The best swimming bikinis

ORCA Core Bikini

£29.95

Pro: Flat, chafe-free seams, great for wearing under a wetsuit

Con: The high-compression cut means sizing up

This athletic two-piece is ideal for layering under a wetsuit, sitting flat and smooth against your skin. It also features wide shoulder straps that prevent chafing by evenly distributing pressure across the upper back during long training sessions. Like Orca’s swimsuits, it’s made from a premium compressive fabric, which sculpts to the body to create a hydrodynamic, second-skin profile. But because of this snug performance fit, if you fall between sizes we’d strongly recommended you size up. The Core fabric is exceptionally durable, engineered with enhanced chlorine and UV resistance to retain its elasticity and compression shape over continuous use.

WALLIEN Bikini Top Racerfront Tie and Bikini Bottom High Waist

£79 + £69

Pro: Exceptional stay-put security, zero arm restriction

Con: Compression-style athletic fit – you might want to size up

I’ve long been a fan of Wallien’s Yemaya swimsuit, so I was excited to see this bikini launch with the same racerfront cut. Designed for outdoor swimming and water sports, the high-coverage neckline and adjustable, custom tie-back ensures the top holds firm in waves, while the streamlined racerfront cut completely frees up the shoulder blades, allowing for a uninhibited arm rotation. The fabric is also treated to resist the effects of sea salt, chlorine and sunscreens.

RAPANUI Sustainable Bikini Set, £65

£65

Pro: Excellent stay-put security with flat-lock anti-chafe seams

Con: Non-adjustable shoulder straps

This eco-conscious, adventure-ready two-piece is made for active sea swimmers with its supportive top and high-rise bottoms that sit securely on the waist, designed to stay firmly anchored to the body whether you’re diving into waves or pushing through heavy chop. The sleek, low-profile bralette and flat-seam construction make it ideal for layering beneath a tight wetsuit, too. Plus, it’s made with ECONYL® regenerated nylon, which transforms marine waste (discarded plastic and ghost fishing nets) into a high-performance, durable fabric.

DAVY J Halter Crossback Swim Top and Sculpt Swim Shorts

£85 + £75

They say: No need to compromise on style over substance, with this striking high neck design. Adaptable with that bit of extra coverage, the top features a gorgeous high neck, dropping over the shoulders into a bold crossback and finishing on the natural waist. Based on our best selling Jones High Waist Briefs, these swim shorts are the perfect alternative for those who prefer a little extra coverage. (Size 8-18).

We say: We love the versatility of Davy J’s mix and match separates, designed to pair or layer so you can create an individual look to suit your body. We like the high neck of the reversible Halter Crossback, which not only gives a good amount of support for larger busts but also takes the sting out of cold water across the chest and neck. We also appreciate the way you can overlap the top with the super high waisted shorts to create a one-piece silhouette or roll the waist down to show the contrast blue lining and sport an active two-piece.

SOUL CAP Bikini Top and Bikini Bottoms

£40 + £30

They say: Athletic isn’t a shape – it’s a state of mind. Experience the perfect blend of style and performance with our Women’s Bikini Top with Adjustable Straps, available in sizes from XS to 3XL. Crafted to provide a comfortable and flexible swimming experience, this swimsuit is designed for women of all sizes. Dive in with confidence, as our super-stretchy swimwear, made from recycled materials, ensures you can move freely. (Size 4-30).

We say: While the construction and material of the bikini bottoms and top is undoubtedly high quality, we found the elasticated waist and chest band a bit too restrictive. Perhaps ordering the next size up would alleviate this issue. Also the branding on the waist and chest bands reminded us of underwear, meaning we felt self-conscious wearing it to the pool. That said, we appreciated the quality of the set for the price, the adjustable straps and the inclusive range of sizes.

DAVY J Jones High Waist Briefs and Wrap Long Sleeve Swim Top

£65 + £85

They say: Designed for comfort, coverage, style and versatility, these ‘really big pants’ are the perfect style to sculpt your silhouette and make you feel shaped and secure. The wrap top is a super versatile top designed as a stylish alternative to a rash vest or can be worn as a stand alone long sleeve crop. It provides warmth, sun or wind protection without compromising on mobility. (Size 8-18).

We say: We get why these are called ‘Jones’ briefs, they’re truly are enormous pants but that’s their appeal. Like the Sculpt Shorts, you can pull them up to their fullest height to overlap with any of the mix and match tops, or roll them over to whatever rise you desire for a flash of colour. Providing comfort and support for bloated, postpartum or pregnant tums, they made our tester feel super confident. We paired them with the super stretchy cropped wrap top and loved the thumb holes!

WALLIEN Rash Guard and Sport Shorts

£99 + £79

They say: For superb sun protection during your aquatic adventure, combine these two items for maximum coverage. Made from recycled soft and ultra stretchy fabric, they offer excellent UV protection (UPF 50+) and are chlorine and sun cream resistant. Paired with athletic shorts designed for water sports enthusiasts. With its lightweight design, super-soft feel and lack of metal parts, this is also your ultimate wetsuit companion. (Size 6-16).

We say: We loved the versatility of these stylish bikini separates, which you can wear as a rash guard under a wetsuit to prevent chafing, layer over a swimsuit for extra coverage and to take the edge off wind chill or as an elegant set. With high UV protection, they’re great for long days by the water. The recycled material is so stretchy and soft, with a lining that feels silky and soothing against the skin. Wallien also sell crop tops, high-waist bottoms and stay-put bikini tops so you can find the combination that works for you.