Best Rash Guard Shirts for Boys of 2025

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Rash guard shirts are a must-have for boys who love spending time in the water. These shirts are designed to protect their delicate skin from the harmful effects of the sun and abrasions caused by sand and surf. Made from high-quality materials, they offer a comfortable and snug fit that allows for unrestricted movement. Available in a range of vibrant colors and cool designs, these rash guard shirts not only provide protection but also make a stylish statement. Whether they're surfing, swimming, or simply playing at the beach, boys can enjoy their time in the water with confidence and comfort wearing these trendy rash guard shirts.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Kanu Surf Boys' UPF 50+ Rashguard Cover #TOP 1
Kanu Surf Boys' UPF 50+ Rashguard
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard by Liberty Pro Cover #TOP 2
Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard by Liberty Pro
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Hurley Boys Rash Guard Shirt Cover #TOP 3
Hurley Boys Rash Guard Shirt
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Rash Guard Shirts for Boys

Kanu Surf Boys' UPF 50+ Rashguard

8094
Solid White
Kanu Surf Boys' UPF 50+ Rashguard Cover
Kanu Surf Boys' Short Sleeve UPF 50+ Rashguard Swim Shirt, Solid White, 4T

The Kanu Surf Rashguard Shirt is designed to keep your little one protected from the sun while enjoying water activities. With a comfortable crew neckline and raglan-seam short sleeves, it allows for easy movement, making it perfect for active kids. The UPF 50+ feature provides excellent sun protection, ensuring that delicate skin is shielded from harmful rays. Its pull-on closure makes dressing quick and hassle-free, while the machine washable fabric allows for easy cleaning after a day of fun. This shirt combines style and functionality for a worry-free swim experience.

What We Like
Excellent UV protection
Bright and vivid colors
Durable and long-lasting material
Comfortable fit for kids
True to size with room to grow
What We Don't Like
Runs slightly large
Somewhat loose fit

Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard by Liberty Pro

KB-SP25
Aqua/Black/White
Medium
Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard by Liberty Pro Cover
3 Pack Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard Short Sleeve Swim Shirts, Quick Dry UV Protection Swimwear for Kids (Set 1, Medium)

The Liberty Pro Rash Guard is designed for your little adventurer's water activities. With quick-drying fabric, it ensures he’s always ready for the next splash. The UPF 50+ protection allows him to enjoy the sun without the fear of sunburn, keeping his skin safe during outdoor fun. Its regular fit with a crew neckline and raglan sleeves provides comfort and ease of movement, so he can swim freely. Plus, the rash-free design means he can enjoy hours in the water without irritation, making this shirt a perfect addition to his swimwear collection.

What We Like
Great colors and patterns
Excellent fabric quality
Comfortable fit
Good sun protection
Longer length for tall kids
What We Don't Like
Not skin-tight fit
#TOP 3

Hurley Boys Rash Guard Shirt

983591-K08
Black Heather/Icon
Large
Hurley Boys Rash Guard Shirt Cover
Hurley boys Rash Guard Shirt, Black/Icon, Large US

The Hurley Boys Rash Guard Shirt is perfect for the beach or pool. Made from quick-drying jersey fabric, it features H2O-Dri technology to help keep you dry and comfortable, and UPF 50 protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. The iconic Hurley logo keeps you connected to the community, while the crew neck and short sleeves provide easy movement and casual comfort. With a regular fit, you can move freely during all of your beach adventures.

What We Like
Great quality
Soft and lightweight material
Quick drying
Vibrant color
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Thin material
Sticks to the body

Hurley Boys' Long Sleeve Rash Guard

983716-K08
Black Heather
Large
Hurley Boys' Long Sleeve Rash Guard Cover
Hurley Boys' Long Sleeve Rash Guard Shirt, Black Heather, L

The Hurley Rash Guard Shirt is designed to enhance your outdoor experience with its quality materials, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable during your activities. Thanks to the innovative moisture-wicking technology, you can enjoy a dry feeling even when you’re active. The UPF 50 protection is a key feature that helps guard your skin from harmful UV rays, allowing you to spend more time outdoors with peace of mind. Additionally, the crew neck and long sleeves offer easy movement, making it a great choice for active boys who want to stay comfortable while having fun.

What We Like
Lightweight and quick-drying
Great sun protection
Comfortable fit
Bright colors for visibility
Durable fabric
What We Don't Like
Lettering fades quickly
Runs slightly large

Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard by Liberty Pro

Medium
Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard by Liberty Pro Cover
3 Pack Boys' UPF 50+ Rash Guard Long Sleeve Swim Shirts, Quick Dry UV Protection Swimwear for Kids (Set 2, Medium)

The Liberty Pro Rash Guard is designed for young adventurers ready to make waves. With quick-drying fabric, these shirts ensure your child can jump from land to water without delay. The UPF 50+ protection allows kids to enjoy the sun without the risk of sunburn, making it a vital addition to their swimwear. Featuring a comfortable fit with raglan-seam long sleeves, these shirts provide freedom of movement for all water activities. Plus, the rash-free design means kids can play freely, avoiding skin irritations while having fun in the water.

What We Like
Great fit and room to grow
Breathable fabric for summer
Long sleeves for sun protection
Comfortable during active play
No fading after washing
What We Don't Like
Sizes may run larger than expected
#TOP 6

Willit Boy's Sun Protection Shirt

WILLITwoa0360303322ma
Light Green
10-11 Years(M)
Willit Boy's Sun Protection Shirt Cover
Willit Boy's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Shirt Long Sleeve Rash Guard Swim Shirts Youth SPF Fishing Quick Dry Shirt Light Green M

The Willit Boy's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Shirt is a lightweight and breathable rash guard that wicks moisture away from your skin, keeping you comfortable and fresh all day. With flat lock seams and a no tag collar, it offers no-chafe comfort while the UPF 50+ rating protects your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. The raglan sleeves construction provides a greater range of motion, making it ideal for outdoor activities like running, fishing, sailing, swimming, and hiking.

What We Like
Excellent sun protection
Comfortable and lightweight
Quick-dry material
Bright, vibrant colors
Durable fabric
What We Don't Like
Sleeves could be longer
Small neck opening
#TOP 7

Kanu Surf Boys Platinum Rashguard

7176
14-16
Kanu Surf Boys Platinum Rashguard Cover
Kanu Surf boys Platinum Long-sleeve Rashguard rash guard shirts, Red, 14-16 US

The Kanu Surf Rashguard is designed for boys who love to play in the sun while staying protected. With long sleeves and a mock neck, it provides excellent coverage, keeping your skin safe from harmful UV rays thanks to its UPF 50+ rating. The convenient pull-on closure makes it easy for kids to wear, ensuring they can get ready for a day at the beach or pool without hassle. Plus, it’s machine washable, allowing for effortless cleaning after a fun day of water activities.

What We Like
Effective sun protection
Bright and vibrant colors
Comfortable fit
Quick drying material
Good quality construction
What We Don't Like
Snug neck hole
Size runs small
#TOP 8

HODOSPORTS Boys UPF 50+ Rash Guard

Short-white
14-16 Years
HODOSPORTS Boys UPF 50+ Rash Guard Cover
HODOSPORTS Boys UPF 50+ Rash Guard Swim Shirts Short Sleeve Quick Dry UV Protection Sun Shirt

The HODOSPORTS Rash Guard Shirt offers excellent sun protection with its UPF 50+ fabric, which blocks over 98% of harmful UV rays. This feature is perfect for keeping your skin safe while enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, the shirt dries quickly, absorbing moisture from your body and allowing for a cool, dry experience during swimming or surfing. Its bright colors make it easy to spot your child in busy environments like beaches or pools. Finally, the breathable fabric ensures comfort, preventing any stuffiness while you’re active in the sun.

What We Like
High-quality material
50+ SPF protection
Multiple color options
Great price
What We Don't Like
None noted
#TOP 9

Semois Boys Rash Guard Short Sleeve

Blue
10-12 Years
Semois Boys Rash Guard Short Sleeve Cover
Boys Rash Guard Short Sleeve, Blue UPF 50+ Sun Protection Rashguard Slim Fit Swim Shirt Fishing Surf Quick Dry Cool Beach Clothes for Toddler Youth Kids Size 10-12 Years

Stay protected from the sun with the Semois Boys Rash Guard Short Sleeve. This UPF 50+ sunscreen fabric shirt is perfect for outdoor water activities like swimming, surfing, or boogie boarding. Made with moisture-wicking fabrics, it keeps kids dry and comfortable, while the flatlock seams and tagless design ensure added comfort. The shirt is stretchy and flexible, allowing for a full range of motion. With its lightweight and breathable fabric, it's a durable and comfortable option for your kids. Available in various sizes, this machine-washable shirt saves you cleaning time, so you can spend more quality time with your little ones.

What We Like
Quick drying
Good quality
Lightweight fabric
Comfortable fit
Reasonable price
What We Don't Like
Runs small
Could be longer
#TOP 10

Smarash Boys Long Sleeve Rash Guard

White
Smarash Boys Long Sleeve Rash Guard Cover
Boys Rash Guard Long Sleeve Sun Protection UPF50+ T Shirts Rashguard Swim Fishing Surf ShirtsQuick Dry Cool Beach Clothes for Toddler Youth Kids White 3T

The Smarash Rash Guard is designed to keep your child safe and comfortable during outdoor activities. With UPF 50+ protection, these long-sleeve shirts shield delicate skin from harmful UV rays, making them perfect for sunny days. The lightweight and breathable fabric quickly wicks away moisture, ensuring your child stays dry and comfortable while playing. Additionally, the stretchy materials provide a snug fit that prevents chafing, allowing for unrestricted movement. Whether swimming, fishing, or hiking, this versatile rash guard is an excellent choice for all water and outdoor adventures.

What We Like
True to size
Soft and comfortable fabric
Good sun protection
Quick drying
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Color fades after washing
Stains difficult to remove
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why do boys wear rash guards?

Boys wear rash guards for various reasons. They provide protection against rashes caused by contact with surfboard wax, sunburn, and they can also offer flotation if needed. Rash guards can also serve as a fashion statement and provide space for branding.

2. What is the difference between a sun shirt and a rash guard?

The main difference between a sun shirt and a rash guard is their intended use. Sun shirts are better suited for activities outside the water and typically have wicking properties and a loose fit. Rash guards, on the other hand, are specifically designed to protect the skin from the sun, sand, and surfboards.

3. Are rash guards good for kids?

Yes, rash guards are great for kids. They offer additional protection from the sun and can be used alongside sunscreen. Originally designed for surfers, rash guards have gained popularity among people of all ages, including babies and adults.

4. What is the difference between a rash guard and a compression shirt?

Rash guards and compression shirts serve different purposes. Compression shirts are designed to support muscles and improve athletic performance by increasing blood flow. Rash guards, on the other hand, have a more relaxed fit and are primarily intended to protect the skin from the sun, sand, or surfboard.

5. What can I wear instead of a rash guard?

If you prefer not to wear a rash guard, you can opt for a comfortable tee shirt. Tee shirts can be an alternative to rash guards, especially for those who don't prefer tight-fitting garments. However, it's important to note that some gyms or activities may have specific rules about hygiene or clothing requirements.

6. Can you swim in a rash guard shirt?

Yes, rash guard shirts are suitable for swimming. Their tight and slim fit ensures that they stay in place and don't hinder your movement in the water. They can provide additional warmth, especially in cooler ocean temperatures.

7. How do I choose a rash guard?

When choosing a rash guard, look for brands or styles that offer a UPF rating of 50 or higher. This rating ensures that the rash guard provides 98% blockage from harmful UV rays. Consider the water activity and duration when selecting a rash guard to ensure proper sun protection for your body.

Editor's Notes

During our rash guard shirt for boys research, we found 48 rash guard shirt for boys products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 87,718 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rash guard shirts for boys list. We found that most customers choose rash guard shirts for boys with an average price of $17.96.

The rash guard shirts for boys are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rash guard shirts for boys, including Kanu Surf, Liberty Pro, Hurley, Willit, HODOSPORTS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.

Rash Guard Shirts for Boys Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Kanu Surf Liberty Pro Hurley Hurley Liberty Pro Willit Kanu Surf HODOSPORTS Semois Smarash
Fabric type 100% Polyester 91% Polyester, 9% Spandex 100% Polyester 100% Polyester 91% Polyester, 9% Spandex UPF 50+ rating provides excellent protection against harmful rays 82% Nylon, 18% Spandex 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex 80%polyester,20% Spandex,RECOMMEND SIZE UP 1-2, IF PREFERRED LOOSE FIT. 85% Polyester, 15% Spandex. For a loose fit, consider sizing up 1 size.
Care instructions Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash Machine Wash
Closure type Pull On Pull On Pull On Pull On Pull On Lock Pull On Pull On Pull On Pull On
Department boys boys boys boys boys boys boys boys - -
Origin - Designed in USA, Imported Imported Imported Designed in USA, Imported - - Imported Imported Imported
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
Where to Buy