The Best Women’s Swimwear of 2021
This batch is up for adventures big and small
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Roxy Beach Classics Athletic Bikini Top and Full Bikini Bottom ($40 each)
With clean lines and bright colors, the Beach Classics lives up to its name. Our testers liked this no-nonsense set best for relaxing poolside, with its simple top, low-rise bottoms, and strappy back that made for minimal tan lines.
Patagonia Nanogrip Top and Bottom ($75 each)
We’ve featured the Nanogrip on these pages before, and it still ranks among the best for athletes who don’t want to compromise on style. Why? It looks like a classic two-piece but is actually a performance bikini in disguise. The magic is a polyester-polyurethane lining that grips your skin when it gets wet, which enables you to tackle waves and beachside jogs in total security.
Body Glove Chloe Paddle Suit ($139)
Body Glove combined UPF 50 treatment and full-length sleeves with a cheeky cut for stylish sun protection. Even better: the buttery nylon-spandex blend won’t chafe, whether you’re kayaking, canoeing, or SUPing.
Nike Essential Scoop Neck Midkini and High Waist Bottom ($52 and $50)
This poly-spandex suit is the only two-piece we’ve been able to swim laps in without slipping a nip or mooning onlookers. With sizing that goes up to the equivalent of a DD, even busty testers felt plenty of support. There’s more: the bottom has a key pocket at the small of your back.
Prana Marina D-Cup Top and Datum Shorts ($70 and $55)
The Marina’s double-layer construction—an underwire top hiding beneath a second band of a recycled nylon blend—gives well endowed women a boost without looking like a bra. Meanwhile, we love the Datum for its sporty, modest cut and wide waistband, perfect for waterfall hikes or playing in the river.
September the Line Malibu One-Piece ($168)
This nylon-elastane, UPF 50 one-piece is made to stay put while you surf. A high mesh neckline and full bottom keep your boobs and butt covered, while the cut reveals a little skin around the waistline, so you can look good lounging on the beach.
