What are the top sports bathing suits for active women in 2023. How do athletic swimsuits differ from traditional styles. Which brands offer the best performance swimwear for women. What features should you look for in a sports bathing suit.
The Rise of Sporty Swimwear: Why Active Women are Making the Switch
The swimwear industry has witnessed a significant shift in recent years, with sporty swimsuits gaining popularity among active women. These athletic-inspired designs offer a perfect blend of style and functionality, catering to those who seek performance without compromising on fashion. But what exactly sets these sporty swimsuits apart from their traditional counterparts?
Enhanced Range of Motion
One of the primary advantages of sporty swimwear is the improved range of motion it offers. Unlike conventional swimsuits that may restrict movement, athletic designs are crafted with stretchable, quick-drying fabrics that move with your body. This flexibility is crucial for swimmers who need unrestricted movement for their strokes or for women engaging in various beach activities.
Comfort-Focused Features
Sporty swimsuits are engineered with comfort in mind. They often feature wider straps that stay securely in place, full bust support to distribute weight evenly, and smooth fabrics that prevent chafing even when wet. These elements ensure that you can focus on your activities without any discomfort or distractions.
Increased Coverage
For women who prefer more coverage, sporty swimwear delivers. Many athletic one-pieces offer full bottom coverage and higher necklines, providing ample bust support. This increased coverage allows for confident movement without the constant need for adjustments.
Performance Features That Set Athletic Swimwear Apart
Athletic swimwear is not just about looks; it’s packed with performance-enhancing features that make a real difference in the water. Let’s explore some of these key attributes:
Chlorine Resistance
For regular swimmers, chlorine resistance is a game-changer. The fabrics used in athletic swimsuits are designed to withstand prolonged exposure to pool chemicals without fading or losing elasticity. This durability translates to more wears per suit, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
UPF Protection
Many sporty swimsuits come with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) protection. This feature shields your skin from harmful UV rays, even when the fabric is wet. It’s particularly beneficial for open water swimmers and beach enthusiasts who spend extended periods in the sun.
Sport-Specific Designs
Whether you’re into lap swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, or beach volleyball, there’s a sporty swimsuit tailored to your specific needs. These designs incorporate features like flatlock seams to prevent chafing, elastic straps for a secure fit, and compression fabrics to enhance performance.
- Flatlock seams for reduced friction
- Elastic straps for a secure fit
- Compression fabrics for muscle support
- Quick-dry materials for comfort
Style Meets Function: The Aesthetic Appeal of Sporty Swimwear
Contrary to the misconception that athletic swimwear sacrifices style for functionality, modern sporty swimsuits offer a wide array of fashionable options. From vibrant colors to eye-catching prints, these suits allow you to express your personal style while enjoying their performance benefits.
Mix and Match Options
Many brands offer mix-and-match separates, allowing you to create a unique look that suits your body type and style preferences. You can choose from various top styles, including athletic bras, halter necks, and twist bandeaus, paired with bottoms ranging from full coverage to cheekier cuts.
Trendy Designs
Sporty swimwear has embraced current fashion trends, offering options like high-waisted bottoms, color blocking, and retro-inspired prints. These designs prove that you don’t have to compromise on style to enjoy the benefits of athletic swimwear.
Durability and Longevity: Investing in Quality Swimwear
One of the standout features of athletic swimwear is its durability. These suits are built to last, withstanding the rigors of regular use and maintaining their shape and color over time. But what makes them so resilient?
High-Quality Materials
Sporty swimsuits are typically made from high-performance fabrics that resist stretching, fading, and pilling. These materials are often a blend of nylon and spandex, known for their durability and shape retention properties.
Reinforced Construction
Athletic swimwear often features reinforced stitching and strategically placed seams to prevent wear and tear in high-stress areas. This attention to construction details contributes to the overall longevity of the garment.
Convenience Features: Little Details That Make a Big Difference
It’s often the small, thoughtful features that elevate a good swimsuit to a great one. Athletic swimwear brands have recognized this and incorporated various convenience features into their designs.
Hidden Pockets
Many sporty swimsuits come with discreet pockets for storing small essentials like keys or cards. These pockets are typically water-resistant and securely fastened to prevent loss during activities.
Adjustability Options
Features like adjustable straps, back hook closures, and drawstring adjustments allow for a customized fit, ensuring comfort and security during various water activities.
The Power of Compression: Enhanced Performance and Recovery
Compression technology has made its way into the world of swimwear, offering benefits beyond just a snug fit. But how exactly does compression in swimwear contribute to performance and recovery?
Improved Blood Flow
Compression swimwear applies gentle pressure to muscles, promoting better blood circulation. This increased blood flow can lead to improved oxygen delivery to muscles, potentially enhancing performance and reducing fatigue.
Muscle Support
The tight fit of compression swimwear provides support to muscles, potentially reducing muscle vibration and fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial for endurance athletes and long-distance swimmers.
Top Brands for Athletic Swimwear: Quality and Style Combined
When it comes to choosing the best athletic swimwear, certain brands have established themselves as leaders in the field. These companies have consistently delivered high-quality, performance-oriented swimsuits that meet the needs of active women.
Speedo
Speedo is synonymous with competitive swimming and offers a wide range of athletic swimwear. Known for their innovative fabrics and designs, Speedo swimsuits are favored by professional athletes and recreational swimmers alike.
TYR
TYR is another brand that has made a name for itself in the world of competitive swimming. Their suits are known for their durability and performance-enhancing features, making them a popular choice among serious swimmers.
Arena
Arena offers a diverse range of athletic swimwear, from training suits to competition-grade options. Their suits are known for their excellent fit and innovative technologies that enhance performance in the water.
Athleta
For those seeking a blend of style and functionality, Athleta offers a range of sporty swimwear that doesn’t compromise on fashion. Their suits are designed to support an active lifestyle while keeping you looking trendy.
Choosing the Right Athletic Swimsuit: Factors to Consider
Selecting the perfect athletic swimsuit involves considering various factors to ensure you get a suit that meets your specific needs. What should you keep in mind when shopping for sporty swimwear?
Activity Type
Consider the primary activity you’ll be engaging in. Different water sports and activities may require specific features in your swimwear. For example, a suit for lap swimming might prioritize streamlined design and chlorine resistance, while a suit for surfing might focus on secure fit and UV protection.
Fit and Comfort
The right fit is crucial for both comfort and performance. Look for suits that offer a snug but not restrictive fit. Many brands offer size guides and fit recommendations to help you choose the right size.
Fabric Quality
Pay attention to the fabric composition of the swimsuit. Look for materials that offer chlorine resistance, UV protection, and quick-drying properties. High-quality fabrics will also contribute to the longevity of your swimsuit.
Support Features
If you require additional support, look for suits with built-in shelf bras, underwire, or adjustable straps. These features can provide extra comfort and security during active water sessions.
- Determine your primary water activities
- Consider your body type and support needs
- Check fabric quality and performance features
- Read reviews and seek recommendations
- Try on different styles to find your perfect fit
Care and Maintenance: Prolonging the Life of Your Athletic Swimwear
Investing in high-quality athletic swimwear is just the first step; proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensuring your suit stays in top condition for as long as possible. How can you extend the lifespan of your sporty swimsuit?
Rinse After Every Use
Always rinse your swimsuit in cool, fresh water immediately after use, especially if you’ve been in chlorinated or salt water. This helps remove chemicals and minerals that can damage the fabric over time.
Hand Wash with Care
While some athletic swimsuits are machine washable, hand washing is generally gentler and can help preserve the fabric’s integrity. Use a mild detergent and cool water, gently squeezing the suit rather than wringing it out.
Proper Drying Techniques
Avoid wringing out your swimsuit or putting it in the dryer. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and lay it flat to dry in a shaded area. Direct sunlight can fade colors and break down elastic fibers.
Rotate Your Suits
If you swim regularly, consider having multiple suits and rotating them. This gives each suit time to fully dry and recover its shape between uses, potentially extending its lifespan.
The Future of Athletic Swimwear: Innovations on the Horizon
The world of athletic swimwear continues to evolve, with new technologies and innovations constantly emerging. What can we expect to see in the future of sporty swimsuits?
Smart Fabrics
Researchers are developing fabrics that can adapt to water temperature, providing optimal comfort in various conditions. Some materials may even be able to monitor vital signs or track performance metrics.
Eco-Friendly Options
With increasing focus on sustainability, many brands are exploring eco-friendly materials for swimwear. We can expect to see more suits made from recycled plastics or biodegradable fabrics in the coming years.
Advanced Hydrodynamics
Competitive swimming has driven advancements in suit design for improved hydrodynamics. These innovations are likely to trickle down to consumer-level athletic swimwear, offering improved performance for all swimmers.
As we look to the future of athletic swimwear, it’s clear that the focus will remain on enhancing performance while embracing sustainability and cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer or someone who simply enjoys being active in the water, the world of sporty swimsuits continues to offer exciting options that combine style, comfort, and functionality. By choosing the right athletic swimwear and caring for it properly, you can enjoy the benefits of these innovative designs for years to come.
Why Choose A Sporty Swimsuit Over Traditional Styles?
When it comes to picking out a swimsuit, women today have more options than ever before. While traditional bikinis and one-piece swimsuits are still popular choices, sporty swimwear has emerged as a top trend for active women who want both style and performance from their suit. From athletic one-pieces to sporty bikinis, these suits are designed with features that make them perfect for swimming laps, playing beach sports, or any activity in or around the water.
So why opt for a sporty swimsuit instead of a basic suit? There are several key reasons why these athletic swimsuits are worth the switch.
Better Range of Motion
Traditional swimsuits can sometimes restrict movement with tight fits and extra fabric. Sporty suits are made from stretchy, quick-drying fabrics that move with you and won’t inhibit motion. This freedom of movement makes them ideal for swimmers who need full range of motion for strokes, or anyone looking to stay active in their suit.
Comfort Features
From wide straps to full bust support, sporty swimsuits offer features designed for comfort during activity. Thicker straps stay put on your shoulders, bust support distributes weight for less strain, and smooth fabrics won’t chafe even when wet. You’ll stay comfy whether you’re swimming laps or running across the sand.
Full Coverage
More coverage means more confident movement! Sporty one-pieces offer full bottoms without the need to adjust, and higher necklines provide ample bust coverage for active days. The right coverage lets you focus on having fun, not on whether you might slip out of your top.
Chlorine Resistance
For lap swimmers, chlorine resistance is a must. The fabrics in athletic swimsuits are designed to withstand hours of pool time without fading or stretching out. Chlorine won’t break down the quality of your sporty suit nearly as fast, giving you more wears out of one suit.
UPF Protection
Swimming outside? Look for suits with UPF protection built into the fabric. This shields your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, helping prevent burns even when wet. It’s a key feature for open water swimmers and beachgoers.
Stylish and On Trend
Just because it’s sporty doesn’t mean it’s not stylish! Athletic swimsuits come in gorgeous colors and prints to fit anyone’s personal style. Mix and match tops and bottoms to create your own unique look. You don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function with today’s selection of sporty suits.
Designed For Your Sport
Whether you’re a lap swimmer, surfer, paddle boarder, or beach volleyball player, there’s a sporty swimsuit designed for your favorite activity. Look for features like flatlock seams (to avoid chafing), elastic straps, compression fabrics, and other sport-specific elements to improve your performance.
More Durable
Sporty swim fabrics are engineered to last. They can withstand stretching, chlorine exposure, and wash after wash while retaining their fit and quality. The right athletic swimsuit becomes a favorite staple of your warm-weather wardrobe, outlasting flimsier department store suits.
Easy Mix and Match Options
For more unique looks, shop mix and match sporty bikini tops and bottoms. Tops come in athletic bra styles, halter necklines, twist bandeaus, and more. Bottoms range from full coverage to cheeky. Find the perfect style and fit for your body’s needs.
Convenience Features
Little convenience features go a long way for active days! Look for suits with inner key or card pockets, elastic straps, back hook closures for easy on and off, drawstring adjustments, and other useful details.
Compression Options
For an extra boost, look for sport suits offering built-in compression. The tight fit increases blood flow and oxygen, reducing fatigue and muscle vibration. It’s ideal for endurance athletes and lap swimmers.
The bottom line is that sporty swimsuits are made with active women in mind. They allow you to move freely and comfortably while still feeling stylish. For swimmers, surfers, or anyone who enjoys an active beach day, a sporty suit outperforms traditional options.
So don’t settle for basic this swim season. Check out the top athletic brands for swimwear that works as hard as you do. You’ll find beautiful, flattering suits packed with performance features you’ll love at the pool, beach, or lake this summer.
When it comes to swimming and water sports, having the right swimsuit is essential. For active women who want both style and performance from their swimwear, athletic bathing suits are the way to go. Certain brands have become known for their high-quality athletic swimsuits that allow you to move freely and look great doing it.
Brands Known For Their Athletic Swimwear
If you’re searching for the best sports bathing suits and swimwear designed with athletic women in mind, the following top brands should be on your radar:
TYR
One of the leading names in competitive swimwear, TYR designs high-performance athletic suits with innovative features. Their women’s swimsuits utilize compression material, strategic seam placement, and engineered panels to enhance movement and reduce drag in the water. TYR’s signature Hurricane category features durable textured fabrics ideal for frequent and intensive training. Popular styles like the Hurricanespline Diamondfit suit provide support and flexibility for competitive swimmers and triathletes.
Arena
Another go-to brand for technical swimsuits, Arena utilizes intelligent textiles and construction to optimize fit, comfort, and hydrodynamics. Their Powerskin line utilizes ultra-stretchy and compressed material to hug the body tight, enhancing muscle support and acceleration in the water. Arena’s athletic one-piece suits and bikinis employ muscle compression, strategic seaming, and bonded seamless construction to reduce drag. Their racerback and Y-back styles allow full shoulder mobility.
Speedo
The original athletic swimwear brand, Speedo remains a leader in performance swimsuits for racing, training, and fitness swimming. Offering a wide selection of one-pieces, bikinis, and athletic-fit tanks, Speedo utilizes exclusive lightweight fabrics like Endurance+ to maximize movement and minimize drag. Many of their women’s sporty suits feature compression material, core control panels, and bust support for comfort during intensive swimming. The Speedo Sculpture line smoothes, shapes, and firms your figure while you work out.
Nike
Known for its dri-fit athletic wear, Nike designs high-quality performance swimsuits to keep you comfortable and unrestrained in the water. Nike’s womens sport swim suits utilize stretchy compression material, hydrodynamic paneling, and minimalistic racerback straps to optimize movement and reduce drag. Their athletic bikinis offer quick-drying, chlorine-resistant fabrics and eye-catching color block designs. Nike also designs sporty one-piece suits with low necklines, open backs, and slimming lines.
Dolfin
Specializing in competitive swimwear engineered for performance, Dolfin creates durable technical suits designed for frequent training and racing. Their unique HyperstretchTX and Powerskin fabrics offer compression and flexibility to accelerate in the water while resisting sagging and enhancing muscle support. Dolfin’s athletic swimsuits utilize HydroTite technology to repel water, drain quickly, and resist fading. Their popular suits include the Dolfin Uglies athletic-fit bikini and Slingshot racerback one-piece.
Aqua Sphere
Known for their innovative wetsuits, Aqua Sphere also designs high-tech athletic swimwear perfect for training, fitness swimming, and racing events. Their unique fabric technologies like Exo-Core and PowerSkin provide optimal compression, mobility, and durability. Aqua Sphere’s athletic suits utilize intelligent seam placement, cross-back straps, and form-fitting construction to optimize hydrodynamics and performance. The Kayenne swimsuits and Venice Beach bikinis are popular athletic options.
TYR Sport
A sister brand of TYR focused on competitive swim and triathlon wear, TYR Sport engineers high-performance athletic swimsuits with innovative curved seaming and Strategic Compression panels to enhance fit, mobility, and acceleration in water. Their unique Durafast Elite fabric offers maximum stretch and recovery along with UV protection and anti-chlorine properties. Popular TYR Sport suits like the Hurricane Catsuit, Tracer Light bikini, and Ballistic racer offer stylish and technical athletic options.
MP Michael Phelps
Designed with input from Olympic legend Michael Phelps, MP swimwear focuses on hydrodynamic tech suits optimized for competitive athletes. MP utilizes ultralight Italian performance fabrics featuring unique textures and finishes to optimize water flow and reduce drag. Their signature Xceed line includes technical racing suits with Strategic Compression panels, Performance Core stabilization, and CUSTOM-Fit sizing to enhance acceleration, endurance, and mobility.
Soul Cap
Known for their extra-wide swim caps designed to contain voluminous natural black hair, Soul Cap recently launched a stylish athletic swimwear line featuring fun prints and performance-enhancing features. Their athletic suits utilize premium Italian fabrics that sculpt the body and resist sagging. Seamless non-compressive construction provides comfort and freedom of movement during swimming and water sports.
Kona
Offering stylish athletic swimsuits perfect for lap swimming, water aerobics, or casual beach days, Kona designs durable performance suits that resist sagging and retain shape. Their unique SuperStretchTM fabric blends spandex and nylon yarns to create a lightweight 4-way stretch material with excellent shape retention and UV protection. Kona’s athletic lines utilize compression, diagonal seaming, and cross-back and racerback straps to optimize mobility and support.
When shopping for an athletic swimsuit, consider your planned activities and performance needs. Athletes and competitive swimmers may want technical racing suits with specialized features to optimize speed and mobility. For fitness swimmers and recreational use, performance-infused sporty styles that aren’t competition-level suits can provide comfort, freedom of movement, built-in bust support, and durability during regular pool and open water swimming.
The top brands featured here offer quality athletic swimwear utilizing advanced fabrics, seamless construction, form-fitting silhouettes, and designs tailored specifically for athletic women’s bodies and intensive aquatic activities. With so many performance-enhancing features now available in both stylish and functional swimsuits, every active woman can find the perfect athletic option to perform her best in the water.
When it’s time to shop for new athletic swimwear, smart shoppers know that looking for sales is one of the best ways to score quality sporty swimsuits at a fraction of the usual cost. With some strategic searching and timing your purchase just right, you can land amazing deals on top brands of sports bathing suits for active women.
Shopping For Sales On Sport Swimsuits
Getting a great price on a stylish, high-performance swimsuit means taking advantage of seasonal sales events, special promotions from swim brands, and retailer discounts. Here are some tips for shopping sales on sports swimwear:
Check the Calendar
Certain times of year like early spring and late summer are prime sales seasons for swimwear brands and retailers looking to clear out last season’s inventory. Bookmark your favorite sites and sign up for email alerts so you’re notified right when new promos begin. The holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day also often coincide with swim sales.
Shop the Off-Season
Once peak swim season winds down in late August and September, athletic swimwear goes on sale as retailers shift focus to winter apparel. This can be a great time to score deals on performance swimsuits to stock up for next year. Just pay attention to sizes and colors, as selection is more limited.
Check Online Outlets
Most major athletic brands like Nike, Speedo, TYR, and Arena have online factory outlet stores where overstock merchandise and past-season styles go to get cleared out at up to 70% off original prices. Check outlet sites frequently for short-lived flash sales and sitewide promos.
Sign Up for Emails
Getting on an athletic brand’s or swimsuit retailer’s email list will ensure you never miss out on sales news, exclusive promo codes, and early access to seasonal sales. Opening promotional emails can also alert you to daily deals and limited-time savings opportunities.
Buy Discontinued Styles
When athletic swimwear brands update their product lines each year, last season’s suits get discontinued and heavily marked down. Retailers like SwimOutlet and Backcountry often have a “We Made Too Much” section where you can score discontinued sporty swimsuits for up to 60% off.
Search Sale Sections
Department stores, sporting goods retailers, and online shops will typically have a designated sale or clearance section. Sort by your size first when browsing to uncover the best deals on athletic one-pieces, bikinis, and swim tops marked down by 30-50% or more.
Use Coupon Codes
Don’t complete any online order without first checking sites like RetailMeNot for applicable coupon codes and promos that can score you additional discounts on sale swimsuits. Combining a coupon code with existing markdowns can mean huge savings.
Buy Previous Season’s Colors
Swimsuit colors get updated each year, so retailers will heavily discount last year’s shades of black, blue, red, and floral prints. Grab these bold hues for the biggest bargain on popular athletic swimwear styles.
Shop In-Store Sales
Check the sale racks at sporting goods stores and swim specialty shops during the off-season for hidden clearance gems. You can score past-season designer athletic swimsuits for cheap when buying in person.
Wait for Sitewide Sales
Major swim retailers like SwimOutlet will offer sitewide sales a few times a year, marking down everything across the site by 25-50%. These rare savings events are worth waiting for when stocking up on sports bathing suits.
With some savvy sale shopping strategies, you can refresh your athletic swimwear at a fraction of the usual cost. Seeking out seasonal discounts, holiday sales, online promos, discontinued styles, and coupon codes can help you get a great deal on high-performance one-pieces, bikinis, and swim tanks from the top sporty brands. Armed with the right intel, you can score stylish athletic swimwear tailored for your active lifestyle at satisfying sale prices.
When shopping for sports bathing suits as an athletic woman, finding a swimsuit that complements your unique body shape is key to feeling both stylish and confident in the water. With so many options and styles of performance swimwear available today, it’s easy to choose a flattering suit perfect for your body type.
Finding The Best Fit For Your Body Type
From curvy figures to slender frames, these tips will help you select a sporty yet complementary swimsuit tailored to your physique:
Hourglass
Look for athletic suits with strategic details to accentuate your natural curves. Try a one-piece with a plunging neckline or cutouts at the waist to highlight your assets. Sporty tankinis with a retro high-cut bottom can elongate legs and draw eyes to your slimmest point. Bold colors and fun prints also flatter hourglass figures.
Pear Shaped
Opt for athletic one-pieces with ruching, colorblocking, or patterns near the hip area to add shape. High-cut legs, like on Speedo’s popular athletic maillot suits, create a longer, leaner look. Swim skirts and swim shorts can also camouflage wider hips and thighs.
Petite
To avoid a swimsuit overwhelming your smaller frame, look for strategic details like ruching, colorblocking, and higher necklines to add shape and proportion. Bandeau-style tops and hardware details also draw the eye. Mixing prints and colors helps give the illusion of a curvier figure.
Athletic/Straight
Show off your toned figure in an athletic monokini suit with daring cutouts at the core or sides. Bright colors and prints add femininity and draw eyes to your sculpted shape. Team a vibrant print bottom with a solid colored sporty top for visual contrast.
Boyish
Create curves on a straight, athletic build by opting for sporty swimsuits with ruching, patterns, and clever colorblocking. Bolder prints, ruffles, and skirted bottoms help balance narrow hips. Molded cups or underwire bikini tops provide shape for smaller busts.
Plus Size
Look for athletic swimsuits made of firming fabric with tummy control panels to slim and smooth curvier bodies. Solid darker hues and minimal patterns are most flattering. Opt for wide set straps and underwire bra tops for support. Skirted bottoms help conceal hips.
Long Torso
If standard one-piece suits ride up, look for athletic maillots with longer torsos and taller cut leg openings. Tankinis allow you to customize coverage by pairing different sized tops and bottoms. Hipster-style bikini bottoms can also help elongate a shorter midsection.
Short Torso
Prevent athletic one-pieces from sagging by looking for suits with adjustable straps or shirring at the bust to shorten the torso. Higher cut legs help create the illusion of a longer core. Underwire and molded cup tops also provide support for a short upper body.
Full Bust
Opt for sporty swim tops with underwire, molded cups, and wide set straps to provide ample support. Tops with adjustable ties help dial in the perfect fit. Look for athletic one-pieces with tummy control panels, built-in bras, and reinforced bust support.
Small Bust
Create the illusion of curves by selecting athletic tops with ruffles, patterns, and contrast piping to add shape. Removable push-up padding can also enhance cleavage. Avoid minimizer tops which compress your bust.
The most flattering athletic swimsuits utilize color, cuts, and construction to complement your unique figure. When shopping sports bathing suits, don’t be afraid to try various styles outside your comfort zone. The best fit for your physique may surprise you. With so many options today catering to every body type, you’re sure to feel confident and stay stylish in the water when you choose athletic swimwear tailored for your build.
Caring For Your Sporty Swimsuit Properly
Looking For The Best Sports Bathing Suits And Swimwear For Active Women?: Top 15 Stylish And Athletic Options For 2023
If you’re an active woman who enjoys swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, or any other water sports, you know how important it is to have a swimsuit that can keep up with your adventurous lifestyle. Choosing the right sporty swimsuit or athletic swimwear means finding something stylish yet functional – a bathing suit that will be comfortable, allow freedom of movement, and hold up through countless dives, laps, and waves.
The good news is there are lots of great sports bathing suit options on the market these days catering to active women. Brands like Athleta, Tyr Sport, Speedo, Arena, Roxy, and more offer high-tech fabrics and functional features perfect for swimmers, surfers, and water sports enthusiasts. But with so many athletic swimsuits and sporty styles to choose from, how do you pick the right one?
To help make your search easier, we’ve rounded up 15 of the top-rated and best-selling sporty swimsuits perfect for active women in 2023. From sleek one-piece suits to athletic bikinis, these bathing suits check all the boxes: stylish design, comfort, durability, and performance-enhancing features like stretch fabric, compression, strategic seaming, and straps that stay put.
1. Tyr Diablo Mirrored Swimsuit
Tyr is one of the top names in competitive swimwear, so it’s no surprise their Diablo Mirrored swimsuit is a favorite for lap swimming. Made of lightweight fabric with Tyr’s Compression Zone Technology, this sporty one-piece provides muscle stability and helps decrease drag and increase speed in the water. The open back styling is also great for mobility.
2. Athleta Crossover One Piece
Featuring PowerLite fabric made from recycled nylon, Athleta’s crossover one-piece is both eco-friendly and functional. The lightweight material and strappy back allow a full range of motion, while the inner bra provides support. This suit comes in fun prints and solids ranging from black to brightly colored patterns.
3. Speedo Solid Clipback One Piece
Speedo is synonymous with racing swimwear, so you can count on their solid clipback one-piece to deliver performance and endurance. This polyester/spandex suit utilizes 4-way stretch fabric and is designed to reduce drag and chafing. It’s ideal for lap swimming, triathlons, and pool competitions.
4. Roxy Wholehearted Long Sleeve Rashguard
Rashguards are a surfing essential, and Roxy’s long sleeve version offers plenty of coverage from the sun and abrasion. Made from stretchy yet durable fabric with UPF 50 protection, this stylish top pairs well with bikini or board shorts and is great for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking.
5. Dolfin Uglies V-Neck Tankini
A tankini offers the convenience of a two-piece with the comfort and coverage of a one-piece. Dolfin’s Uglies athletic tankini features their patented PowerSkin® fabric that compresses to provide muscle stability and decrease fatigue. The V-neck and low back allow freedom to move.
6. Arena Powerfin Ergo Swimsuit
Engineered for competitive swimmers, Arena’s Powerfin Ergo uses intelligent compression material to enhance your body position and reduce drag. Ultrasoft straps stay in place while you stroke, and the hydrodynamic design improves speed and efficiency in the water.
7. Hurley Advantage String Bikini Top
A classic string bikini with a sporty edge, the Hurley Advantage top offers stretch and quick-drying comfort. Built-in shelf bra Cupsis removable, providing customizable support for surfing, bodyboarding, swimming, and more aquatics adventures. Chlorine-resistant and ideal for beach volleyball too.
8. Speedo Endurance+ Mirrored D-Cup Swimsuit
Speedo’s Endurance line utilizes chlorine-resistant fabric ideal for lap swimmers and water aerobics. The D-cup fit of this one-piece provides ample bust support, while compression technology streamlines the shape. With mirrored detailing, it’s both stylish and functional for athletic activity.
9. Under Armour Mid Crossback One-Piece
Under Armour’s ultra-softNylander fabric and crossback straps allow a full range of arm motion perfect for competitive swimming. Little details like flatlock seams prevent chafing, while the fabric’s UPF 50+ rating protects from the sun – making this a great choice for open water swimming.
10. Tyr Hurricane Cat 4 Swimsuit
The Cat 4 hurricane suit is engineered to help competitive swimmers go faster. Constructed with lightweight water-repellent fabric, it virtually lifts swimmers out of the water to decrease drag. An open back, long legs, and far-reaching shoulders also aid with mobility and velocity.
11. Patagonia Barely Baggies Bikini Bottoms
Patagonia’s Barely Baggies bottoms have a cult following thanks to their comfort and quick-drying performance. The lightweight nylon/spandex blend features an elastic waistband and slim fit that moves with you. Pair them with any active bikini top for sporty style perfect for surfing, paddling, and traveling.
12. O’Neill Bahia Lycra Bikini Top
Designed for surfing, O’Neill’s Bahia bikini top utilizes four-way stretch to allow ease of movement paddling and wave riding. The pull-on racerback style features removable padding and adjustable neck tie. Paired with the matching Bahia bikini bottom, it’s a cute set for surfing or just beach fun.
13. Nike Indy Logo One-Piece
Nike’s Indy swimsuit is designed for core support during athletic activity. Made of soft, quick-drying fabric, the low neckline and adjustable straps allow customized coverage and comfort. Whether you’re swimming laps or sweating it out in water aerobics class, this one-piece has you covered.
14. Adidas Alphaskin Sport Bikini
Feel supported during water workouts and lap swimming with Adidas’ Alphaskin bikini set. The compression top hugs curves and stays put, while the bottoms offer full coverage in back. With UPF 50 protection, it’s great for open water swims and triathlon training in the pool or ocean.
15. Hurley Phantom Halter Bikini Top
A halter bikini is a flattering athletic option offering comfort and adjustability. Hurley’s Phantom halter features quick-dry fabric that resists fading. Ties at the neck and back customize the fit, while optional padding provides support for active days at the beach and in the waves.
When shopping for a sporty swimsuit or athletic swimwear, look for performance features that will enhance your water activities. Compression fabrics that increase speed and mobility, open back styling to allow arm and shoulder flexibility, adjustable straps for a custom fit, UPF sun protection, and chlorine-resistant tech for durability are all useful things to look for.
Brands like Tyr, Speedo, Arena, and Athleta specialize in technical suits for swimmers and triathletes. While active staples like Nike, Hurley, O’Neill Roxy, Patagonia, and Adidas also offer trendy, functional bikinis, tankinis, and one-pieces perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, or hitting the gym pool.
Choosing the right sports bathing suit means finding something you look and feel great in, with performance features to match your active lifestyle. The suits on this list check both boxes, blending style and femininity with functionality for women who like to get wet and wild.
Feel Confident And Comfortable In The Right Active Swimwear
Finding The Perfect Sporty Bathing Suits For Your Aquatic Adventures
As an active woman who enjoys water sports and fitness activities, having the right athletic swimwear is crucial. You want a sports bathing suit that makes you feel confident and allows you to move freely while looking stylish. But with so many options for sporty swimsuits and bathing suits for women available, how do you choose the best one?
The key is finding athletic swimwear engineered for performance, comfort and functionality. Brands like Speedo, Arena, Tyr Sport, Athleta, Roxy, and more design high-quality sports bathing suits using innovative fabrics and compression technology. This provides both physical performance benefits and mental confidence for active days in the sun and surf.
When shopping for women’s sport swimsuits, start by considering your main activities. Are you a competitive swimmer looking for a chlorine-resistant racing or lap suit? Do you need a rashguard top with UPF sun protection for surfing and paddling? Or maybe you want a cute athletic bikini you can wear for beach volleyball and still jump in the waves. Matching styles and features to your sport or workout routines is the first step.
Look for performance fabrics like nylon/spandex blends or polyester/elastane that offer four-way stretch for mobility and comfort. Compression technology in one-piece swimsuits or bikini tops can help increase speed, endurance and stability in the water. Open back straps, crisscross styling and adjustable ties allow you to customize support and coverage.
Don’t forget about durability too. Chlorine-resistant and colorfast fabrics help women’s sport swimsuits and athletic bikinis maintain their high performance and stylish good looks even after countless hours sweating it out in the pool or soaking up sun at the beach.
Sporty One-Piece Swimsuits
For lap swimming, racing, open water swimming, or triathlons, sporty one-piece swimsuits reign supreme. Leading swim brands offer a wide selection of athletic one-piece bathing suits featuring technical elements to improve your speed, endurance and efficiency in the water.
Look for compression panels, strategic seaming and cutting edge fabric technologies that help you glide smoothly through the water with less resistance or drag. A racerback or open back provide optimal mobility for long distances. If you prefer more coverage for recreational swimming, look for athletic swimsuits with higher necklines, crisscross straps or short sleeves.
Swim Tops For Sun Protection
Protecting your shoulders, back and torso from the sun is a priority for active woman who surf, paddle board or spend long days by the water. Rashguards and athletic swim tops offer both coverage and performance features.
Lightweight, quick-dry fabrics that are also stretchy and durable make excellent swim tops for watersports. Long sleeve rashguards protect from abrasion and UV rays during surfing. Find styles with UPF 50 protection or higher – the higher the UPF number, the better sun protection it provides.
Flattering Sporty Bikinis
Just because it’s a sports bathing suit doesn’t mean it can’t be cute too! From solids to prints, athletic bikinis come in all kinds of trendy or classic looks perfect for active women who want function and femininity.
Look for sporty bikini tops that offer light padding or removable cups for adjustable support during activities like beach volleyball, paddleboarding and swimming. Straps should be adjustable or crisscross for a customized fit and plenty of mobility. For bottoms, mid or high-waist athletic bikinis stay put while you move.
Feel Your Best in Athletic Swimwear
A good sports bathing suit should make you feel confident, not self-conscious. Finding athletic swimwear with technical features tailored to your favorite activities gives you both physical performance benefits and a mental edge.
Sports bathing suits designed specifically for swimmers, surfers, water aerobics enthusiasts and others active women do more than just look great. They allow you to move freely without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions. You can focus on enjoying your time in the sun and water rather than fussing with your suit.
So whether you’re swimming laps at sunrise, paddling out to catch waves, or sweating it out aqua aerobics class, choose sports bathing suits and athletic swimwear that help you feel your best. With so many options made from technical, quick-dry and flexible fabrics today, you can find cute, functional suits perfect for being active at the beach, pool or lake.
