We've all been there: you’re about to dive into the waves or jump for a volleyball, and a nagging thought creeps in—will my bikini stay in place? The truth is, not all bikinis are created equal. While your favorite string bikini might be perfect for sunbathing, it’s not designed to handle the demands of an active lifestyle. This is where the sport bikini shines.

Understanding the difference between a sport bikini and a regular bikini is the key to unlocking confident, distraction-free performance in and out of the water. Let’s break down what sets them apart, so you can choose the right swimwear for your adventures.

The most significant difference lies in the support structure. Regular bikinis often prioritize minimal, fashion-forward designs with simple tie-strings and minimal coverage. A sport bikini, however, is engineered for movement.

• Wider Straps: Sport bikinis feature wider, more robust straps that distribute pressure evenly across your shoulders, preventing digging and discomfort during long sessions.
• Adjustable Bands: Look for adjustable under-bust bands, like the one on our Parla Bikini Top. This feature provides the majority of the support, taking the strain off your neck and shoulders.
• Secure Closures: Forget flimsy ties. Sport bikinis use secure back clasps or reinforced tie-back systems that won’t come undone when you’re hit by a wave or diving for a ball.
• No-Slip Design: The overall construction is designed to hug your body and stay put, eliminating the need for constant readjustment.

A regular bikini is often made from standard nylon-spandex blends that look great but can quickly lose their shape, fade in the sun, and degrade in chlorine. Sport bikinis utilize advanced technical fabrics designed for durability and performance.

1. Chlorine and Saltwater Resistance: Fabrics like ECONYL® are specifically designed to withstand the harsh effects of both pool chemicals and salty ocean water, ensuring your bikini lasts longer.
2. Quick-Dry Properties: Performance fabrics wick moisture away from your skin, so you’re not left feeling damp and cold between sessions. This is crucial for comfort during activities like paddleboarding or beach volleyball.
3. Shape Retention: High-quality sport bikinis use fabrics with excellent stretch and recovery. They move with you and snap back into place, preventing that dreaded saggy-bottom look.
4. UV Protection: Built-in UPF 50+ sun protection is a standard feature in quality sport swimwear, helping to shield your skin from harmful rays during long hours outdoors.
5. Breathability: The material allows your skin to breathe, which is essential for comfort during high-intensity activities.

While regular bikinis often focus on minimal coverage to maximize tanning, sport bikinis prioritize functional coverage that provides security without restricting movement.

• Secure Necklines: You’ll find higher necklines and more substantial cuts that prevent spilling out during dynamic movements.
• Bottoms That Stay Put: Sport bikini bottoms, like our Cado or Floe styles, offer medium coverage that stays in place whether you’re surfing, swimming, or paddleboarding.
• No-Chafe Seams: Flatlock seams are used to prevent chafing and irritation, especially important when you’re lying on a surfboard or moving athletically.
• Athletic Fit: The overall cut is more athletic, designed to follow the lines of a muscular physique and allow for a full range of motion.

A regular bikini might only last a season, but a sport bikini is an investment in your active lifestyle. The construction details reflect this difference in purpose.

1. Reinforced Stress Points: Areas that experience high tension, like strap connections and closures, are reinforced to prevent failures.
2. High-Quality Hardware: Any metal or plastic components are made from materials that won’t corrode in salt water or break under pressure.
3. Durable Stitching: The stitching is designed to withstand stretching and movement without popping or unraveling.
4. Lining for Opacity: Quality sport bikinis are fully lined to ensure they remain opaque, even when wet.
5. Focus on Longevity: From the fabric to the thread, every component is chosen for its ability to endure season after season of use.

Choosing the right bikini comes down to its intended purpose. While regular bikinis are perfect for lounging, a sport bikini is an essential piece of athletic equipment.

Choose a sport bikini if: You are surfing, swimming laps, playing beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or engaging in any water-based activity that involves dynamic movement. Choose a regular bikini if: Your primary activities are sunbathing, light wading, or relaxing by the pool.

Absolutely! A sport bikini is versatile enough for leisure activities. You’ll have the added benefit of superior comfort, durability, and sun protection. While it may offer more coverage than a typical tanning bikini, the secure fit is often more comfortable for all-day wear.

Yes. A sport bikini is an investment in performance, comfort, and durability. The high-quality materials and construction mean it will outlast several cheaper, regular bikinis, saving you money in the long run while providing a better experience.

It should feel snug and secure, but not restrictive. You should be able to move freely without the bikini shifting or digging in. When you try it on, jump, twist, and bend over. If everything stays in place, you’ve found a good fit.

We don’t recommend it. Sports bras are not made with chlorine or saltwater-resistant fabrics. The materials will degrade quickly, and they will take a very long time to dry, which can be uncomfortable and lead to skin irritation.

ECONYL® is a regenerated nylon made from ocean waste, like fishing nets and industrial plastic. It’s the sustainable fabric we use for all Tumla swimwear. It’s not only eco-friendly but also boasts superior performance in terms of durability, chlorine resistance, and shape retention.

Rinse it with fresh water immediately after each use to remove salt, chlorine, and sunscreen. Hand wash with a mild soap and lay it flat to dry in the shade. Never put it in the dryer, as heat will damage the elastic fibers.

Ready to experience the difference for yourself? Our range of performance swimwear is designed by active women, for active women. Find your perfect fit and get ready to perform with confidence.

Because you deserve swimwear that works as hard as you do.