Long days on the water and relentless sun go hand in hand — so in this week's video we take a proper look at the ION Sun Pro Rashguard and whether it's the sun layer worth reaching for every session. It's a slim-fit, long-sleeve hooded rashguard built for staying out longer, and after testing it kiting, winging and on the SUP, here's the full breakdown.
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35–50+
UPF Rating
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93%
Recycled Nylon
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XS–XXL
6 Sizes
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5
Disciplines Covered
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What Is the Sun Pro?
The Sun Pro is ION's dedicated sun-protection rashguard — a slim-fit, long-sleeve hooded top designed to be worn all session, not just dipped in and out of. It's made from 93% recycled polyamide with 7% elastane for four-way stretch, so it moves with you whether you're pumping a wing or paddling a SUP. The recycled fabric is certified to the Global Recycled Standard, so you get serious sun cover without the throwaway feel of a cheap rashguard.
The Hood and Sun Coverage
The soft visor hood is the standout feature — it keeps the sun off your head and neck without flapping around or restricting your peripheral vision, which matters a lot when you're checking the kite or watching for other water users. The fabric itself carries a UPF rating from 35 up to 50+ depending on the colour: the darker the shade, the higher the protection.
"It's the layer I reach for every single session once the sun's out — no reapplying, no wrestling with sleeves riding up mid-kite."
Thumb Loops and Watch Window
Two small details make a big difference here. Thumb loops on both sleeves stop the fabric riding up as you paddle, pump or grip a bar, and a watch window lets you check your session time without having to push a sleeve back — handy when you're timing tide, wind, or just how long you've been out. A slip loop secures the top to your boardshorts, and a draw cord lets you dial in the fit around the hood.
Fit and Fabric
It's a slim, athletic fit rather than a baggy layer — designed to sit close to the skin so it doesn't flap or drag in the water. The four-way stretch means it doesn't restrict movement through a full kite, wing or windsurf session.
| Spec Sheet | |
| Fabric | 93% recycled polyamide, 7% elastane |
| UPF Rating | 35–50+ (darker colours rate higher) |
| Fit | Slim, athletic — long sleeve, hooded |
| Key Features | Visor hood, thumb loops, watch window, slip loop, draw cord |
| Certification | Global Recycled Standard (GRS) |
| Sizes | XS–XXL |
| Price | £49.99 |
Who Is It For?
Whether you kite, wing, windsurf, SUP or swim, this is a versatile layer for sunny sessions — anyone spending long hours on the water who wants sun cover without slapping on sunscreen every hour is the target audience here.
Sam's tip: if you're out for long sessions in strong midday sun, go for a darker colourway — the UPF rating scales up to 50+ the darker the fabric, so it's worth choosing shade over style if peak protection is the priority.
Final Thoughts
The Sun Pro does exactly what it sets out to do — proper, all-session sun cover that doesn't get in the way of your paddling, pumping or bar work. The hood, thumb loops and watch window are small touches that add up to a rashguard you'll actually want to wear every time the sun's out, not just when you remember.
Come and see us: Worthing Watersports, your local kite, wing and windsurf shop. Pop in for a chat, some advice, or to try gear on before you buy.