The Problem:
- Choosing a swimsuit can be a bit nerve wracking, especially if it’s been a while
- A lot of us feel a little self conscious about choosing swimwear
- Choosing a swimsuit for exercise involves some considerations that aren’t an issue for fashion swimwear and you don’t know what to look for or where to begin
This post is specifically about choosing a swimsuit for pool exercise and swimming workouts. There are some great posts out there on fashion swimwear, this isn’t one of them.
So let’s dive into it (haha) and talk about what makes for a good swimsuit when you workout in the pool.
P.S. If you need help figuring out how to get into the pool or even get back into it, check out this ultimate guide.
Table of Contents
- The Problem:
- What to look for in athletic swimsuits
- Where to Buy a Swimsuit
- Best Swimsuits for Water Walking and Water Aerobics
- Best Swimsuits for Lap Swimming
- Best Swimsuits for Open Water Swimming
- Conclusion
What to look for in athletic swimsuits
Swimsuits can be a surprisingly costly investment. This is true whether you’re shopping for athletic swimwear, surf suits, wetsuits, or even fashion swimwear. You CAN find some great deals, but it’s definitely worth not skimping on quality and comfort when you buy a swimsuit.
A lot of us are self-conscious in swimwear already, so getting something that will last and that makes you feel comfortable in your skin is worth a few extra bucks. On average you can expect to spend between $50 and $150 on an athletic swimsuit, though, honestly, it can get a lot more expensive than that for things like tech suits.
Fortunately, you don’t need professional grade swimwear to enjoy your aquatic workouts. Check out these five factors to help make the swimsuit shopping experience a little more fun and a little less stressful.
Factor 1: Fit and Support
A good athletic swimsuit, whether it’s a two-piece or one-piece should offer a snug and supportive fit to ensure comfort and freedom of movement during activities like kicking, reaching, diving, or water aerobics.
A lot of swim workouts rely on extension in the water, so keep this in mind.
Features like adjustable straps, racerback designs, and elastic bands under the bust add support without add much restriction.
Kind of like a great, medium-impact sports bra or perfectly fitted leggings.
You do not want a suit that is too loose on the hips because every time you accelerate in any way, you will flash your butt cheeks to anyone who happens to look your way. This is true of one-piece suits as well as two-piece swimwear.
You also don’t want a one-piece that is too short from crotch to shoulder. It WILL ride up and give you shoulder aches.
A lot of people think the only way to avoid these problems is to try suits on. Honestly, I think measurements of your body are equally helpful. Plus it means I can shop online. Pick whichever method causes you the least hesitation.
Factor 2: Comfort
Don’t forget to take into account comfort. This one is closely related to fit and support, but has a few different aspects to keep an eye on. When it comes to comfort, look for swimsuits that have flat seams and smooth edges to prevent chafing and irritation. Also try styles that have lining and styles that don’t.
I like suits that have lining in the crotch, but not the bust. But I don’t really care if my nipples are visible through my suit. If this is something that bothers you (totally understandable), look for a suit that has built in cups or lining in the bust.
Comfort is key. If you’re uncomfortable, you’ll avoid the pool even if you love the water. The goal is to find a suit that enables your swimming, not gets in the way of it.
Factor 3: Durability and Longevity
I actually think this is more important than style, but some people would disagree and that’s ok.
When you think about durability and longevity, make sure you invest in a swimsuit that is well-constructed and designed to withstand frequent use and exposure to things like chlorine, saltwater, and sun. Many pools are saltwater pools and if you swim in the summer, you’ll likely find yourself outside.
It’s important to choose a suit that will last you at least the season if not the year. Look for suits that are designed for water exercise or lap swim and you’ll be good to go.
Factor 4: Fabric
This one goes hand in hand with Factor 3. The type of fabric that your swimsuit is made from drastically improves comfort and durability. Look for swimsuits that are made from high-quality performance fabrics like polyester, nylon, or a blend of both.
These fabrics are known for their durability and stretch. They’re also quick-drying which is essential for a swimsuit because it reduces any issues with mold.
Factor 5: Design and Style
Even though this factor is last on the list, it’s still extremely important. The optimum swimsuit will not only match your personal style, but will also offer functionality. Long story short, if you hate the look of your suit, you’ll never put it on, which means you’ll never swim.
Embrace whatever look makes you feel confident and happy. I love brightly colored suits and I prefer racerback style one pieces. Some people like two-pieces with high coverage on the chest. Some people like swimshorts for bottoms (this is my go-to if I’m missing my one piece).
A great strategy is to think about what colors and patterns make you feel confident in your regular clothes, and also which style of underwear makes you feel the happiest. It’s worth doing some online shopping to get an idea of different swimsuit styles and then it’s worth trying some one to see how they look on your body.
Where to Buy a Swimsuit
Most of my favorite places to buy swimsuits are online, but you can always check your local athletic store.
When it comes to online stores, Swim Outlet and Waterlust are my favorites.
Swim Outlet has a great selection of athletic swimsuits and gear like goggles and caps. Waterlust makes excellent swim gear for outdoor swimming activities and you’re supporting a great cause when you shop there.
Best Swimsuits for Water Walking and Water Aerobics
Recommendation 1:
Water walking and water aerobics require require generally slower movements than lap swimming, but you’ll still want full range of motion in your hips and shoulders.
My first recommendation is by Sporti, the Hydrolast Chlorine Resistant Conservative Scoop Back. This is a great option if you don’t like racerbacks. It offers a lot more coverage than a lap swimsuit, but still has the chlorine resistance you’d want from an athletic swimsuit.
It generally fits true to size and there are a range of colors available.
Recommendation 2:
TYR Solid Della Boyshort. I own a bunch of gear by TYR and love each piece. These shorts are flattering, often on sale, and made by one of the top brands out there for swim suits. It also has a pull tie for the waist, which I love.
I recommend you pair them with a sports bra or swimsuit top that allows for freedom of movement and security.
Recommendation 3:
My final rec is the Women’s L/S UPF 50+ Comfort Fit Rashguard by Sporti. Most rashguards fit really snug, but this one is designed to fit more loosely while still providing coverage.
It comes in five different colors and is a great option if you get cold easily, want something more modest, or plan on spending a lot of time in the sun.
You can find all of these swimsuits at Swim Outlet.
Swim Outlet also offers maternity suits, mastectomy suits, modest suits, plus-sized suits, and suits for extra long torsos.
Best Swimsuits for Lap Swimming
Recommendation 1:
I love the Women’s Lapped Cutoutfit Swimsuit by TYR. I have owned three of these swimsuits (I swim a lot) and they have all lasted over a year of consistent lap swim practice. They’re comfortable and durable.
They do take about a 5-7 swims to break in, but other than that, I have zero complaints.
They’re snug and flexible. They provide medium coverage for the booty region, but that personally doesn’t bother me. I like the higher cut on the thighs for mobility reasons when I swim butterfly.
TYR also makes several similar suits that have wider straps (or thinner if you like the microback look) and lots of colors.
Honestly, I can’t recommend this suit enough.
Recommendation 2:
Rec #2 is a top from Sporti, the Active Vintage Bali High Neck Crop Bikini Top. The top has a high cut and is designed for athletic movement so no worries about it slipping up or down.
It’s often on sale and can be paired with a basic black bottom if you don’t want to match it to the Sporti bottom.
Sometimes swimmers buy their two-pieces from different brands because a Sporti fits their top, but an Arena boy short fits their bottom half.
It has removable cups, which I love, and is SPF 50. It has clasp back closers which makes it easier to get on and off, post-swim. It’s also made with Lycra, which is comfortable and longer lasting then basic Spandex.
I plan on getting one after I have my second baby.
Recommendation 3:
Final rec for lap swim is the Arena Women’s One Big Logo One Piece Swimsuit. I love the cut outs and high cut on the chest.
The slightly wider straps also help reduce shoulder aches and it runs a little long on the torso, which is nice if you’re tall. It comes in 4 color schemes and is chlorine resistant, offers a lot of shoulder and hip flexibility, and is incredibly durable. The fabric is UPF 50, quick drying, and made of recycled polyester, which is cool.
I own this suit and have enjoyed immensely. The only reason I stopped wearing it was because my body shape changed when I started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
When I have infinite money to buy swimsuits, this will be one of the first I purchase.
Best Swimsuits for Open Water Swimming
Open water swimming is one of my favorite warm weather activities. Definitely make sure you have a buddy with you and that you have strong swimming skills, but don’t hesitate to get out into natural water. Water Lust is my favorite place to look for open water swimsuits and gear. Though, you can find some good stuff at Swim Outlet as well.
Recommendation 1:
First recommendation is the Tiger Shark Trailblazer Sun Suit from Water Lust. It’s a bit spendy (about $130), but most open water gear runs a little more expensive than standard swimsuits. And proceeds from the sale go to educational resources and the shark research program at the University of Miami.
The Tiger Shark Trailblazer comes in a wide variety of sizes. It has UPF 50+ un protection rating. It’s quick-dry, moisture-wicking, and breathable. It is 100% sun, salt, and chlorine resistant. It has a back zipper with a long paracord and great movement in the shoulders. It’s also made from recycled materials.
I don’t own the sunsuit, but I do own other gear by Water Lust including their leggings and I’m a huge fan. The sunsuit is next on my personal list.
Recommendation 2:
My other recommendation is a Roxy Wetsuit. There are a variety of styles and cuts. I use a Roxy wetsuit for triathlons and Aqua Bike races (I’m not competitive, but enjoy the training process and the camaraderie). It’s a great suit and has held up through two years of open water swimming.
It is flexible enough that it was comfortable post-partum and then when I was back in pre-baby shape and body composition. The prices can range significantly depending on the thickness of the wetsuit, the cut, and popularity.
In case you’re wondering, you should choose wetsuit thickness based temperature.
1mm =70-73 degrees
2mm = 69-71 degrees
3/2mm = 60-65 degrees
3/4mm (booties needed, hood optional) = 55-60 degrees
Anything thicker and you’ll want to consult with a professional who swims in lower temps. There’s also a big difference between a wetsuit and a dry suit. Dry suits are used for more extreme temperatures, wetsuits are used for more comfortable temps. If you have any questions, send me an email ([email protected]) or drop a comment below!
Conclusion
I hope this post has been helpful! Selecting a great athletic swimsuit doesn’t have to be stressful. Having a strategic approach that balances key factors will remove the stress and ensure performance and style.
From design and fabric type to comfort and fit, as well as durability, each aspect contributes to the overall functionality, longevity, and enjoyment of your swimsuit.
The design should align with your individual preferences and performance needs. Everyone likes something different in terms of design and we’re all doing different workouts, so it’s important to choose a suit that makes you feel confident and that matches your goals.
Whether you’re looking for a streamlined training suit or a more modest design for water aerobics, choosing a style that enhances your swimming experience and your comfort in the water is essential.
Don’t forget to consider factors like strap design, back coverage, and booty coverage to ensure optimal support and freedom of movement in the water.
Fabric type plays a crucial role as well, not just in the performance and comfort of the swimsuit, but also in terms of sun-protection and longevity and durability.
You want your suit to retain its shape for as long as possible, which means looking for polyester blends or chlorine and salt and sun resistant fabrics. Most of these fabrics blends are also quick-drying, which helps to maintain comfort during prolonged periods of wear.
No one likes chafing.
Comfort and fit go hand-in-hand with style. You’re looking for snug, not restrictive or headache inducing. Snug fitting swimsuits ensure minimal drag in the water while providing ample support for different movements and swimming strokes. Look for features like draw strings, adjustable straps, or zippers to customize the fit according to preferences. If you don’t like any of those features, lean heavily on the sizing charts and a tape measure. Finally, look for seamless construction and flatlock seams that minimize irritation.
Style isn’t just about aesthetics in the water, it’s about function. Competitive swimmers often opt for sleek design with minimal coverage.
If you aren’t interested in minimal coverage, look at suit options outside the competitive category. Recreational swimmers often like more modest styles with added support features and coverage.
Lastly, durability is a key consideration when investing in a swimsuit for working out. You want to look at reviews, reputable brands that have been around a while, and quality and craftsmanship.
No one wants their suit to fall apart halfway through the season, or worse, halfway through a workout. Investing a little more up front will save you time and money in the long run.
Final thoughts: selecting an athletic swimsuit you’ll love doesn’t have to be stressful, but it should be intentional. Keep in mind factors like design, fabric type, comfort and support, style, and durability. Buy the suit that you love, not the suit you’ll think others will appreciate.
By prioritizing these factors and choosing a swimsuit that meets your individual needs and preferences, you can enjoy enhanced performance and confidence in and out of the water, making it a lot easier to get to the pool in the first place.
What’s your favorite style of swimsuit? Let me know in the comments!
