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The best sports swimming costumes, tested by a panel of keen swimmers
Make a splash with our top picks
Tested by Kim HawleyHealth and Fitness Tester
Do you really need a specialist sport swimsuit if you’re heading to the lido, lake or beach this summer? Well, you could technically brave the waves in your old cossie, but finding the right sports-specific design could also take your swim sessions from blah to brilliant.
So how do you choose the best sports swimming costume for you? From sleeve length and lining to support levels and fabric, there’s lots to consider. Ready to dive in?
The best sports swimming costumes for 2025
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Best hybrid wetsuit-swimsuit
Vivida Linda Reversible Long Sleeve Swimsuit & Neoprene Wetsuit
Read review
The Good Housekeeping Institute enlisted a panel of keen swimmers to hit the water and put a range of styles from popular brands, including Sweaty Betty, Boden and Animal, to the test.
You'll find a full rundown of the criteria we scored each one on below our reviews, but key areas we asked panellists to feed back on were comfort and performance as well as design – because, let’s face it, we want our swimsuits to look and feel good, too.
Our panel's winners are marked with a GHI Approved logo. We've also included some editors' picks – we haven't had a chance to test them with our full panel yet, but they're all brands or suits loved by our GH editors (who can often by found at Hampstead Heath Ladies Pond...)
Score: 98/100
Dropping just two marks overall, our winning swimsuit from the experts at ZONE3 ticked every box for our testers. The sleeveless design is made from 1.5mm thick Yulex, delivering the insulation of a wetsuit yet affording total freedom of movement in the water.
People raved about the smooth fabric, saying it felt like a second skin and they barely noticed they had it on. It was a cinch to get into and peel off post-swim thanks to the handy front zip, and it was super comfortable, with zero chaffing, digging in or rubbing reported.
Great performance aside, its simple yet stylish design earned a thumbs-up, and the fit is true to size. It is pricey, but when you consider the quality, it’s hard to complain.
Key specifications
| Materials | Yulex, polyester |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 20 |
Score: 93/100
This stylish number from B-Corp brand Finisterre was an instant hit with our testers, who praised the reversible design. It can be worn on the plain or patterned side – depending on what mood you’re in – giving you two distinct looks for the price of one.
Testers also loved the high neckline and racerback design, which felt secure and allowed them to move quickly and freely. The material was extremely soft against their skin, but the high neck meant it was a touch trickier to get off when wet. On the plus side, they found it dried quickly and washed extremely well, maintaining its colour and shape after numerous goes in the washing machine.
Finisterre’s sustainability efforts also deserve a mention – the suit is made from ECONYL, a regenerated nylon, which saves materials that would usually go to landfill or end up in the ocean, and it’s delivered in ‘leave no trace’ packaging, which breaks down into non-toxic biomass.
Just note, the brand recommends sizing up to achieve the best fit.
Key specifications
| Materials | ECONYL regenerated nylon, polyester, polyamide, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 22 |
Score: 91/100
If you’re a fan of Boden’s dresses and shirts, you’ll love the brand’s swimwear, too. The colourful and eye-catching design of this patterned swimsuit from Boden considers style and safety, as it will certainly increase your visibility among the waves. The brand also suggests styling it as a top with a pair of shorts when you’re on dry land.
But there’s substance as well as style. Thanks to the long sleeves and high neck, it kept our swimmers sufficiently warm and cosy on their dips. It's great at protecting you from the sun if you’re on the beach all day, too.
There’s a handy front zip for easy on-off, plus it was surprisingly flexible to splash about in and it didn’t bunch up or need regular rearranging while swimming. It also comes with removable padded cups, so you can dial up the coverage and support, depending on your needs. You can select either a regular or long fit, so it’s a great choice for the longer-limbed ladies.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyamide, polyester, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 20 |
Score: 89/100
Made from chlorine- and saltwater-resistant fabric, this Animal design is a great option, whether you’re hitting the pool or the sea. Our testers were surprised by how much they loved it, with one declaring: “It’s very nearly perfect!”
What makes it so special? Panellists said the wide straps and scooped back provided ample support and prevented the need for constant rearranging. Not only did it stay in place throughout their swims, but the one-piece also proved really comfy and didn’t restrict movement. They thought it would be great for serious swimmers.
When they emerged from the water, the fabric dried in a flash, and it scored highly for shape retention. Not everyone was a fan of the lining around the bust but that’s down to personal preference.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyester, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 20 |
Vivida Linda Reversible Long Sleeve Swimsuit & Neoprene Wetsuit
Score: 84/100
We wouldn’t blame you if you’re a little hesitant about plunging into fresh waters without a few extra layers, but this swim-wetsuit hybrid offers a little bit more comfort than a standard cossie.
It’s made with 2mm of insulating neoprene, designed specifically for cold water swimming. The thick material and long sleeves kept our testers warm for several hours in a variety of different settings, such as the sea, lakes, ponds, and lidos. Another high point for our panel members was the sun protection it offered.
The panelled seams and supportive material also make for a flattering fit. Plus, it’s reversible so you can choose from two stylish designs, which one tester said earned them a lot of compliments.
Key specifications
| Materials | Neoprene |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 8-18 |
Score: 80/100
If the fresh (read: freezing) outdoor waters appeal to you more than the warm confines of a pool, then this long-sleeved costume is a great option for a little extra coverage. With a mock-neck design, compressive fabric and a medium-cut leg, testers said it was stylish and confidence-inspiring. The half zip makes it easy to jump in and out of too, which is particularly useful after your swim when you want to quickly strip off and get into that dry robe.
Everyone praised the “high-quality” and “luxurious” design, noting the chafe-free fabric and smooth front zip, which made getting changed fuss-free. Despite the snug fit, testers felt unencumbered in the water, and those with bigger breasts said it provided ample support. As a bonus, it has built-in UV50+ sun protection and it’s resistant to chlorine if you fancy a pool swim.
Our wild swimmers would have preferred more coverage on the back, as it has a large cutaway in the middle, which leaves you exposed to chilly waters. This means it’s perhaps one to reach for during the milder months.
Key specifications
| Materials | Recycled polyamide, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS – XXL |
Score: 76/100
If you want to stand out on your wild swims, you’re sure to draw attention in this bold Orla Kiely one-piece, which comes in three vibrant, colourful designs. “It’s so pretty,” said one happy tester.
With long sleeves and a high neck, it’s a flattering yet high coverage option, whether you’re taking a chilly swim or you’re on the hunt for more modest swimwear. Everyone liked the moulded cups for support around the chest and was impressed with how quick it was to dry – it didn’t feel heavy or unpleasant to wear while our testers enjoyed their post-swim coffees.
Our petite panellists found the torso a little long, but it was perfect for our taller swimmers. A few people also had issues with the zip, but that’s not a major gripe.
Key specifications
| Materials | Recycled polyester, elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 8 – 20 |
Score: 76/100
Another chlorine-resistant swimsuit with 50+ UV sun protection, this Decathlon suit is a versatile pick. It may not have the bells and whistles of some of the pricier designs we tried but it exceeds its budget-friendly price tag.
It offers full upper body coverage to keep you cosy on your early morning swims and there’s a front zip so you can slip in and out of it easily without a mini meltdown. Testers said it offered great flexibility, even for breaststroke, and the comfortable fabric felt high quality.
If you don’t want to spend a fortune on a new swimsuit, it’s a worthy choice. Note, however, that those with a larger chest found it too tight. It also comes up quite small, so go for a size up if you’re unsure.
Key specifications
| Materials | Elastolefin, polyester |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 18 |
Mountain Warehouse Take The Plunge Women’s Swimsuit
Score: 76/100
The best sports swimming costumes can cost an arm and a leg, but this Mountain Warehouse one-piece proves that doesn’t have to be the case. According to panellists, it put in a “solid performance” during testing – the quality of the fabric exceeded their expectations, it was enjoyable and comfortable to swim in, and the fabric dried extremely quickly. What more could you want?
There are removable cups for chest support and the lack of sleeves means there’s nothing inhibiting your performance if you’re aiming for a personal best. Some testers said it was a cinch to get on and off while others found it tricky, but you can’t win ‘em all. For its price, it’s a bargain.
Key specifications
| Materials | Polyester, polyamide, elastane |
|---|---|
| Size | 6 – 20 |
Editors' picks
This swimsuit from Nike combines style and performance. It features a flattering scoop neck and an aesthetically pleasing cut-out back and is available in eye-catching blue or a more demure chocolate brown. Either way, you’ll look great in it as you complete those laps.
“I love this swimsuit as the adjustable straps mean it fits properly and won’t slip down when I’m in the water”, says Priyankaa Joshi, our sleep and wellness editor. She’s also a big fan of the removable cups for tailored coverage.
Key specifications
| Material | Recycled polyester |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS-XL |
This costume from Reebok is another one of Priyankaa’s favourites. The extremely comfortable fit makes it her go-to for swimming, ice baths, spa trips and holidays – “I barely notice I have it on, in a good way!” she says.
Not only does the racerback design look the part, but it also provides extra support, which is great for those with bigger boobs. You’ll be glad to know it maintains its shape and colour through multiple washes too, and at under £30, it’s an absolute steal.
Key specifications
| Material | 80% Polyamide, 20% Elastane |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 8-14 |
Finding the right swimsuit after you’ve gone through a mastectomy can be difficult, which is why we love this thoughtfully designed one from Cancer Research. The adjustable straps and soft elasticated under-breast shelf add extra support, and it also has internally stitched pockets for any swim prosthesis.
It gives a good level of coverage while being extremely flattering and comes in either black or navy.
Key specifications
| Material | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 8-24 |
How we test
The Good Housekeeping Institute enlisted a panel of seasoned wild swimmers to put a range of long and short-sleeve swimsuits through their paces for a few weeks. Once the testing period was complete, they reported back on how they found the swimsuit’s overall design, comfort, fit and, most importantly, performance.
They shared their honest feedback on a variety of factors, including how easy the swimwear was to get on and off when wet, whether the fit was true to size and how stylish and flattering it was.
They also noted how the swimsuit felt against their skin, whether it allowed freedom of movement in the water and how well it washed and dried post-dip.
And if our tested options aren't quite right, then our editors have also included some of their favourite designs below, so you'll be sure to find something that suits!
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test thousands of products every year to find the very best on the market.
We put each and every product through rigorous testing, both in real-world and lab conditions, to bring you unbiased reviews you can rely on.
Kim Hawley is the health and wellness tester for the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees testing for a range of health and wellness products. She has over 30 years of experience in the fitness industry, with a level 4 personal training qualification, a nutrition qualification and years of experience working in leading health clubs across the UK.
For this test, we sent each swimming costume to panel of keen swimmers to get their honest feedback on their performance.
What should I look for in a sports swimsuit?
“The best swimsuit depends on your individual needs,” says Jack Hudson, marketing manager at SwimTrek, the official training partner of Level Water’s 24h Swim Relay.
“In general, you want something that allows you to move fast, without restriction, and if you’re swimming in cold water, it needs to provide good coverage.”
Here are some key things to consider on your hunt for the best swimming costume.
Coverage: Dipping your toe into cold water swimming? Long-sleeve styles and high necklines will offer extra protection in the water, while fabrics such as neoprene and Yulex are highly insulating and will help keep you warm and toasty.
Support: For those with larger breasts, it's crucial to look for a supportive swimsuit that will prevent bounce or slippage, allowing you to focus on your technique without distractions. Many designs offer breast support, with padding and built-in cups to keep everything in place.
Flexibility: While you want to stay warm during your swims, it’s also important that you don’t feel restricted. Sleeveless suits generally offer more freedom of movement, but some long-sleeve styles are cleverly designed with stretchy panels around the chest so you can move your arms freely for all strokes.
UV protection: If you’re swimming outdoors in the summer or on holiday, look for a costume with built-in UV protection to protect your skin from harmful rays. A UPF (UV Protection Factor) rating of 30 will shield you from around 97% of UV rays, whereas a UPF rating of 50 will block approximately 98%.
Ease of use: Struggling to get a soggy swimsuit off is no easy feat. If easy on-off is a priority, look for one with a front zip to make the process as faff-free as possible.
When should I choose a wetsuit over a swimsuit?
According to Hudson, this ultimately comes down to personal preference. “One of the best things about open water swimming is the lack of rules,” he says.
“It’s up to you!” If you struggle to stay in cold water for more than a few moments and can’t fully reap the rewards of wild swimming, he suggests switching to a wetsuit. This will help you feel warmer and comfier in the water. Wetsuits also offer more buoyancy, so they’re a good choice if you’re a weak swimmer and need some extra support.
“If you are up for the challenge and can safely immerse yourself in cold water for over a minute in a swimsuit, you’ll get a rush that’s very hard to find anywhere else,” Hudson says.
More Tried & Tested reviews
We’ve also tested a range of other accessories for keen swimmers: Best goggles | Best dry robes | Best wetsuits
The verdict on sports swimming costumes
The best sports swimming costume for warmth, freedom of movement and comfort is our winner, the ZONE3 Women's Yulex Sleeveless Swimsuit
For a high-coverage option, our panel loved Boden's Piped Raglan Sleeve Swimsuit, while casual swimmers should look to this budget-friendly design from Mountain Warehouse.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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