Rash guards and board shorts beat bikinis for paddleboarding.

Yes, if you want to avoid chafing on a paddleboard, ditch the string bikini and grab a rash guard and quick-dry board shorts.

Chafing happens when fabric rubs against wet skin. Loose swimwear, especially with seams or ties, will grind against your thighs and underarms as you paddle. A snug rash guard (long or short sleeve) and board shorts (not too baggy, not too tight) reduce friction. Look for flatlock seams or seamless options—those are the difference between a nice day on the water and a lobster-red rash later.

Bonus: rash guards also block sun, which matters because you’re reflecting light off the water. If you hate the feeling of wet shorts, a one-piece athletic swimsuit works too, but make sure it has tight leg openings and no dangling straps.

Don’t wear cotton. It holds water and sand and turns into sandpaper.

Future You will thank Future You for buying the rash guard.