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October 11, 2021 7 min read

Best Swimsuits for SUP Reviewed

Women wearing a two piece bikini on a SUP board

Nothing beats being out on the water, soaking up the sun and gliding across on a SUP. For those lucky enough to live or vacation in warmer destinations, paddle boarding in a bikini or one-piece is a dream.

Forget about squeezing into slightly damp wetsuits; there’s no better feeling than soaking up the sun, replenishing your vitamin D and feeling the warmth on your skin, (while wearing adequate sunscreen too, of course). 

That’s why we’ve taken a look at the best paddle board bikinis, SUP swimsuits, and even leggings for women who love water. Read on to find out which is best for you. 

Bikini or One Piece Swimsuit: Which Is Best For Stand Up Paddle Boarding?

Determining what swimwear is best for stand up paddle boarding depends on three key factors:

  • Which SUP activity are you doing? Gentle cruising, SUP surfing, and SUP yoga all have different requirements for what your SUP clothing needs to be like.
  • Are you sensitive to sun exposure? If you have a fairer complexion then perhaps more coverage is a better option.
  • Which style of swimwear is most comfortable for you? Comfort is one of the main factors to consider when choosing paddle boarding swimwear - whether you opt for a bikini, a swimsuit, or something else entirely 

After considering the answers to these questions, you’ll have more of an idea of what factors are important, and will then be able to decide what the best option is for you. After all, only you can choose what is best for you.

Paddle Board Sun Protection

Family paddle boarding on a swimwear

Sun protection is an important part of outdoor sports and activities and paddle boarding is no exception. Whether you’re on the beach or exploring a river, the advice is always the same: limit your sun exposure, wear sunscreen and cover up when necessary. 

We recommend you pack sunscreen along with your SUP gear, but another option for even better sun protection is to increase your swimwear coverage. If you have particularly sensitive skin, consider wearing leggings and a long-sleeve rashguard while paddling. These are perfect for packing in your dry bag so that you can throw them on over your bikini or swimsuit if you feel you’ve had too much sun exposure. Just ensure the material provides UPF 50+ protection.

Best Swimwear for Women 

Woman paddle boarding on a pink top

From bikinis and one-pieces to leggings and surf suits – we’ve taken a look at some of the very best swimsuits for SUP, and drilled down into what makes them great, and why you might consider buying one for your next paddling session. 

So while swimsuits and bikini styles are a personal preference, discovering the best bikinis for paddle boarding or the best SUP swimsuit can be tough. But fear not - a few recommendations can help point you in the right direction.

Here are our favorite SUP clothing and swimwear brands available now!

Best USA-Made Swimwear: Sensi Graves Swim

“Swimwear that's made to move that you can feel great in” – Sensi’s company motto says it all. Sensi Graves is a professional kiteboarder, water lover, and generally an all-around incredible woman and advocate. 

This swimwear is designed to be fiercely functional but with a fabulously feminine touch. It boasts confidence and energy across the entire range. No matter what you choose from this brand, you’ll be able to rely on great quality ready to keep up with your adventures.

Made in the USA, Sensi Grave Swim bikinis, swimsuits, tops, and leggings are built for life in the water. You can find the Sensi range across America, Canada, and online.

Top Product: Sensi Graves Claire Eco Friendly Adjustable Surf Bikini Top - Jungle Cat

Sensi Graves Claire Surf Bikini Top is a great adjustable option that will suit almost anyone! It’s a flattering design, fun print, and unbelievably comfortable. 

Claire top cross back straps

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Cross-back straps for an adjustable fit 
  • Recycled fabrics
  • UPF 50+

What we love:

  • Easy-cinch cross back straps for the best ‘stay-put’ bikini top design, ready for wherever your adventure may take you
  • Bold print design to stand out from the crowd
  • Made from recycled nylon/spandex materials
  • Matching leggings, crop top, and full coverage bikini bottoms available

What we don't love:

  • Cut out holes are great to allow water to flush through, however, they do provide interesting tan lines if you are paddling out under the sun

If you love this Claire Surf Bikini Top from Sensi Graves, you can complete the look with a matching long sleeve rash vest, full coverage bottoms, or surf leggings.

Best Swimwear for Body Inclusivity: Title Nine

Women’s active water wear designed for everyone in mind. Title Nine has done a fantastic job with its complete range. So whether you are on the bustier side or prefer high waist bottoms or even sun shirts – Title Nine has got you covered, quite literally!

Title Nine is a small Northern Californian brand, owned and operated by women. “We believe that the outdoors and a good workout can be the antidote to many of life's problems.” Well, we couldn’t agree more here at GILI Sports.

Not only is this swimwear brand amazing for body inclusivity, but they are also passionate about sustainability and taking on this big job. So you can rest assured that your new release swimsuit is made responsibly, with nature at the forefront.

Top Product: Title Nine Paddle Board Swim Shorts

Sometimes a bikini is just too small, but boardshorts are way too much. That’s when Title Nine’s Paddle Board Swim Shorts come in! These flattering shorts are thepiece of apparel every paddle boarder should be getting hold of this season.

Paddle board shorts colorfast

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Maximum coverage
  • Velcro back pocket
  • Made from 78% recycled nylon/22% elastane 
  • UPF 50

What we love:

  • Non-restrictive shorts perfect for every activity (running, swimming, paddling, and more)
  • Elastic waist with an interior drawstring to get a perfect fit
  • Loads of color options

What we don't love:

  • Not the quickest to dry bottom 

Title Nine’s Paddle Board Shorts look great when paired with their Tankini Top range. You can color match the top and bottom pieces, or go for a contrasting look out on the water.

Best Stay-Put Bikini Brand: OY Surf Apparel

Are you keen to hit the waves and give SUP surfing a proper go? Well, you’re going to need a swimsuit or bikini that you can trust to stay put. OY Surf Apparel is the brand for you. 

This careful design has been tried and tested by professionals across the world, and it looks great while doing it. OY is a Swiss brand with roots branching to Portugal and Bali, Indonesia. This gear is designed by women who know what is needed to keep your top and bottoms in place, letting you rip it up and not worry about an awkward slippage.

OY’s online shop offers shipping to the United States. So take it from us and pin this brand to your wishlist. You won’t find a better swim brand that stays on, no matter how big the wipeout!

Top Product: OY Surf Swimsuit Kaja X

Are you on the more active side of paddle boarding? Then you’re going to need a swimsuit that you can trust. OY Surf’s Kaja X is just that!

OY surf swimsuit kaja x knotted back

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Non-restrictive design for full shoulder movement
  • Made from recycled materials
  • Cross back straps

What we love:

  • Specifically designed for surfing and water sports by surfers
  • Full coverage over stomach and chest for protection against UV and board rash
  • The cross-back design allows a full range of movement in the arms
  • Beautiful choice of fabric prints

What we don't love:

  • High price tag

Despite the high price tag, we still love this suit. OY Surf’s high-quality design, materials, and finish are totally worth the money.

Best One Piece Swimsuit for Women: Carve Dahlia One Piece

Carve’s Dahlia One Piece is stylish yet functional. With a superb tie back design, this swimsuit is comfortable and functional at the same time. It’s perfect for stand up paddle boarding.

One piece carve design dahlia women

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Nylon / spandex
  • One piece design
  • UPF 50+

What we love:

  • Super stylish and flattering design
  • Four color options
  • Cross back for maximum support and comfort

What we don't love:

  • Not the best chest support for women with a bigger bust

Whether you’re on the beach or taking the sport to the lake, Carve’s Dahlia is a great one-piece option!

Best Long-Sleeve Surf Suit: Seea Hermosa Surf Suit

Seea’s Hermosa Surf Suit is perfect for anyone who enjoys a more active style of paddling. This suit is designed for maximum security and coverage while surfing. As well as a functional design, this suit is also incredibly eye-catching and flattering.

Seea swimwear long sleeves one piece swimsuit

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Nylon / spandex
  • One-piece and rashguard design
  • UPF 30+

What we love:

  • Three gorgeous and unique designs
  • Full coverage and long sleeves
  • Comfortable and form fitting

What we don't love:

  • Expensive

Trust us, this suit from Seea is incredible and you’ll have the best sun protection going!

Best Fitness Leggings: Roxy Ever Fitness Leggings

Roxy is a well-known brand for beach lovers. If you’re looking to take up SUP yoga then we highly recommend grabbing a pair of leggings. These Roxy Ever Fitness Leggings will protect you from the sun and the board while moving through the various poses and sequences. 

Roxy women seams ever fitness leggings

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Polyamide / elastane
  • Leggings
  • UPF 50+

What we love:

  • Comfortable and full coverage
  • Elastic so non-restrictive of movements
  • Flatlock stitched seams

What we don't love:

  • We worry about the UV exposure fading the color

Roxy Ever Fitness Leggings are just one of many in their collection! Have a look and find your own style perfect for paddling.

FAQ’S

🏆 As a woman, should I wear to SUP?

Comfortable clothing is a must when paddle boarding. You need to be able to complete the full stroke movement unrestricted. The clothing you need depends on the climate and the temperatures of where you are paddling. 

Winter and cold water conditions call for wetsuits and warm clothing so you can paddle in comfort. However, summer and hot conditions require cool and breathable clothing. Many people choose to paddle board in swimwear so they can take a dip half way through the session to cool off. 


👍 How do I choose a swimsuit for my body type?

First, you need to determine what your body type is and then you need to look for brands that have realistic designs and lean towards body inclusivity. In essence - every body is different, so there’s no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to choosing a swimsuit. 

When it comes to choosing a swimsuit for paddle boarding, however, it makes sense to look primarily at sport-style and activewear. 

Racerback fastenings are often a favorite among active women. This style can be found in both bikinis and swimsuits. A racerback is secure for sports, comfortable on the neck, and supportive in all the right places.

When considering the best swimsuits for SUP, you want to pick something that is right for your body type, but also adequate for the type of activity you will be doing.

Abi Leach
Abi Leach


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