How Should a Rash Guard Fit? A Brief Guide

Just like you choose the perfect fit for casual or formal wear based on your body shape and size, it is equally important to select the right rash guard for your sports activities like surfing, BJJ, or martial arts. But choosing a rash guard can be different, as you need to balance the tightness and the easy mobility so that it can enhance your performance rather than restricting it.

Let’s talk about how tight should a rash guard fit so that you can have a guide to choose the best fit according to your unique body shape and activity demands.

How should a rash guard fit?

Fitting in a rash guard simply demands the detailing and thought process behind it. The importance lies in the fact that it can greatly affect your performance experience. So you'd better have knowledge of it.

Now comes the question of how should a rash guard fit, and in case you need it for BJJ, then how should a BJJ rash guard fit? Either you need a tight fit, or you must wear a loose fit for maximum comfort. Which one will be the best? To answer this, you need to specify what you need a rash guard for. For surfing and water sports activities, tight-fit rash guards are more performance-friendly as they give less resistance to movement in water. On the other hand, if you are just casually wearing a Rash guard at the beach for sun protection, a loose fit will be the better option.

Why do you need a perfect fit Rash guard?

As we discussed before, choosing the right fit Rash guard is not like your regular clothing, and you need to find the perfect fit for the following reasons:

Easy Mobility: When performing, the right fit will allow you to move with accuracy, which has a direct impact on your performance. So, choose the fit that allows easy mobility.

Improved Performance: In the surfing community, the right fit rash guards improve aerodynamics during surfing. In gym workouts, a Rash guard supports muscles during endurance and strength training. In MMA athletes, a well-fitted rash guard makes grappling easier and allows opponents to grip more effectively, which shows respect for the sport.

Comfort & Style: The fabric of the Rash guard may offer maximum comfort when you are wearing a fit that suits your body shape. The style is also enhanced with a right fit, as it is built with structured designs according to unique sizes.

How to select a perfect fit Rash guard?

Selecting a Rash guard becomes easy when you know what to look for. Here is a simple guide to help you choose the right one:

Specify Gender:

Both Mens & Womens Rash guards are built differently as they vary in shape and designed cuts. Mens Rash guards have broader shoulders and longer torso, while women's Rash guards have a contoured shape. Similarly, kids Rash Guards are designed in different sizes.

Choose Fabric with Unique Characteristics:

Look for fabric and its quality that can benefit you. For example, if you need flexibility with strength, choose a blend of spandex and elastane, as it is known for its moisture-wicking and durable nature. The fabric should be a fit that feels supportive and smooth without being bulky.

Size Guide:

Always take accurate measurements of your body and compare them with the size chart given under each product of each brand, like Prime Bull. Here are some of the important measurements to take:

Chest
Waist
Length of Torso

Here are the size charts for men, women, and kids to help you make the right choice with accurate measurements and fit according to your unique body size:

Men’s size chart:

Women’s size chart:

Kids size chart:

If you have a measurement that falls between two sizes, choose one size up for casual wear and one size down for a compression fit. It is due to the improved performance benefit that a compression rash guard can provide with its fit.

Try-on:

It is best to try once before buying and check for the following things:

Lift your arm and check if it is offering you a full range of motion.
Twist your torso and bend to check the flexibility of the fabric.
Feel the comfort of the fabric and see if it fits you right; it should not be too loose or too tight.

Important Areas to Consider:

Here are the additional important things for you to consider:

Stitching: Make sure the stitching offers durability, and the rash guard must not roll up whenever you engage in an activity. It should bear the intense training and offer a compression fit without compromising on performance.
Type of Rash guard: Choose between long-sleeve and short-sleeve Rash guards according to your personal preference. You can also choose between a compression-fit rash guard and a loose-fit rash guard, as per your activity demands.

Additional Tips for an Ideal Fit Rash guard:

Here are some of the additional tips for an ideal fit Rash guard:

For a lean person, the compression fit works best, but for a muscular body, a loose-fit rash guard may offer greater flexibility. However, it is best to choose according to your suitability.
Each brand differs in its sizing, so it is best to review its size chart before placing an order.
For BJJ, you must have the right amount of compression fit to allow the opponent to grip.
It is best to have IBJJF-approved colors and lengths if needed.
In case of surfing, choose quick-dry fabrics to enhance your performance.

Important Considerations of Rash Guard Fit for Training:

For training, you need a Rash guard with the right amount of tightness, as it is against the rules to wear ill-fitting rash guards. The set of rules has been standardized to enhance performance. Your Rash guard should allow the proper grip and should not be too loose or too tight. Every moment should be secure enough to stay focused during intense training or competition.

Things to avoid when selecting a Rash guard:

When engaged in training, you often borrow your partner’s oversized gear, which can greatly affect the accuracy with which you make movements. Similarly, if you go for a Rash guard that is too tight and offers compression more than you need, it will not enhance your performance.

Although many of you need stylish athletic attire, choosing a Rash guard merely on its looks is not recommended. Ignoring the quality of fabric and choosing low-quality stitching may cause discomfort, especially during longer training sessions.

Final Thoughts:

Choosing the right rash guard is essential for your comfort and performance, whether you're surfing or practicing martial arts. A well-fitting rash guard should allow you to move freely and feel comfortable during your activities. Remember to consider your body shape, the specific sport you're engaging in, and the fabric when making your choice. Always check the size chart and try on different styles to find what works best for you. By selecting the right fit, you can enhance your performance and enjoy your time, whether in the water or on the mat.