What Is a Rash Guard?
A rash guard is a compression athletic top worn for BJJ, MMA, and grappling training. It protects your skin from mat burns and abrasion during rolling, reduces friction during clinch work, wicks moisture, and provides light muscle compression.
Short Sleeve vs Long Sleeve
Short sleeve rashguards cover the torso and upper arms. Long sleeve rashguards (Hayabusa Men's Apex Long Sleeve Rash Guard) provide complete arm coverage — protecting the elbows and forearms from mat burns. Long sleeve is the standard for most competitive no-gi BJJ practitioners; short sleeve is preferred by some for better ventilation in hot gyms.
Compression Fit
Rashguards should fit snugly against the body without restricting movement. Too loose and the fabric bunches during grappling; too tight and it restricts breathing and movement.
Seam Construction: Flatlock vs Standard
Flatlock seams lie flat against the skin, reducing irritation during long rolls. All quality rashguards use flatlock seaming — look for this specification when comparing options.
Top Picks
Best for BJJ no-gi: Hayabusa Men's Apex Long Sleeve Rash Guard — full arm coverage, four-way stretch, flatlock seams.
Best women's rashguard: Hayabusa Women's Apex Short Sleeve and Long Sleeve — cut specifically for female athletes with four-way stretch.
Best under-gi rashguard: Hayabusa Core Long Sleeve — clean design, moisture management.
UFC BJJ Collab Series
Hayabusa also produces a UFC BJJ collaboration line with official UFC branding for fans of the sport and the organisation.
Related Reading
Shop Rashguards at Martial Imports
Browse our full range of BJJ and MMA rashguards from Hayabusa. Short sleeve, long sleeve, and sleeveless options for men, women, and kids. Free shipping on all orders.