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Finding the right swimwear style can make all the difference in feeling comfortable during outdoor activities. Whether you’re SUPing, surfing, or swimming laps at the pool, you’ll want a swimsuit that fits well, moves with you, and stays put. Versatility is a prominent feature this season, and suits that can transition between activities and even double as casual everyday wear are at the top of our list.
Another trend: While recycled fabrics are nothing new, more swimwear brands are focused on further developing their innovative materials, using fully recycled polyester, solution dyes, and natural rubber in their designs.
Whether you’re shopping for a sporty bikini, a full-coverage one-piece to protect from the sun, or a swimsuit that won’t budge when a wave strikes, we found swimwear to suit a wide range of bodies and style preferences so you can feel confident no matter how you enjoy the water.
At a Glance
- Best Paddle Suit: Body Glove One-Piece Swimsuit ($99)
- Best Two-Piece: Carve Designs Compression Top ($72) and Compression Bottom ($64)
- For Surfing: Patagonia Yulex Regulator Lite Spring Juanita ($159)
- Exercise Suit: See Her Swim The Butterfly One-Piece ($95)
- Swim Shorts: Krimson Klover Sandy Board Short ($75)
- Most Versatile: Patagonia Sunny Tide One Piece ($139)
- For Support: Carve Designs One-Piece ($98)
- For Casual Wear: Prana Tulum Bikini Top ($65) and Bottom ($60)
- Comfiest: Body Glove Mylene One-Piece ($98)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How We Test
- Meet Our Lead Testers
All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.
(Photo: Courtesy Body Glove)
Best Paddle Suit
Body Glove Smoothies Manny One-Piece Swimsuit
$99 at Amazon $99 at Body Glove
Type: Zip-up one-piece
Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex
Size Range: XS-XL
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 8
Pros and Cons
⊕ Offers excellent sun protection
⊕ Supportive without feeling too tight
⊕ Versatile
⊗ The zipper can slip down during activity
This stylish, full-coverage swimsuit has a supportive and structured feel that keeps you comfortably cinched in. It’s designed to be worn on its own, but has plenty of stretch for easy layering over a bikini for those sun-soaked days by the water. The mock neck, cap sleeves, and 50 UPF protection reduce the risk of sunburn and eliminate the need for frequent sunscreen reapplication to your chest and shoulders during the day.
The soft mesh fabric that lines the front is breathable, feels great against the skin, and keeps the suit from showing everything when wet. Once you put it on, there’s no need for constant adjustments, allowing you to focus on your time outdoors without worrying about falling out of your swimwear.
(Photo: Courtesy Carve Designs)
Best Two-Piece
Carve Designs Korbyn Compression Top and Lani Pocket Compression Bottom
$72 at REI (Top) $64 at Backcountry (Bottom)
Type: Two-piece
Material: 35% recycled polyester, 23% recycled nylon, 42% spandex
Size Range: Top: XXS, SM, SM D/DD, MD, MD D/DD, LG, LG D/D XL; Bottom: XXS-XL
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 8
Pros and Cons
⊕ Supportive enough to double as a sports bra
⊕ Removable pads
⊕ Waistband pocket in the bottom
⊗ Not as comfortable as less compressive swimwear
This classic top and bottom set will be in your swimwear rotation for years. The high spandex content and double-layer construction give this suit a compressive feel that’s ultra-supportive without feeling too tight. The back cutout adds a fresh edge to the simple scoop-neck top that provides excellent coverage when wet or dry. The thick fabric and high waist on the bottom smooths and flatters the front, while the high-cut leg shows off some booty in the back.
Bonus: a small hidden pocket in the waistband safely stashes a key or card.
(Photo: Courtesy Patagonia)
Best for Surfing
Patagonia Yulex Regulator Lite Spring Juanita
$159 at Backcountry $159 at Patagonia
Type: One-piece racerback spring suit
Material: Neoprene-free, FSC-certified Yulex natural rubber; 100% solution-dyed recycled nylon face fabrics
Size Range: 4-12 (wetsuit sizing)
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 9
Pros and Cons
⊕ Keeps core warm in colder water
⊕ Versatile and unrestrictive
⊕ Yulex is more sustainable than neoprene
⊗ Challenging to get on and off
While spring suits are typically favored during shoulder season, the lightweight Juanita blurs the line between wetsuit and everyday swimsuit, offering year-round functionality. This body-hugging one-piece is made with Patagonia’s neoprene-free Yulex, a sustainable natural rubber material that excels at retaining body heat and blocking wind, allowing you to stay comfortable in the water for longer. “The lines are beautiful. It’s unlike any other swimsuit I’ve worn,” said one tester, who particularly liked the fit of the racerback straps and the not-too-deeply cut bum. Quick-drying and breathable, it seamlessly transitions from water activities to daily wear, making it a versatile summer staple.
(Photo: Courtesy See Her Swim)
Best Exercise Suit
See Her Swim The Butterfly One-Piece
$95 at See Her Swim
Type: One-piece racerback
Material: 100% recycled polyester shell and PBT liner
Size Range: 30-44 (Competitive swimsuit sizing)
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 7
Pros and Cons
⊕ Durable, high-quality recycled fabric
⊕ Criss-crossing back straps are comfortable on the shoulders
⊗ Too tight for testers with larger busts
Founded by world-ranked open water swimmer, Morgan Filler, See Her Swim creates compressive and wear-resistant, sport-focused swimwear for training and athletic use. The brand recently integrated fully recycled materials into its swimsuit lineup, and the Butterfly is made from a thick, high-quality stretch polyester that testers loved.
“I really like the style of this suit and the material feels amazing,” said one daily swimmer. She added that there’s a huge need for swimsuits like this one that will hold up to chlorine and salty ocean water. The tight fit, streamlined design, and four criss-crossing back straps ensure the suit stays put without restricting shoulder movement. (Larger testers found the suit slightly short in the torso and lacking adequate chest support.) Overall, the Butterfly offers an incredible combination of style, comfort, and resilience for those who spend their days in the water.
(Photo: Courtesy Krimson Klover)
Best Swim Shorts
Krimson Klover Sandy Board Short
$75 at Krimson Klover
Type: Board shorts
Material: 89% recycled polyester, 11% spandex
Size Range: XS-XL
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 8
Pros and Cons
⊕ Versatile
⊕ Small zippered security pocket on the thigh
⊗ Provides less free movement than shorter shorts
These unlined board shorts allow you to transition from water activities to casual outings in style. They glide on over swimsuits and have a practical six-inch inseam—the ideal length for most testers—and resilient quick-drying four-way stretch fabric that makes for comfortable swimming, paddling, and hiking. The clever lacing system features guide loops on the under panel that keep the drawstring laying flat and the adjustable waistband from bunching, and the no-velcro closure eliminates the risk of swimsuit snags.
(Photo: Courtesy Patagonia)
Most Versatile
Patagonia Sunny Tide One Piece
$139 at Patagonia
Type: One-piece
Material: 83% recycled nylon, 17% spandex jersey
Size Range: XS-XXL
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 9
Pros and Cons
⊕ Soft fabric
⊕ Flat straps don’t interfere with movement
⊗ Cut might be too boring for some
This simple, strappy tank suit is luxuriously comfortable for paddling, swimming, chasing waves, body surfing, and just hanging out at the beach thanks to its form-fitting style and soft material. Its stretchy fabric (sewn according to Fair-Trade Certified practices) is composed of a recycled nylon and spandex jersey blend, which makes it one of the softer swimsuits we tested. Fully lined, the lightweight suit dries relatively quickly (it should dry within an hour in a dry climate with 80-degree temps), and has a mid-hip fit and moderate backside coverage, so we didn’t have to worry about a wardrobe malfunction. Flat, non-adjustable straps rest away from the neck for comfort and freedom of movement, which testers especially appreciated while paddling a SUP.
(Photo: Courtesy Carve Designs)
Best Support
Carve Designs Camari One Piece
$98 at Amazon $98 at Carve Designs
Type: One-piece
Material: 82% recycled polyester, 18% spandex
Size Range: 34C, 34D, 34DD, 36C, 36D, 36DD, 38C, 38D, 38DD
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 6
Pros and Cons
⊕ Most supportive suit in the test
⊕ Good coverage
⊗ Limited colorways
Multiple straps on a swimsuit often look like they would offer excellent support, but just end up being unnecessarily complicated, especially for sporty endeavors. That’s not the case here. The crossover back strap provides solid support and is also fairly easy to tie without help because the tie point is mid-back—an area where your hands can comfortably reach.
The fabric is 82 percent recycled polyester (from plastic bottles) and 18 percent spandex, which was stretchy enough to move with us while surfing and kayaking in Tahiti. We liked the modest cut because it provided solid coverage and looks flattering. Hidden underwire and removable chest pads contribute to support and coverage for water nymphs (when they don’t fold over during occasional wipeouts). Plus, it’s rated UPF 50-plus.
(Photo: Courtesy Prana)
Best for Casual Wear
Prana Tulum Bikini
$65 at REI (Top) $60 at Prana (Bottom)
Type: Bikini
Material: 78% recycled nylon, 22% elastane
Size Range: XS-XL
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 7
Pros and Cons
⊕ Stylish
⊕ Fabric is salt and chlorine resistant
⊗ Not supportive enough for active pursuits
This color-blocked two-piece suit (top and bottom sold separately) features a good amount of coverage for semi-sporty pursuits. (Consider sizing down in the bottoms for a true sport fit, however.) Made from Prana’s Vita fabric (recycled nylon and lycra elastane), the suit has UPF 50-plus coverage and is salt and chlorine resistant, which adds to its longevity. “The crisscross straps offered good stability and support in general, but over time the looseness/tautness dynamic would redistribute, so I had to be more deliberate about making sure all the parts of the straps were tight for serious activity,” said one tester, a surfer and paddler.
(Photo: Courtesy Body Glove)
Most Comfortable
Body Glove Mylene One-Piece
$98 at Amazon $98 at Body Glove
Type: One-piece
Size Range: XS-XL
Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex
Comfort on a Scale of 10: 10
Pros and Cons
⊕ Most comfortable fit in the test
⊕ High neck for full coverage
⊗ Only comes in solid colorways
Sometimes you run across a Goldilocks swimsuit—one that’s comfortable, supports you across multiple activities, and even looks good. The Mylene is that suit. “I just didn’t have to mess with it or adjust it ever—a rarity for a swimsuit,” commented one tester, who wore it while swimming in a freshwater pool as well as surfing in California.
The one-piece provides full coverage and includes a sliding racer back, a shelf bra, and removable soft cups. Made with Body Glove’s soft fabric (80 percent nylon and 20 percent spandex), the suit has a high neck with no gaping or opening at the chest area. “This suit is optimal for lap swimming and surfing with or without a wetsuit. It stayed put and didn’t leave any body part unexpectedly exposed,” said our tester.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Photo: Inga Hendrickson)
What to Look for When Buying a Bathing Suit
Enjoying the outdoors shouldn’t be hindered by ill-fitting swimwear that won’t stay put, so pay close attention to functionality, fit, and fabric when shopping for your next swimsuit. Start by choosing a style that supports the water activities you plan to do.
- One-piece swimsuits tend to stay in place better than two-piece swimsuits and are great if you’ll be crashing into waves, doing active water sports, or want more coverage.
- Two-piece swimsuits allow you to play around with styling more, and they make it easier to use the bathroom. Sun protection is another big factor. If you spend full days on the water, consider swimwear that covers more of your body or has UV protection, like a zip-up paddle suit or swim shirt.
Then decide on the fabric and features you want. Do you want recycled fabric? Ultra-compressive fabric with a high dose of spandex? Or are you in need of quick-drying polyester fabric that transitions smoothly between swimming and hiking?
Special features can make or break a swimsuit, too. Some people may require secure racerback or criss-cross straps, while others are looking for adjustable straps and built-in cups for a perfect bust fit. Board shorts with zippered pockets let you stash small items while you SUP, while reversible bikini tops offer two styles in one.
How Do I Choose the Right Size for My Body Type?
Start by measuring your bust, waist, and hips, and refer to the brand’s sizing chart for guidance. Pay attention to the level of support and coverage needed, and consider your unique proportions and style preferences to ensure the best fit. When buying swimwear from an online retailer, choose brands that use models that reflect your body type in their product images, as it will give you an indication of how the suit fits without trying it on yourself.
How Do I Care for My Swimwear to Make It Last Longer?
To extend the lifespan of your swimsuit, rinse it in cold water after each use to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen. Hand wash with mild detergent, avoid wringing, and never machine-dry. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and air dry away from direct sunlight. As always, be sure to check the care tag for specific instructions.
Are There Eco-Friendly or Sustainable Swimwear Options?
Yes, many brands now offer swimwear made from recycled materials or environmentally conscious fabrics or dyes. Additionally, some companies follow sustainable production practices, like Fair Trade or Bluesign certification, and reduce their environmental impact through take-back programs. As a conscious consumer, it’s always important to be on the lookout for greenwashing, where brands claim to be eco-friendly without substantial evidence, so look for verifiable third-party certifications and transparency about a brand’s product lines and traceability.
How We Test
- Number of testers: 7
- Number of products tested: 29
- Bodies of water tested in: 7 (2 lakes in British Columbia, 1 lake in Ontario, the Pacific Ocean, cold-plunging in an icy river, and two indoor pools)
- Number of wardrobe malfunctions: 2
Over the course of two seasons, we tested 29 swimsuit styles in oceans, freshwater, and swimming pools, in order to find the most versatile options for swimming, surfing, stand-up paddling, and loungy beach days. Our testing panel included seven women representing various backgrounds, body types, and style preferences. They ranged in age from the mid-20s to the mid-60s, tested sizes ranging from XS to 2X, and wore one-piece, two-piece, paddle suit, swim shirt, and board short styles.
Overall, we looked for swimwear that’s flattering and functional. We wanted to look good and feel secure no matter the activity, and our top picks blend performance and style in a way that allows for both. We considered key factors like fit and comfort, examining how well each swimsuit facilitated freedom of movement while providing support and coverage. We scrutinized the durability and quick-drying capabilities of the fabrics, ensuring they could withstand the rigors of saltwater, freshwater, pool use, and even hot springs. And we looked for sustainable options that prioritize the use of recycled materials or have other better-for-the-environment attributes.
Meet Our Lead Testers
Ebony Roberts is a Pacific Northwest-based writer who has covered outdoor gear and apparel for nearly a decade. She frequently contributes to Outside and has written multiple product review guides for publications like Forbes Vetted, Buy Side by WSJ, NYT’s Wirecutter, and the REI Co-op Journal. She’s tested hundreds of products in the field, interviewed dozens of experts on how to choose the best outdoor gear, and toured multiple gear testing labs.
Jill K. Robinson is a California-based freelance journalist who writes about travel and adventure for National Geographic, AFAR, Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Hemispheres, and more. She’s often more comfortable on and in water than she is on land.
The post The Best Women’s Swimsuits for Surfing, Paddling, and More appeared first on Outside Online.
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