What Can Women Wear Under a Rashguard?

When it comes to activities in the water and sun, your rashguard is your best friend - it shields your skin from the sun and protects you from reef cuts, chaffing, and cooler temperatures . But what you wear underneath is just as crucial for comfort, performance, and protection. Many women are unsure about what to wear under women's rashguards. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the right gear can make all the difference in your adventures.  That's why we aim to answer the tough question:

What Can Women Wear Under a Rashguard?

When choosing what to wear under women's rashguards, comfort and protection are key. The right undergarment can provide support, confidence, and ensure you're not weighed down by heavy fabric. It’s important to pick a fit that’s snug but not too tight, and fabrics that wick away moisture and dry quickly.

Your underlayer should act like a second skin, moving with you as you paddle or dive. It's not just about comfort—it’s about protecting your skin from rashes and prolonged sun exposure. A good base layer will complement a Lumar Active women's rashguard, enhancing your experience in the water.

UV protection is essential when spending long hours in the sun. Look for undergarments with built-in UPF ratings to provide extra defense against harmful rays, particularly in areas a women's rashguard may not fully cover, like your lower back or shoulders.

Materials Matter: What to Look For

The material of your base layer is your first line of defense against discomfort. Synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon excel at managing moisture and drying faster than cotton, making them perfect for the water. For those with sensitive skin or eco-conscious preferences, natural fibers like bamboo and modal offer softness and breathability, plus a lower environmental impact.

Look for fabrics with stretch—spandex or elastane—that allow full range of motion, ensuring you can move freely as you swim or surf. The stretchability also helps maintain the shape of the garment, providing consistent support without sagging.

Antimicrobial treatments are a great bonus, preventing the growth of bacteria and odors, and continue to keep your Lumar Active gear fresh even after long hours in the water.

Types of Underwear That Pair Well with Rashguards

Choosing the right type of underwear to wear under a women's rashguard can transform your experience. Sports bras are a popular choice, offering the necessary support while handling movement and moisture. Look for styles with flat seams to reduce irritation and quick-drying, stretchy fabrics for added comfort.

Swim bottoms, like hipster cuts or boy shorts, are another great option. Designed for water, they won’t absorb as much moisture as regular underwear, and they offer a variety of coverage levels to suit your comfort.

The goal is to find undergarments you can barely notice once you’re in the water. They should fit well and allow you to focus on your activity, not on adjusting your clothing. Comfort, support, and functionality are key to a successful underlayer.

Special Considerations for Different Water Activities

Wearing a Rashguard for Surfing, Swimming, Paddleboarding

These water actives require gear that stays secure. The last thing you want is to lose your undergarments in the changing currents, or rougher waters. High-impact sports bras with a racerback design offer excellent support, and bottoms with a secure waistband or drawstring add extra confidence.

The water temperature can also influence your choice. In cooler waters, thicker materials or neoprene bottoms can provide warmth without needing a full wetsuit. In tropical climates, lighter, breathable fabrics are ideal to keep you cool.

Snug-fitting undergarments can also help prevent sand from getting trapped, which can cause discomfort and chafing. Always give your Lumar Active gear a good rinse after your session to keep it clean and ready for the next adventure.

Snorkeling and Swimming: Underlayers for Women's Rashguards

For activities like snorkeling or swimming, where streamlined movement is key, seamless designs and minimalist styles work best. These reduce drag and prevent snagging or bunching that could slow you down.

Swimmers may prefer a sports bra with a front zipper for ease of wear and a secure fit. For bottoms, a high-cut leg offers freedom of movement and stays put during every kick. Mesh panels or perforations can provide extra breathability, helping regulate your temperature during long sessions.

The right undergarments should enhance your experience in the water, not detract from it.

Expert Tips for Layering Under Your Rashguard

In some cases, simplicity is best. For instance, when wearing a wetsuit over your Lumar Active rashguard, you may want to skip extra layers altogether. The wetsuit provides compression and warmth, so extra undergarments could create unnecessary bulk or discomfort.

If your rashguard has built-in support, such as a shelf bra, that might be all you need for low-impact activities like paddleboarding or kayaking. Listen to your body and choose your layers based on the demands of the activity.

Some modern rashguards even come with features that eliminate the need for additional undergarments, such as integrated bras or compression panels, allowing you to move freely without compromising support.

Keeping It Eco-Friendly and Stylish

Today’s watermen and women are looking for gear that performs well and is environmentally friendly. Lumar Active offers eco-conscious options, with undergarments made from recycled materials or organic fabrics that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing quality or style.

Personal style also plays a role in your confidence. With a wide range of colors and patterns, you can choose undergarments that reflect your unique taste while still getting the performance you need. Confidence in your gear leads to better performance and more fun in the water.

Merging function and fashion is easy with Lumar Active—our undergarments are designed for athletes, offering the same level of comfort and support while still keeping you stylish.

Final Thoughts on Rashguard Readiness

Choosing the right undergarments for women's rashguards or men's rashguards is about balancing comfort, functionality, and personal preference. It’s about understanding the needs of your chosen water activity and addressing them with gear that helps, not hinders, your performance.

Ultimately, it’s all about having fun while staying safe. The right undergarments should feel like a natural extension of your rashguard, providing the protection, comfort, and confidence you need to tackle the waves.

With the right gear, you can focus on what truly matters—making the most of every moment in the ocean, lake, or pool. So, suit up, secure your undergarments, and dive into your next adventure with Lumar Active, knowing you're well-prepared for anything the water brings your way. Happy swimming, surfing, and exploring—the adventure await!

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