Best Surf Bikinis
When the summer rolls around, and the ocean is warm enough to ditch the wetsuit, why wouldn't you want to throw your bikini on?
Of course, the last thing you want is to come up for a breath of air after going over the falls and realize that you've lost your top to the blue.
Luckily, there are many companies out there that have manufactured bikinis specific to surfing. In this small guide, we'll take you through our top recommendations so that you can surf confidently and comfortably.
Let's dive in, shall we?
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If you're not down with two pieces, we highly recommend checking out the V-Neck Plunge One-Piece from O'Neill.
O'Neill has been one of the top surfing brands in the game for many decades now, and this one-piece is no exception.
For starters, there are tons of cute styles to choose from, allowing any female surfer to find her style and show it off. We love how comfortable the fabric is, as well as the straps. Finally, there's nothing quite like long-lasting swimsuit material for a reasonable price.
For a unique style compared to average one-piece surf suits, this particular one-piece has a cut out in the front and back, allowing users to flaunt their curves all while having the support they need to shred!
O'Neill makes some of the best swimsuits for surfing on the market today, and we can't recommend another one-piece that is nearly as strong or stylish.
#2 - CUPSHE Women's Dream - Best Lace-Up Design
Just because we're talking functional surf bikinis here doesn't mean they can't be stylish too.
The CUPSHE Women's Dream surfing bikini is one of the most elegant surf bikinis on the market today, perfect for hitting the waves or lounging on the sand.
We love the dark blue and black/white colors, as they make the suit look more expensive than it actually is.
Plus, with the lace-up closure, you get the look of luxury for much less money than you'd find anywhere else.
Note that unlike many surf bikini brands out there, CUPSHE aims to make all of its surfing bikinis one-of-a-kind.
This means that the exact pattern you get will be different from every other cut out there, giving you something unique!
Note that the cups move around a bit at the top. However, when it comes to surfing, this suit stays nice and snug throughout the whole session.
#3 - CUPSHE Strappy Two Piece - Best Multi-Color
If you want to show off with a little bit of flair while out in the waves, we recommend the CUPSHE Strappy Two-Piece.
This multi-color surf bikini comes in a wide range of colors and designs, perfect for any surfer girl that wants a unique fit.
Similar to the CUPSHE Women's Dream suit, this suit uses a quality strap closure that is stylish and secure.
The padded cups on the top are removable as well, allowing you to wash your suit without ruining its form.
We love the high-waisted bottoms, as they provide the perfect amount of fun and sexy without riding up too high!
In our opinion, these CUPSHE suits provide the perfect combination of print and color.
#4 - O'NEILL Starlis One Piece - Best Front Cut
There are typically two main styles of surfing swimsuits out there: one-pieces and two-pieces.
O'Neill took its Starlis One-Piece suits in a different direction, cutting out the center to give it a sleek style and cheeky coverage.
It can often be difficult for lady surfers to find a bikini that stays on in big waves without having to settle for a boring or potentially unflattering one-piece.
For this reason, we believe the Starlis One-Piece strikes a nice balance, allowing for big-wave surfing and duck dives without any nip slips, all while feeling comfortable, casual, and sexy!
#5 - ZAFUL High Waisted Set - Best High-Waisted
The new surf bikini from Zaful has to be one of our favorite high-waisted bikinis out there for surfing.
There are so many great colors to choose from that, no matter your surf style, and you'll be able to find the right bikini for YOU.
For starters, the multi-pattern designs look fantastic.
It can be hard to find bikinis with high-end, multi-pattern designs and are safe enough to wear while surfing.
With the soft material on the high-waist bottom, you get much more protection than you would with a regular bikini.
We also love the fact that the lace is in the back.
Not only does this provide a timeless look, but it also ensures the bikini stays on while you paddle and doesn't hurt your neck when lying down flat.
#6 - SEASELFIE Tropical Forests Tankini - Best Tropical Design
It seems like so many swimwear brands are doing the same thing in terms of designs, which is why we dig the fact that SEASELFIE went all out and made a unique, tropical surf suit with a halter neck top. The print looks excellent in-person too, which can always be a scary risk you take when shopping online.
We haven't found many other surf bikinis with this unique design. Like the other bikinis on our list, the cups are removable, allowing you to wash your swimsuit without losing its shape. Plus, you can also adjust the pads if need be to make the suit more comfortable.
We dig the fact that the high neck provides more sun protection on the chest, where many surfer girls often get burnt. Overall, if you're in the market for a high-end, high-neck tropical bikini, look no further.
Surf Bikini Tops & Surf Bikini Bottoms
Whether you need different sizes for tops and bottoms, or you just want to buy your tops and bottoms separately for stylistic choices, here are some of our favorites in each category.
#7 - RVCA Standard Bikini Top
While the RVCA Women's Bikini Top may not be the best bikini top for those on a budget, it's highly worth the extra cost.
Not only is it one of the most durable bikini tops out there, but it is also one of the best looking.
There are a few high-quality colors and patterns to choose from, which most women surfers will agree, look absolutely astounding in person.
The scoop neckline gives the suit a classic look.
While it can be difficult finding bikini tops that stay on while surfing, this one has strong elastic and a fantastic fit, making it one of the best tops around.
With low-rise cheeky coverage and a clean, center-back seam, the RVCA Standard Bikini Bottom is one of the most flattering surf bottoms on the market.
Plus, no matter how many times you have to duck dive to get out into the lineup, these things will stay on.
The flattering fit isn't the only thing to love about these bottoms, however.
The stylish designs and durability will have you enjoying a variety of water sports for years to come while feeling confident on the beach.
The Billabong Classic Bikini Top provides a bit more coverage than the RVCA top, providing a uniquely classic look, similar to bikinis from the 50s.
If you have a simple taste or want something to fit your unique body type, this bikini top is an absolute winner.
Billabong is one of the leaders in surf gear and apparel and makes bikinis with surfing in mind, unlike many other brands.
When you buy Billabong, you know you're buying quality.
For a fun pairing with the Classic Bikini Top, we recommend the Lowrider Bikini Bottoms from Billabong.
You get flattering full coverage with pull-on closure, similar to many designs you'll find in modern swimwear.
Most surfers enjoy this kind of design, as it allows for freedom and flexibility.
In addition, compared to many other bottoms we've tested out, these have excellent shape retention as well!
And for all of that, and these bottoms come at a surprisingly reasonable price!
What To Look For In A Swimsuit You'll Be Surfing In
Size
One of the first things you need to consider is the size of the bikinis you're looking at. When shopping for the best swimsuits, you can't have the same mindset as when you're shopping for regular clothes. Because bikinis are form-fitting, you have to make sure that you know your exact size.
Plus, since we're talking about swimsuits for surfing here, you don't want it to be too loose either.
Essentially, you want a tight bikini with thick materials. We recommend grabbing a measuring tape and getting your measurements, including hips, waist, and bust. Most swimsuit manufacturers have sizing charts on their websites to help women find the perfect swimwear size.
Design
Some ladies like full-coverage, one-piece swimsuits that offer better sun protection and show less skin. On the other hand, some prefer showing off with crop tops and strappy backs.
There are SO many different styles of swimwear out there that it can be hard to decide. Usually, swimsuits are broken down into three categories:
If you're looking for bikinis with more coverage, check out full bikinis. However, if you're fine with flaunting what you got out in the waves, you'll want to go with a cheeky bikini bottoms.
Durability & Materials
Now, it can be difficult to test out the durability of swimsuits before you buy them, as you don't know how they'll react to salt water. But, of course, you can look at reviews if you're unsure how they'll react.
You want your bikini staying intact throughout the roughest of surf sessions, so durability is paramount.
If you want to be ocean-conscious with your choice, we recommend looking for bikinis with eco-friendly or recycled materials. Many companies are crafting high-end swimsuits with eco-friendliness in mind these days.
Final Thoughts
The swimwear on this list are some of the best on the market today, and it's pretty clear to see when you look at REAL reviews from REAL women.
Good luck finding the right swimwear for your needs, and we'll see you out in the surf!
