The conundrum is this. If your bikini stays on, it likely looks like it belongs in the lost and found section at the community pool. If your bikini is stylish, it likely will be found floating (without you) in the whitewash after one big wipeout. Where many people see a stylish scrunch-cut bikini bottom, we see an interesting take on doing a bottom turn. This is why I and many other surfer girls often look at bikinis marketed towards surfer women with a skeptical eye.
To have a swimsuit that looks awesome and stays in place through wipeouts, duck dives, and waves is the holy grail of swimwear. Fortunately, there are a few brands out there that offer swimsuits that are both stylish and comfortable.
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Zealous
Zealous is a Bali-based clothing and apparel brand founded by Marie-Kristin Krause, a passionate surfer from Germany. Combining her love for designing clothes and surfing, Zealous creates a range of sustainable swimwear for watersports enthusiasts. Their swimwear collection is highly functional and designed to meet the demands of serious surfers, swimmers, and kitesurfers. With a “surf-proof” approach, Zealous ensures that their swimwear withstands even the roughest conditions while still looking stylish. Committed to ethical manufacturing, Zealous incorporates pre and post-consumer plastic waste into their Ocean Surf bikini products, supporting beach clean-up initiatives in Indonesia.
Swimwear to try: Zealous x Zala Surfsuit
Noserider Surf Club
NOSERIDER Surf Club is a new label founded by surfer girl Emma Bukowski in Canggu, Bali. With a mission to design swimwear that works harmoniously with your body, their collection focuses on functional and flattering designs. Each piece is carefully crafted to provide comfort and support, allowing you to enjoy your water activities to the fullest.
From designing the fit and style, picking out the fabric type and color, to testing it out in the water – so much thought, care, and passion is sewn into each piece.
Swimwear to try: Tanjung An Surf Suit in Black
This one piece surf suit has a wide neckline, 3/4 length sleeves, and a cute peekaboo back. The bottoms are tastefully cheeky with a high hip.
Salt Gypsy
Salt Gypsy is known for popularizing surf leggings, providing sun protection in hot climates without the bulk of neoprene. Their apparel features a simple and stylish design that stays in place, even during challenging conditions. Salt Gypsy understands the needs of active waterwomen and creates swimwear that combines functionality and fashion.
We focus on developing stylish & long-lasting products for discerning women of the sea.
The winning combo: Luna Surf Crop paired with the Betty Bottoms or Libby surf leggings
Project Blank
Project Blank specializes in crafting swimwear for active girls on the go. Their swimwear is designed for surfers, swimmers, climbers, kitesurfers, and anyone who seeks swimwear that stays securely in place during their activities. With a focus on performance and style, Project Blank offers swimwear that allows you to move freely and confidently.
With performance in mind and sustainability at heart, our products are designed to keep you in the water for longer.
The winning combo: The Athletes Bikini Top paired with the Athletes Bikini Bottom
Max out your beach time in and out of the water with the Athletes Bikini.
Athleta
Athleta offers a wide range of swimwear styles that cater to various body types and sizes, all at affordable prices. Their tops feature clasp closures, providing a secure fit and a refreshing change from traditional knot-tied swimwear. Athleta also boasts a stellar return policy, ensuring customer satisfaction if the fit isn’t as expected.
Our mission is to ignite the limitless potential of all women and girls.
The winning combo: Longline Plunge Bikini Top and Clean Full Bottom by Athleta
Lululemon
Lululemon is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of activewear, including swimwear. Their commitment to quality and performance is evident in their Zip-Back Paddle Suit. Designed specifically for sun and surf activities, this paddle suit provides sun protection and a supportive feel as you paddle and swim. The suit is made from a four-way stretch fabric with added Xtra Life Lycra® fiber, ensuring improved resistance to chlorine and salt. Lululemon’s attention to detail and focus on functionality make their swimwear a favorite among active women. With medium bum coverage, the Zip-Back Paddle Suit combines style and performance for water-loving individuals who prioritize both fashion and functionality in their swimwear choices.
Swimwear to try: Zip-Back Paddle Suit Medium Bum Coverage
