Swim leggings have become a major fashion accessory in recent years for surf, SUP, swimming and water sports. The main reason for this are swim tights (a.k.a. swim leggings) are so versatile, sporty, practical, and dare we say..modest?
The great thing about swim leggings is they allow you to just enjoy your favorite water sport activity without worrying about sunburn, wardrobe malfunctions or uncomfortable bathing suits. So whether you paddle board, surf, kayak or do yoga on the beach, swim leggings are the perfect alternative to teeny bikinis.
Here's what you should know when choosing the right swim leggings for you or your sport.
The Benefits of Swim Leggings
Swim leggings are meant to let you move more freely through the water while participating in sports, in addition to providing adequate coverage while you work out or do aerobics in the pool. Because the majority of them are manufactured with sun-protective fabric, you won't have to worry about being exposed to potentially hazardous UV rays even when you're getting your workout in at the beach, lake, or pool.
Swim leggings provide comfort and confidence! Leggings aren't just about looking good; they're designed to tackle all those pesky physical issues that can ruin a day at the beach or pool. Say goodbye to chafing or excessive sun exposure. Unlike other products that only offer temporary relief and wash away in water, swim leggings provide lasting protection, keeping your skin safe and comfortable all day long.
With swim leggings, you can move freely, stretch, and enjoy your time in the water without worrying about anything popping out or slipping. Plus, they stay damp just a bit longer, offering a cooling effect when you're drying off and soaking up the sun.
Leggings have solved many problems for a lot of beach-loving women.
Choosing the Right Swim Leggings
When searching for a good pair of swim tights, rule number one is to steer clear of materials that quickly soak up water, such as cotton. Instead, opt for materials that are a combination of Spandex, polyester, or nylon. Simply said, swim leggings are leggings that are constructed with the same fabrics that are used in swimwear.
Leggings, just like swimsuits, are made to be water-friendly (not water-proof) by utilizing the same material that you would use for a swimwear or a rash guard. However, you can still use them for activities that take place outside of the water, such as hot yoga or running. Wearing a bikini brief or a lightweight, seamless panty underneath is standard, though many wearers also choose not to. It's really up to you. Some swim leggings come with a sewn-in brief liner. If it bothers you, you can usually cut it out pretty easily, though.
UPF Fabric
Even better if the fabric is breathable and provides sun protection in the form of a UPF rating of 30+.
The benefits of the 50+ UPF protection offered by Berry Jane swim leggings, rash guards and swim shirts allows you to spend more time on the board or in the water while reducing the risk of sunburn. For best results and protection, we recommend pairing up with a 30+ SPF sunscreen.
Best Design Elements for Comfort
Look for styles that have a higher waist for a more comfortable, 'stay-put' fit. The best leggings will have a gusseted crotch for comfort and flat seams. Some come with an inner or outer pocket or zippered pocket for small items, and brighter color or prints for better visibility on the water.
Choose a swim tight made with 4-way stretch fabric that resists breakdown from chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, and sweat.
If you're looking to stay warmer while swimming in cooler water, swim pants are a perfect choice. The Pacific Ocean in California is perfect example for swim leggings and wet suits. For colder water that requires a wetsuit, we recommend wetsuit pants made of Neoprene.
Bottom Line:
The ideal swim leggings should have a comfortable fit, a higher waist, gusseted crotch, flat seams, UPF protection, lightweight, breathable fabric that dries quickly, and a four-way stretch that allows for unrestricted movement. Most importantly, they should feel and look good on you! Check out our swim leggings to find a pair that fits your style.