Choosing a new bikini or pair of swim shorts seems straightforward – until they slip down in the pool, lose their shape after a few swims or take much longer to dry than expected. When choosing women’s and men’s swimwear, it’s not just about colour and style. Fit, fabric, freedom of movement and care all determine whether your purchase is practical.
A high-cut bikini or close-fitting pair of women’s swim shorts may look attractive, but also check how well they stay in place when you swim, walk and bend over. Adjustable straps, a drawstring or an elasticated waistband can make a difference.
With a halterneck bikini, check how the straps fasten. A cross-over tie can offer extra adjustability, but the final fit depends on your size and body shape.
Don’t just look for the term quick-drying swimwear – check the fibre composition too. The Reebok swim shorts in this selection list 100% polyester for the outer fabric and lining. According to the product description, the fabric is lightweight and breathable, and is designed to feel less heavy after swimming.
That’s useful information, but it doesn’t guarantee the same drying time in every situation. Temperature, ventilation, fabric thickness and how much water the garment holds all affect the result. A product description that specifies the fabric percentage is therefore more useful than a general marketing claim.
A label such as UPF 50+ refers to a textile UV protection rating. Check that the claim applies to the specific product and the area it covers. For example, shorts only protect the skin they cover.
The Willit board shorts are listed as UPF 50+ in the product information. The Reebok models are described as being made from polyester intended for regular contact with salt water, chlorine and UV rays. This information comes from the product description; it doesn’t replace sun cream, shade or other sun protection measures.
Polyester is widely used in sports swimwear because it’s lightweight and can retain its shape reasonably well. Always check the care instructions. According to the product information, the Reebok models can be machine-washed at 30 °C. Bleaching, ironing, tumble-drying and dry cleaning are not recommended.
After swimming in a chlorinated pool or the sea, rinse your swimwear with clean water where possible. Leave it to air-dry and avoid prolonged exposure to heat. This helps reduce unnecessary wear to the fibres, elastic and colour.
Compare the product’s size chart with your own measurements rather than relying on XS, L, XL or size 40 alone. Swimwear that’s too loose around the waist may slip down, while a style that’s too tight can chafe or restrict your movement.
For a women’s bikini, consider how the top and bottoms work together. An adjustable halterneck style can give you more room to adjust the straps, but the cup shape and bottoms are still size-dependent. For men’s swim shorts, an elasticated waistband and an internal drawstring are practical details for swimming and the beach.
Short swim shorts are a good choice if you want plenty of freedom to move and a lightweight feel. Longer board shorts for women or men can offer more coverage when walking, playing beach volleyball or taking part in water sports. Also check whether the garment has a lining, pockets or an inner brief. These details can affect comfort, but may also influence drying time.
The selection below is based on the listed size, fabric, fastening, length and intended use. Always check current stock, sizing information and product details before buying.
Why it suits this profile: This black two-piece is aimed at anyone looking for a simple, sporty bikini for sunbathing, the beach and leisurely swims. The halterneck top has cross-over straps that tie in place.
The description lists adjustable straps and a sporty cut. Before ordering, check that XS matches your measurements.
Black colour, two-piece design, halterneck straps and a built-in push-up effect according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: These blue swim shorts are designed for men who want one style for the pool, the beach and everyday holiday activities.
The elasticated waistband and internal drawstring help you adjust the fit. The product description says the fabric is lightweight and quick-drying; check that you’re choosing the right size and fit.
100% polyester according to the product information, a plain blue design and machine-washable at 30 °C.
Why it suits this profile: These women’s swim shorts in size 40 are a good fit for anyone looking for more coverage when walking, taking part in water sports or enjoying an active day at the beach.
The longer cut means you don’t have to rely on a very short style. Treat the listed UPF 50+ as a product specification for the areas covered.
Black high-waisted board shorts with a lining, pockets and UPF 50+ according to the product information.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Choose a style with an adjustable or elasticated waistband, a secure fastening and fabric that the product information says is suitable for use in water. Care is especially important for swimming pools: rinse out any chlorine and follow the washing instructions. For the beach and water sports, board shorts or women’s swim shorts can offer more coverage.
How long it lasts depends on how often you wear it, exposure to chlorine, salt water, sunlight and friction, and how well you care for it. There’s no set lifespan that applies to every garment. Replace your swimwear if the elastic stays stretched, the seams come undone, the fabric becomes thin or it no longer fits properly.
A black women’s bikini can hide some discolouration and goes with a range of beach outfits, but black isn’t automatically more durable. Care instructions, fabric and exposure to chlorine and sunlight have more influence on how long swimwear lasts than colour alone.