PURPOSE BUILT: THE ORGIN OF OUR HOODED RASHGUARD

The hooded rashguard wasn't always the staple it is today. When FLORENCE launched in 2020, the concept of a hooded rashguard was met with skepticism by much of the surf and water community. While the design seemed unconventional to some, for John Florence, it was a functional breakthrough.

As John explains, “It’s a hard one to talk about because the hooded rashguards have been around for a long time. But I don't think anyone's put a ton of energy and effort into making a really good one.”

For John, the appeal of the hooded rashguard was simple: It allowed him to spend more time in the water, day after day, without suffering from the relentless toll of sun exposure. From the beginning, his approach to design was centered around creating equipment that prioritized functionality and enhanced performance.

“I needed something that helped me not only spend more time in the water today, but also tomorrow. It makes such a difference when you wake up and feel energized and not torched by the sun.”
– John John Florence

Built for All Day Sun Protection

John recalls his initial reluctance towards the hooded rashguard, admitting, “It's actually kind of a funny one because it's something I never expected to really love as a product, especially when I was growing up surfing.” Yet, as he spent more time in and around the water, he and his brother began wearing them consistently. "It's crazy when you find something that just makes sense to wear in the water."

“For me, I use the hood between sets, so when I'm sitting out the back, kind of in longer lulls or just out for a long time, I'll throw the hood up between sets when I'm waiting for waves, and then I'll pull it back down when I'm surfing.”
– John John Florence

The hood serves multiple functions: it protects the neck from sun exposure, retains warmth during long lulls, and offers shade during extended water sessions. “That little bit of extra coverage changes everything. It actually keeps you a lot cooler in the water too.”

Evolution Through Design

FLORENCE’s hooded rashguard has seen various improvements since its inception. The material is now thinner and more breathable, providing enhanced comfort without sacrificing protection. The addition of a back pocket has also added utility, allowing John to carry energy bars or spare fins when testing boards.

“The newest one is like this really nice thin material and it just feels really good when you wear it. And then we added the pocket on the back.”
– John John Florence

The goal was never to make something "cool" – it was about making something that works. Today, the hooded rashguard has become a staple for watermen worldwide, embodying the FLORENCE ethos of purpose built equipment.

The evolution of the hooded rashguard is far from over. This winter on the North Shore John was testing yet another update to the design. "That's how things go. You always want to make things better."

The new prototype is scheduled for release early next year.

SHOP HOODED RASHGUARDS