Whether you’re swimming lengths, paddleboarding or chasing the kids on the beach, these are the best swim bikinis that stay in place and combine comfort, support and performance – without compromising on looks
Words: Lucy Miller | Images: Shutterstock & various brands
Swimming lengths before breakfast, jumping waves with the kids or relaxing by the pool all call for swimwear that does more than simply look good. The right bikini should stay put, feel comfortable and give you the confidence to move freely, from paddleboarding and surfing to a leisurely beach day or perhaps a water park.
And we get it; choosing one isn’t always easy. With so many styles, cuts and fabrics available, it’s worth thinking first about how you’ll wear it. If you’re planning to be active, look for supportive designs that won’t shift while you swim or take part in watersports. If your priority is relaxing by the pool, a flattering fit and a touch of glam may be higher on your list. And fabric, well, that’s just as important too. Many swimwear brands now use chlorine-resistant, UPF-protective and recycled materials made from discarded fishing nets and ocean plastics, helping your bikini last longer while reducing its environmental impact.
To help narrow down the options, we tested 12 bikinis for fit, comfort, support, quality and performance both in and out of the water. Whether you’re after maximum support, flattering coverage or a bikini that looks as good as it performs, these are our favourite sporty (and confidence-boosting) picks for summer.
The chic multiway
Kiri Scalloped Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
This pretty in pink bikini has a delicate scalloped trim and textured crinkle fabric which we love, giving it a playful, feminine finish without sacrificing comfort or practicality- Feminine and fun with detachable straps that let you switch between a classic or bandeau style
- Adjustable straps and removable cups to create a secure, customisable fit
- Lined bottoms with good rear coverage
- A classic cut that sits comfortably on the hips without riding up or leaving you feeling overexposed
The effortlessly sustainable
Naia Beach Bahamas Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
The ultimate sporty-meets-luxury bikini, this set is perfect for water or land sports – while looking effortlessly chic with a flattering cut and zipped bralette-style top- Wide, adjustable shoulder straps and the bralette shape of the top provide extra support and comfort
- Striking blue colourway and gold zip make it feel effortlessly chic
- Made from high-quality, responsibly sourced fibres made from abandoned fishing nets
For discreet protection
WUKA Period Swimsuit
Women’s Fitness verdict
If you’ve ever avoided swimming because your period arrived at the wrong time, this extremely discreet built-in period protection could be an absolute game changer for complete peace of mind in water- Hidden within the gusset is built-in, extremely discreet protection that holds up to 15ml of flow
- Made from recycled, chlorine-resistant fabric with UV50+ protection
- Features removable padded cups and a flattering diamond-cut back for a sporty yet feminine feel
For fuller coverage
M&S Broderie Trim Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
If you’re after a bikini that looks as good by the pool as it does in the water, this M&S set is ideal. With a flattering sculpting fabric and pretty broderie detailing, it’s great all-round coverage- Sculpting fabric and adjustable straps create a flattering fit that stays securely in place
- Delicate broderie trim gives it a feminine finish around the waistline
- High-leg bottoms for comfortable coverage with just the right amount of stretch
When you’re feeling exotic
The Jungle Fever Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
This statement bikini is guaranteed to turn heads, thanks to its colourful standout print and bold, vibrant design. Made using buttery-soft recycled materials, it’s both stylish and sustainable!- Bikini bottoms feature adjustable side drawcords, allowing you to customise the coverage and fit
- Seamless design ensures the top and bottoms both sit comfortably and securely throughout the day
- Built-in UV protection
- Made using REPREVE® fibres created from post-consumer plastic bottles recovered from beaches
For sporty spice
Nike Swim Women’s Cropped Swim Top
Women’s Fitness verdict
If you prefer playing beach sports over relaxing on the sun lounger, this sporty, T-shirt-inspired bikini offers extra coverage while still showing just enough skin- Features a high neckline and capped sleeves for extra coverage
- Stretchy, chlorine-resistant fabric hugs the body comfortably
- Provides light bust support without feeling restrictive
Feeling hot, hot, hot
Victoria’s Secret Hot Stuff Pink Ribbed Halter Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
If you love classic holiday glamour with a sporty twist, this pretty pink two-piece is a great choice. It’s the ultimate halterneck bikini with a playful, retro feel and figure-hugging cut- High-waisted bottoms feature a high-cut leg to help elongate your silhouette
- Moderate rear coverage strikes the perfect balance between confidence and comfort
- Ribbed fabric and sparkling diamanté logo give it a premium finish
- Halterneck design has adjustable ties at the neck and back, allowing you to customise the fit
For a spot of quiet luxury
Melissa Odabash Vigo White Ridges Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
Yes, it’s pricey – but if you’re looking to invest in a bikini you’ll wear for years to come, this elegant two-piece is worth the splurge, and proves modest coverage can feel effortlessly glamorous- Crafted from premium Italian swim fabric with a textured ribbed finish
- Bralette-style top features supportive over-the-shoulder straps and no padding for a natural shape
- SPF 50+ protection
Your outdoor workout wardrobe for the summer
For a confident beach babe
Seafolly Viva Vacation Triangle Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
A vibrant, confidence-boosting bikini that’s made for sunshine, sea and active beach days, if your swimwear drawer is full of plain colours, this playful Seafolly two-piece is a welcome change- Tie-back top and tie-side bottoms make it easy to customise the fit
- Removable padding lets you choose between a more natural or enhanced shape
- Crafted from premium soft-touch fabric with just the right amount of coverage
For maximum UV protection
Pour Moi Cascade Long Sleeved Rash Vest
Women’s Fitness verdict
If you’re planning to spend hours in, and on the water, this long-sleeved rash vest is a practical yet chic choice – offering maximum sun protection and full coverage without looking frumpy- UPF 50+ sun protection, with long sleeves providing extra coverage across the arms and upper body
- Flattering fit and contemporary design
- Made using recycled materials
Fuller coverage – but make it elegant
Paola Amador Lace Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
If you’re looking for a little more coverage but aren’t ready to swap your bikini for a swimsuit, this elegant two-piece strikes the perfect balance- Floaty mesh overlay offers extra coverage across the stomach
- Flattering, confidence-boosting design
Surf’s up!
Decathlon Women’s Aurely Belza Striped Bikini
Women’s Fitness verdict
Embrace the sand, sea and surf with this active bikini that’s designed to look sporty and stay securely in place, whatever water sport you choose – and without spending a fortune- The bralette top features moulded cups that create a flattering shape while providing light support
- Full-coverage bottoms for a comfortable fit that stays put whether you’re surfing or paddleboarding
