UV top with VIZE+ polarised sunglasses and a Vaikobi hat or cap — reflected UV off the water significantly increases your exposure compared to being on land. Read more about the importance of UV protective gear for watersports.