REVIEW: Swimsuits

Looking for a swimsuit that fits and adapts to your body, provides support and comfort when training, dries quickly and resists the effects of chlorine, suncream and sand? Gear editor, Omie Dale has your expert guide.

YouSwim Aplomb High Waist Two-Piece | £126 *BEST FOR HOLIDAYS*

They say: Our goal is to turn the tide on standard, inflexible sizing by creating swimwear that can adapt and change with your body. Our suits are made with our super thick and flexible fabric, which allows them to stretch and move with you and your body’s natural state of flux. Our production runs entirely in England – everything from the weaving of our incredible fabric to the production of our Earth-Friendly Packaging.

We say: A comfortable suit, available in a wide range of colours. I love how the suit adapts to my body, rather than the other way round. While I wouldn’t do any serious training in this, it’s a great addition for a holiday or a more leisurely swim. Currently the swimsuit only supports UK sizes 6-18, but the brand says they are working to increase their sizing range.

TRI-FIT Rapid Swimsuit | £89.99

They say: Constructed using premium Italian Carvico RevolutionalTM Energy fabric, a techno-fabric featuring a high shaping power. The fabric sports excellent hydrophobic properties and has been awarded several quality and performance certificates, whilst also being UPF 50+, ultra-chlorine resistant, sand resistant, suncream resistant, breathable and quick drying.

We say: This was my first time wearing a swimsuit designed for triathletes. My first impression was that the fabric felt extremely thin, but upon testing I was impressed with how the suit functions almost as a second skin, providing support whilst minimising ingress and resistance. The material lends itself to drying super quickly once out of the water.

Aquasphere Women’s Essential Open Back | £49

They say: The Essential Open Back has been designed to last through any intense training. Crafted with Melville sustainable fabric, it allows a compressive and breathable fit while guaranteeing long lasting comfort. This training suit is made of three plastic bottles and is 100% chlorine resistant.

We say: This no-frills swimsuit provides optimal comfort when training, with large straps providing great back support. Having become a staple of my swim bag, it’s proved durable, maintaining shape and colour through several swims in chlorinated pools during the week. The swimsuit comes in two colours, black and pink.

Deakin & Blue Essential Swimsuit | £95 *OUR WINNER*

They say: Deakin & Blue combines fabrics made from regenerated ocean waste, revolutionary production methods and a ground-breaking sizing system, to produce a set of garments showcased on a range of body shapes and sizes. All our swimwear is made from ECONYL® – a 100% regenerated nylon fibre made from post-consumer waste such as old fishing nets and industrial plastic. Every swimsuit and bikini comes in three curve options to suit a range of body shapes (8-24, AA-HH cups).

We say: This felt to be the most durable out of all the swimsuits, and it is clear that a lot of thought has gone into the design. Not only does it fit well and provide comfort, but it also looks great – I received several compliments when wearing it on my swims. Being able to choose the suit dependent on bust size results in great support whilst swimming. A winner for me.

Zone3 High Neck Swimsuit | £40

They say: The Zone3 High Neck collection is designed to stand up to the demands and rigours of training and offers a close, supportive fit. The open back design allows total freedom of movement and the bound straps which wrap around the side and back panels ensure a comfortable and supportive fit. There is a medium leg height to ensure optimum coverage whilst maintaining contemporary styling.

We say: This swimsuit is ideal for training in the pool, but with a funky design that wouldn’t look out of place in more casual venues. While it’s the cheapest in price on the list, this certainly doesn’t mean a scrimp on quality. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for more coverage and support in the bust when swimming.

Coots JT Swimsuit | £170 *BEST EXTRA DETAILS*

They say: A swimsuit made in East London inspired by the story of John ‘the Bootleg Swimmer’ Trudgen. Constructed from an ultra-chlorine resistant techno fabric. The regenerated nylon (ECONYL®) is made entirely from recycled plastic and fishing nets saved from the ocean. Produced in a limited quantity in a zero-waste factory.

We say: An expensive option, but with impressive design credentials to justify the price. The bright colours and optional embroidery make for a swim with a statement. One thing I like about the brand are the lovely added touches: the suits are all packed in a COOTS towelling wet bag and £2 from every sale is donated to swim charity Level Water.

Find all the gear you need for open water swimming, from trunks and swimming costumes to tow floats and changing robes, at the Outdoor Swimming Shop. Read more gear reviews.