Beach? Lake? Pool? Runway? There is something for everyone, serving every preference out there. So do not shy away from finding the perfect fit swimming costume for you through this article which will serve as a guide for you to look through various types, considerations and the best brands.
Swimming Costumes for Women
Swimming costumes for women are available in a wide variety of styles, catering different preferences, body types and activities.
Types of Swimming Costumes for Women
One-Piece Swimsuits
Monokinis: Combining the elements of both a one-piece and a bikini design, it gives off the illusion of a two-piece bikini. The strategic use of only one piece of fabric with careful cutouts adds to the illusion.
Asymmetrical swimsuits: Characterised by their non-uniform design, it is perfect for an extra poolside splash. These swimsuits often have one strap or one-shoulder design which creates a visually unique look.
Strapless swimsuits: They are designed without a shoulder strap which provides a sleek and minimalist look.
Rashguard Swimsuit: A type of swimsuit that combines the features of a traditional rash guard with a bikini. With the typical features of long-sleeves and high neck-line, it is perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
Halter One-piece: This type of swimsuit has straps or rather a singular strap that goes around your neck instead of having them on your shoulders.
Two-Piece Swimsuits
String Bikinis: Often referred to as the triangle bikini, this type of bikini provides a lot of exposure which also makes it perfect for a nice sunbath.
Bandeau Bikinis: It refers to a type of bikini top which is a strapless piece that wraps around the chest. It has a variety of styles including front knots or frills.
High-waist bikinis: Characterised by high-waisted bottoms, they bring about the undeniable charm of the nineties retro-style bikinis.
Longline Bikinis: While a high-waist bikini provides more coverage below, a longline bikini delivers extra coverage up top. Similar to longline bras, the top extends further below the bust than a standard bikini top and covers more of the upper stomach.
How to Measure Size for Swimming Costumes for Women?
Measuring before buying a swimsuit would help you find a perfect fit for yourself. Here is a basic guideline on how to measure size for swimming costumes.
Bust: Wrap a measuring tape around your full bust making sure not to keep it too snug or too tights and measure in inches or centimetres.
Underbust: Just below your bust, measure around the ribcage while keeping the tape a bit snug.
Waist: Find the narrowest part of your waist which is usually above your belly button, right under the ribcage, wrap the tape around your waist and keep it snug but not constricted.
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape parallel to the ground and snug but not tight.
Torso Length(for One-piece swimsuits): Measure from the highest point of your shoulders to down between your legs and back to the same shoulder.
Thighs: Measure around one of your thighs at the point where the leg opening of the swimsuit would fit.
After taking the measurements, compare with the size chart provided by the brand or website where you are purchasing the bikini and find one that fits best into your preference.
Things to Consider While Buying a Bikini
Body Measurements: Take accurate measurements of your bust, underbust, waist, hips, and torso length. Use these measurements to consult the size chart provided by the swimwear brand for the best fit.
Swimsuit Style: Choose a swimsuit style that complements your body shape and personal preferences. Options include one-piece suits, bikinis, tankinis, and more.
Activity Level: Consider your intended activities. If you plan on swimming laps or engaging in water sports, opt for a swimsuit with a secure fit and good support.
Coverage: Decide on the level of coverage you’re comfortable with. Some may prefer modest one-piece suits or tankinis, while others may opt for more revealing styles like bikinis or monokinis.
Support: Look for swimsuits with appropriate bust support, especially if you have a larger bust. Features like underwire, adjustable straps, and built-in cups can provide added support.
Fabric and Material: Choose swimsuits made from quick-drying and breathable materials like spandex, nylon, or polyester. These materials are comfortable in and out of the water.
UV Protection: If you’ll be spending a lot of time in the sun, consider swimsuits with built-in UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays.
Comfort: Pay attention to the comfort of the swimsuit. Check for features like soft linings, flat seams, and adjustable elements to ensure a comfortable fit.
Durability: Consider the durability of the swimsuit, especially if you plan on using it frequently. Quality stitching and resilient materials contribute to a longer lifespan.
Style and Fashion: Choose a swimsuit that aligns with your personal style and preferences. Consider trendy patterns, colours, and fashionable details to feel confident and stylish.
Reviews and Recommendations: Read customer reviews and seek recommendations to learn about the experiences of others with the specific swimsuit you’re considering. This can provide valuable insights into fit and quality.
Return Policy: Check the retailer’s return policy in case the swimsuit doesn’t fit as expected. This allows you to exchange or return the item if needed.
Best Swimsuit Brands
- IZSI
- Verandah
- Nadi Nadi
- The Summer house
- Gaupa
- Trove
Swimming Costumes for Men
Swimming costumes for men are available in various styles, catering to all sorts of buyers.
Types of Swimming Costumes for Men
Swim Trunks: The most basic of swimwear, they typically feature an elastic waistband, an inner mesh lining and a loose fit. They come in various lengths including long, short and mid-length.
Boardshorts: Similar to swim trunks, they are often longer and have a more relaxed fit. They are quite popular for water sports such as surfing and paddleboarding.
Jammer Swimsuits: They are tight-fitting swim shorts that are knee-length or above, commonly worn by competitive swimmers.
Rash Guard: These were originally designed for surfers. It is a tight-fitting shirt that provides UV protection and is often worn with swim trunks or board shorts.
Briefs: Briefs are classic, form-fitting swimwear with a snug fit and a high-cut leg. They provide minimal coverage and are preferred by those who want less fabric and more freedom of movement.
How to Measure Size for Swimming Costumes for Men?
Measuring before buying a swimsuit would help you find a perfect fit for yourself. Here is a basic guideline on how to measure size for swimming costumes.
Waist: Wrap the measuring tape around your natural waist, which is the narrowest part of your torso, typically above the belly button. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight, and measure in inches or centimetres.
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. Keep the tape parallel to the ground and snug but not tight.
Thigh (if applicable): If you’re considering swim shorts or jammers, measure around one of your thighs at the point where the leg opening of the swimsuit would sit.
Inseam (if applicable): For swim trunks or boardshorts, measure from the crotch to the desired length down the inside of the leg.
Height (for swim jammers): Measure from the top of your hip bone to just above the knee to determine the appropriate length for swim jammers.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Swimming Costume for Men
Swimwear Style: Choose a style that suits your preferences and intended use. Options include swim trunks, boardshorts, square leg swimsuits, briefs, jammers, and more.
Activity Level: Consider your planned activities. If you’re into water sports, such as surfing or paddleboarding, you might want boardshorts or swim trunks with a secure fit. Competitive swimmers may prefer jammers or swim briefs.
Fit and Comfort: Look for swimwear that provides a comfortable fit. The right size and style will depend on your body type, so consider how snug or loose you want the swim costume to be.
Material and Fabric: Choose swimwear made from quick-drying and breathable materials like spandex, nylon, or polyester. These fabrics are comfortable in and out of the water.
Lining and Support: Check for lining and support features, especially in swim briefs and square leg swimsuits. Built-in liners, mesh panels, or supportive features can enhance comfort.
Waistband Style: Consider the type of waistband that suits your preference. Some swim trunks have elastic waistbands, while others have drawstrings or both.
Inseam Length: Pay attention to the inseam length of swim trunks or boardshorts. Different lengths offer varying levels of coverage, so choose based on your comfort and style preferences.
Pockets: If you like to carry small items like keys or cards, consider swimwear with pockets. Some boardshorts and swim trunks come with functional pockets.
UV Protection: If you’ll be spending a lot of time in the sun, consider swimwear with built-in UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays.
Color and Design: Choose colours and patterns that align with your personal style. Vibrant colours or bold prints can add a stylish touch to your swimwear.
Brand and Reviews: Consider reputable brands known for quality and durability. Read customer reviews to learn about the experiences of others with the specific swimwear you’re considering.
Return Policy: Check the retailer’s return policy in case the swimwear doesn’t fit as expected. This allows you to exchange or return the item if needed.
Best Brands of Swimming Costumes for Men
- Rovars
- Tempest
- Just Rider
- Speedo
Should I take a Swimming Costume on Rent from a Shop near me or Should I Purchase it?
Renting or buying; Both options are plausible and both have their own sets of reasons which are listed below:
Rent a swimming costume when:
Occasional Use: If you do not use a swimming costume as frequently, it would be more plausible and economic to rent one when you are in need for a one-time event or a vacation.
Special Use: If you are invited to a theme party of sorts, it would be plausible to rent a costume.
To try out different styles: If you are not sure about the sort of style that matches your preference, rent and try all sorts of swimming costumes and find your style.
Buy a swimming costume when:
Frequent use: If you swim regularly or participate in frequent water sports, it would be best to buy a swimming costume.
Personal Hygiene: As people often prefer personal hygiene, if you are that sort of person, then it would be best for you to buy a swimming costume.
Customisation and fit: If you have a specific fit preference or style, buying would allow you to find a swimming costume that suits you best.
Long-term benefit: Though buying a swimming costume might be a little expensive, it would prove to be more economical over frequently renting one.
In conclusion, swimming costumes play a crucial role in enhancing your aquatic experience, providing comfort, style and functionality for individuals with all sorts of preferences. From the monokinis to swim trunks, there is something for everyone. Whether you are diving into the waves or chilling by the pool, whether you are water sporting or sunbathing on the beach, there is an option for everyone.
