Swimwear

Swimwear – fit for swimming, sunbathing and water sports

Swimwear includes styles intended for recreation by the water, swimming, relaxing on the beach and activities such as surfing, SUP or beach volleyball. Individual models differ in cut, level of coverage, fabric stretch and the way they support the silhouette. Women's swimwear is available in one-piece and two-piece versions, while men's swim shorts can have a fitted or looser cut. Separate groups include boys' swimwear, girls' swimwear and swimwear for infants, whose construction should take into account the child's age and freedom of movement. When choosing swimwear, check the material composition, resistance to stretching, strap stability, softness of lining, quality of stitching, adjustment options, comfort on wet skin and the intended use of the specific style. Models from the Rip Curl brand can be selected for relaxation and water-related activities by analysing the construction of the product. A suit used for swimming should stay securely in place during movement, whereas a beach model may place greater emphasis on adjustability and aesthetics. Well-chosen swimwear will not slip off, will not cause point pressure and will allow free movement of the arms and legs. Comfort is determined by the actual proportions of the body, not only by the everyday clothing size, so before purchase it is worth carefully comparing the measurements, cut and intended use of the swimwear.

Women's swimwear – one-piece or two-piece?

Choose women's swimwear according to the type of activity, the desired level of support and individual body proportions. A one-piece top is not the same as a swimsuit, so in practice a one-piece model should securely cover the torso, not press into the armpits and maintain the correct position when the arms are raised. This cut works well for swimming, water play and active relaxation. Two-piece swimwear provides greater possibility to fit the top and bottom separately, which is useful for differing bust, waist and hip circumferences. Models from the ROXY brand can be compared in terms of strap construction, closure type and level of coverage. Women's swimwear should provide stable bust support, elastic edge finishing, no see-through fabric, soft lining, free shoulders, appropriate torso length, circumference adjustment, secure fastenings, resistance to deformation and comfort while sitting. A one-piece that is too short may pull at the shoulders, while one that is too large can create folds and shift in the water. In two-piece models check whether the straps slip off and whether the bottom stays in place when entering the water. Properly fitted swimwear allows comfortable swimming, beach walking and participation in recreational activities.

When choosing swimwear, also evaluate the fabric and finishes. Knits with added elastane conform well to the body but require proper care to retain their elasticity. Frequent use of a pool means contact with chlorinated water, while seaside recreation involves salt, sand and sunlight. Women's swimwear intended for regular swimming should have a stable construction, sporty back profile, a limited number of decorative elements, fabric that fits well when wet and seams placed outside areas of intense friction. Beach styles may use ties, ruffles and adjustable straps, but every element should remain comfortable during movement. With greater sun exposure, UV clothing may be useful if the manufacturer specifies protective properties. The suit itself does not replace sunscreen or sensible limits on time spent in direct sun. When trying on, check the placement of the neckline, support without strong pressure, fit at the hips, stability when bending, no rolling of the fabric, full range of motion, softness of straps, ease of putting on, quality of lining and fabric resilience. Well-chosen women's swimwear combines comfort, stability and a cut suited to the specific way of spending time by the water.

Men's swim shorts – length, waistband and fabric

Men's swimwear most often takes the form of fitted briefs or looser shorts that perform well both in the water and during beach activities. Men's swim shorts should be selected according to waist circumference, leg length and how the fabric behaves when wet. Shorter cuts provide greater freedom of the legs for swimming, while longer models suit surfing, walking and recreation on the shore. Loose-cut swimwear should have a stable waistband, a drawstring for adjustment, quick-drying fabric, light construction, roomy thigh cut, finishes that reduce chafing, durable seams, secure pockets, no heavy elements and fabric that does not restrict movement. Models from the Billabong brand can be matched to beach relaxation and water sports by checking length, waistband construction and product purpose. Pockets are practical on land but should not fill with water or hinder swimming. Fastened elements must be positioned so they do not cause pressure when lying on a board or sitting. Well-fitted men's swim shorts do not slip when entering the water and do not limit high knee lifts, allowing free use of the swimwear.

When choosing men's swim shorts, consider the difference between a model designed primarily for swimming and a construction intended for surfing or beach recreation. Fitted briefs create less water resistance and are therefore better suited for regular swim training. Looser men's swim shorts may have a more substantial waistband, pockets and fabric resistant to contact with a board. Products from Quiksilver should be compared by leg length, closure type and fabric elasticity. Swimwear should remain comfortable both wet and dry, so rough stitching, an overly thick inner mesh or a tight waistband can cause irritation. Useful features include multi-directional stretch, flat waistband finish, drawstring adjustment, effective water drainage, low wet weight, resistance to stretching, comfort when sitting, freedom while swimming, colourfastness and easy care. Shorts should not be chosen with a large size margin, because wet fabric becomes heavier and can shift during movement. The right cut allows comfortable use for swimming, beach and board activities, so intended use should determine which swimwear items are included in holiday gear.

Swimwear for girls, boys and infants

Children's swimwear should provide freedom of movement, soft adherence to the skin and simple handling appropriate to the user's age. Girls' swimwear can be one-piece or two-piece, but straps and edges should not shift during running, jumping and water play. Boys' swimwear is available as fitted briefs and lightweight shorts, which must be chosen according to waist circumference and leg length. For children the most important features are no hard decorations, soft seams, elastic knit, stable straps, comfortable waistband, easy to put on, no loose parts, quick drying, freedom during play and size matching current measurements. Swimwear should not be bought with a large size margin, as loose fabric can shift, roll and restrict movement. A too-small style will press into the armpits, stomach or thighs. For extended beach stays, girls' swimwear and boys' swimwear can be complemented with a lightweight top covering a larger area of skin. Beach ponchos are also useful for drying and changing a child after leaving the water. Children's swimwear is not buoyancy equipment and does not replace adult supervision or appropriately selected safety measures.

Swimwear for infants requires particularly careful fitting, since delicate skin is sensitive to pressure, moisture and friction. The construction should make dressing easier and provide room for a swim diaper if one is required at a given pool or bathing area. Infant swimwear may have closures that ease access, but snaps and zippers should not contact the skin or cause point pressure. Important features are soft lining, gentle leg finishes, elastic fabric, no rough labels, simple donning system, adequate crotch space, quick drying, stability when wet, no small removable parts and ability to change quickly. Girls' and boys' swimwear should be checked regularly for size, because children grow quickly and fabric can lose elasticity after many cycles of use. On the beach beach towels are useful to dry the skin quickly after bathing. A wet suit should not remain on a child longer than necessary, especially in windy or cooler weather. Proper size, gentle finishes and constant adult supervision are the most important criteria for choosing children's swimwear.

Care for swimwear after the pool and beach

Swimwear requires rinsing after each use because chlorine, sea salt, sand, cosmetics and sweat can gradually weaken fibres and affect the fabric's colour. After leaving the water, rinse the suit in cool or lukewarm water and then gently press out excess water without vigorous wringing. Women's swimwear with structured elements should not be crushed, as cups may lose shape. Men's swim shorts should be emptied of sand and pockets rinsed thoroughly. Boys', girls' and infants' swimwear should be washed according to the manufacturer's recommendations using a mild detergent. Key rules include rinsing immediately after bathing, avoiding hot water, gentle pressing, no bleach, no fabric softeners, drying in a well-ventilated place, protection from heaters, no intense wringing, storing after drying and following care instructions on the label. Wet swimwear should not remain for many hours in a sealed bag or rolled towel, as this promotes odour and permanent deformation.

When drying, spread swimwear in a shaded place because prolonged exposure to intense sun can accelerate fading and ageing of elastic fibres. Women's swimwear with ties should be stored without strong strap tension, and men's swim shorts should be dried inside pockets and waistband as well. Infant swimwear requires thorough cleaning after each use and should not be put on again before fully dry. Girls' and boys' swimwear should be checked for stretched elastics, damaged seams and loose parts. For holiday trips you can also choose flip-flops, slides and beach sandals, which make it easier to move on hot surfaces and in pool areas. For activities requiring more insulation from the water, wetsuits for water sports may be appropriate, as their construction serves a different purpose than a classic beach suit. Regular inspection of the material helps detect loss of elasticity, fabric transparency, loosening fastenings, deformation of cups, abrasions at seams, waistband stretching, surface fading, lining damage, persistent odour and deterioration of fit. Proper care helps preserve the comfort, shape and appearance that swimwear should offer.