Rated 4.9 out of 5 by our customers

Rated 4.9 out of 5 by our customers

5 Star Rated by Sailors
Over 60,000+ Orders Shipped
90 Day Risk Free Returns
Price Match Promise
Fast Dispatch and 5 Star Customer Rated
July 14, 2025 3 min read
A rash vest isn't just a lightweight layer - it's your defence against UV rays, harness rub, salt spray, and wind chill. Whether you wear it alone or under your kit, the right rash vest helps you stay focused, stay fast, and on the water for longer.
When choosing a rash vest, the fabric matters just as much as the fit. Most rash vests are made from either Lycra or Spandex blends, Polypropylene, or recycled synthetics like Repreve®.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Engineered from Repreve® recycled nylon, this long sleeve rash vest offers UV50+ protection and over 200% 4 way ergonomic stretch for unrestricted movement. Perforated side panels boost airflow, while flat lock seams and bar-tacked joins add chafe-free durability. It's soft on the skin, adapts like a second layer, and dries fast even when wet.
PERFECT FOR: Sailors seeking eco-performance - ideal for full days in the sun, spring regattas, or for layering under a technical outer in mixed conditions.
WHY WE LOVE IT: This short sleeve rash vest version delivers the same eco credentials and UV50+ protection with fewer layers - ideal when the sun is high. Lightweight and quick-drying, it offers ergonomic, flat lock stitching, and stays cool on hot water days.
PERFECT FOR: Summer sessions, boat park prep, dinghy foilers, or any situation where breathability is key.
WHY WE LOVE IT: A tightly woven PolyPro top with a bruised fleece inner, thumb loop cuffs, long cut and double lined neck. It insulates like thermal base wear, but is hydrophobic - moisture is expelled quickly, keeping you comfortable and dry.
PERFECT FOR: Cool spring / autumn sailing, layering under wetsuits or smocks, or on choppy race days when staying warm is as important as sun protection.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Sized for kids but with adult-grade features - long sleeves, UV50+. Lightweight yet durable, it stands up to coaching sessions, races and salt-water play without shrinking or fading.
PERFECT FOR: Junior sailors tackling all-day training, summer camps, or youth regattas - provides warmth, sun protection, and ease of movement.
Taking care of your rash vest ensures it keeps performing season after season. Here are a few quick-fire tips to make wash day a breeze:
By caring for your vest, you extend its life - and save money in the long run.
"I got a new Zhik rash vest in the latest sale - it came very fast, fit perfectly, and there were even some free sweets in the package which was a lovely touch. Sailing Chandlery will now be my first port of call whenever I need something new for my boat!"
- Kim M
Not sure which one's right for you? Our team of friendly sailors can guide you. Give us a call, drop us a message or explore our full range of Rash Vests and more on our website
I rang to request some advice on replacement parts for my dinghy and was very impressed with the excellent advice and efficient delivery of the required parts. Many thanks
Great product, safely packaged, delivered on time, at a competitive price. One more thing - the person on the end of the phone is an actual person, informative, helpful, knowledgeable and pleasant. What more could you ask for.
The sales team were quick responding to our questions, dispatched to us promptly, and the product is a perfect replacement for our old tiller which ended up at the bottom of a lake!
It was time for me to upgrade to a newer Ilca and it was recommended that I get a Devoti. The price was competitive and the service from Andrew and his team was fantastic. I received lots of communication and the boat was delivered to me within 2 weeks. It is really great that Sailing Chandlery take the time to set up the rigging so that you can get straight on the water. I am very pleased with my new boat and am loving sailing it. Thank you Sailing Chandlery!
Ordered a dyneema RSAero halyard on the Thursday. It arrived by mid day on the Friday and was used on the Saturday. Excellent product and service. Thank you
Cover arrived after three days and is well made and completely covers the boat boom up . The straps and clips all work fine. Good product.
My local chandlery were unable to supply a white inspection hatch and so it was amatter of looking online. Sailing Chandlery had the cover I needed in stock at a good price and delivery. I had never used them before but the service I received was excellent with the delivery on time and the hatch is now fitted.
I will definitely return, especially with the discounts on offer. Thank you Sailing Chandlery!
Always happy with my orders from Sailing Chandlery. They are quick to post and very helpful when I have had a question.
Jason delivered the boat on time at Hayling Island Sailing Club. The boat was new and all the spars were in perfect condition. Jason came to pick up the boat and return the deposit which I gave at the time of the delivery. Every interaction with Andrew and Jason were handled very professionally. I will recommend to any sailor Sailing Chandlery in the future. I really appreciated how easy it was to charter this boat. Thank you very much. Jacques Kerrest
Prompt delivery, with helpful updates and time slot spot on. Perfect new sail at a great price and the number fixing service is well worth it. It even won its first race! Thank you.
I needed GBR letters for the ILCA Europeans and they arrived by the next post.
I made a mistake on my order and it was put right at zero cost to me ! Amazing !
I’ll certainly be back
Product exactly what I wanted
Excellent service and prompt delivery.
Had the boom and mast in stock. Order processed quickly, great service and local so could pick them up. Friendly and helpful staff as always. Thank you
Delivered on time after chatting by phone to a very helpful person at Sailing chandlery. Absolutely no complaint with this Company and will continue to use them for my sailing needs.
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