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O'Neill Rash Vests

A rash vest is the quietest bit of kit in the water, and you notice it only when you have gone without one. These tops sit close to the skin to stop board rub and chafing, block the sun that reflects hardest off the water, and dry in minutes. They work under a wetsuit, over swimwear or on their own through a long day at the beach.

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O'Neill rash vests and sun shirts for the water

Light, fast-drying and protective, a rash vest solves several small problems at once, which is why it usually ends up being worn far more than expected.

Protection from board rub and chafing

The original job of a rash vest is right there in the name. A smooth, close-fitting layer between your skin and a board, or between your skin and a wetsuit, stops the rubbing that otherwise turns a good session sore.

UPF fabric handles reflected sun

Water throws sunlight straight back at you, so time spent in it burns faster than time spent beside it. A UPF-rated top shields your shoulders, back and arms, the places that catch the most and are hardest to keep covered in sunscreen.

Quick-drying fabric stays comfortable

Light, stretchy fabric sheds water fast and dries on the skin, so you are not sitting in a cold, heavy top between sessions or on the walk back up the beach.

Short sleeve, long sleeve and sizes for everyone

Short sleeve tops suit hot days and maximum movement, long sleeve versions cover more skin from sun and rub, and the range runs across men's, women's and kids' fits so nobody is left improvising.

Frequently asked questions

What is a rash vest actually for?

Two things. It stops your skin rubbing raw against a board or the inside of a wetsuit, and it blocks a lot of the UV that reflects off the water. Many people wear one purely for the sun protection, without a board anywhere in sight.

Can I wear a rash vest under a wetsuit?

Yes, and it makes the suit noticeably more comfortable. A thin rash vest reduces chafing at the neck and underarms and makes a wet suit far easier to pull on and peel off. Choose a close-fitting one so it does not bunch up underneath.

How should a rash vest fit?

Close to the skin, without gaps. A loose rash vest drags in the water, rides up and defeats the point of it. It should feel snug but still let you breathe deeply and rotate your shoulders freely.

Do rash vests keep you warm?

Only slightly. A rash vest is a sun and rub layer, not an insulating one, so it takes a little of the chill off a breeze but will not keep you warm in cold water. For warmth you want neoprene, whether that is a spring suit or a full wetsuit.

Can I collect orders in store?

Yes, choose Click & Collect at checkout. Orders are usually ready within 24 hours and you will get an email when ready. Available from our Dublin Carrickmines, Dublin Blanchardstown and Cork City Centre stores.

Do you offer free delivery on orders?

Yes, we offer free standard delivery on all orders over €100.

Where are your stores located?

We have four stores across Ireland: Dublin Carrickmines, Dublin Blanchardstown, Cork City Centre and Arnotts Dublin.

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