Photo courtesy of InStyle Swimwear
Aside from mastering the sport itself, one of the most difficult and often most frustrating things about surfing is finding attire that works with your body and your moves, especially if you’re a woman. In a split second, a hard wipeout can mercilessly expose your most intimate areas for everyone to see, and you know it always tends to happen at the most inconvenient of times! The best swimsuits for female surfers offer great support and effortlessly blend fashion and function. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be sure to find styles that look almost as sick as your surf skills.
First, let’s talk wetsuits and rashguards. If you’re surfing in cooler waters or simply feel more comfortable covered up, these are probably your best options. Both wetsuits and rashguards have come a long way in terms of their design, and you no longer have to sacrifice fashion for function. Today, there are a wide variety of styles, designs and cuts on the market, all of which are fully-functional and cater to the wearer’s various wants and needs. In addition to the classic wetsuit and rashguard designs, there are also a number of more fashion-forward styles made to better flatter the female body while still providing amazing coverage and protection.
But for female surfers who prefer more traditional swimwear, support and proper fit are key. If you’re into two-piece suits, it’s often best to mix and match your top and bottom separates, unless your top and bottom halves are completely proportionate. It probably goes without saying that a skimpy sliding triangle top will greatly increase your risk of accidental exposure while surfing. Instead, opt for fixed tops that don’t slide along a string or band. Try fixed halter tops with thicker neck ties, which provide better bust support. And instead of strapless bandeau-style tops, opt for fixed racerback or sports bra-style tops with shoulder straps, so you don’t have to worry about your top falling down or constantly fixing yourself.
When it comes to your bottoms, look for separates that won’t be easily ripped off by a wave or undercurrent. Boyshort bottoms and hipster styles are helpful in providing a bit more coverage. While string tie-side bottoms are probably better left for sunbathing, styles with thicker tie-sides can work, as long as you double knot them and choose the size that actually fits you. Far too often, women tend to go up a size in their bottoms to avoid them “digging in,” but this is a big mistake and often leads to bikini bloopers. A proper fitting bottom should fit you snugly all over. If your bottom fits everywhere but looks like it’s digging in, try a hipster style with soft sides or rippled edges.
Finally, I’ll leave you with a few final tips. For those who prefer one-piece swimsuits, the same top and bottom suggestions still apply. Also avoid delicate embellishments, such as sequins and intricate beadwork, as they could easily be damaged by rough waves. Instead, choose styles in bold prints or bright hues if you’re looking for that extra “pop.” See you at the beach!
