The 12 Best Rash Guards to Keep Your Kiddo Safe From the Sun
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Dermatologists and swimming pros recommend these rash guards to keep kids safe
Verywell Family / David Hattan
Medically reviewed by Rachel Nazarian, MDFact checked by Rich Scherr
Contrary to popular belief, rash guards and other forms of ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) clothing may actually protect your child's skin better than sunscreen.
UPF is similar to sun protection factor (SPF), a term you often see on sunscreen bottles, in that it measures how well something (in this case, a rash guard) protects your skin from the sun. However, UPF is different because it measures how much UVA rays (responsible for aging) and UVB rays (responsible for burns) can penetrate fabric to reach your skin, whereas SPF only measures how long it will take for UVB rays to burn your skin. The exception is broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects your skin from both types of rays. However, even broad-spectrum sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours—especially after swimming or sweating—whereas a UPF-rated rash guard provides continual protection that will only diminish with washing and time.
This doesn't mean you should forgo sunscreen altogether. Instead, Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, says kids should still wear sunscreen and practice sun-safe behaviors like seeking shade and avoiding peak hours in the sun when possible. However, babies 6 months old or younger should generally not wear sunscreen as their skin is too sensitive and susceptible to rashes.
Dr. Garshick explains that parents should consider several factors when shopping for a rash guard for your child. "A tighter weave and darker colors tend to provide more UV protection," Dr. Garshick says. "Overall, it is important to find a product that your child will enjoy wearing as a way to stay safe in the sun." In addition, we recommend choosing a rash guard with a minimum rating of UPF 30, per the Skin Cancer Foundation recommendations.
To help us select the best rash guards for kids, we also spoke with Erika Figge, DC, CSCS, a chiropractor, water polo coach, and former Team USA athlete, and with Jack Rooney, head swim coach at the Newport Mesa YMCA and Red-Cross-certified lifeguard. Their insights, in addition to Dr. Garshick's advice, guided our research as we analyzed the pros and cons of dozens of top-rated rash guards available on the market. Our picks and content were then reviewed by a dermatologist on our Medical Review Board, who also verified the accuracy of our information and addressed any lingering health concerns to ensure we only recommend the best rash guards to keep your kids' precious skin protected this summer.
Best Overall: Kanu Surf Girls’ Rash Guard UPF 50+ Two Piece Swim Set
Pros
45 patterns to choose from
Available in cropped or full coverage
Wide price range
Cons
Runs small
This two-piece rash guard set caters to kids who want to wear a fun, vibrant print while protecting their skin from the sun. It has a UPF rating of 50+, which is the highest level for fabric protection, and is rated “excellent” by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
This set comes in 45 different patterns, ranging from flowers to tie dye, and is available in sizes 2T-5T and 6-16. The cut of this suit is similar to a tankini, which provides the most coverage, but there are crop top versions as well. However, there’s not much stretch to it and it tends to run small, so we recommend ordering a size larger than you typically do.
Price at time of publication: $14-$35
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 2T-5T, 6-16 | Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex | UPF: 50+
Best Budget: Simple Joys by Carter's Baby Boys’ Trunk and Rash Guard
Pros
Wide size range
Fabric dries quickly
Trunks are adjustable with drawstring
Cons
Hand wash only
For less than $15, you can purchase this two-piece rash guard set that is available in both short and long sleeves. It has a UPF rating of 50+ and is made of quick-dry fabric to keep your little one comfortable at all times. The swim trunks have several helpful features, too, including an adjustable drawstring and a soft mesh lining.
This rash guard set comes in seven different prints, each displaying a fun phrase or theme that is characteristically Carter’s. They are available in a wide range of sizes, from 3-6 months up to 5T, though some are more expensive than others. You’ll also need to hand wash this set in order to keep its fabric in tip-top shape.
Price at time of publication: $16-$29
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 3-6 months to 5T | Material: Rash guard: 83% polyester, 17% elastane; Trunks: 100% polyester | UPF: 50+
Best Baby Rash Guard: i play. by Green Sprouts Long Sleeve Rash Guard
Pros
Machine washable
Raglan sleeves allow for more movement
Gender-neutral colors and design
Cons
Length tends to run short
Since babies younger than 6 months shouldn’t wear sunscreen, dressing them in this UPF 50+ Green Sprouts rash guard can help protect their delicate skin. It’s designed to keep babies protected and comfortable, relying on features such as raglan sleeves, which have a wide underarm area to allow extra movement. It also has flatlock seams, which prevent chafing and make the rash guard extra durable.
This rash guard is made from stretchy material that dries quickly. It’s available in seven different colors and sizes 6 months to 4T. However, the length tends to run a bit short, so we recommend ordering a size up if your baby has a long torso.
Price at time of publication: $18-$21
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 6 months to 4T | Material: 82% nylon, 18% elastane | UPF: 50+
Related: The Best Sunscreen for Babies to Protect That Precious Brand-New Skin
Best Toddler Rash Guard: uideazone Toddler Rash Guard Swimsuit UPF 50+
Pros
28 patterns to choose from
Boyshort design for more coverage
Zipper allows for easy on/off
Cons
Only goes up to size 3T
This UPF 50+ one-piece rash guard is great for toddlers because of its design. It has long sleeves and boy shorts connected by four-way stretch fabric to accommodate lots of movement. It also has flatlock seams to prevent chafing and a zippered top, which allows your toddler to step into the rash guard rather than pulling it over their head.
Since this rash guard comes in 28 different patterns, you can allow your toddler to choose their favorite one to make it even more enjoyable for them to wear. Although it’s available in sizes as small as 3-6 months, it only goes up to size 3T; by then, your toddler may prefer a traditional two-piece rash guard set anyway.
Price at time of publication: $15-$19
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 3 months to 3T | Material: 82% nylon, 18% elastane | UPF: 50+
Related: The Best Sunscreens for Kids to Protect Their Precious Skin
Best Sun Protection: SwimZip UPF 50+ Girls Long Sleeve Sunsuit
Pros
Full-body coverage
Full-length zipper allows for easy on/off
12 colors and patterns to choose from
Cons
Runs large
This UPF 50+ rash guard suit provides full-body protection for kiddos ranging from sizes 0-6 months up to 5-6 years. It’s made of a soft four-way stretch material that is lightweight, dries quickly, and is resistant to chlorine and salt water. Plus, it has raglan sleeves to allow for extra movement and flatlock seams to prevent chafing.
“With options for the whole family, I love that SwimZip offers matching sets and exciting prints that make it fun and safe to be in the sun,” says Dr. Garshick. “The zip feature makes it easy to put on and off while [the suit itself provides] UPF 50+ coverage.”
Although it spans the entire body, this rash guard is easy to put on and take off thanks to its full-length zipper. However, it tends to run a bit large, so you may want to order two different sizes to decide which works best for your kiddo.
Price at time of publication: $45
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 0-6 months to 5-6 years | Material: nylon-spandex blend | UPF: 50+
Related: The 12 Best Car Sun Shades for Babies of 2023
Best Fade Resistant: Rugged Butts Long Sleeve Rash Guard UPF 50+
Pros
Variety of colors, styles, and features
Wide size range with options for infants and big kids
Can be paired with matching bottoms
Cons
Runs small
This UPF 50+ rash guard is available in 12 different gender-neutral pastels and can be paired with a variety of Ruggedbutts or Rufflebutts bathing suit bottoms. It’s available in sizes 0-3 months to 10 years, which makes this rash guard great for families who want their kids to match. Its fade-resistant material is soft and stretchy and should be hand washed in cold water to maintain its vibrancy.
From raglan sleeves to quarter zips, this Ruggedbutts rash guard has several different styles depending on which color you choose—though all options are long-sleeved to provide extra sun protection. Keep in mind that this rash guard might run small, so we recommend ordering a size up.
Price at time of publication: $29
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 0-3 months to 10 years | Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex | UPF: 50+
Related: The Best Baby Beach Tents for Shade and Comfort
Best With Long Sleeves: Quiksilver All Time Long Sleeve Youth Rash Guard
Pros
Moisture-wicking material dries quickly
Stretchy, durable, and resistant to fading
Available in 12 different colors
Cons
Tight fitting
The top benefits of this UPF 50+ rash guard are all in the material. In addition to the extra protection provided by its long sleeves, it’s made with recycled polyester materials and Lycra, which is known for its elasticity and durability. It’s also moisture-wicking, which helps it dry quickly after a swim and is resistant to chlorine and salt water to prevent fading.
Although most rash guards tend to fit more snugly than a regular T-shirt, this Quicksilver rash guard has a notably tight fit, so we recommend ordering a size up. Also, you can clean this rash guard in the washing machine, which is ideal after a day at the beach.
Price at time of publication: $23-$34
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: XS-XL; 2-16 | Material: 86% polyester, 14% elastane | UPF: 50+
Best Short Sleeves: Kanu Surf Short Sleeve UPF 50+ Rash Guard
Pros
Loose T-shirt fit
Lightweight and dries quickly
35 colors to choose from
Cons
No sizes for infants
This UPF 50+ short-sleeve rash guard is not only great for the water but also for outdoor recreation, like sports or hiking. It fits loosely like a T-shirt, which helps it dry quickly and allows ample airflow. Some patterns even look like a T-shirt, and with 35 to choose from, your child will surely find one that suits their style.
If you like the whole family to match, you’ll be happy to learn that Kanu Surf also makes adult rash guards; however, they don’t come in infant sizes. Thankfully, this rash guard is machine washable, which is ideal if your kiddo sweats or gets dirty while wearing it.
Price at time of publication: $11-$19
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 2T-5T, 6-16 | Material: 100% polyester | UPF: 50+
Best Zip Up: SwimZip UPF 50+ Kids Long Sleeve Zipper Rash Guard
Pros
Easy on/off
Zipper guard and flap protect kids’ skin
Wide size range
Fits like a jacket
Cons
Inconsistent sizing
Dressing kids in a rash guard can be difficult, especially if they’re wet. SwimZip solves that issue with its UPF 50+ zipper rash guard. Designed by a mom of three, this rash guard fits like a jacket with a full-front zipper. It even has a zipper garage at the neck and a back zipper flap inside to prevent skin irritation.
This rash guard is suitable for the whole family and has sizes for kids ages 0-14. However, the sizing can be inconsistent (the arms may be too long for some kids). It’s available in 12 gender-neutral colors and is made of four-way stretch fabric to accommodate lots of outdoor playtime. It’s also resistant to both salt water and chlorine and can be tossed in the washing machine at the end of the day.
Price at time of publication: $25
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 0-3 months to 5T, 6-14 years | Material: nylon-spandex blend | UPF: 50+
Best Set: RuffleButts Long Sleeve 2-Piece Rash Guard Set
Pros
Matching bottoms allow for easy bathroom breaks
Zipper guard protects kids’ skin
Wide size range, infant to big kid
Cons
Runs small
Your little darling will look adorable and be protected from the sun in this UPF 50+ RuffleButts rash guard set. It’s available in 12 different prints, ranging from flowers to stripes, and the matching bottoms sport the brand’s famously cute ruffles.
This two-piece set also makes bathroom breaks and diaper changes a breeze. Plus, the rash guard has a zipper closure to make it easy to put on or take off and a zipper garage to protect your child’s skin from irritation. However, it tends to run small, so we recommend ordering a size up.
Price at time of publication: $32
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 3-6 months to 5T, 6-10 years | Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex | UPF: 50+
Best Lightweight: Primary Short Sleeve Rash Guard
Pros
Made from recycled material
Fun, vibrant colors
Smooth, stretchy material
Cons
No forearm coverage
When choosing a rash guard for her kids, Erika Figge, DC, CSCS, a chiropractor and former Team USA athlete, recommends Primary. “They have great quality clothing,” Dr. Figge says. This short-sleeve rash guard from Primary is made of a lightweight, stretchy fabric that is great for hot summer days. It comes in nine bold colors, ranging from green apple to bubblegum, and stays bright and vibrant after months of wear.
A bonus for this rash guard is that it’s made from sustainable, recycled materials. It has a snug yet comfortable fit and feels smooth on kids’ skin. However, its short sleeves mean you’ll need to lather your child in extra sunscreen to protect their forearms.
Price at time of publication: $18
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 2-12 | Material: 80% recycled nylon, 20% spandex | UPF: 50+
Best Heavyweight: Splash About Shorty Wetsuit
Pros
Neoprene fabric keeps kids warm
Resistant to sun, sand, and wind
Full-length zipper allows for easy on/off
Cons
Must be hand washed to prevent mildew
Limited size range
This Splash About UPF 50+ wetsuit is made from 2mm thick neoprene, a material derived from rubber. Neoprene wetsuits are known for repelling water and wind while retaining body heat, making them popular among scuba divers and surfers.
This wetsuit comes in four patterns and colors and features a full-length zipper, which makes it easy to put on and take off. However, it’s only available in two sizes—2-4 years and 4-6 years—and must be hand washed in cold water to prevent mildew from forming inside the suit.
Price at time of publication: $37
Key Specs:
Available Sizes: 2-4 and 4-6 | Material: Neoprene | UPF: 50+
How We Selected the Best Kids’ Rash Guards
To choose the best rash guards for kids, we began by consulting with several experts. The first was Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist and owner of the popular Instagram account @drmarisagarshick, who educated us on the importance of sun safety for kids and how a rash guard can protect kids’ skin from the sun’s harmful rays. To learn more about what to look for in a rash guard and the benefits of wearing one while swimming, we spoke with Erika Figge, DC, CSCS, a mom of two, chiropractor, water polo coach, and former Team USA athlete, as well as Jack Rooney, head swim coach at the Newport Mesa YMCA and a Red Cross-certified Lifeguard.
With these experts’ feedback in mind, we then reviewed what our competitors and customers were saying about highly rated rash guards and spent hours analyzing dozens of options. We paid close attention to each rash guard’s features, including UPF rating, size, style, and color to help us determine our selections.
What to Look for in Kids’ Rash Guards
Sizing
According to Dr. Figge, the size of a rash guard matters and should be fitted to the person wearing it. “If a rash guard is too big, it creates extra drag and can become a drowning hazard,” Dr. Figge says. “If a rash guard is too tight, it may impede the swimmer from having full use of their arms, which makes swimming more difficult.”
Choosing a rash guard that is snug, yet comfortable, will not only provide sun protection but also enhance mobility while in the water. Throughout our list of top rash guards, we indicated when a product runs small or large to help you choose the best option for your child.
Sun Protection
While all clothing offers some level of protection from the sun, only items with a UPF rating label tell you exactly how much of the sun’s rays they can shield. For example, a rash guard that has a UPF 50+ rating only allows 1/50th (2%) of the sun’s rays to penetrate your skin, effectively blocking 98% of rays. Every rash guard on our list has a UPF 50+ rating, which is the highest level of sun protection for fabric.
Material
When shopping for a kid’s rash guard, coach Rooney recommends looking for soft and tightly woven fabric. “A good rash guard is one that is very soft and somewhat thick,” Rooney says. “Coarse material can lead to unpleasant chafing, which would go against the principle of a rash guard.”
Rooney also encourages parents to pay attention to the thickness of their child’s rash guard. “A rash guard that is too thick could hinder a child’s ability to swim,” explains Rooney. “However, a rash guard that is too thin allows the wind to zap heat from a child’s body.”
Design
The design of a rash guard depends on your needs and preferences. Rash guards can vary in design, ranging from short to long sleeves, two-piece sets, or even full-body suits. If you are looking for the most protection from the sun, we recommend the SwimZip UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Sunsuit because it covers a child’s entire body, leaving only their face, feet, and hands exposed.
If you’re looking for a stylish option, our top pick is the Kanu Surf Girls’ Rash Guard UPF 50+ Two Piece Swim Set, which is available in 45 different patterns and colors. We also like the RuffleButts Long Sleeve 2-Piece Rash Guard Set because the matching bottoms have adorable ruffles.
If warmth is an important factor, we recommend the Splash About Shorty Wetsuit. It’s made from 2mm thick neoprene, which not only retains heat but is also very durable and resistant to wind, sand, and water.
To ensure that your child will wear their rash guard, we encourage parents to include them in the shopping process—and coach Rooney agrees. “The right rash guard for a child is one that they want to wear,” he says. “This helps them feel confident and allows for good mobility in the water.”
Color
The color of a child's swimsuit and rash guard is not only a matter of style but also safety. Rooney explains that having a brightly colored rash guard makes a child easier to see while they’re in the water. “It can help both lifeguards and parents spot their child in a busy pool,” he says.
What’s more, the color of a child’s rash guard can help prevent drowning. With sunlight, shadows, and moving water, certain colors can be camouflaged or look like a clump of leaves. Alive Solutions, a company that specializes in water safety, conducted a series of tests to determine the best colors for kids to wear in the water:
Pool
The best colors to wear are neon pink and neon orange
The worst colors to wear are white and light blue
Lake
The best colors to wear are neon yellow, neon green, and neon orange
Neon pink did not perform well, as did all other colors
Frequently Asked Questions
Do toddlers need rash guards?
Rash guards are a great addition to bathing suits and sunscreen because they can keep your child warm, prevent irritation from sand or boards, and most importantly, protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays. A UPF 50+ rash guard is the best form of sun protection, even outperforming sunscreen in most cases.
Can kids swim in rash guards?
“Swimming with a rash guard is safe as long as the rash guard is fit snugly to the body but allows for full arm movement,” says Dr. Figge. “Imagine swimming in a baggy long sleeve shirt! That's hard work and would tire a swimmer out quickly.”
If your child is just learning how to swim, coach Rooney cautions parents against letting them wear a rash guard in the water. “Young swimmers are starting to work on their stamina and may find it difficult to swim with a rash guard on,” he says. “This could make them tire more easily, which could put them in a dangerous situation. I would not recommend rash guards for children who are swimming laps in a pool.”
If your child will stay in shallow water, Rooney says there are benefits to wearing a rash guard. “Swimmers who are kept near a wall or stairs should be okay wearing a rash guard as it can help them stay warm and protect them from the sun.”
How snug should a rash guard fit?
The right rash guard should be snug yet comfortable. If a rash guard is too loose, it can become too heavy for your child to swim in and may impede their ability to move freely. However, a rash guard that is too tight can also inhibit movement and will also be uncomfortable to wear.
Will a rash guard keep you warm?
Dr. Figge explains that although the primary benefit of a rash guard is to protect your child from the sun, they are helpful in other ways, too. “Rash guards provide added warmth from the wind or cold water and can protect against friction from the sand or boogie or surf boards.” In general, the thicker a rash guard is, the warmer it will be.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Laura Lu, MS is an experienced health writer who has a Master of Science degree in Health Communication. Her work has appeared in publications like The New York Times, Media Psychology, Brit+Co, and Parents.com, to name a few. In 2021, she was diagnosed with skin cancer which, fortunately, was caught early enough to be removed without any additional treatment required. Now, as a mom of two, she is incredibly thorough about sun protection for her kids and has dressed them in RuffleButts and uideazone rash guards.
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