Most rashguards on the market are made from polyester or polyester blends, but what many athletes don’t realize is that this material comes with serious downsides—for both the body and the planet.

For your body: Polyester is a petroleum-based synthetic fiber. When worn during intense training, it traps heat and moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria growth. This can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and unpleasant odors. Unlike natural fibers, polyester doesn’t breathe well, which means your body has to work harder to regulate temperature. Over time, this can increase discomfort, reduce performance, and even raise the risk of overheating.

For the environment: Every wash of a polyester rash guard releases thousands of microplastics into the water system. These particles are too small to be filtered out, meaning they end up in rivers, oceans, and even in the food chain. Polyester production also relies heavily on fossil fuels, making it resource-intensive and a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

By choosing sustainable alternatives like bamboo or hemp, you not only protect your skin and performance but also help reduce plastic pollution and environmental damage. Training gear should work with your body, not against it—and definitely not against the planet.