Open water swimsuits for all bodies

WALLIEN Yemaya, £129

£129

They say: Our signature one-piece swimsuit features our celebrated fit and enhanced shoulder mobility. Whether you’re catching waves, perfecting your strokes, or discovering the underwater world, this eco-friendly suit is perfect for any water activity. Plus, it’s chlorine-proof with UPF50+ sun protection and lined to avoid being see-through. (Size 6-16).

We say: This is our go-to swimsuit for pool training. The combination of a performance fit with such an elegant silhouette is unmatched. The Yemaya has an impeccable fit, which doesn’t budge when training and allows for remarkable shoulder mobility, meaning we felt streamlined and unhindered in the water. The buttery soft fabric feels supportive but is also breathable, durable and dries quickly. The medium coverage on the legs and bum is also just right, high enough leg for unrestricted kicks while being just a touch cheeky at the back.

BOBBIES Bobbie

£105

They say: Bobbie understands your frustrations with ill-fitting swimsuits that haven’t been designed for you – a swimmer with boobs! Trust in Bobbie to support your perfect chest, allowing you to dive, tumble turn, and glide through the water without fear of a nip-slip! Our sporty design has high armholes and a cross-back strap for maximum support and minimal drag. (Size 6-28).

We say: With a slim waist and a fuller chest, our tester struggles to find one pieces that fit well across both the top and bottom. The Bobbie swimsuit was the best fit she’s found so far. The style provided exception support in the water although without a supportive structure (like moulded cups or a bra shelf) they did flatten boobs a touch. The material felt smooth and comfortable, with a firm fit that didn’t slip, while the sporty high armholes and a cross-back gives maximum support with minimal drag. The suit is cut high at the legs and around the bum, which might not be for everyone.

REEBOK Voletta

£39.99

They say: Designed to unleash your aquatic potential, this one-piece marvel is crafted from a durable synthetic blend that ensures long-lasting performance. The muscle back silhouette offers maximum flexibility and freedom of movement, empowering you to conquer the waves with ease. Whether you’re training for a competition or simply enjoying a leisurely swim, the Voletta Swimsuit is your trusted companion.

We say: While we weren’t so keen on the the bold branding, we really appreciate the muscle-back cut and thick straps of this swimsuit, which gave us a great amount of flexibility and freedom of movement in the shoulders, while staying put in the water. The high leg cut made sure a breaststroke kick was unhindered and we felt very supported across the chest. This is a trusty, durable and quick-drying swimsuit that we’ve come to rely on for pool training sessions.

ZOGGS Brave Crossback

£65

They say: This bold range is designed with performance in mind and features Zoggs’ latest fabric innovation, Thermal Silver Lining, which helps retain body heat for 60% longer than normal swimwear. The Brave Crossback offers support and freedom of movement with its high front and cross back design. (Size 8-26).

We say: Want a swimsuit that will keep you visible in the water and add an extra layer of core warmth? This new print in Zoggs’ celebrated sustainable thermal swimwear collection will certainly stand out – the neon animal print is almost more vibrant in person. The silver lining promises to retain body heat for 60% longer than normal swimwear! It’s hard to tell how accurate that is, but we tried it in 6ºC water and felt confident staying in a little longer. The lining makes the fabric less stretchy, so it’s a bit of a wriggle to get it on. If you’re between sizes consider sizing up.

DAVY J The Zero Trace Swimsuit

£120

They say: The Zero Trace Swimsuit is the first style in our collection that will fully biodegrade at end of life. This swimsuit is the result of years of innovation to minimise the negative impact of fashion on the planet. Featuring a flattering high, racer cut neckline and elegant low squared back, this swimsuit will sculpt, shape and smooth the body. With a medium to high cut leg and full coverage on the rear. (Size 8-18).

We say: While many brands use recycled materials, it’s rare to find a fully biodegradable swimsuit! The Zero Trace Swimsuit is a great blend of active fit and leisure style. We loved the high front and racer-cut neckline, while the compressive fabric didn’t budge during a training session. The scoop back was fairly high, which meant we didn’t fear the straps slipping and the medium-high leg combined with full coverage on the bum was a perfect combination.

ZOGGS Cyber Multiway

£50

They say: This multiway style has secure adjustable straps that can be worn either straight or crossed over. Full foam bra cups provide shape and support. This style features a double-layer shelf bra with side opening pockets making it suitable for inserting mastectomy prostheses. Chlorine resistant, lasts up to 250 hours in the pool. (Size 8-22).

We say: Suitable for wearing post-mastectomy, the Cyber Multiway has sewn in pockets where you can place a prosthesis (a Knitted Knocker, in the case of our tester). Once placed, you can’t see the prosthesis and it won’t be touching your skin. There’s padding in front of the pocket, too, attached to the costume, which gives shape and further support. Worn with a cross-over for a training session, it gave a high level of support with comfortable adjustable straps. The costume stayed put in an intensive training session with all strokes and tumble turns.

BOBBIES Vicky

£105

They say: Vicky shares your frustrations with popular swimwear brands refusing to support the incredible, diverse shapes of female swimmers. And she’s on a mission to change the industry for good. Trust in Vicky to provide you with a flattering, fun, fit-for-purpose suit that embraces your perfect curves – rather than ignoring them. The ultra-sleek design has a chunky, centre-front zipper that adds style and practicality. (Size 6-28).

We say: Curvy bodies come in so many shapes – big boobs and small waist; big bum, small boobs and broad back; big bum and big waist – there’s no perfect cut that will please every combination. That said, the Vicky certainly stood out. We loved the long front zip, which made for easy changing and a supportive fit that kept boobs firmly in place. The material felt high grade and is super soft against the skin. It’s just the right thickness and dried relatively quickly. Our tester usually wears black or navy swimsuits so as not to stand out poolside, but absolutely loved the vibrant colour!

SEAFOLLY Beach Bound Cap Sleeve Zip Front One Piece

£135

They say: The Seafolly Beach Bound Cap Sleeve Zip Front One Piece has an internal shelf bra for bust support and features removable cups for shape and support. It has a regular legline to flatter the leg and stylish contrasting binding. Made with 75% Recycled Nylon. (Size 6-18).

We say: With its white contrast binding, capped sleeves and long gold zip, this is a glamorous little number, perhaps better suited to a beach holiday than our local leisure centre. It’s a comfortable swimsuit, though. The textured material is stretchy, its also generously sized and long in the body, and the zip makes it very easy to change. It’s got a high leg and, aesthetically, we liked the extra coverage around the shoulders and arms. While we wouldn’t wear it for intensive training sessions, it coped perfectly well with lane swimming.

DAVY J Level Up Swimsuit

£140

They say: Brand new for spring 2025, our Level Up Swimsuit is designed with the more active swimmer in mind. A sleek design that smooths and sculpts your silhouette, lifting and shaping you in all the right places and giving you confidence without compromising on performance. A full coverage swimsuit with a high neckline and back zip with long puller. (Size 8-18).

We say: Ethical swimwear brand Davy J creates timeless designs that bridge the gap between active and fashion wear. While we love their swimsuits, we don’t always reach for them for longer swims, so we were delighted to try this new Level Up Swimsuit suit which performed flawlessly in a training session. With its high neck, medium leg and zip-up back, it allowed for an unrestricted stroke while the high elastane fabric sculpted and shaped. In cold water, the extra coverage and double-lined material took the edge off!

JUST AM Brook Swimsuit

£145

They say: The Brook swimsuit is thoughtfully crafted with two layers of our signature fabric. A centrally placed V-shaped panel sculpts and enhances your body’s natural curves to create a flattering silhouette. This swimsuit will provide optimal support, making it the ideal choice for active sports where you seek extra confidence and coverage.

We say: We really liked this swimsuit by female-owned and sustainable swimwear brand, Just Am. The racer back allowed for a great range of movement, the two-layer fabric felt premium, and we loved the pine colour and V-shaped panels, designed to compliment curves. The high-neck design will be great for outdoor swims. Tested during a pool training session, we couldn’t fault it. We’re pleased to have discovered this brand that blends functionality with thoughtful design and we look forward to seeing what comes next!

RYZON Afire Series Performance Swimsuit

£126

They say: The best swimsuit? Makes us faster and gives us a secure feeling at the same time. In every position, at every distance, and with every breath. With these requirements in mind, we’ve developed the Afire Performance Swim Suit. The result: a compressive and hydrodynamic swimsuit that feels like it’s not there from the first stroke. In a figurative sense, of course. Because the 79% recycled material has so many fantastic properties that we wouldn’t want to miss it in any session again.

We say: If you’re after a performance swimsuit with a sporty cut for pool training sessions, this is definitely a brand to consider. With a high leg, slim straps and a low back, the fit felt very… slight. In the pool, however, the tight fit and compressive material felt hydrodynamic with a barely-there feel; it literally glides through the water. The lightweight material dries quickly and we loved the Green Dew colour.

SPEEDO Hydrasuit

£49

They say: An icon, updated. Loved for its high neckline and back, this streamlined Hydrasuit is a fitness favourite. A supportive elastic underband and PBT liner help minimise bust movement for zero distractions during your workout. Quick-drying Endurance+ Max fabric offers high chlorine resistance and durability, so you can swim-wash-repeat. (Size 6-20).

We say: Speedo’s original black Hydrasuit is a best seller for good reason. With its high neckline and back, it’s a sporty suit that performs perfectly for long pool sessions. Now available in two new colours – the teal we tried and a psychedelic-style Lava Blur print – there are also four new limited edition block colours coming out this summer. We appreciated the extra coverage and the leg height felt just right. Our only niggle is the short zip cord, which needs fairly good flexibility to zip up without help.

BUDGY SMUGGLERS Thick Strap Racer, £55

£55

They say: The Thick Strap Racer in Coral Reef has a fixed V-shape back to hold you in. It has 70-80 hours of chlorine resistance and is made in Australia from 77% recycled polyester with 23% extra life elastane. These swimsuits fit true to size; they are tight to slip on, but hold you in once on! (Size 6-16).

We say: At first we found this swimsuit too snug but the fit has relaxed over multiple wears and now it feels perfectly comfortable. We liked the thick straps combined with the racer back cut because it allowed plenty of flexibility in terms of the arm movement while feeling secure and supportive, keeping everything in place. The leg cut is also ideal – not too high and doesn’t restrict the kick in any way. The coral reef print is so vibrant, ideal for visibility in the open water!

ORCA Core One Piece

£44.95

They say: This one-piece swimsuit is made with a compressive fabric for added support and comfort while swimming in the pool or in open water. The compressive fabric makes the swimsuit fit your body perfectly – if you are between sizes, choose the larger size. Thanks to this fabric’s specific properties, this swimsuit is ultra-resistant to chlorine, maintaining its properties and extending the life of the product. Made with 80% recycled material. (Size 8-18).

We say: The streamlined construction of this suit makes it ideal for training, with a mid-high leg for freedom of movement and good bust support. But the stand out feature has to be the chlorine resistant and compressive material, which felt so supportive. We loved the understated design, too. It’s actually one of two swimsuits in Orca’s Core collection. The other has narrow straps for unrestricted movement with a slightly less supportive fit; we liked that Orca gives us the choice.

BOBBIES Donna

£135

They say: Bobbies’ vibrant, sustainable and quality designs celebrate the diversity of real body types, ensuring comfort and instilling confidence whether it’s a for a dip, marathon or Channel swim. Our first range, launching May 2024, comprises the ‘Bobby’, supporting larger chests for proper training; ‘Vicky’ with low-cut legs, full bum coverage and front zip for curvy bodies; and the ‘Donna’, a V-neck swimsuit with short legs for those who prefer more coverage. (Size 6-28).

We say: As our theme is ‘performance open water swimwear for all bodies’, we were drawn to newcomer Bobbies’ ethos, which promises to redefine swimwear with their body inclusive styles. We tried the ‘Donna’, a style inspired by the designer’s mum who wanted more coverage and found booty shorts too revealing. This chic, shortie-style swimsuit provides great coverage without compromising on performance and flexibility in the water. We felt supported, streamline and rather stylish.

*Launches early May. Pre-register for 10% off

CAPE COVE Claire L/S Zip Front Swimsuit

£139

They say: With a zip front, nehru collar and long sleeves, this swimsuit offers a flattering fit, thanks to its subtle seam detail. The fabric has fantastic characteristics including breathability and flexibility with its high Lycra content providing the perfect level of comfort while keeping its shape, even after washing. It’s quick drying, due to the open structure of the fabrics and has SPF50 protection. (Size 6-20).

We say: We liked the classic silhouette of this long sleeve suit, with its pop of red on the trim. Chlorine and salt resistant, the lined fabric felt robust and it’s a suit that would work well in the pool or open water. At 5’10”, our tester found the suit short in the body, which resulted in restriction across the shoulders, but even so the fabric’s high elasticity meant it was easy to take on and off. The foam cups were inclined to shift, but are easy to remove and we appreciate that it gives the option for more support.

FUNKITA On the Grid Diamond Back One Piece

£44.95

They say: Our most popular one piece with fabric panels across the back for a secure fit and comfy double bind shoulder straps. Eco C-Infinity is 100% chlorine resistant and gives new life to discarded plastic bottles. With fabric panels across the back you will feel secure and supported across the bust and shoulders. Double bind straps over the shoulders provide comfort and support while swimming. (Size 6-18).

We say: Now here’s a pattern to brighten up a morning swim! The fit of the shoulder straps was very comfortable, and the Eco C-Infinity material felt soft and of superior quality. We wondered if the high-cut leg style would feel too revealing but once in the water, it made our front crawl kick feel completely free and unhindered. We would happily train in this swimsuit for hours.

COOTS SG One Piece

£170

They say: Made in East London and inspired by the sturgeon fish that wrap around the lampposts on the banks of the Thames: the contrast panel represents the fish’s lighter underbelly with the contrast top-stitch a nod to their unique markings. Expertly constructed from an ultra chlorine resistant techno techno techno fabric. The regenerated nylon (Econyl) is made from rescued waste that would otherwise pollute our oceans. Produced in a zero-waste factory. Limited quantity. (Size 6-20).

We say: The SG One Piece strikes an ideal balance between supportive fit and freedom of movement, the high neck and front zip providing an exceptionally supportive feel while the slim and curved racer back allows for unhindered front crawl. The fabric feels smooth and premium, promising to retain its shape and wear well. Sure this suit is pricy, but it’s exceptionally well-made and in terms of cost per wear, it makes a good investment.

ALPKIT Dulsie

£44.99

They say: A one-piece swimsuit with long-sleeves for extra warmth and sun protection, the Dulsie protects your arms and shoulders from sun burn and reduces wind-chill. The high-performance stretch fabric supports cold muscles and retains its streamlined shape when wet. We’ve also used a panelled fit with low-profile seams that’s been specifically designed to enable free movement in the water, whatever your stroke. (Size 6-20).

We say: This swimsuit felt stretchy and comfortable and it retained its shape out of the water. We liked the modest cut and the long sleeves gave welcome protection from the wind. We found the back zip a little tricky to do up, but managed it eventually. It works well as a rash vest below a wetsuit, the long sleeves preventing chafing when doing breaststroke. We would prefer the neckline to come up a bit higher to keep the chill out of the neck and shoulders, but overall happy with the streamlined design and quality.

DAVY J Bonded Long Sleeve Swimsuit

£160

They say: A staple piece to see you through dips during the chillier months, this Bonded Long Sleeve Swimsuit features a flattering mid-high leg and is made from a 1mm bonded material that gives you the feeling of wearing something half-way between a wetsuit and a swimsuit but with no neoprene in sight. This reversible swimsuit features classic black and a striking ocean blue with contrast stitching and thumb holes. (Size: 6-20).

We say: A beautifully-made swimsuit, in a recycled 1mm bonded material that not only feels really premium but also provides extra warmth without needing to wear neoprene. The ocean green is so striking and the long front zip makes changing easy – not always the case with long sleeve suits! Our tall tester loved the extra length in the sleeves, which allowed a good range of movement when swimming but can be folded back for those who don’t need it.

ZONE3 Yulex Long Sleeve Swimsuit

£125

They say: The women’s Yulex natural rubber long sleeve swimsuit is made for all your open water adventures. Featuring 1.5mm thickness throughout and full coverage across the back and arms, it provides core warmth and protection from the elements while allowing great freedom of movement, whatever the activity.

We say:This swimsuit is an excellent, eco-friendly choice for those looking for extra warmth without the restrictions and faff that often come with wearing a wetsuit. Despite the thickness, the panel design enabled me to move comfortably through the water. There are several options available, including separate tops and bottoms and a sleeveless one piece.

COOTS LF One Piece

£150

They say: Swimsuit made in East London inspired by London Fields Lido. Expertly constructed from an ultra-chlorine resistant techno techno techno fabric. The regenerated nylon (ECONYL®) is made from rescued waste that would otherwise pollute our Earth and oceans. Produced in a zero-waste factory. Limited quantity.

We say: The production and design credentials of this costume are seriously impressive. This swimsuit bridges the gap between function and fashion seamlessly – it supports me on the longest training swims, whilst exuding style. Every time I wear this swimsuit, I get compliments! It’s definitely one of my go-to costumes.

NABAIJI Aquafit-Aquabiking Shorty 1-Piece

£34.99

They say: Our design teams developed this 1-piece swimsuit for all women doing dynamic aquabiking or aquafit classes. Are you looking for a swimsuit with enhanced support for your aqua jump classes? The Elea swimsuit, with its crossed back and moulded cups, provides support and shapes the bust.

We say: Despite being the cheapest product on this list, the quality and fit of this costume is still of fantastic
quality. The bust support was a terrific addition, giving me unparalleled support. Unlike some other shorty pieces I have worn, this doesn’t ride up, providing optimal security and comfort through all aquatic activities.