Rash Guards vs. Bamboo Sun Shirts: What’s Best for Your Kids' Summer Skin?

I used to think all sun protection shirts were basically the same. If it had long sleeves and said “UPF 50+” on the tag, I threw it in the beach bag and hoped for the best.

But after dealing with eczema, heat rashes, and sunscreen sensitivities in both of my kids, I started noticing a huge difference between the clothing we used for water and what we needed for dry land.

That’s when we decided to offer two distinct options at Play Outside:

The Bamboo Sun Shirt (lightweight, breathable, everyday protection)
The Rash Guard (built for swimming and water play)

We also added adult rash guards, because honestly, we needed them too. Here's how I explain the difference to parents who ask which one is right.

When We Choose the Bamboo Sun Shirt

This is our go-to for everyday outdoor play, especially in the heat.
It’s made from super-soft, thermo-regulating bamboo viscose that’s:

Naturally hypoallergenic and breathable
Moisture-wicking and temperature regulating
Perfect for kids with sensitive skin or sensory sensitivities

We wear the ONE bamboo sun shirt for:

Hiking and biking
Playground time
Backyard messes (it makes a great mud or garden shirt)
Car rides or day trips when sun protection is still a priority

My toddler even wears it as a pajama top in summer because it’s that soft. Bonus: the long hem and thumb holes mean no mid-back sunburns or sleeve creep-ups while they climb or dig.

It’s what we reach for when we’re outside but not in the water.

When We Opt for Rash Guards

A rash guard is designed to handle swim time—salt, chlorine, and full submersion. It’s made from a quick-dry synthetic blend that resists drag in the water and holds its shape after hours of play.

We use the Kids Rash Guard and Adult Rash Guard for:

Beach days
Pool sessions
Sprinklers or splash pads
Kayaking, paddle boarding, or water play

They’re fitted, so they don’t balloon in the water, but still soft enough that my eczema-prone son doesn’t complain. Just remember to rinse off after swimming—chlorine can irritate sensitive skin, even with protective layers.

For more skin-protective tips, read our blog on how to help kids with sensitive skin enjoy the outdoors.

Which One Is Best for Sensitive Skin?

Honestly? Both, depending on the activity.

If your child struggles with itchy, reactive skin like mine, here’s what I recommend:

Situation	Best Option	Why
Dry land play	Bamboo Sun Shirt	Soft, breathable, reduces sweat irritation
Water play	Rash Guard	Quick-drying, designed for full immersion
Long car rides or travel days	Bamboo Sun Shirt	Comfortable for all-day wear
Water park or beach	Rash Guard	Chlorine- and salt-safe protection
Eczema flare-up	Bamboo Sun Shirt	No tags, soft seams, no cling

We have also user the ONE Bamboo sun shirt in the water on especially hot days. Mostly because having a cool wet shirt on helps keep up cool for longer.

Final Thoughts from a Mom Who’s Tried It All

Sensitive skin doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. It just means being intentional about what touches your child's skin.

Some days, that’s our cool, cozy bamboo shirt. Other days, it’s our snug-fit rash guard for cannonballs and underwater adventures.

We created both options because our family needed both. I didn’t want my kids’ comfort or their skin, to be the thing that kept them from falling in love with the outdoors.

Love,
Adriana
Founder of Play Outside