What is a women's rashguard?
A rashguard is a technical surf top made of lycra, worn directly on the skin. Its role is to protect from the sun, board irritation, and salt. Unlike a classic swimsuit, it covers the arms and torso — exactly where the sun and friction cause the most damage during a session.
Women's rashguards have long been functional… without being particularly flattering. At Couleurs Lagon, we changed that with the crop top cut: same protection, enhanced silhouette.
Why choose an eco-friendly rashguard?
Conventional lycra comes from petrochemicals. Recycled lycra — the kind we use for the MITI Crop Top — is made from fishing nets and plastic waste recovered from the sea. The result: up to 80% less CO₂ emissions compared to virgin lycra.
Choosing a recycled lycra rashguard means surfing in line with the values we uphold when we enter the water — preserving the ocean we love.
- Durable material: resistant to UV, salt, and chlorine — it lasts much longer than low-end lycra.
- Responsible manufacturing: optimized process to reduce waste and water consumption.
- Traceability: Couleurs Lagon sources its materials from suppliers who share the same environmental commitments.
The real benefits of UPF50+ in surfing
When surfing, you're exposed to intense sunlight: water reflection, prolonged exposure, little movement to seek shelter. Standard sunscreen washes off in 40 minutes of water contact. A UPF50+ rashguard, however, filters 98% of UV rays continuously, without reapplication.
- UPF50+ = permanent sun protection integrated into the fabric
- No need to reapply cream between waves
- Ideal for sensitive skin and long sessions
- Also protects against irritation from rubbing on the board ("rash")
That's why all surf pieces in the MITI line include this protection — not as an option, but as a standard.
The crop top cut: technical and flattering
The MITI Crop Top Rashguard UPF50+ is cut just below the bust — neither too short nor covering the entire torso. This length naturally pairs with surf bottoms, swim leggings, or board shorts.
Why this cut works for surfing:
- It leaves the waist free — better mobility during surf rotations
- The elastic fabric adapts to movements without riding up or gapping
- Long sleeves protect the forearms, an area highly exposed when surfing standing up
- The cut flatters all body types — from XS to XL
Out of the water, it also looks great with shorts or casual pants. That's the crop top advantage: one piece, two worlds.
How to care for your recycled lycra rashguard?
Simple care helps preserve the material and UPF50+ protection over time:
- Rinse with cold water after each session (salt + sunscreen damage fibers)
- Hand wash or machine wash at 30°C (86°F) on a delicate cycle
- Do not wring — lay flat to dry or hang in the shade
- Avoid fabric softener: it clogs elastic fibers and reduces quick-drying properties
Well-maintained, quality recycled lycra lasts several seasons. That's also part of eco-responsibility: buying less often, buying better.
The MITI Crop Top Rashguard — the Couleurs Lagon choice
Rooted in New Caledonia's Oceanian culture, Couleurs Lagon designs surfwear for women who truly live in the water — not just pose on the beach. The MITI Crop Top combines everything that matters: UPF50+ protection, recycled lycra, flattering cut, ultra-fast drying.
👉 Discover the MITI Crop Top Rashguard UPF50+
👉 Explore the entire women's UPF50+ rashguard collection
