For the active woman, swimwear isn’t just an outfit—it’s technical gear. It needs to support, stay in place, and withstand everything from chlorine and saltwater to intense movement and sun exposure. Forget flimsy ties and minimal coverage that leaves you readjusting after every lap or spike. Modern sports swimwear is engineered for power, confidence, and comfort. Ready to find your perfect match?
If your happy place is the pool, your swimwear needs to prioritize hydrodynamics and durability. Classic designs like the racerback, cross-back, or V-back one-piece are perennial favorites, as they allow for a full range of motion in the arms and shoulders while offering a secure, compressive fit. For even greater streamlining, many competitive swimmers opt for a high-neck suit to reduce drag. The real hero for pool swimmers, however, is the fabric. To withstand the harsh effects of chlorine, look for suits made from PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) or a high-percentage chlorine-resistant polyester. Unlike standard Lycra, which breaks down quickly, these materials are built to last, retaining their shape, compression, and color swim after swim.
Riding waves requires a unique combination of security, flexibility, and protection from the elements. This is where long-sleeve one-pieces and rash guards shine, providing a physical barrier against harmful UV rays and preventing board rash. These garments are almost always made with UPF 50+ fabric, which blocks over 98% of the sun’s radiation. For those who prefer a two-piece, a surf-specific bikini is essential. Forget flimsy ties; look for tops with wider, cross-back straps and substantial under-bust bands, paired with bottoms that offer more seat coverage to ensure they stay on in turbulent water. Surf leggings are another fantastic option, offering full-leg sun protection. Ideal materials are made from recycled nylon (like ECONYL®
blended with high-quality spandex, as they are durable, quick-drying, and better for the planet you love to play in.
When you’re diving, jumping, and sprinting on the sand for a game of beach volleyball, you need swimwear that blends the security of competitive gear with the freedom and style of a bikini. Sporty bikini tops that resemble a sports bra, featuring adjustable, thicker straps, are a go-to for fantastic support. Pair them with high-waisted or secure-fit bottoms with a wider waistband to keep them from shifting or filling with sand. A well-designed one-piece with strategic cut-outs can also be a stylish yet functional choice. The key to making these designs work is a fabric with excellent four-way stretch and shape retention, typically a high-quality nylon-spandex blend. This material is soft, supportive, and dries quickly between games. Opting for a double-lined suit is a pro-tip, as it offers extra support and helps prevent sand from getting trapped between the layers.
The right sports swimwear is empowering. It’s the piece of gear that allows you to forget what you’re wearing and focus entirely on the thrill of the sport—the burn in your shoulders as you finish a lap, the rush of catching a wave, or the joy of a perfect serve.