I still remember my first real training suit. It was a simple, no-frills one-piece, but the difference it made in the water was incredible. It fit snugly, stayed in place during flip turns, and made me feel so much more powerful. Over the years, I’ve learned that finding the right suit is a game-changer for any swimmer, whether you’re training for a competition or swimming for fitness. It’s about finding that perfect balance of comfort, support, and durability. I’m here to share what I’ve learned, so you can avoid the common mistakes and confidently choose from the best lap swimming suits available.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on Fit and Fabric First: A great lap suit starts with chlorine-resistant material and a snug, comfortable fit. This combination ensures your suit will last longer and help you move efficiently through the water without creating drag.
- Choose a Design That Supports Your Swim Style: Look for construction details that match your activity, whether it's the full range of motion from an open-back design for competitive swimming or the added bust support needed for water aerobics.
- Protect Your Suit for Long-Term Performance: Get the most out of your swimwear by always rinsing it in cool, fresh water after leaving the pool and letting it air dry. This simple routine prevents fabric breakdown from chlorine and heat.
What Makes a Great Lap Swimming Suit?
Finding the right lap swimming suit can completely change your experience in the water. It’s not just about how it looks; it’s about how it performs, feels, and holds up to countless hours in a chlorinated pool. A great suit becomes an essential piece of gear that supports you through every stroke, helping you feel comfortable and confident. When you’re shopping, the three most important things to consider are the fabric, the fit, and the overall construction.
Think of your suit as an investment in your swimming. The right one will move with you, reduce drag, and last for more than just a few months. Modern swimwear technology has come a long way, offering fabrics that are practically indestructible against chlorine while still providing incredible stretch and comfort. The fit should feel like a second skin—snug enough to stay put without restricting your movement. Finally, smart construction details, like supportive straps and non-chafing seams, make all the difference during a long practice. Let’s get into what sets a truly great lap suit apart from the rest.
Look for Chlorine-Resistant Fabric
If you’ve ever had a swimsuit fade, stretch out, or practically disintegrate after a few weeks of pool use, you know the destructive power of chlorine. That’s why fabric choice is number one on my list. For lap swimming, you need a suit made from chlorine-resistant material, typically 100% polyester or a high-polyester blend. These fabrics are built to withstand harsh pool chemicals, so your suit will maintain its shape, color, and elasticity much longer. Brands have developed amazing materials that offer durability without sacrificing comfort or performance. You can find plenty of durable competitive swim suits that feel great and are built to last through daily practices.
Find the Perfect Fit (Snug, Not Tight)
The perfect fit for a lap suit is snug, but not uncomfortably tight. It should feel like a supportive hug, with no sagging, bagging, or gaps around the edges. When you try on a suit, you shouldn't see any wrinkles or loose fabric, as this will catch water and create drag, slowing you down. On the other hand, if the straps are digging into your shoulders or it feels like you can’t breathe, it’s too small. A well-fitting suit stays in place whether you’re pushing off the wall or doing flip turns, allowing you to focus on your form instead of adjusting your swimwear. Check out the latest women's new arrivals to see styles designed for a secure, comfortable fit.
Check for Performance-Ready Construction
Beyond fabric and fit, the way a suit is put together—its construction—plays a huge role in your comfort and performance. Look for features like flatlock seams, which lie flat against the skin to prevent chafing during long swims. The design of the back and straps is also key. Wider, supportive straps will distribute pressure more evenly across your shoulders, while an open-back style can offer a greater range of motion. Some high-performance suits also incorporate compression technology, which supports your muscles to help reduce fatigue. These thoughtful details are what make a suit truly performance-ready, helping you glide through the water with more efficiency.
The Best Brands for Lap Swimmers
When you’re swimming laps regularly, you need a suit that can keep up. While countless brands are out there, a few consistently rise to the top for their commitment to quality, durability, and performance-driven design. These are the names you see on the pool deck and at major competitions for a reason—they’re trusted by swimmers at every level. Choosing a suit from one of these industry leaders means you’re investing in fabric technology that withstands chlorine and countless hours in the water, along with a fit that feels like a second skin.
Our Top Picks at Swim2000
After decades of outfitting swimmers, we’ve learned which brands truly deliver on their promises. For lap swimmers, three names consistently stand out: Speedo, TYR, and Arena. Each brand brings something unique to the table, but they all share a foundation of innovative materials and thoughtful construction. Whether you prioritize a classic, reliable fit or a sleek, high-tech design, you’ll find a suit that meets your needs. These brands are staples in the world of competitive swim because they understand what it takes to perform, lap after lap.
Speedo: The Classic Choice
Speedo is practically synonymous with swimming, and for good reason. With a long history of creating superior products, they’ve perfected the art of the training suit. Their Endurance+ fabric is legendary for its chlorine resistance and durability, making it a favorite for swimmers who spend a lot of time in the pool. These suits are designed not just to survive the daily grind but to thrive in it. When you choose a Speedo, you’re getting a suit that combines a classic, comfortable fit with modern fabric technology that’s built to last. Check out their swimwear new arrivals to see their latest styles.
TYR: Built for Performance
If you’re looking for a suit that’s engineered for serious performance, TYR is a fantastic choice. Known for its incredibly durable fabrics like Durafast Elite, TYR creates suits that hold their shape and color even after hundreds of hours in the water. Their designs often feature maximum support and coverage without restricting your movement, making them ideal for intense training sessions. Swimmers who demand a lot from their gear often turn to TYR because they know the suits are built to handle the work. They offer a great balance of function, longevity, and a secure, comfortable fit.
Arena: Sleek European Design
Arena brings a touch of European flair to the pool with its sleek, hydrodynamic designs. This brand excels at creating streamlined suits that minimize drag and allow for an excellent range of motion. A great lap swimming suit should feel like it disappears in the water, and Arena’s snug-fitting, cross-back styles are designed for exactly that. They focus on creating a comfortable, secure fit that lets you concentrate on your technique, not on adjusting your suit. If you want a high-performance suit with a sharp, modern aesthetic, explore the latest new products from Arena.
How to Choose a Suit for Your Body Type
Finding a lap swimming suit that feels like a second skin can completely change your relationship with the pool. The goal is to find a suit that lets you forget you’re even wearing one, so you can focus on your stroke, your breathing, and the rhythm of your workout. It’s not about fitting into a certain mold; it’s about finding the cut, support, and fabric that work for your unique shape. A great suit should move with you, stay in place, and stand up to chlorine and countless hours in the water.
When you feel confident and comfortable, you perform better. Think about what you need most. Is it more support in the bust? More freedom of movement in the shoulders? A cut that elongates your legs? Every swimmer’s body is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. We’ll walk through some common body types and suggest features that can help you find a suit that offers the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and performance. This way, you can spend less time adjusting your straps and more time gliding through the water.
For Athletic Builds
If you have an athletic frame with strong shoulders and a straight silhouette, your main goal is finding a suit that allows for a full range of motion. Look for designs with thin straps, open backs, or cross-back styles. These cuts minimize fabric around your shoulder blades, preventing any chafing or restriction as you pull through the water. A suit made from durable, chlorine-resistant fabric is also a must for frequent swimmers. The right suit will feel secure without digging in, giving you the freedom you need to power through every lap.
For Curvy Figures
For swimmers with curves, support is the name of the game. You don’t have to sacrifice style for function. Look for one-piece suits with features like wider, more supportive straps, a built-in shelf bra, or underwire cups to keep everything comfortably in place. Some suits also incorporate power mesh panels or strategic ruching for a little extra support and shaping around the midsection. When you feel secure, you can move with confidence, whether you’re swimming laps or joining a water aerobics class. The key is to find a balance of comfort and control that lets you focus on your workout.
For Petite Frames
If you have a petite frame, finding a suit with the right proportions is essential. A high-cut leg is a great feature to look for, as it creates a longer, leaner line and can make your legs appear miles long. To add a bit of shape, consider suits with side paneling, bold patterns, or color-blocking, which can create the illusion of curves. The most important thing is getting the torso length right to avoid any uncomfortable sagging or bunching. Check out the latest swimwear new arrivals to find a style that fits your frame perfectly.
For Plus Sizes
Comfort and support are paramount when you’re putting in the work at the pool. One-piece suits are a fantastic choice for lap swimming because they provide excellent coverage and a secure, streamlined fit that minimizes drag. Look for suits made from high-quality, compressive fabrics that offer support without feeling restrictive. Features like flattering seam placements and sturdy construction ensure your suit will hold its shape and keep you comfortable swim after swim. Many brands design performance swimwear specifically for plus-size bodies, so you can find a suit that feels amazing and helps you hit your goals.
For Modest Coverage
If you prefer more coverage for personal or practical reasons, you have more options than ever. Many performance suits come with higher necklines and lower-cut legs or boyleg styles. For even more coverage and excellent sun protection, consider pairing your suit with a sleek rashguard or a pair of swim tights. Modern performance fabrics are lightweight and hydrodynamic, so you don’t have to worry about extra material slowing you down. You can get the coverage you want while still enjoying a smooth, efficient swim.
Which Tech Features Actually Matter?
When you hear about "tech" in a swimsuit, you might picture an Olympic athlete. But the truth is, many of the innovations in modern swimwear offer real benefits for everyday lap swimmers, too. From fabrics that hold up against chlorine to designs that help you glide through the water, understanding these features can help you pick a suit that not only lasts longer but also makes your swim more enjoyable. You don’t need a top-tier racing suit to feel the difference. Let’s look at the key features that can improve your comfort and performance in the pool.
Compression for Muscle Support
Compression might sound intense, but it’s a feature that can help any swimmer feel stronger in the water. Suits with compression offer a snug, supportive fit that does more than just hold you in. The tight fit compacts your muscles and can even improve blood flow. For you, this means less muscle vibration and fatigue during a long practice. You’ll feel more powerful and streamlined with every stroke and kick. While it’s a hallmark of competitive swimwear, many training suits now incorporate compressive fabrics, giving you that extra bit of muscle support to finish your workout strong.
Hydrodynamic Design to Reduce Drag
Hydrodynamics is just a fancy way of saying how easily something moves through water. A well-designed swimsuit reduces drag, which is the water’s resistance against your body. To optimize performance, suits are tailored with a snug fit that aligns the body and reduces this drag. This creates a smoother, more streamlined profile in the water, helping you swim more efficiently. Think of it as getting more out of every pull and kick. Features like flatlock seams that don’t chafe and water-repellent fabrics contribute to a better hydrodynamic design. You can find these smart design elements in many of the latest swimwear arrivals.
Buoyancy for Better Body Position
Feeling light and high in the water is key to an efficient stroke, and some suits are designed to help with that. By providing a bit of lift, these suits can improve your buoyancy. This helps you maintain a better body position, keeping your hips and legs from sinking. When your body is more horizontal, you create less drag and can move through the water with less effort. This is especially helpful for swimmers working on their technique or for those swimming longer distances where fatigue can cause your form to break down. It’s one of the key advantages of tech suits, helping you reach your full potential in the water.
Fabrics That Go the Distance
The single most important feature for any lap swimmer is a durable, chlorine-resistant fabric. The chemicals in pool water can destroy a standard swimsuit in just a few wears. That’s why brands have developed amazing materials designed to last. From eco-conscious PowerFlex to indestructible Endurance+, today’s suits are designed to thrive in the grind of daily practice. These high-performance fabrics resist fading, stretching, and degradation from chlorine, sweat, and sunscreen. This means your suit will maintain its shape, color, and supportive fit for many swims to come. Checking out the new products is a great way to see the latest in fabric technology.
What to Look for Based on Your Swim Style
The perfect lap swimming suit feels like a second skin, but what that looks like depends entirely on how you spend your time in the water. A suit designed for a triathlete will have different features than one made for water aerobics. Your choice comes down to balancing freedom of movement, support, and coverage for your specific activity. A competitive swimmer needs a suit that minimizes drag and stays put during flip turns, while someone in an aquatic fitness class might prioritize more coverage and bust support.
Thinking about your primary use for the suit is the best first step. Are you training for a meet, swimming for fitness, or enjoying a mix of water sports? Answering this will help you zero in on the features that matter most. For example, if you’re doing high-intensity interval training, you’ll want a suit with secure straps and durable, chlorine-resistant fabric. If you’re an open-water swimmer, UV protection and a comfortable fit for long distances become top priorities. Let’s break down the key elements to consider based on your personal swim style.
Seam Construction and Freedom of Movement
When you’re logging laps, the last thing you want is chafing. That’s where seam construction comes in. Look for suits with flatlock seams, which lie flat against the skin to prevent irritation as you move. A great competitive swim suit is designed to allow a full range of motion through the shoulders and hips, so you can reach, pull, and kick without feeling restricted. The cut of the suit around the arms and back is especially important. You need to be able to execute every stroke perfectly, and a well-constructed suit moves with you, never against you. It should feel supportive without ever getting in your way.
Choose Your Style: Racerback vs. Open Back
The back style of your suit does more than just look good—it plays a huge role in fit and function. Racerback or cross-back styles are fantastic for providing a secure, snug fit. The straps are designed to stay firmly in place, which is why they’re a top choice for racing and intense training. You won’t have to worry about adjusting your suit between sets. On the other hand, suits with a more open back can offer greater flexibility and a less restrictive feel, which many swimmers prefer for long practice sessions. Check out the women's new arrivals to see the variety of back styles available and find what feels best for you.
Match Support Features to Your Activity
Support isn't one-size-fits-all. For high-impact activities like water aerobics, you’ll likely want a suit with a built-in shelf bra or soft cups for added support and comfort. These features help manage bounce and provide a more secure feeling as you move. For streamlined lap swimming, however, many athletes prefer the support that comes from compression fabric alone. This design minimizes drag and keeps everything in place without the extra layers of a built-in bra. Think about the intensity of your activity and choose the level of support that will give you the most confidence in the water.
Find Coverage That Stays in Place
A suit that fits well provides coverage you don’t have to think about. One-piece suits are the go-to for lap swimming because they offer excellent support and are designed to stay put, no matter how hard you’re working. A properly fitting suit won’t ride up or shift during your swim, letting you focus on your form instead of fidgeting with your swimwear. Pay attention to the leg cut—options range from conservative to high-cut, and the right choice is all about personal comfort. When you feel secure and covered, you can swim with more power and confidence. Browse the latest swimwear new arrivals to find a cut that works for you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Suit
Finding the right lap swimming suit can feel like a challenge, but knowing what to watch out for makes all the difference. A great suit should feel like a second skin, helping you glide through the water without a second thought. Unfortunately, a few common missteps can lead to a suit that chafes, sags, or holds you back. Let's walk through the most frequent mistakes so you can shop with confidence and find a suit that truly works for you, your body, and your goals in the pool.
Getting the Wrong Size
The most common mistake is choosing the wrong size. A lap swimming suit isn't supposed to fit like your casual beachwear; it needs to be snug. If it’s too loose, it will create drag and fill with water as you swim. If it’s too tight, it will restrict your movement and be uncomfortable. To find your best fit, measure your body carefully—chest, waist, and hips—while wearing underwear or a thin swimsuit. Make sure the measuring tape is snug but not digging in. Always compare your measurements to the brand’s specific size chart, as sizing can vary between different swimwear brands.
Overlooking Fabric Quality
Not all swimwear fabric is created equal. For lap swimming, you need a suit made from durable, chlorine-resistant material. Standard fashion swimwear often uses fabrics that will quickly fade, stretch, and degrade with regular exposure to pool chemicals. Look for suits made with polyester or PBT blends, which are designed to withstand countless hours in the pool. A quality competitive suit will also offer a good range of motion, dry quickly, and maintain its shape, giving you a comfortable and reliable fit every time you swim.
Ignoring Your Body's Needs
Every swimmer’s body is unique, and the perfect suit for one person might not work for another. It's important to consider your specific needs. Do you need more bust support? Look for suits with built-in bras or thicker straps. Prefer more coverage? There are plenty of modest options with higher necklines and lower leg cuts. The type of swimming you do also matters. A casual lap swimmer might prioritize comfort, while a competitive athlete will focus on compression and hydrodynamics. Take a moment to think about what makes you feel most comfortable and confident in the water, and choose a style from the women's new arrivals that matches those needs.
Focusing Only on Price
While everyone loves a good deal, making your decision based on price alone can be a mistake. The cheapest suit on the rack is often made from lower-quality materials that won't last, meaning you'll be shopping for a replacement sooner than you’d like. Investing a little more in a well-constructed suit designed for performance will pay off in the long run. These suits offer a better fit, reduce drag, and hold up to chlorine. You don't have to break the bank, either. You can often find high-quality suits from top brands at a great price in the Clearance Corner, giving you the best of both worlds.
How to Find the Perfect Fit Online
Let's be real: buying a swimsuit online can feel like a gamble. You can't try it on, and every brand seems to have its own idea of what "medium" means. But finding a lap suit that fits like a second skin without stepping into a dressing room is totally possible. The key is to approach it with a little strategy instead of just crossing your fingers and clicking "add to cart." When you're shopping for a performance suit, fit is everything. A suit that's too loose will create drag and slow you down, while one that's too tight will restrict your movement and leave you feeling uncomfortable halfway through your workout. The goal is a snug, supportive fit that you don't have to think about once you hit the water. By focusing on the right information—like brand-specific measurements, key performance features, and the overall value of the suit—you can shop with confidence. Think of it as a simple, three-step process to make sure the suit that arrives at your door is the one you'll love lap after lap. We'll walk through exactly how to use sizing guides, identify the features that matter, and find a great suit that fits your budget.
Use Brand Sizing Guides
This is your single most important tool. Before you even look at the color options, find the brand's sizing guide on the product page. Don't assume your size in one brand will translate to another. To get the most accurate numbers, measure yourself wearing underwear or a thin swimsuit, keeping the measuring tape snug but not tight against your skin. Most guides will ask for your chest, waist, and hip measurements, and some will include a torso loop measurement, which is crucial for one-pieces. Taking a few minutes to do this can save you the headache of a return and ensure your new women's new arrivals fit perfectly from day one.
Know Which Features Matter Most
Beyond fit, the right features separate a great lap suit from a mediocre one. Look for a suit that prioritizes comfort, durability, and a full range of motion. The fabric should be quick-drying and chlorine-resistant to stand up to regular pool sessions. For outdoor swimmers, UV protection is a non-negotiable feature to shield your skin from the sun. A suit designed for competitive swim will incorporate these elements to reduce drag and help you move efficiently through the water. When you're comparing options, think about what your swim routine demands and choose a suit with features that support your goals.
Balance Price and Value
It’s easy to just sort by "price: low to high," but the cheapest suit isn't always the best deal. When it comes to lap suits, value is about finding a balance between price and quality. A well-made suit from a trusted brand will last longer, hold its shape better, and perform more reliably than a lower-quality alternative, saving you money in the long run. That doesn't mean you have to break the bank. We offer a wide range of gear at different price points. For an even better value, keep an eye out for incentives like free shipping or check out the Clearance Corner for top-tier suits at a discount.
Where to Find the Best Deals on Swimsuits
Finding a high-quality lap swimming suit that fits your budget doesn't have to be a challenge. With a little strategy, you can score a fantastic deal on a suit that will last for many seasons. The key is knowing where and when to look. Whether you prefer browsing from your couch or trying things on in person, there are plenty of ways to find performance swimwear without paying full price. Let's go over a few simple tips to help you find the best deals on your next suit.
Shopping Online vs. In-Store
When you're on the hunt for the perfect lap swimming suit, shopping online offers some serious advantages. Online retailers typically have a much wider selection of styles, colors, and sizes than brick-and-mortar stores. This makes it easier to find a suit with the specific features you need, like a streamlined silhouette designed for performance. You can compare different brands and read reviews from other swimmers to make an informed choice. Plus, having access to a huge variety of competitive swimwear means you’re more likely to find exactly what you’re looking for, from high-compression tech suits to durable practice suits.
Watch for Seasonal Sales and Discounts
Timing is everything when it comes to getting a good deal. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, especially at the end of summer when retailers are clearing out inventory to make room for new styles. Major holidays and events like Black Friday are also prime times to find discounts on high-quality swimwear. A great way to stay in the loop is by signing up for email newsletters from your favorite swim shops. This way, you’ll be the first to know when a sale drops, helping you snag a great suit that’s built for both performance and style at a reduced price.
Check the Clearance Section
Don't forget one of the best spots for a bargain: the clearance section. This is where you can often find top-notch lap swimsuits at a significant discount. You might find last season’s colors or styles that are just as functional as the newest arrivals. Many swimmers find supportive and flattering one-piece suits with features like wide straps and built-in shelf bras by checking the clearance corner. It’s a smart way to get a high-performance suit that makes you feel confident in the water, all while saving a little money.
How to Make Your Swimsuit Last Longer
You’ve found the perfect suit—it fits like a glove and makes you feel unstoppable in the water. Now, let's make sure it stays that way. Taking care of your swimwear isn't complicated, but a few simple habits can dramatically extend its life. The biggest enemies of your suit are chlorine, sunscreen, and heat, which can break down the delicate fibers over time. By following a proper care routine, you can keep your suit's fabric vibrant, stretchy, and ready for countless laps. It’s the best way to protect your investment and ensure your gear performs as hard as you do.
How to Wash and Rinse Your Suit
First things first: rinse your suit in cool, fresh water as soon as you get out of the pool. This simple step washes away the majority of the chlorine and chemicals before they have a chance to do damage. When you get home, give it a proper wash. The best method is to hand wash it in cold water with a mild soap. This gentle approach is crucial for all types of competitive swimwear. Avoid tossing it in the washing machine, and definitely steer clear of bleach, harsh detergents, or fabric softeners. These products are too aggressive for performance fabrics and will destroy the elasticity that gives your suit its supportive fit.
The Right Way to Dry and Store It
After washing, resist the urge to wring out your suit! Twisting and squeezing can damage the delicate fibers and stretch the fabric. Instead, gently roll it in a clean towel and press out the excess water. To dry, lay it flat or hang it on a plastic hanger away from direct sunlight and heat. The sun’s UV rays can cause the colors to fade, and heat from a dryer will ruin the elastic. Never, ever put your suit in the dryer or iron it. Once it's completely dry, you can store it away, ready for your next swim.
Know When It's Time for a New Suit
Even the most well-cared-for suit won't last forever. If you’re a frequent swimmer, you’ll eventually notice signs of wear. Look for fabric that feels thin, has lost its stretch, or becomes see-through when wet. Faded colors and frayed seams are other tell-tale signs that it’s time for a replacement. A worn-out suit doesn't just look tired; it loses its compression and shape, which can create drag in the water and reduce support. When you start seeing these signs, it’s the perfect excuse to check out some swimwear new arrivals and treat yourself to a fresh suit that will perform its best.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a lap suit fits properly? A great lap suit should feel like a second skin—snug all over with no sagging or wrinkling fabric, especially around your rear or midsection. However, it shouldn't be painfully tight. The straps shouldn't dig into your shoulders, and you should be able to breathe and move your arms freely without restriction. If you can fit more than a finger or two under the straps or edges, it's likely too big and will create drag in the water.
What's the single most important feature in a training suit? Without a doubt, it's chlorine-resistant fabric. Regular exposure to pool chemicals will destroy a standard swimsuit, causing it to stretch, fade, and lose its shape in just a few weeks. Look for suits made from 100% polyester or a high-polyester blend. This is the best way to ensure your suit will hold up to frequent use and your investment will last.
Can I just use my regular fashion swimsuit for swimming laps? While you technically can, you'll regret it pretty quickly. Fashion swimwear is designed for looks and occasional dips, not for performance or durability in a chlorinated pool. The fabric will break down rapidly, leaving you with a saggy, faded suit. A proper lap suit is a piece of athletic equipment designed to reduce drag, support your body, and withstand harsh chemicals, making it essential for any serious swimmer.
Is it worth spending more on a suit from a top brand like Speedo or TYR? Think of it as an investment in your swimming. While the initial price might be higher, suits from trusted performance brands are engineered with superior materials and construction. This means they last significantly longer, maintain their supportive fit, and perform better in the water. You'll end up replacing a cheaper, lower-quality suit far more often, which usually costs you more in the long run.
How often do I really need to replace my swimsuit? There's no exact timeline, as it depends on how often you swim and how well you care for your suit. The tell-tale signs are when the fabric starts to feel thin or mushy, loses its elasticity, or becomes see-through when wet. If the color is severely faded or the seams are starting to fray, it's also time for a new one. For someone who swims several times a week, this could be every six months to a year.
