Swimming retailers finally recognize the GIrl Power. It’s time to accept the diversity and unique challenges of female swimmers.

Being a woman is demanding. Many of us have body confidence issues, and nowhere are those issues more tested than by the pool. Magazines go on about ‘beach bodies’ and ‘bikini diets.’ But unfortunately, many swimwear retailers don’t cater to our body, hair, skin, or religious considerations. It can be challenging, for example, to find a two-piece where both the top and bottom match your size, a one-piece that covers scarring, that doesn’t irritate your skin, or that makes you feel great when you’re on your period.

However, swimsuit manufacturers are slowly cottoning on to our female struggles. Below are examples of swimming products that are shining a light on women and promoting more inclusivity and confidence!

BURQINI

Activewear retailers have long overlooked Muslim women. Conservatively clad women often wore baggy shirts with leggings at the pool, getting told by lifeguards that loosely layered clothes were unsafe for swimming as they become heavy in the water.

Luckily, since the burkini was invented in the mid-2000s in Australia by Aheda Zanetti, there has been an explosion of modest swimwear pieces on the market. These are great not only for women of orthodox faiths (Muslim, Jewish, Mormon women, etc.) but for anyone who wants total UV protection from the sun’s damaging rays or is self-conscious about their body.

Today’s burkini designs are lightweight, offering complete freedom of movement while being quick-drying. The suits are generally made of SPF 50+ polyester swimsuit fabric, but you can get some made from heavier neoprene wetsuit fabric. Designs range from figure-hugging to relatively loose-fitting.

Nike’s ‘Victory Swim Collection’ or Speedos’ Delight Modest Bodysuit’ have athletic-chic designs if you prefer a sporty look. On the other hand, if you like bold, trendy feminine prints, there are tons of brands like Munamer, Lyra, Madame BK, or Modanisa to check out.

AFRO HAIR

Dreadlocks, afros, weaves… black hair is impressive but needs much care! Many black women have put off swimming because afro hair takes a long time to dry and is easily damaged by chlorine and seawater. In addition, many find swim caps too small and too tight. Plus, with a number of swimming pools having a compulsory swim cap policy, it is often just not worth the effort. Luckily, a few companies are making great swimming caps for bulky, high-volume hair that will take the headache out of going for a swim!

Today, you’ll be able to find plenty of stretchy, comfortable, and durable watertight caps (usually made from thicker-than-normal premium silicone) that go way beyond the standard XL size. The largest ones can accommodate over 25+ inches of hair! These are tight-fitting but not compressing, so they won’t slip back or fall off when you push off the pool wall.

MATERNITY

Going swimming while pregnant is not only good for keeping fit, but the buoyancy of the water is also priceless for feeling weightless when you are at your heaviest! But, of course, there are plenty more reasons why swimming is the ideal exercise to do while pregnant, e.g., there’s a minimal risk of tripping and falling injuries, and your body temperature is kept low (unlike other sports where you can overheat easily).

There are loads of great maternity swimsuits out there with wide adjustable straps, internal shelf bras, wide waistbands, and ruching to keep you comfortable and supported as your bump grows.

RASH GUARDS:

Rash guards, also known as rash vests or rashies, protect you against the rashes caused by abrasions or sunburns when exposed to the sun for longer. Rash guards have been gaining attention in recent years among swimmers for good reasons. They protect your body against the harmful UV rays of the sun. Rash guards also prevent skin irritation due to friction from sand and water.

When choosing a rash guard for swimming, there are some factors to keep in mind. First, ensure the fit is comfortable but not too tight, as you want to feel free of the water. Secondly, always look for ones made from quick-drying and breathable materials because you will feel comfortable even when you’re out of water. 

Rash guards are easy to find in a variety of designs, styles, and necklines, from long-sleeved to short-sleeved, so you can always find the perfect one. Some of these also have built-in UV protection, protecting your skin from sun rays.

Now if you are a regular swimmer or planning to learn swimming and spending a lot of time in a pool, investing in a good quality rash guard is advantageous. It will keep you protracted and add a stylish look to your swimwear.

Famous brands of rash guards are “O’Neill, Rip Curl, Speedo, Billabong, and Quiksilver.” They provide excellent quality rash guards, which come in a variety of styles from long sleeves to short, and give you complete UV protection.

SWIMSUITS:

As summers are just around the corner, it’s time to get a new swimsuit, ladies! Whether you are heading to the beach or planning to have fun along the poolside, a swimsuit is a must-have for any summer event.

When it comes to buying a new swimsuit, you must keep some points in mind. First, it must be super sexy to give you a hot look. Then choose a swimsuit that fits you well so you are confident and comfortable wearing it.

Swimsuits come in various styles, from a single piece to bikinis, each with unique features. For example, some have adjustable straps and built-in support to give you a hotter look, while others give you more coverage to protect yourself from the sun’s UV rays.

If you want a high-quality swimsuit, you can get it from “Victoria’s Secret, Target, and Athleta.” These brands offer various swimsuits, from affordable options to exceptional luxury pieces.

WETSUITS:

Wetsuits are wonderfully helpful when it comes to cold water swimming. These are made from neoprene which is a thick, spongy rubber material. A wetsuit creates a subtle layer of water between the neoprene and your precious skin, which your body heats up, keeping you toasty in chilly temps.

Wetsuits are only easy to put on if you get the right size. But once you zip up your accurate size, you’ll feel like a superhero ready to take on the waves.

The best thing about wetsuits is that besides keeping you warm, they are available in a variety of colors and exclusive prints. You can also easily find styles ranging from full sleeves to sleeveless. So next time you go on a cold water adventure, remember to get yourself a fabulous wetsuit.

SPORTS BRA:

When it comes to swimming, ladies usually search for quick-drying sports bras that provide full support even when wet.

If you want to get the best sports bra for swimming, look at the material it’s made of. One option is the sports bra made of neoprene, the same material with which wetsuits are made. These bras provide excellent support and insulation and are the best when you are going for cold water activities. They can also cope with exposure to chlorine and other pool chemicals.

The other option is the sports bra made of nylon or polyester blends that are particularly designed for swimming. They are lightweight, breathable, and provide fantastic support to your bust when you swim. These bras are available in a wide variety of colors and styles so that you can choose one per your choice and taste.

Whatever sports bra you choose must be comfortable and make you feel confident. “Nike, Lululemon, Under Armour, Adidas, and Champion” are among the top brands which provide you with the best quality, shape, and comfortable bras. All these brands offer bras with straps, adjustable or even strapless bras. Choosing a bra totally depends on your personal choice and preferences.

FLIP-FLOPS:

If you prefer to avoid walking barefoot along the poolside or beach, hurry up and get the most stylish and comfortable flip-flops.

The most important thing while buying a flip-flop is that it should be waterproof and must be of non-slip material. You surely don’t want to be chasing your flip-flops in the middle of the pool.

Then the other thing to ponder about is the material. Rubber flip-flops are popular because they are durable and easy to clean. But if you need a stylish pair, you can also get the ones made with foam.

Be careful while choosing a flip-flop so that it may not rub or chafe your feet. You have to walk in them all around, so choose a pair that fits well and is most comfortable without the fear of slipping.

GOGGLES:

Goggles are a must-have accessory if you are going swimming. They not only protect your eyes from chlorine and other pool chemicals but also help you see clearly underwater.

Goggles make swimming fun! They keep water out of your eyes. So you don’t have to rub your eyes again and again. And if you use contact lenses, don’t worry about losing them in the pool or damaging them with chlorine.

Goggles also help you improve your vision in water. You can see everything clearly with the right pair of goggles, from the pool tiles to the other swimmers enjoying around you. As a result, you can swim straight and avoid collisions with other swimmers.

You can focus more on your breathing and technique when you can see clearly. So you can swim for longer periods without being frustrated or tired.

So if you are an immature beginner or a seasoned swimmer, goggles are a must-have product. So grab your goggles and jump into the pool for ultimate fun. 

FINAL WORDS:

I hope you found this list interesting and inspirational…and that it reminded you how remarkable women are! If you can think of more great products designed uniquely for women, let us know in the comments. Finally, be sure to check out the women-only swim hour at your local pool! And don’t forget https://swimcore.co.uk/ for your swimming needs!