The Best Swimming Suits

The Best Swimming Suits
Photo Credit swimmers image by astoria from Fotolia.com

What To Look For

Suits worn specifically for swimming are different that suits worn to play in the pool or sun at the beach. Sunning suits may have beads or fringe, things that would not work while swimming. Sunning suits are also looser and more comfortable, but may fall off when swimming fast. All swimsuits purchased for swimming do get wet. A suit that does not fall off, or fill with water or wear out quickly is the goal of a good swimming suit.

Common Pitfalls

Swimsuits should be tried on to ensure proper fit. Companies cut their suits differently, so a Speedo on one person may not fit another. Take a trip to a sporting good store, or a large swimwear store and try on all different brands to see which one fits you best.

Differently shaped bodies require different suits. A slim, small-busted woman can wear just about any suit, but a larger busted woman may require more support. A more modest suit that is cut higher on the chest and not so high on the leg will make a better suit for another.

The type of swimming that you do may also factor in. If you are a competitve swimmer you would wear a different style suit than someone who participates in water aerobics or is a triathlete.

Where To Buy

Swimming suits can be purchased at most sporting goods stores and speciality stores. Some department stores also carry a selection of swimming suits.

Online stores such as Swimoutlet.com carry a wide variety of suits for men, women and children. They have many different brands to chose from.

Cost

Swim suits range in price from $30 to $90, and go much higher for high-tech racing suits. End of summer is a great time to stock up on swim suits as they go on sale to make way for fall seasonal products. It is worth it to check the online sources sicne they have sales often.

Comparison Shopping

Swimsuit material and styles are the two most common areas that swimmers are concerned with. Long hours spent in the pool take a toll on the material, causing it to break down and lose shape. Polyester suits last the longest, but they also have the most drag in the water, causing a slowdown. Materials such as Lycra are the most comfortable and drag resistant. Some swimsuits are made of materials that are designed to resist the chlorine used in pools.
A high neck on the suit keeps water out and also makes the swimmer move faster through the water. Straps should be snug and not bind.

Another option for a swimsuit is a workout bikini. These two piece suits can be much more comfortable for swimmers with a long torse, as the bottom will not ride up. They are also ideal for outdoor swimming.

Insider Tips

Suits worn in pools should always be rinsed out thoroughly after use. Getting the chemicals out will help to keep the suit in better condition so it will last longer. Suits should be hung up to dry, and never put in a clothes dryer.

References

Article reviewed by VirginiaS Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments