1
Best with Sun Protection
Lululemon Long-Sleeve Zip-Back Paddle Swimsuit for Working Out
Pros
UV-protective
Drop-in pocket
Cons
Limited sizing
Whether you prefer more coverage for modesty reasons or you're looking to protect yourself from the sun, this athletic swimsuit won't let you down. It has a great fit, and despite having long sleeves, it allows for full range of motion, making it great for swimmers and surfers alike. It zips in the back, but it has a long tab on the zipper, which makes it easy to zip without assistance.
It has UV protection and is made from nylon and extra strong lycra, the combination of which is designed to resist damage from chlorine and salt water.
Key Specs
Sizes | 2–14 |
Colors | Black, Marlin |
Materials | Nylon, extra strong lycra elastane |
2
Best Bikini
TYR Solid Durafast Diamondback Workout Bikini
Pros
Fabric can endure more than 300 hours of use
Fade-resistant
Cons
Can only be hand washed
Wearing a bikini can feel risky—especially when swimming in the ocean or engaging in water sports. But despite showing a bit more skin than a one-piece, this TYR bikini stays put, no matter what activities you're participating in. The top has a snug, sports bra-like fit, and the bottoms have a drawstring at the waist that can be tied as tight as you like to ensure they don't come down.
Key Specs
Sizes | XXS to XL |
Colors | Black, blue, navy, red |
Materials | Polyester |
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3
Most Stylish One-Piece
Tempt Me One-Piece Athletic Racerback Swimsuit
Pros
Wide shoulder straps
Quick-drying fabric
Cons
Seat coverage may be too little for some
This one-piece is great if you prefer a more colorful swimsuit and one that performs well when you're active. This color-block bathing suit’s wide shoulder straps and wire-free, padded bra provides ythe utmost support.
It's made with quick-drying and breathable fabrics, which are helpful when out of the water but are most beneficial when participating in water activities like surfing or competitive swimming as they reduce drag. It comes in 21 colors and is on the more affordable end around $30.
Key Specs
Sizes | XS–XXL
|
Colors | 21
|
Materials | Nylon, spandex |
4
Best for Beach Days
Cupshe Orange White Bowknot Bathing Suit
Pros
Bowknot at waist
Padded cups
Cons
Can't tumble dry
This suit is an ideal mix of athletic functionality and fashionable design. The color-blocking and side tie make it cute option for a beach day, but it also stays up and in place when riding the waves. While the tie might get a bit annoying for swimming, and it definitely isn't made for speed, the tie is just for style, so even if it comes undone your swimsuit will stay in place. It also comes in 16 different color and pattern options, so there's something for everyone.
Key Specs
Sizes | XS–XXL |
Colors | 16 |
Materials | Chinlon, spandex |
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5
Best for the Pool
Speedo Athletic One-Piece Swimsuit
Pros
Four-way stretch
Front and back lining
Cons
Can only be hand-washed
With a more traditional one-piece fit, this Speedo suit is great for all types of water sports, but it's a particularly good choice for wearing in chlorinated pools. Not only is it designed to stay on without bunching or shifting, but it's resistant to chlorine, so it retains its color and shape better over time than comparable suits.
Key Specs
Sizes | Swimwear sizes 20–40 |
Colors | 65 |
Materials | Polyester, PBT |
6
Most Stylish
Holipick High Waisted Two-Piece Bikini
Pros
High-coverage bottoms
Flattering two-piece style
Cons
Not the most durable
This bikini is great if you prefer a style that looks a bit less sporty, but performs well and stays on. This design has a sports bra-like top that gives great coverage and doesn't ride up, and a high-waisted bottom that's both comfortable and stays in place.
Key Specs
Sizes | XS–XXL |
Colors | 35 |
Materials | Nylon, spandex |
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7
Best for Water Sports
BALEAF Athletic Racerback One Piece Training Swimsuit
Pros
Chlorine resistant
Racer back straps allow for full range arm motion
Cons
Bra pads may shift when washed
If you prefer a swimsuit with more conservative coverage, you should consider this one-piece training swimsuit. Its racer back straps allow for full range of arm motion, making it great for swim workouts and water sports that require broad arm movement. Its built-in shelf bra is great if you’re looking for additional support in the chest area. The cups can also be removed, and this chlorine-resistant bathing suit is available in seven colors so you can have one for every day of the week.
Key Specs
Sizes | XS–3XL
|
Colors | 7 |
Materials | Polyester, spandex
|
8
Best Eco-Friendly
prAna McKalya One-Piece Athletic Swimsuit
Pros
UPF 50+
Made with recycled nylon fabric
Cons
Limited color options
This bathing suit made with 78% recycled nylon performance fabric is a great option for someone who wants an eco-friendly swimsuit. The quarter-length front zipper can be zipped or unzipped depending on the look you're going for. The swimsuit’s long sleeves and back fabric protect your skin from the sun as it's UPF 50+ rated. This swimsuit also has holes you can slide your thumbs through for added security when you're surfing. With this swimsuit, you can worry less about wardrobe malfunctions and focus more on staying active.
Key Specs
Sizes | XS–XL
|
Colors | 2 |
Materials | Nylon, extra strong lycra elastane |
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9
Best Splurge
Billabong A/Div High Neck One-Piece Athletic Swimsuit
Pros
Made from recycled fibers
Center front zipper
Cons
Limited sizes available
This high-neck suit is perfect for those seeking a luxury feel and a stylish look. Made with 78% recycled nylon, this one-piece has you surf-ready from the moment you put it on. It features a half zipper that can be adjusted to give you the look you seek at any time. Although this swimsuit is only available in one color, Kiss The Earth, this pattern is stylish enough to work through any season. Although this swimsuit is on the pricier end at just over $100, we think the mix of style and function is as good as it gets.
Key Specs
Sizes | S–L |
Colors | 1 |
Materials | Recycled nylon, elastane
|
10
Best Trunks
Nike JDI Fade Men's Volley Short
Pros
Built-in mesh brief
Exterior drawcord
Cons
Limited colors available
If you prefer a loose-fitting suit, you'll love these Nike board shorts. They tie at the waist, so you can easily adjust them to your comfort level. This style has a mesh liner, which helps keep you feeling secure and supported, and the leg vents help prevent water and sand from becoming trapped in the fabric. The drawstring is great for keeping your trunks up while you hit the waves, too.
Key Specs
Size | S |
Colors | Psychic Purple |
Materials | Recycled and non-recycled polyester
|

Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
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