-
Water Sports
-
Sun Protection
-
Hotel Pool
-
All-Inclusive Resort Or Cruise
-
Beach And Ocean
-
Water Park
-
When To Wear A Wet Suit
Swimsuit shopping is stressful enough as it is. (The term "bikini body" should be banned from the lexicon.) An itinerary jammed with surfing, waterslides, lazy rivers, sandy beaches, and stylish resort pools makes the swimwear search even more difficult. How do you find a style that won't fall off in rough waves yet doesn't resemble the tank suit you wore to middle school swim meets? Which are the best swimsuits for sun protection? And when should you invest in a wet suit? Get answers with our guide to the best bikinis, board shorts, and cover-ups for every type of trip.
Her: Go the way of the well-constructed one-piece when gearing up for water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, pool volleyball, or, really, anything that will involve dynamic body movement and water. Opt for a hardy, activity-appropriate suit. A sporty two-piece bikini top and high-waisted bottom is also likely to stay in place; standard string bikinis are generally not so reliable against strong waves and such.
Him: Your main concern here is that your suit doesn't fall off when riding waves in Hawaii or snorkeling in choppy waters. Ergo, your suit's fit is paramount. A drawstring helps.
Her: It's all about coverage and UV protection when relaxing on the beach or enjoying a clear, sunshiny day on vacation. For a swimsuit that provides as much fortification against the damaging rays of the sun as possible, try Coolibar-brand suits. Coolibar, which was the first company to receive The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, sells swimwear crafted with sun-protective fabrics that have an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating of 50+. Coolibar's suit options, from swim shorts to long-sleeved rash guards, are staunchly full coverage. But for bikinis, look elsewhere: Coolibar doesn't make sun-protective bikinis, but similar retailers like Cabana Life do.
Him: Coolibar options for men include sun hats, rash guards, and, of course, your basic board shorts.
Her: The resort pool is the perfect place to sport that very impractical, totally non-functional swimsuit that just happens to be super fashionable. Since you won't be doing much besides paddling to the pool bar for another Bahama Mama, there's no need to worry about a lot beyond basic coverage and cuteness. From suits with plunging necklines to floral, frilly two-pieces to expertly draped maillots, choose chic swimwear that shows off your style.
Him: Typically, men's swimwear styles don't get much fancier than board shorts and swim briefs. Avoid the latter (unless you can somehow, amazingly, pull it off) and choose something simple and relaxed like these classic gray microfiber swim trunks by RVCA.
Her: Your cruise or all-inclusive resort schedule could include a wide variety of activities and excursions. Swim-up pool bar, beach time, and water sports are all program possibilities. So which suit to sport? This underwire bikini top with removable straps from J.Crew provides additional support when needed; it's glamorous but functional. And then there's always the traditional tankini, a versatile option with lots of coverage. Or try one of the latest, trendiest iterations of the tankini, the longline bustier top or the crop top.
Him: A breezy pair of board shorts that will take you from deck to dinner is a smart choice for all-inclusive resorts or sailings. A basic neutral-colored pair like these seersucker microstripe trunks by Onia can be worn on a boat, in the water, or with a polo shirt to lunch.
Her: We're thrilled that the rash guard is sweeping the swimwear style scene. It provides lots of coverage as well as protection from the sun and from stinging jellyfish tentacles, so it's our top pick for swimwear at the beach. There are the standard long-sleeved versions, like J.Crew's Sun Shirt, and also trendier takes on the athletic swim top, such as the cropped Kaleidoscope the Scene Rash Guard from Modcloth.
Him: Quicksilver makes quality rash guards and surf shirts for men (surf shirts are a little less fitted than rash guards), which come in a variety of colors and offer essential sun protection. The company even sells shaded rash guards, which have built-in hats.
Her: Splashing and sun necessitate a suit that dries quickly and functions like a standard top. We like these sporty one-pieces or a basic tank suit with underwire. Pair either with some quick-dry cover-up shorts. These Submerge Hybrid Shorts by O'Neill won't leave you waterlogged after a plunge in the lazy river.
Him: Prepare for waterslides and rafting adventures by suiting up in moisture-wicking fabrics. Couple your quick-dry board shorts with a top that won't stay soggy for long: The Crux Crew Shirt by Prana is made of hemp and recycled fibers, has anti-microbial properties, and dries in a snap.
Wet suits—which insulate the body, provide protection against jellyfish stings, and can be designed to withstand various water depths—aren't cheap. Since many cruise lines and resorts provide the suits for excursions, it may not be the best course of action to invest in one unless you regularly dive or swim in cold waters. First, contact your cruise, resort, or dive center and ask about wet suit rentals. Thicker wet suits can weigh a considerable amount, so it'll free up plenty of bag space if you can avoid packing one.
Additionally, not all wet suits work for all water temperatures and activities, and some provide more protection than others.
More From Smartertravel: