Surf suits keep you covered without the restriction and warmth of a wetsuit. Photo: The Seea

Summer is here and that means lots of surfing and time in the sun. While it’s great to soak up rays and get some much-needed vitamin D after a long winter, there’s nothing worse than a blistering sunburn. On days when the sun is high and I don’t have a buddy to sunscreen my back, I reach for a rashguard or surf suit to keep me protected. Not only do rashguards keep off the sun, but, as their name implies, they prevent rashes and bikini slips, making them a great option for cloudy days as well. For those who aren’t familiar, a surf suit combines a rashguard and bathing suit to provide a one-piece option for sun protection. Here, we’ve rounded up six of our favorite rashguards and surf suits to keep you covered all summer long.

Carve Designs Kona Rashguard ($67.95) Billabong Postcards from Paradise Long Sleeve Rashguard ($59.90) Slipins Zippered Longsleeve Swimsuit ($150) Patagonia Women’s Swell Seeker Cropped Rashguard ($89) Seea Dara Surf Suit ($164.95) Rip Curl On the Coast Suit ($96.76)

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When I’m in the market for a new rashguard or surf suit there are a few things that I look for. I want it to be comfortable, durable, stylish, and offer plenty of sun protection.

Comfort When it comes to choosing a rashguard/surf suit, comfort is the name of the game. I look for something that fits snug, but not too tight, so it won’t move around but will also be comfortable while I’m surfing.

Sun Protection There’s really not much point in wearing a rashguard if it doesn’t offer sun protection. I like to check the UPF rating before I buy a rashguard and makes sure it will cover enough skin so I don’t have to worry about getting sunburnt or lathering up.

Durability Rashguards are typically made of pretty thin material, so they’re not typically the most durable piece of surf equipment. But some are made better than others and will last longer. I look for quality stitching and fabrics because you know I’ll be rocking the same rashguard for years to come.

Style When I’m looking for a new rashguard, I want something that comes in a fun print or a bold solid. I also want the fit to be flattering so it’s something I feel good about wearing.

Comfort: 5 Sun Protection: 5 Durability: 5 Style: 5 Total: 5/5

Carve Design’s Kona Rashguard has everything you could want and more. In an effort to provide maximum sun protection, the Kona rashguard has UPF protection and a longer cut for added coverage. The top features a half zip, adding style points and allowing for easy entry/exit. Made from durable stretch fabric and featuring raglan sleeves for increased mobility, the Kona is incredibly soft and comfortable. The Kona fits a little looser than other rashguards, so order a size down if you prefer a tighter fit. I’m personally a fan of the loose fit because it allows it to be worn as a sun shirt throughout the day and is comfy both on and off the water.

Comfort: 5 Sun Protection: 5 Durability: 4 Style: 5 Total: 4.75/5

When it comes to style, Billabong always hits the nail on the head. Part of their Postcards from Paradise collection, this rashguard comes in a fun, floral print and pairs well with bikinis, shorts, and leggings from the collection. Made from 85 percent recycled polyester, this top is eco-friendly, and the fabric feels buttery soft against the skin. This top offers UPF 50+ sun protection and covers the back, shoulders, and arms, making it perfect for long days in the sun. While the fabric is super comfortable, it is on the thinner side, so be careful not to snag it if you want it to withstand the test of time. Note: sizing is in juniors, so refer to the size chart to ensure you order the appropriate size.

Comfort: 4 Sun Protection: 5 Durability: 4 Style: 5 Total: 4.5/5

Comfortable and stylish, Slipins Longsleeve swimsuit is what it is: a long-sleeve swim suit made from rashguard material. The suit features four-way stretch fabric for a comfortable yet flattering fit. The 17-inch zipper allows for easy entry and exit, and the quick-drying fabric is much appreciated for quick turnaround times between sessions. Offering UPF 50-plus protection, the suit blocks 98 percent of UVA and UVB rays — just be sure and sunscreen that booty as these suits have a cheeky fit. If you prefer full body coverage, Slipins offers Surfskins that will keep you covered from head to toe. The high neckline and hand slits provide maximum sun protection, but I found the hand slits can dig in after a while (I just slip my hand out when this happens and I’m good to go). Available in multiple colors and patterns, each print is inspired by the ocean and is uniquely beautiful. My personal favorite is their popular whale shark print.

Comfort: 5 Sun Protection: 3 Durability: 5 Style: 5 Total: 4.5/5

Fair Trade certified sewn and made from a blend of 83 percent recycled polyester and 17 percent spandex, Patagonia’s Swell Seeker rashguard is about as ethical and eco-friendly as they come. The Swell Seeker is a cropped-style rashguard that hits mid-torso, making it incredibly flattering and stylish. Available in three different prints, it pairs well with bikini bottoms, boardshorts, or leggings if you prefer more coverage. The fabric is comfortable yet durable and the set-in sleeves allow for solid range of motion while paddling. While the top covers the chest, upper back, and shoulders, you’ll still need to sunscreen your lower back and tummy to avoid burns.

Comfort: 4 Sun Protection: 5 Durability: 4 Style: 4 Total: 4.25/5

Seea’s Dara Surf Suit feels like a cross between a rashguard and a springsuit, offering plenty of sun protection and a little added warmth. Featuring a retro-inspired design, the suit is flattering and form fitting and includes a keyhole tie back for added style points. The suit is rated to UPF 30-plus and the long sleeves and booty cut shorts provide plenty of coverage and sun protection. Multi-layered knit fabric ensures comfort and breathability, raglan sleeves provide chafe-free maneuverability, and the full coverage design prevents unwanted bumps and rashes. Made from a blend of 80 percent recycled polyester and spandex, this suit feels like a lightweight springsuit, making it perfect for those that run cold or for chillier summer days.

Comfort: 4 Sun Protection: 3 Durability: 4 Style: 5 Total: 4/5

Inspired by tropical coastlines, the On the Coast Surf Suit sports a fun, colorful design that’s sure to turn heads in the lineup. Removable padding and a keyhole back cut-out provide a flattering, feminine fit that looks and feels good. Although the suit covers the shoulders, arms, and stomach, it leaves the back exposed – if you get burnt easily you might want to look elsewhere. Despite its minimal coverage, the On the Coast Suit fits snug like a one-piece with sleeves and is lightweight and comfortable, making it a great choice for summertime surfs.

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