Rash Guard Fit, Care and Sleeve Length: What to Know Before You Buy
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Short answer: A rash guard should fit snug and flat against your skin without restricting movement. Choose long sleeves if you want more coverage on the mat, short sleeves if you want more freedom, and wash it after every session to prevent odor.
What is a rash guard?
A rash guard is a stretch athletic shirt worn against the skin. In grappling it reduces friction on the mat and keeps clothing from catching. It is worn under a gi or alone for no-gi training. Our guide on what to wear to no-gi BJJ covers the full kit.
How should a rash guard fit?
It should feel close to the body, similar to a second layer of skin. If it bunches, it is too big. If it pinches your shoulders or limits your arm movement, it is too small. Check the maker's size chart against your chest and torso measurements, and ask the seller if you are between sizes. Rash guards are designed to be tight, but tight should not mean uncomfortable.
Short sleeve or long sleeve?
- Long sleeve: more coverage for forearms and elbows, which helps with mat friction. It can feel warmer in hot gyms. Example: Tekiya Long Sleeve BJJ Rash Guard.
- Short sleeve: more freedom and less heat, with arms uncovered. Examples: Yael Short Sleeve BJJ Rash Guard, Sicarii Black Camo Short Sleeve BJJ Rash Guard.
Rash guard vs compression shirt
The two look similar. A rash guard is built for friction protection and often has flatlock seams and moisture-wicking fabric. A compression shirt is designed mainly for a tight, supportive fit. Many rash guards work like compression shirts, but check the product description for what the maker designed it for.
Do you have to wear one for no-gi?
Many gyms and competitions require a fitted top for no-gi. Rules vary, so check yours. Our article on IBJJF no-gi rules explains one common standard.
How to wash a rash guard and stop the smell
- Rinse or hang it up as soon as you finish training.
- Wash after every session in cool or cold water.
- Do not use bleach, and follow the care label.
- Air-dry it. Heat can wear out stretch fabric and prints.
Will a rash guard shrink? Stretch synthetic fabrics usually shrink less than cotton, but high heat can still damage the fit and the print. See our gi washing guide for the same routine.
Browse our rash guards, including the Psalm 23:4 BJJ Rash Guard, or pair one with the King Mashiach Fight Shorts.