9 Best Swimsuits: Top Picks for Every Body Type, Budget, and Sun Protection
Finding the perfect swimsuit can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With so many styles, cuts, and designs, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway or just want to upgrade your swimwear collection, knowing which suits stand out can save you time and hassle.
We’ve rounded up the 9 best swimsuits that combine style, comfort, and durability. From flattering one-pieces to trendy bikinis, these picks cater to various body types and preferences. Dive in and discover which swimsuit will make you feel confident and ready for the sun.
1. Best Overall: The Versatile One-Piece
The best overall one-piece swimsuit combines style, comfort, and functionality. This swimsuit type is perfect for various activities and body types.
Features of the Top One-Piece Swimsuits
Quality materials: The top one-pieces use high-quality materials like nylon and spandex for durability and a flattering fit.
Supportive design: Look for built-in bras and adjustable straps that provide extra support.
Chic styles: Opt for versatile designs with features like cut-outs, ruffles, or color blocking to make a statement.
Quick-dry technology: Choose swimsuits with quick-dry fabric to stay comfortable after you swim.
Tummy control: Consider styles with tummy control panels to enhance your silhouette.
Recommended Brands and Models
Speedo PowerFlex: Known for their endurance fabric which maintains shape and color after many uses.
Miraclesuit Illusionist Crossover: Features tummy control and a stylish design that flatters all body types.
Summersalt Sidestroke: Offers a unique one-shoulder design with high compression for comfort and support.
TYR Durafast Elite: Made for both leisure and athletic use, providing durability and a snug fit.
J. Crew Ruched Femme: Presents a classic, ruched style that complements various body shapes.
2. Best Bikini for Style and Comfort
Finding a bikini that marries style and comfort can be daunting. Dive into our top selections to find the perfect blend for your beach outings.
Exploring High-Waisted and Bandeau Bikinis
High-waisted and bandeau bikinis have surged in popularity for their unique combination of retro appeal and modern comfort. High-waisted bikinis offer additional coverage and sculpt your midsection, perfect for achieving a flattering silhouette. Brands like Aerie and Summersalt provide seamless designs with a mix of vibrant patterns and solid colors.
Bandeau bikinis, on the other hand, are ideal for avoiding tan lines while ensuring you stay stylish under the sun. Look for options with built-in support or adjustable ties to keep everything in place. Luli Fama and Vitamin A offer bandeau tops that pair support with fashion-forward designs, catering to various body shapes.
- Aerie High-Waisted Bikini: Combining comfort with a sleek look, Aerie’s high-waisted bikini line features durable, stretchable fabrics. The high-waisted bottoms provide tummy support, while the range of tops includes triangle and halter styles to suit different preferences.
- Summersalt Ruffle Bikini: Known for its eco-friendly materials and perfect fit, Summersalt’s ruffle bikini boasts chic ruffle details that add a playful touch. The top offers secure support without straps, perfect for sunbathing.
- Luli Fama Seamless Bandeau: With a blend of bold prints and vibrant colors, Luli Fama’s bandeau bikinis offer seamless construction for a smooth, comfortable fit. The bandeau tops come with removable padding to customize your level of support.
- Vitamin A Sienna Bandeau: Embracing sustainability and style, Vitamin A’s Sienna bandeau top is crafted from recycled nylon, providing both comfort and eco-friendliness. The adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit, whether lounging by the pool or diving into the waves.
These selections guarantee not only exceptional fit and comfort but also head-turning designs, ensuring you’ll feel as good as you look.
3. Best Plus-Size Swimsuit Options
Finding a swimsuit that provides both comfort and style is crucial for plus-size women. Here are the best options that cater to your needs.
Comfort Meets Style in Plus-Size
Choose plus-size swimsuits that blend comfort with style. Look for designs with wide straps, built-in bras, and tummy control panels that ensure both support and a flattering fit. A favorite is the Miraclesuit Plus Size Oceanus, known for its slimming design and firm control fabric. Also, consider tankinis with adjustable straps like the Torrid Wireless Flounce Tankini, which offers coverage and style without compromising comfort.
Highlighting Best-Sellers in Plus-Size Swimsuits
Explore popular plus-size swimsuits that have gained rave reviews. The Land’s End Plus-Size Tugless One-Piece Swimsuit offers a timeless design with maximum comfort and durability. For a stylish and supportive option, try the Ashley Stewart Ruched High-Neck Swimdress, perfect for beach outings and poolside lounging. These best-sellers combine trendy designs with functional features, making them must-haves for your swimwear collection.
Use this guide to find your ideal plus-size swimsuit that provides both style and support, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable all summer long.
4. Best Swim Trunks for Men
Finding the ideal swim trunks involves keeping an eye out for a combination of style, comfort, and functionality. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best swim trunks for your needs.
Features to Look for in Men’s Swim Trunks
Quality Materials: Look for swim trunks made from quick-drying, durable, and comfortable fabrics like polyester or nylon blends. These materials ensure the trunks won’t weigh you down in the water and will dry rapidly once you’re out.
Elastic Waistband: Choose trunks with a comfortable, adjustable elastic waistband. This feature allows for a better fit and flexibility, making it ideal for various activities, from swimming to beach volleyball.
Inner Lining: Opt for trunks with a soft inner lining. This helps prevent chafing and provides additional support, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your beach or pool day.
Pockets: Consider swim trunks with multiple pockets, especially if you plan to use them for more than just swimming. Mesh-lined pockets are a great choice as they don’t hold water, keeping the trunks lightweight.
Stylish Design: Pick a design that suits your style, whether it’s a classic solid color or a bold print. Your trunks can reflect your personality, so don’t hesitate to choose something that makes you feel good.
Men’s Swim Trunks: Popular Choices
O’Neill Men’s Santa Cruz Solid Boardshorts: These board shorts offer a simple yet stylish design made from durable polyester fabric. They feature a comfortable fit with a tie waistband and a quick-drying material perfect for all-day wear.
Patagonia Men’s Baggies Shorts: Known for their versatility, Patagonia Baggies are made from 100% recycled nylon with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. They come with an elastic waistband and a built-in mesh liner for ultimate comfort.
Nike Men’s Essential 7″ Volley Short: These swim trunks from Nike boast a minimalist look with excellent functionality. Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, they offer a stretchy, comfortable fit with an adjustable waistband and quick-dry technology.
Speedo Men’s Marina Swim Trunks: Speedo’s Marina trunks are built for performance with a focus on comfort. Their UV Block the Burn fabric provides UPF 50+ protection, and the elastic waistband ensures a secure fit.
Kanu Surf Men’s Barracuda Swim Trunks: These swim trunks feature vibrant prints and are made from fast-drying polyester. With multiple pockets and a mesh lining, they’re practical and stylish for both swimming and casual wear.
When choosing swim trunks, keep these options and features in mind to ensure you find the best pair for your summer adventures.
5. Best Competitive Swimsuit for Performance
Choosing the right competitive swimsuit can significantly enhance your performance.
What Makes a Competitive Swimsuit Stand Out?
Materials matter most in competitive swimsuits. High-quality fabrics like polyester and spandex provide durability and flexibility. Advanced hydrodynamic designs reduce drag, improving speed in the water. Compression technology supports muscles, reducing fatigue during long swims.
- Speedo Fastskin LZR Racer X
This swimsuit features patented LZR Pulse+ fabric, reduces drag, and provides optimal compression. It’s favored by Olympians. - Arena Carbon Air2
This suit offers intelligent compression and carbon cage technology, enhancing both power and comfort. Ideal for sprints and long-distance events. - TYR Venzo Genesis
Known for its Surface Lift Technology that prevents water from permeating the fabric, this suit maintains a higher body position in the water. - FINIS Fuse Jammer
With affordable pricing and high-quality compression, it’s perfect for competitive youth swimmers. - Mizuno GX-Sonic IV
This technical suit offers Sonic Line Design for maximum efficiency and reduced muscle vibration.
6. Best Swimsuit for Kids
Choosing the right swimsuit for your child is crucial for their safety and comfort. Let’s dive into key features and some great options for different age groups.
Safety and Comfort Features in Kids’ Swimsuits
Prioritize sun protection. Look for suits with UPF 50+ to shield your child from harmful UV rays. Choose chlorine-resistant fabrics to ensure longevity. Opt for swimsuits with snug yet comfortable fits that allow easy movement without causing skin irritation. Consider designs with built-in flotation devices for younger kids who are still learning to swim. Select bright colors and patterns to easily spot them in crowded pools or beaches.
Best Swimsuits for Different Age Groups
Match the swimsuit to your child’s age and activity level. For toddlers, consider one-piece suits with snaps for easy diaper changes and built-in sun hats. Preschoolers benefit from vibrant rash guards and swim trunks with elastic waistbands for quick bathroom breaks. School-age kids often prefer stylish two-piece sets that allow them to express their personality, while still providing comfort and coverage. Teenagers might gravitate towards more fashion-forward pieces, like athletic swimsuits that balance style with the freedom to engage in various water activities.
7. Best Eco-Friendly Swimsuit Choices
Finding eco-friendly swimsuits can make your beach day both stylish and sustainable. Let’s dive into the key aspects of sustainable swimwear and top eco-friendly brands and styles.
Sustainability in Swimwear
Sustainable swimwear focuses on reducing environmental impact. Companies use recycled materials like nylon, polyester, and fishing nets. These fabrics are durable and minimize ocean waste. Choose swimsuits made with eco-friendly dyes to avoid harmful chemicals in the water. Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX for added assurance of sustainability.
Leading Eco-Friendly Brands and Styles
Patagonia: Known for its environmental activism, Patagonia’s swimwear is made from recycled fishnets and plastic bottles. Their one-piece and bikini options are both fashionable and eco-conscious.
Outerknown: Co-founded by pro surfer Kelly Slater, Outerknown offers swim trunks and swimsuits crafted from recycled materials. Their designs are simple yet chic, ideal for beach lovers who care about the planet.
Vitamin A: This brand uses plant-based and recycled fabrics to create stylish, sustainable swimwear. Their collections feature a variety of cuts and colors, perfect for all body types.
Mara Hoffman: Known for bold prints and vibrant colors, Mara Hoffman’s swimwear uses organic and recycled fibers. Each piece is designed to make a statement while promoting sustainability.
Reformation: Combining fashion-forward designs with eco-friendly practices, Reformation offers swimsuits made from recycled materials. Their styles range from trendy bikinis to classic one-pieces, catering to different preferences.
These brands demonstrate that you don’t have to sacrifice style for sustainability. Selecting the right eco-friendly swimsuit helps you look good and feel good about your environmental impact.
8. Best Budget-Friendly Swimsuit Finds
You don’t have to spend a fortune to find a fabulous swimsuit. Discover budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on style or quality.
Affordable Yet Fashionable Swimsuit Options
Target: Offers a wide range of stylish swimsuits under $40. Look for their Xhilaration and Kona Sol lines for trendy designs.
Old Navy: Known for affordable fashion, their swimwear starts at $20. Choose from various colors and patterns without breaking the bank.
Amazon: Features countless brands with swimsuits under $30. Explore user reviews to find highly-rated options that fit your style and budget.
Aerie by American Eagle: Provides budget-friendly swimsuits with prices starting at $25. Expect fashionable designs and inclusive sizing.
Where to Shop for Budget Swimsuits
Walmart: Browse their website or stores for swimsuits starting at $10. Find reliable brands like Time and Tru and No Boundaries.
H&M: Known for affordable clothing, H&M’s swimsuit collection starts at $15. Look for seasonal sales to save even more.
TJ Maxx: Visit their stores or website for discounted designer swimsuits. Discover high-quality options at significantly lower prices.
Shein: Perfect for trendy, affordable swimwear, with prices as low as $8. Pay attention to reviews and measurements for the best fit.
These tips will help you find stylish swimsuits without overspending, making it easy to look your best on a budget.
9. Best Swimsuits for Sun Protection
When you’re planning to spend long hours in the sun, it’s crucial to choose a swimsuit that offers the best protection against harmful UV rays. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice.
Understanding UPF Ratings in Swimsuits
Understanding UPF ratings is essential. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, indicating how effectively a fabric blocks UV radiation. A swimwear item with a UPF rating of 50 allows just 1/50th of the sun’s UV rays to reach the skin, offering superior protection.
Swimsuits That Offer the Best Sun Protection
Choosing swimsuits with high UPF ratings is vital. Brands like Coolibar and Lands’ End are renowned for their sun-protective swimwear. Look for swimsuits with long sleeves, high necklines, and leggings to maximize coverage. Opt for darker or more tightly woven fabrics for better UV protection.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect swimsuit doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether you’re looking for something stylish, eco-friendly, budget-friendly, or sun-protective, there’s a swimsuit out there that meets all your needs. Remember to consider your body type, material quality, and any specific features you require. With options ranging from top brands to budget retailers, you can find a swimsuit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Prioritize sun protection and sustainability where possible, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your time in the water safely and stylishly.
