If you’ve ever tried to swim laps in a flimsy fashion swimsuit, you already know the struggle. The straps dig in, the fabric stretches out after a few encounters with chlorine, and it feels like you’re dragging an anchor through the water. That’s because a suit designed for lounging by the pool is fundamentally different from one built for moving through it. This is where women's performance swimwear comes in. It’s not just for Olympians; it’s for anyone who takes their time in the water seriously. This guide will walk you through everything that makes these suits special—from chlorine-resistant fabrics to hydrodynamic designs—so you can find the perfect gear to support your goals.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize Technical Features Over Labels: A great performance suit is defined by its materials and construction. Look for chlorine-resistant fabrics for durability, a compressive fit to reduce drag, and a cut that allows for a full range of motion in the water.
- Choose Your Suit Based on Your Goal: The right swimsuit depends entirely on your activity. Use highly compressive, water-repellent tech suits for race day, rely on durable, comfortable suits for daily training, and opt for supportive, high-coverage styles for water aerobics.
- Proper Care Extends the Life of Your Suit: Make your investment last by rinsing your suit in cool, fresh water after every swim and always air-drying it. This simple routine prevents fabric breakdown from chlorine and sun, preserving the suit's fit and performance.
What Defines "Performance" Swimwear?
When you hear "performance swimwear," it’s easy to think it’s just for Olympians. But really, it’s any suit designed to help you move through the water more efficiently and comfortably, whether you’re training for a triathlon or enjoying a water aerobics class. Unlike a standard fashion swimsuit you’d wear to the beach, performance suits are built with specific goals in mind: durability, support, and speed. They are the difference between a suit that just looks good and one that actively helps you swim better.
These suits are true workhorses. They’re engineered from advanced materials that stand up to chlorine and countless hours in the pool without losing their shape or becoming see-through. They also provide strategic compression to support your muscles, which can help you feel stronger for longer during a tough workout. Finally, every seam and panel is designed to be hydrodynamic, reducing drag so you can glide through the water with less resistance. Think of it as technical gear for the water—every element has a purpose. When you invest in competitive swimwear, you’re investing in technology that helps you achieve your personal best, lap after lap.
Built to Last: Chlorine-Resistant Fabrics
If you’ve ever had a favorite suit stretch out, fade, or become thin after just one season, you know the damage chlorine can do. Performance swimwear is made from advanced, chlorine-resistant fabrics, most commonly a blend of polyester and PBT (polybutylene terephthalate). These materials are far more durable than the Lycra or spandex found in most fashion swimwear. They hold their color and shape significantly longer, meaning you won't have to replace your suit nearly as often. This focus on longevity ensures your suit provides a consistent fit and feel every time you hit the water, making it a smart investment for any serious swimmer.
The Power of Compression and Support
A great performance suit feels like a second skin, and that’s thanks to compression. This isn't just about being tight; it's about providing targeted pressure to key muscle groups. This strategic compression helps increase blood flow and reduce muscle oscillation (a fancy term for jiggling), which can decrease fatigue and help you maintain a more streamlined body position in the water. The result? You feel more powerful and efficient with every stroke and kick. The right amount of support from your suit can make a noticeable difference in your endurance, especially during long training sessions. You can find many supportive suits designed for this very purpose.
Designed for Speed: Hydrodynamic Features
Hydrodynamics is all about moving through water with the least amount of resistance, and performance suits are engineered to do just that. Features like bonded or flatlock seams create a smoother surface than traditional stitching, which helps reduce drag. Many high-end suits also use water-repellent fabrics that don't get waterlogged, keeping you light and fast. Even the placement of panels and the cut of the suit are carefully considered to optimize water flow around your body. These small details add up, helping you shave off precious seconds from your time or simply move with greater ease during any aquatic activity.
The Best Brands in Women's Performance Swimwear
When you’re looking for a suit that can keep up with you, it pays to start with brands that have dedicated decades to perfecting their craft. Certain names have become legendary on the pool deck for a reason—they consistently deliver on quality, innovation, and speed. We’ve handpicked the brands that swimmers trust most, from the household names to the competitive powerhouses, to help you find the perfect fit for your goals.
Our Curated Collection at Swim2000
We know you’re looking for the best, so we’ve stocked our shop with the brands that lead the pack. Featuring the latest innovations from Speedo, TYR, Arena, and FINIS, our women's technical swimsuits are built with FINA-approved fabrics that reduce drag and support your muscles. We focus on suits that offer a real advantage, whether that’s through advanced compression, water-repellent technology, or a design that feels like a second skin. Think of us as your personal gear expert, curating a collection that meets the highest standards of performance.
Speedo: The Gold Standard
You can’t talk about swimming without talking about Speedo. This brand is iconic for a reason—it has been a trusted partner for swimmers at every level for generations. Speedo’s suits offer secure, performance-driven fits that are ideal for active use, with quick-drying fabric and durable construction that stands up to chlorine and countless hours of training. Whether you’re just starting on a swim team or you’re a seasoned competitor, Speedo delivers reliable performance and a classic style that never fades. It’s the go-to brand for swimmers who want quality they can count on.
TYR: Innovation Meets Durability
Named after the Norse god of warriors, TYR brings a fighter’s spirit to its swimwear design. The brand is known for pushing the boundaries of fabric technology and suit construction. These high-performance swimsuits are engineered specifically for competitive swim, often featuring advanced water-repellent fabrics and bonded seams that create a smoother, more hydrodynamic profile in the water. If you’re looking for a suit that leverages the latest tech to help you shave off seconds while being tough enough for daily practice, TYR is a brand that consistently delivers on both fronts.
Arena: European Excellence
With roots in Italy, Arena brings a distinct European flair to the world of performance swimwear. The brand is known for its high-quality swimwear that combines performance with style, making it a favorite among competitive swimmers who want to stand out. Arena’s suits are crafted with cutting-edge materials that provide excellent compression and freedom of movement. They are meticulously designed to optimize your body’s position in the water, helping you swim more efficiently. For swimmers who appreciate both powerful performance and a sleek aesthetic, Arena offers the best of both worlds.
Key Features to Look For in Your Next Suit
Check the Fabric Technology
The material of your suit is its foundation. For performance swimwear, you’ll mostly find fabrics made from polyester, nylon, and polyurethane blends. Materials like nylon-spandex are popular because they offer a tough, durable fiber that holds its shape and resists the harsh effects of chlorine. This means your suit won’t stretch out or fade after just a few weeks in the pool. When you’re looking at your options, pay attention to the fabric composition. A high-quality blend is the first sign of a suit that’s built to handle lap after lap, making it a smart choice for any serious swimmer looking for reliable competitive swim gear.
Find the Right Fit and Compression
A performance suit should feel like a second skin. The right fit is snug all over to minimize drag in the water, but it shouldn’t restrict your breathing or movement. When you try on a suit, make sure there are no gaps around the neckline, armholes, or leg openings, as these can scoop up water and slow you down. A compressive fit helps support your muscles and improves hydrodynamics, letting you glide more efficiently. Look for suits made from a thick, durable fabric that provides this compression without feeling stiff. Exploring the women's new arrivals can give you a feel for the latest cuts and compressive materials available.
Get the Support You Need
Support is about more than just comfort—it’s about feeling secure and confident with every stroke. Depending on your body and your swimming style, your support needs will vary. Features like wider straps, higher necklines, and built-in shelf bras can provide extra security, especially during intense training or high-impact activities. A classic one-piece design is often a go-to for its ability to offer excellent support while maintaining a streamlined silhouette. For activities like water aerobics, where you’re moving in every direction, a supportive and well-fitting suit is absolutely essential for a comfortable experience.
Prioritize UV and Chlorine Protection
Think of your swimsuit as an investment. To get the most out of it, you need one that can withstand the elements it’s exposed to most: chlorine and the sun. Chlorine is notorious for breaking down fabric fibers, leading to thinning, stretching, and fading. Sun exposure can do similar damage. High-performance suits are designed with chlorine-resistant materials that maintain their integrity and color much longer than standard fashion swimwear. Many also offer UPF protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Prioritizing these features ensures your suit will perform well and last through many seasons of swimming.
How Different Styles Affect Your Performance
The style of your swimsuit is about much more than just aesthetics—it’s a critical piece of your performance equipment. The cut of the back, the length of the legs, and even whether it’s a one-piece or two-piece can directly influence your speed, comfort, and range of motion in the water. Understanding these differences helps you choose a suit that works with your body and your stroke, not against it. Let’s look at how specific design choices can impact your swim.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece: Which is Faster?
When it comes to pure speed, a one-piece suit is almost always the faster choice. These high-performance suits are engineered for competition, providing a snug, seamless fit that minimizes drag. The continuous fabric creates a more streamlined silhouette, reducing the water resistance that can slow you down. While a two-piece might be comfortable for practice or a less intense workout, the gap between the top and bottom can catch water. For race day, most swimmers rely on a classic one-piece to gain every possible advantage in their competitive swim.
Why Competitors Choose Kneesuits
You’ve likely seen elite swimmers wearing suits that extend down to their knees. These styles, often called kneesuits or kneeskins, are designed for maximum performance. They offer more coverage, which translates to greater compression and muscle support across your core, glutes, and quads. This can help reduce muscle oscillation and fatigue during a race. Despite the extra coverage, these suits are made from incredibly flexible fabrics that don't restrict your range of motion. Top-tier kneesuits are also FINA-approved, ensuring they meet the standards for official competitions. Check out the latest women's new arrivals to see these technical suits in action.
Open Back vs. Closed Back: What's the Difference?
The style of the back of your suit is largely a matter of personal preference, but it does affect how the suit feels. Open-back designs, with thinner straps or larger cutouts, allow for greater freedom of movement in the shoulders and lats. Many swimmers feel this gives them a better feel for the water. On the other hand, closed-back suits provide more coverage and support. This can create a more locked-in, compressive feel that some swimmers prefer for the stability it offers. There’s no right or wrong answer—it’s about what makes you feel most powerful and comfortable in the water.
How Leg Cut Changes Your Swim
The height of the leg cut can also influence your performance. A suit with a higher leg cut generally allows for more freedom of movement through the hips, which can be beneficial for strokes that require a wide kick, like breaststroke. It can also change how water flows around your body. A lower-cut leg provides more coverage and a bit more compression around the hips and glutes. Ultimately, the ideal leg cut comes down to your body type, your stroke mechanics, and what feels most comfortable to you while you’re swimming. You can browse a variety of cuts in our swimwear new arrivals.
Match Your Suit to Your Swim
The perfect performance suit isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. The features you need for a championship meet are very different from what you’d want for a daily training session or a water aerobics class. Finding the right swimwear means matching the design and fabric to your specific activity. Let's break down what to look for based on how you spend your time in the water.
Gearing Up for Race Day
When every hundredth of a second counts, you need a suit built for pure speed. These high-performance swimsuits are engineered specifically for competitive swim events. They often feature advanced water-repellent fabrics, bonded seams, and streamlined designs to reduce drag as much as possible. A race day suit should feel like a second skin, offering significant compression to support your muscles and improve your body's position in the water. This isn't the suit you'll wear for a casual practice; it's a specialized piece of gear you save for meet day to give you that competitive edge.
Choosing a Durable Training Suit
Your everyday training suit is your workhorse. It needs to be tough enough to handle hours of drills, kick sets, and flip turns, week after week. Your training suit should be snug but comfortable enough to wear for long periods. The key here is durability. Look for suits made from thick, chlorine-resistant fabrics like 100% polyester, which can withstand regular exposure to pool chemicals without stretching out or fading. While it won't have the high-tech compression of a race suit, a great training suit provides reliable performance and impressive durability, making it a smart choice for your daily grind.
Staying Comfortable in Water Aerobics
For water aerobics, your priorities shift from speed to comfort, support, and coverage. You need a suit that stays in place through a wide range of movements, from high-knees to jumping jacks. A good performance swimsuit for this activity should fit snugly, especially around the neck and armholes, to prevent it from billowing with water and creating drag. Many people prefer suits with higher necklines, wider straps, and built-in shelf bras for extra support. Just like a training suit, chlorine resistance is a must-have feature to ensure your investment lasts.
What Triathletes Need in a Suit
Triathletes need a suit that can perform in the water, on the bike, and during the run. Triathlon-specific suits and wetsuits are designed with this versatility in mind. The fabrics used—often a blend of polyester, nylon, and polyurethane—are chosen for their unique properties, offering the right mix of stretch, durability, and water resistance. A tri-suit is hydrodynamic for the swim, but it’s also designed to dry quickly, prevent chafing on the bike, and feel comfortable during the run. It’s the ultimate multi-tasking garment for the multi-sport athlete.
How Much Should You Spend on a Performance Suit?
The price tag on performance swimwear can vary wildly, and it really comes down to your goals in the water. Whether you're training for your first meet or aiming for the podium, there’s a suit that fits your ambition and your budget. Think of it as an investment in your performance—the key is finding the right balance between technology and cost for where you are in your swimming journey. Let's break down the typical price ranges so you know what to expect and what you’re getting for your money.
Entry-Level Training Suits ($25-$75)
If you're just getting into swimming or need a reliable suit for daily practice, you don't need to spend a fortune. Suits in this price range are perfect for building your skills and endurance. They are designed for durability and comfort during long hours in a chlorinated pool. You can even find fantastic deals like "Grab Bag" swimsuits that give you a high-quality suit for a fraction of the price. This is a great way to get acquainted with performance swimwear without a major financial commitment, letting you focus on your form, not your finances.
Serious Performance Suits ($75-$200)
Once you start competing more seriously, you’ll want a suit with more advanced features. In this price range, you’ll find competitive swimwear made with water-repellent fabrics and bonded seams. These elements reduce drag and improve your glide through the water, which can make a real difference on race day. These suits offer a higher level of compression to support your muscles and are built to feel like a second skin. This is the sweet spot for many dedicated swimmers who want a tangible performance advantage during their meets.
Elite Competition Suits ($200-$600)
For elite swimmers competing at the highest levels, a tech suit is a critical piece of gear. These suits, often called "kneeskins," are engineered with cutting-edge technology and premium materials to give you every possible advantage. They offer maximum compression to optimize muscle function and are designed to be incredibly hydrodynamic, shaving precious fractions of a second off your time. The investment is significant, but for swimmers whose goals are measured in milliseconds, the performance benefits can be well worth the cost.
How to Find a Great Deal at Swim2000
No matter your budget, everyone loves a good deal. A great first step is to check customer reviews to get honest feedback on a suit's fit and quality before you buy. This can save you from a costly sizing mistake. Also, keep an eye on our Clearance Corner, where you can find top-tier suits from previous seasons at a deep discount. And here’s a pro tip: signing up for our email list can often get you an extra discount, like 10% off your first order, making that perfect suit even more affordable.
What Real Swimmers Are Saying
Product descriptions can tell you about fabric technology and features, but they don’t always tell the whole story. To get the real scoop, you have to listen to the people who spend hours in the pool wearing these suits. We’ve sifted through reviews and feedback from competitive swimmers, triathletes, and water aerobics enthusiasts to find out what they’re really saying about today’s performance swimwear. Think of this as the locker room talk you need before you make your next purchase.
How Long Do These Suits Really Last?
One of the biggest questions swimmers have is about durability. Will this suit stand up to daily practices, harsh pool chemicals, and repeated stretching? While brands promise chlorine resistance, user reviews give you the unfiltered truth. Many swimmers report being pleasantly surprised by the longevity of mid-range suits, noting they hold their shape and color far longer than expected. Reading through feedback gives you a clearer picture of a suit’s real-life performance. You’ll find out if the fabric starts to thin after a month or if it’s a true workhorse that will last you the entire season. It’s the best way to know if you’re making a smart investment in your competitive swim gear.
Is It Comfortable and True to Size?
Fit is everything in a performance suit. It should feel like a second skin—snug and compressive, but not restrictive. Sizing can be tricky, though, and it often varies between brands. This is where customer reviews are your best friend. Real swimmers provide invaluable insights, sharing details like, "I have a long torso and had to size up," or "The straps are perfect for broader shoulders." This kind of feedback helps you choose the right size from the start. Your training suit needs to be comfortable enough for hours of drills, so getting the fit right is crucial for staying focused in the water. Look for reviews from swimmers with a similar build to yours before adding one of our women's new arrivals to your cart.
Does It Actually Make You Faster?
Tech suits come with big promises of reducing drag and shaving seconds off your time. But do they deliver? According to competitive swimmers, the answer is a resounding yes. While a suit can't replace hard work, the right one provides a noticeable edge on race day. Swimmers often talk about the feeling of gliding through the water with less effort, thanks to water-repellent fabrics and bonded seams. These high-performance swimsuits are engineered to compress key muscle groups, which swimmers say helps reduce fatigue during a tough race. The mental advantage is just as important—pulling on a top-tier suit can give you the confidence you need to perform your best when it counts.
Common Complaints to Watch For
Reading reviews isn’t just about finding the good stuff; it’s also about spotting potential problems. Some of the most common complaints to watch for include straps that dig in, seams that chafe, or a cut that isn’t suited for a particular body type. Another frequent issue is fabric that pills or fades quickly, even when the suit is cared for properly. Some swimmers also note that a suit advertised as providing "compression" can sometimes feel too restrictive, limiting mobility in the shoulders and hips. By paying attention to these red flags, you can avoid common pitfalls and choose a suit that feels great and performs well. It’s a smart way to shop, especially when you find a great deal in our Clearance Corner.
Make Your Performance Swimwear Last
Investing in a high-quality performance suit is the first step, but making it last is just as important. With the right care, you can extend the life of your favorite suit, saving you money and ensuring you get the best performance every time you hit the water. Chlorine, sun, and even lotions can be tough on delicate swimwear fabrics, but a few simple habits can make all the difference. Think of it as protecting your investment. A well-cared-for suit not only looks better but also maintains its shape, compression, and hydrodynamic properties for longer, helping you feel confident and fast in every lap.
How to Wash and Store Your Suit
The golden rule of swimwear care is to rinse your suit in cool, fresh water immediately after every swim. This washes away damaging chlorine and salt. For a deeper clean, hand wash with a mild soap designed for delicates. Never, ever put your performance suit in the washing machine or dryer—the heat and agitation will destroy the elastic fibers. When you're looking for a new suit, customer reviews are a great resource, as shoppers often share valuable insights on whether a suit holds up after multiple washes. To dry, gently squeeze out excess water (don’t wring it!), and lay it flat or hang it to dry in a shady, well-ventilated spot.
Simple Tricks to Extend Its Life
Beyond washing, a few small habits can significantly prolong your suit's lifespan. Try to have a couple of training suits you can rotate between. This gives the Lycra in each suit at least 24 hours to recover and regain its shape. Be mindful of where you sit; rough pool decks and wooden benches can snag and pill the fabric. Always sit on a towel. It’s also a good idea to shower in your suit before getting into the pool, as this helps it absorb less chlorinated water. The insights from other users can be incredibly helpful for discovering more real-life durability and care tips.
Know When It's Time for a New One
Even the best-cared-for suit has a lifespan. You’ll know it’s time for a replacement when the fabric feels thin or mushy, especially across the back and chest. If you can see through it when you hold it up to the light, it’s definitely time to retire it. Another key sign is a loss of elasticity—if the straps are loose or the suit feels baggy, it’s no longer providing the compression you need. A good performance swimsuit should fit snugly, because a loose suit causes drag. Continuing to wear a worn-out suit compromises your performance and comfort, so don't hesitate to treat yourself to a new one.
Related Articles
- The Ultimate Guide to Competition Swim Suits
- Racing Swimwear: The Ultimate Buyer's Guide
- Where to Buy Swimwear: The Ultimate Guide
- Dolfin Aquashape Moderate Lap One Piece
- Speedo Women's Cyclone Swirl Flyback One Piece Swimsuit
Frequently Asked Questions
How tight should a performance swimsuit actually feel? A new performance suit should feel like a firm, supportive hug—snug all over, but not so tight that it restricts your breathing or cuts off circulation. When you first put it on, especially a competitive tech suit, it might take some effort to get into. The key is to make sure there are no gaps or wrinkles around the straps, chest, or leg openings, as these will scoop up water and create drag. It will feel much more compressive than a casual swimsuit, but it should still allow you to have a full range of motion in your shoulders and hips.
Can I use my expensive race day suit for regular training? It's best to save your high-tech race suit for meets only. Think of it as a specialized piece of equipment. The advanced, water-repellent fabrics and bonded seams that make these suits so fast are also more delicate and not designed to withstand the daily grind of chlorine and long hours in the pool. Using a durable, chlorine-resistant training suit for practice will ensure your race day suit stays in top condition and is ready to perform when it matters most.
What's the single most important feature to look for in a daily training suit? For a suit you'll be wearing for practice several times a week, the most critical feature is chlorine resistance. Look for suits made primarily from polyester or PBT blends, as these materials are built to last. They hold their shape, color, and compression far longer than the typical spandex found in fashion swimwear. A durable, chlorine-resistant suit is the best investment you can make for your training, as it won't stretch out, thin, or fade after just a few weeks in the pool.
Why are some suits so much more expensive than others? The price of a performance suit is directly related to its technology and intended purpose. Entry-level suits are priced for durability and comfort, using tough, chlorine-resistant fabrics for daily training. As you move up in price, you start paying for hydrodynamic features like water-repellent coatings and bonded seams that reduce drag. The most expensive elite tech suits use cutting-edge materials and construction techniques to provide maximum muscle compression and the fastest possible glide, giving competitors a measurable edge on race day.
How do I find the right size without trying the suit on? Finding the perfect fit online can feel tricky, but it's definitely doable. Start by taking your measurements and consulting the brand's official size chart, as sizing can vary between manufacturers. After that, your best resource is customer reviews. Look for feedback from swimmers who have a similar body type to yours. They often provide invaluable insights on whether a suit runs small, has a long torso, or fits a certain way in the chest or hips. This real-world advice is the key to choosing the right size with confidence.
