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Best Rash guards for Kids

Updated May 2022
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
O'Neill Basic Short-Sleeve Rash Guard
O'Neill
Basic Short-Sleeve Rash Guard
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Bottom Line

One of the few rash guards made for boys and girls, with full sun and rash protection.

Pros

Offers a slim fit and lots of protection for sensitive skin. Minimal seams for less irritation. Parents love the effective sun protection. Made by a well-known surf brand.

Cons

Sizing is off, so order larger size.

Best Bang for the Buck
City Threads Hood Rash Guard
City Threads
Hood Rash Guard
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Bottom Line

Comfortable fabric that protects at the beach as well as high altitudes.

Pros

We love the quality of the material that protects kids' skin. Customers rave about how quickly the fabric dries. Offers UPF 50+ protection. Made with no harsh chemicals.

Cons

Hood can trap too much heat.

Kanu Boys' Platinum Rash Guard
Kanu
Boys' Platinum Rash Guard
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Bottom Line

UPF 50+ and comes in multiple colors to satisfy your child's fashion taste while protecting their skin.

Pros

Customers rave about the lightweight fabric that keeps kids cool. Holds up well summer after summer. Offers options for both toddlers and big kids. UPF 50+ rating.

Cons

Some reviews suggest the sleeves run long.

Estamico Boys' Long-Sleeve Rash Guard
Estamico
Boys' Long-Sleeve Rash Guard
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Bottom Line

Made for active boys and parents who want an effective barrier from the sun at a great price.

Pros

Thick fabric shields skin from sun damage, yet still feels light enough to swim. Sim-fitting with elastic. Dries quickly. Provides a decent amount of full upper-body protection from the sun.

Cons

Reports suggest sizing may run small.

ROXY Girls' Long-Sleeve Rash Guard
ROXY
Girls' Long-Sleeve Rash Guard
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Bottom Line

Trusted brand made for girls that protects and looks stylish, too.

Pros

Customers say that girls love the sporty look and durability of this popular surf brand. Offers UPF 50 sun protection. Available in multiple colors.

Cons

Some reports of it feeling too snug around the neck.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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30
Models
Considered
135
Consumers
Consulted
16
Hours
Researched
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Rash guards are a protective layer of clothing a child can wear while outdoors or in the water that will protect from sun exposure and also potential chafing caused by sports like surfing and bodyboarding. Durability is a factor due to the fabrics’ exposure to the outdoors. Sizes and styles range depending on the child’s age. Rash guards are typically made of a polyester and Lycra blend, creating a snug fit that that’s intended to prevent rashes and sunburn. Important considerations include UPF protection in addition to how quickly the rash guard dries. Brightly colored options as well as simple, understated designs depending on the child’s tastes.

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