Best Besserbay Womens Rash Guard Shirts in 2026

Prioritize UV Protection Ratings

The primary functional purpose of a high-quality rash guard is to act as a barrier against solar radiation. When browsing the Besserbay collection, look specifically for the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. A shirt with a UPF 50+ rating is the gold standard, meaning it blocks 98% of the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. This is particularly crucial for long sessions in tropical climates or high-altitude coastal areas where the sun's intensity is magnified by water reflection. If you are someone who spends hours in the water without seeking shade, prioritizing a high UPF rating is more important than aesthetic design.

Evaluate Fabric Composition and Stretch

A great rash guard must balance durability with flexibility. You should look for a blend of nylon and spandex (or elastane). Nylon provides the necessary durability to resist tearing against surfboard wax or sand, while spandex ensures the shirt retains its shape after being stretched repeatedly. A key decision factor here is the 'recovery' of the fabric—you want a shirt that snaps back to its original shape rather than one that becomes baggy around the waist or sleeves after an hour in the ocean. A tighter, compressive fit is generally preferred for water sports to prevent the fabric from bunching up under your wetsuit or causing drag while swimming.

Check Seam Construction for Comfort

One of the most common complaints among water sports enthusiasts is 'chafing.' This usually occurs due to poorly constructed seams. When selecting your shirt, look for flatlock stitching. Flatlock seams lie flat against the skin rather than protruding outward, which significantly reduces the risk of friction burns during repetitive motions like paddling. If you plan on layering your rash guard under a wetsuit, flatlock seams are non-negotiable, as raised seams can become incredibly irritating when compressed by neoprene.

Consider Sleeve Length and Coverage

The style of the shirt should be dictated by your activity and your sun sensitivity. Short-sleeve options are excellent for casual beach lounging or light paddleboarding where you want maximum arm mobility and ventilation. However, for serious surfing or long-distance swimming, long-sleeve models are superior. Long sleeves provide continuous protection for the shoulders and arms—areas most prone to sunburn—and offer an extra layer of defense against jellyfish stings or abrasions from board fins. If you are looking for a versatile piece, a long-sleeve shirt offers the most comprehensive protection.

Fit and Sizing Logic

While it might be tempting to size up for a more relaxed feel, rash guards are intended to fit close to the body. A loose-fitting rash guard will catch the water, creating drag and potentially riding up over your head during a wipeout. When deciding on a size, consider that the fabric is designed to stretch. If you are between sizes, choose the smaller size for a performance fit, or the larger size if you intend to use it strictly as a lightweight sun shirt for casual swimming rather than high-impact athletics.