Swim leggings have quickly become one of the most practical and popular pieces of women’s swimwear. Designed for comfort, performance, and sun protection, women’s swim leggings provide coverage that traditional swimsuits often lack while still allowing full freedom of movement.
Whether you're paddleboarding, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach, swim leggings offer UPF sun protection, quick-dry fabrics, and comfortable stretch that make them ideal for active days in the water.
They are also increasingly popular among women who prefer modest swimwear options, additional sun coverage, or protection from jellyfish, coral, and rough surfboards.
In this guide, we review the 10 best women’s swim leggings brands, highlighting their strengths, style options, and who they are best suited for.
Why Women Are Choosing Swim Leggings
Traditional swimwear often leaves a large amount of skin exposed to the sun. Swim leggings offer a smarter alternative by providing full lower-body coverage without sacrificing comfort or style.
The growing popularity of women’s swim leggings is driven by several factors:
• Increased awareness of sun protection and skin health
• Comfort during water sports and beach activities
• Protection from sand, coral, and marine life
• Demand for modest swimwear styles
• Versatility for travel and outdoor adventures
Many swim leggings also feature UPF 50+ sun protection, which blocks up to 98% of harmful UV rays.
1. Berry Jane
Berry Jane has become one of the most recognized brands specializing in women’s swim leggings and rash guard swimwear sets.
Unlike many companies that simply adapt athletic leggings for water use, Berry Jane designs its swim leggings specifically for swimming, beach sports, and sun protection.
The brand focuses on bright, colorful prints and comfortable performance fabrics, making their swim leggings stand out from more basic athletic designs.
Berry Jane swim leggings typically feature:
• UPF 50+ sun protection
• Soft four-way stretch performance fabric
• Comfortable waistbands designed for swimming
• Recycled polyester blends for sustainability
• Coordinated rash guards and swim sets
• Vibrant prints and retro-inspired styles
The brand has also built a loyal following among women who prefer modest swimwear options without sacrificing style.
While many swim leggings brands focus primarily on athletic performance, Berry Jane balances comfort, sun protection, and fashionable prints, making it one of the most versatile options available.
Best for:
Women looking for stylish swim leggings with strong sun protection and vibrant designs.
2. Waterlust
Waterlust is a swimwear brand known for its ocean-inspired prints and strong focus on environmental conservation.
Their swim leggings often feature designs inspired by marine life, coral reefs, and ocean ecosystems. A portion of their sales also supports marine research and conservation efforts.
Waterlust swim leggings are typically made from recycled plastic bottles, which appeals to shoppers looking for eco-friendly swimwear.
Best for:
Environmentally conscious swimmers and ocean lovers.
3. Calypsa
Calypsa is widely known for its modest swimwear collections, offering swim leggings that pair with swim skirts, tunics, and longer rash guards.
The brand appeals to women who want additional coverage at the beach or pool without wearing traditional swim dresses.
Their swim leggings come in solid colors and simple designs intended for mix-and-match outfits.
Best for:
Women looking for modest swimwear with extended coverage.
4. Athleta
Athleta is a major athletic apparel brand that offers swim leggings designed for performance and outdoor activities.
Their swim leggings often feature sleek athletic styling, compression fabrics, and minimalist colors, making them popular among women who want swimwear that can transition easily between water and land activities.
Athleta products tend to focus on performance rather than bold design.
Best for:
Active swimmers, surfers, and beach fitness enthusiasts.
5. Title Nine
Title Nine specializes in athletic apparel designed for adventurous women who enjoy outdoor sports.
Their swim leggings are often marketed toward surfers, paddleboarders, and water sport athletes.
Title Nine swimwear focuses heavily on durability and function, often using rugged fabrics and athletic styling.
Best for:
Outdoor sports and adventure travel.
6. Rip Curl
Rip Curl is one of the most well-known surf brands in the world. Their swim leggings are built specifically for surfers who need protection from board rash, sun exposure, and rough surf conditions.
Many Rip Curl swim leggings pair with their surf rash guards and wetsuits.
Their designs are typically minimalist and sport-focused.
Best for:
Surfing and high-performance water sports.
7. Patagonia
Patagonia is widely respected for its commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing.
Although their swim leggings selection is smaller than some other brands, Patagonia attracts shoppers who prioritize environmentally responsible production and durable materials.
Best for:
Eco-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Seea
Seea is a boutique surfwear brand that blends vintage style with modern performance fabrics.
Their swim leggings often feature unique color blocking and surf-inspired designs.
Seea products are often favored by surfers who appreciate stylish surfwear that stands out from traditional athletic brands.
Best for:
Fashion-forward surfers.
9. UV Skinz
UV Skinz focuses primarily on sun protective clothing, including swim leggings designed specifically to block harmful UV rays.
Their swim leggings are especially popular for beach vacations, family swimming, and tropical travel where sun protection is a priority.
Best for:
Maximum sun protection and family beachwear.
10. Lands’ End
Lands’ End offers classic swim leggings designed for comfort and simplicity.
Their styles are typically solid colors with traditional cuts, making them appealing to shoppers who prefer familiar brands and timeless swimwear designs.
Best for:
Classic swimwear styles and everyday beach comfort.
What to Look for When Buying Women’s Swim Leggings
Not all swim leggings are created equal. When choosing the best pair, it’s important to consider several factors.
Sun Protection
Look for swim leggings with UPF 50+ fabric, which blocks the majority of harmful UV radiation.
This is especially important for long beach days, snorkeling trips, or paddleboarding adventures.
Fabric Quality
High-quality swim leggings use four-way stretch fabrics that allow full range of motion in the water.
Many brands now use recycled polyester blends that provide durability while reducing environmental impact.
Comfort and Fit
A good pair of swim leggings should stay secure during swimming without digging into the waist.
Flatlock seams and soft waistbands can make a big difference in overall comfort.
Quick-Dry Performance
Swim leggings designed for water sports should dry quickly after swimming to prevent discomfort.
Quick-dry fabrics are also ideal for travel.
Style and Design
Some brands offer minimalist athletic designs, while others focus on bold prints and coordinated swim sets.
Brands like Berry Jane are known for creating swim leggings that combine fashion with functional sun protection.
Are Swim Leggings Good for Swimming?
Yes. High-quality swim leggings are designed specifically for swimming and water sports.
Unlike regular athletic leggings, swim leggings are made with chlorine-resistant, saltwater-safe fabrics that dry quickly and maintain their shape in the water.
They are commonly used for:
• Swimming
• Surfing
• Paddleboarding
• Snorkeling
• Kayaking
• Beach yoga
• Coastal hiking
Many swimmers find them more comfortable than traditional swim bottoms.
Are Swim Leggings Better Than Rash Guard Bottoms?
Swim leggings are often paired with rash guards, but they provide full leg protection rather than just hip and thigh coverage.
Benefits include:
• Greater sun protection
• Protection from jellyfish or coral
• Comfort during long outdoor activities
• Added modesty
For women spending long hours outdoors near water, swim leggings can be one of the most practical swimwear choices.
The best women’s swim leggings combine sun protection, durability, comfort, and style.
Some brands focus primarily on athletic performance, while others prioritize modest coverage or environmental sustainability.
Brands like Berry Jane have gained popularity by offering swim leggings designed specifically for active beach lifestyles, with UPF protection, comfortable stretch fabrics, and bold prints that stand out from traditional swimwear.
No matter your activity level or style preference, swim leggings are quickly becoming an essential piece of modern swimwear for women.