How to Wear a Rashguard for Maximum Protection: Step Wise Guide For Beginners

Rash guards, also known as rash vests or rashies, have originated in Australia and have become essential in combat sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)  since the 2000s. Wearing a rash guard correctly requires attention to specific details to maximize performance and safety. As the name suggests, these tight-fitting shirts offer compression, comfort, and protection during intense physical activity. Wearing a rash guard underneath a gi or alone with the right shorts and post-training care is equally important for optimal usage of this apparel.

How to Use a Rash Guard | Wear the Rashies Correctly

Buy a rashguard from a leading manufacturer, customize it just the way you want, and learn the steps to wear it correctly. Following are the step-by-step process for beginners on how to wear a rashguard for combat sports.

Step 1: Always Wear a Clean & Dry Rashguard

The rashguard should be clean and completely dry before wearing it for training or competition. Hygiene comes first, as combat sports involve close body contact. A clean rashguard protects the skin from bacteria and helps prevent odor buildup during sessions. Double-check for any damage, like tears, especially at the seams, to avoid wardrobe malfunctions during training.

Step 2: Slide It On Like a Compression Shirt

Combat sports rashguards are designed to be worn snugly, much like compression gear. Here’s how to get it on easily:

• Place the neck opening over the head, then gently pull the body of the rashguard down over your torso.
• Once it’s over your head, make sure the arms are aligned and properly seated. Adjust the rashguard on the body to fit tightly around the waist and torso, smoothing any wrinkles or folds.
• The neckline should be comfortable, tight, and secure enough not to shift during rolling or sparring.

Step 3: Check for Mobility and Range of Motion

A good BJJ rashguard should offer a snug fit without restricting movement. Once you’ve put it on, perform basic movements—like arm circles or shadow grappling—to ensure full mobility. The rashguard should compress your muscles, but you should still be able to move freely. Combat sports require dynamic and fast-paced movements, so having a rashguard that moves with you is essential.

Step 4: Tuck It In (Optional)

Depending on the training style, the bottom of this protection apparel can be tucked into the rashguard into your shorts or spats (compression pants). This prevents the rashguard from riding up during grappling exchanges or the back workout. A tucked-in rashguard also helps create a more streamlined silhouette, reducing the chances of the opponent grabbing excess fabric during a roll.

Step 5: Make Sure the Sleeves Are Properly Adjusted

For both short-sleeve and long-sleeve rashguards, it’s important to check that the sleeves fit snugly around the arms. They shouldn’t be too tight to cut off circulation or too loose that they get grabbed or snagged. In combat sports, every detail matters, and a proper sleeve fit can prevent unnecessary distractions during a match.

Step 6: Re-Adjust After Movement

During combat sports, your rashguard can shift as you transition between positions, particularly if you’re involved in a fast-paced role or sparring session. Take a few moments during training breaks to re-adjust the rashguard if necessary. Pull the sleeves back down, smooth out any bunching around your torso, and check that the fit remains snug.

Tips for Wearing Rash Guard Right Way

The Rash vest will last longer if taken proper care of. Some of the ways to increase longevity  

Check for Comfort Around High-Contact Areas

Combat sports involve a lot of pressure and friction, especially around areas like your neck, armpits, and shoulders. After putting on your rashguard, ensure no tight spots or areas leading to chafing. The last thing you want is discomfort during a session because of poorly fitted fabric.

If you notice discomfort, re-adjust the rashguard or check that the seams aren’t rubbing against your skin. To prevent irritation during intense training, consider applying body glide or similar anti-chafing products to high-friction areas.

Pair with Compression Gear or Shorts

BJJ Combat sports rashguards are often worn with compression shorts or spats for added comfort and improved performance. If you’re wearing compression gear, ensure the rashguard fits well with it, with no awkward bunching at the waistband. Ideally, the top and bottom should work together to offer full-body compression, helping with muscle recovery and blood flow during strenuous activities.

Post-Training Care

After the session, properly removing the rashguard is important to avoid overstretching it. Carefully peel it off from the bottom to the top, turning it inside out if necessary. Immediately wash it to remove sweat and bacteria, following care instructions (usually cold water and air drying to avoid damage to the fabric’s elasticity).

Wrapping It Up!

BJJ rash guards worn for grappling sports or mixed martial arts are made of lighter material and should be worn properly. Follow the steps to wear it rightly, like sliding on the rashies, adjusting the seams, and adjusting the sleeves, which help athletes perform optimally. BJJ and MMA rash vests prevent muscle sprains, so it is important to wear them correctly. Proper post-training care and wearing them with the right clothing help avoid damage. 

Consider Infinitude Fight when buying combat sports apparel, gear, and equipment. We provide customization options for a perfect fit and a size guide to choose the best choice for yourself.