You may have seen rash guards more frequently now, from surfing lineups to BJJ competitions, and gym workouts, they are everywhere today. But do you know about their history? Many people are not aware of it, so let’s dig into the interesting history of rash guards and know where they come from.
What is the History of Rash guards?
The history of rash guards is linked to the surfing community back in the 1970s and 1980s. It was in this era that the rash guards were designed with a purpose and as a benefit for surfers to minimize skin irritation and to reduce exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. But it just did not end here, rash guards have now evolved into an essential piece of athletic gear in multiple sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and training sessions like gym workouts.
Looking back into its history, you have come to know how this rash guard has evolved from just a piece of clothing to a functional athletic gear with a stylish look.
The Origins of Rash Guards in Surfing:
As discussed earlier, rash guards were first designed for surfers as a requirement of something lightweight, flexible, and protective during performance and to prevent irritation from sand, surfing boards, and saltwater. That simple need became a necessity and has now become one of the essential athletic gear.
Originating from the Australian and Hawaiian surf culture, the rash guards were first experimented with using the fabric of Lycra and spandex for their characteristics of both flexibility and strength. Back then, they were made purely for functional purposes and weren’t seen as a stylish gear. But with the increasing popularity of surfing and other combat sports, rash guards also became popular and evolved into something that is now seen as part of the competition and training of multiple sports.
Historical Use of Rash Guards in Sports:
Once athletes started observing the benefits surfers are getting from rash guards during performance, it quickly evolved and moved into other sports as well. It was 1990 when rash guards entered the grappling sports, and athletes started wearing Rash guards in training sessions that their traditional wear. They observed different benefits like improved hygiene, improved grasping, and fewer chances of injury due to loose clothes.
It started as a training suit, and it soon became a part of serious competitions and training for its functional benefits. The Rash guard became popular due to the flexibility it provides during movements and a soft feel that makes it a comfortable, breathable gear, which also makes movement easier and more precise. Here are some of the sports in which rash guards are commonly used:
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): BJJ athletes use Mens Rash guards for no-Gi grappling because they protect the skin, reduce mat burns, and minimize bacteria exposure.
MMA: Fighters started wearing Rash guards during training for compression, sweat management, and easy movement.
Triathlons and Swimming: The lightweight fabric of men's and womens Rash Guards helps athletes glide efficiently through water.
Diving and Snorkeling: Rash guards provide UV protection and a barrier against skin irritation from sun exposure, saltwater, and friction.
When were Rash guards invented?
The Rash guards were invented when athletes felt the urge to perform with maximum efficiency, and they started focusing on the things that could improve the overall performance. It’s not like a single person invented the Rash guard, but it eventually evolved from the needs of surfers who wanted a protective layer that absorbs less water and doesn’t get heavy when it gets wet.
By the mid-80s and early 90s, surf brands started producing Rash guards massively, which caught the attention of athletes, and in little time, it became a global athletic wear essential.
Rash Guard Fabric History
At the start, rash guards were crafted with a combination of fabric of spandex & Lycra for their unique characteristics, but now they have further improved and also use fabrics that offer high flexibility, like Polyester. The fabric used in Rash guards also provides compression to enhance blood flow and to guard muscles during performance. In the present day, Rash guards are made to provide durability, easy mobility, and the right support during sports.
Today’s rash guards have come a long way from their simple surf origins. Modern versions of rash guards are now made from blends of polyester-spandex material that offer improved flexibility, moisture-wicking, UV protection, and durability. Different Rash guard types include features like compression fit and reinforced stitching to support performance with comfort. Rash guards also became specific according to the type of sports like BJJ, MMA, swimming, and fitness, with improved fit, bold graphics, and structured designs that combine function with style.
What are Rash guards used for?
Rash guards are now used for a long list of activities:
- Surfing
- BJJ / MMA (no-Gi)
- Swimming
- Diving & Snorkeling
- Water parks
- Beachwear
- Workout Sessions & Training
Final Remarks:
Rash guards have come a long way since their beginnings in the surfing world in the 1970s and 1980s. Created to protect surfers from skin irritation and harmful UV rays, they have now become an essential piece of clothing for many sports, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, swimming, and more.
The evolution of rash guards reflects the needs of athletes for comfort, flexibility, and protection during their activities. Today, they are made from advanced fabrics that enhance performance, making them popular not just for sports but also for casual beachwear and workouts.
FAQs:
Who invented Rash guards?
Rash guards were not invented by a single inventor but rather developed by the surfing community in Australia in 70s and 80s.
Why did we need Rash guards?
Rash guards were needed to prevent skin irritation and sunburn during surfing, and to have a lightweight fabric that does not get heavy when exposed to water.
In which sports is the Rash guard used?
Rash guards are used in surfing, BJJ, MMA, swimming, diving, boarding, and other water or high-movement sports.
