The Best Women's Swimwear of 2017
Suits of all styles for lounging, surfing, and playing.
Roxy Boheme Life Crop Top ($48) and Drop Diamond Mini Bottom ($40)
We liked the extra coverage of this halter racerback, which stayed on no matter what we put it through. The knit fabric is comfortable and the style is on-trend, whether you’re bodysurfing or chilling in the hot tub.
Cynthia Rowley Blue China Print Wetsuit ($295)
It can get nippy in the water, even on hot summer days. Fashion designer and surfer Cynthia Rowley has the fix, combining style with extreme utility in this two-millimeter neoprene wetsuit. It pulls on easily, hugs like a second skin, blocks the sun, and has a zip pocket in the back for a car key or ID. It also comes in a number of retro-cool prints.
J.Crew Scalloped French Top ($68) and Scalloped Bottom ($136)
J.Crew is our go-to for solid-color two-pieces. Designed by swimsuit company Marysia for J.Crew, this bright red scalloped boy-cut bottom is made from a lightweight, stretchy nylon-spandex fabric that moves with you as you paddle out. The top has adjustable straps and UPF 50 sun protection.
Patagonia Solid Kupala Cross Back Top ($49) and R1 Lite Yulex Surf Shorts ($65)
For days when you need a bit of added warmth and attitude, this Patagonia combo is your ticket. The sticky, adjustable crossback top and 1.5-millimeter camo surf shorts—made almost entirely from eco-friendly rubber—face down big surf or whitewater rapids with aplomb.
Seea Anglet One-Piece ($120)
Everyone should have a one-piece in their kit, especially when poolside glamour is called for—say, on a swanky weekend getaway in Baja. With a tie belt and an interlaced strappy back, the Anglet pairs old-school looks with high-coverage comfort.
L Space Haley Blocked Top ($88) and Mia Bottom ($79)
An athlete’s best friend, this chic color-block bikini offers ample support for hard play, is totally adjustable, and transitions easily from a SUP yoga session to an impromptu beach Frisbee match. Bonus: the soft nylon fabric is seamless and reverses to solid aqua if you’re going for a more understated look.
Support Outside Online
Our mission to inspire readers to get outside has never been more critical. In recent years, Outside Online has reported on groundbreaking research linking time in nature to improved mental and physical health, and we’ve kept you informed about the unprecedented threats to America’s public lands. Our rigorous coverage helps spark important debates about wellness and travel and adventure, and it provides readers an accessible gateway to new outdoor passions. Time outside is essential—and we can help you make the most of it. Making a financial contribution to Outside Online only takes a few minutes and will ensure we can continue supplying the trailblazing, informative journalism that readers like you depend on. We hope you’ll support us. Thank you.