Mako Full Body Rash Guard Review

I picked up the Mako Full Body Rash Guard to deal with stingers and intense sun during tropical dives. After more than 20 dives in water over 80°F, it's proven to be an effective, comfortable, and durable solution. I wore it exclusively during a multi-day Fiji vacation and never had to think about sunblock, jellyfish, or reef rash.

By Tyler Allison · Updated July 2025
Mako Full Body Rash Guard
Use
20+ dives in water above 80°F
Current role
Full-body coverage for warm-water travel
Still in my kit
Yes

The Short Version

This suit is now a standard part of my kit for warm-water travel. It lives in my dive bag for any trip where water temps stay above 80°F. The one design flaw was easily corrected with a single stitch, and everything else has worked as expected.

Would I buy it again? Yes - and I’d do the same hood fix sooner next time.

What Works

  • Excellent sun and sting protection
  • Durable after 20+ dives
  • True to size and very comfortable
  • Easy to don and doff solo
  • Budget-friendly price

What Doesn't

  • Hood balloons without vent
  • No built-in hood vent
  • Needs minor DIY fix for hood

Why I Chose Mako Full Body Rash Guard

I needed a full-body layer for warm-water dives that would protect me from jellyfish and harsh sun without adding heat or bulk. I chose the Mako suit because of the price point and coverage. I didn’t have prior experience with rash guards, so I was looking for something basic but effective. The full hood and foot coverage made it stand out against short-sleeve or partial-zip options.

Who It Makes Sense For

This item is best suited for:

  • Divers doing tropical or warm-water dives
  • Anyone with sun sensitivity or burn risk
  • Travelers who want compact, full-coverage protection

It may not be ideal for:

  • Divers in cold or temperate water (adds no warmth)
  • Those wanting a sleek hooded fit without needing a DIY vent fix

My Custom Setup or Configuration

The only modification I made was to the hood. After the first dive, I noticed air pooling in the top, giving it a “cone head” shape underwater. My wife added a small stitched buttonhole vent at the top of the hood, which eliminated the problem without compromising protection.

  • Custom Hood Vent: Simple buttonhole sewn at crown to allow trapped air to escape

The fix took just a few minutes and turned a frustrating design flaw into a non-issue.

What It Is Like to Dive

Sun Protection
Outstanding. No exposed skin other than face and hands.
Stinger Protection
No jellyfish contact during use, but peace of mind was real.
Buoyancy/Drag
No noticeable drag. Neutral effect on buoyancy.
Thermal Comfort
Just right for 80°F+. Would not recommend below that.

Ownership and Value

There has been no fraying or material weakness after more than 20 dives, and the zipper remains easy to use even when wet. The price made it a worthwhile purchase despite the hood modification. Mako's online product detail and sizing guidance were limited, but the coverage and fit worked well for me.