A surf rashguard is needed for people who are doing a lot of surfing or body boarding for long periods. This is necessary because one finds that you develop a rash from paddling, and this is created from rubbing against your surfboard. However, it can also keep you warm. This is why it is worn with other water sports.
This is used for different purposes, but overall surfers will use this so they don't develop a rash under the arm or generally on the arm. This happens because you are always paddling to catch the next wave or to get out further past the white wash. You will be rubbing your arms against the board all the time.
You will see surfers in heats in surfing competitions wearing these, either over their wetsuits or as an extra. This is necessary because it allows everyone to identify to them. Judges and commentators will identify the surfer by the color of the vest. They often don't mention the name of the surfer if they are talking very fast.
This is used for different purposes, but overall surfers will use this so they don't develop a rash under the arm or generally on the arm. This happens because you are always paddling to catch the next wave or to get out further past the white wash. You will be rubbing your arms against the board all the time.
You will see surfers in heats in surfing competitions wearing these, either over their wetsuits or as an extra. This is necessary because it allows everyone to identify to them. Judges and commentators will identify the surfer by the color of the vest. They often don't mention the name of the surfer if they are talking very fast.