10 Active Bikini Tops That Are Supportive Enough To Be Sports Bras
Sport is becoming more and more a part of daily life as we all unwind our old understandings of what “counts” as exercise (Speaking of: We have a whole Podcast on that below). As such, many of our favorite activewear brands are coming out with swim lines, which means that there are more-and-more active bikini tops that have a little extra support. So how do you find one that actually fits and gives you the support you need?
Check out that episode of the Well+Good Podcast here:
According to Left On Friday founders, Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee, there are a few key factors to keep an eye out for. It’s important to pay attention to the top’s capacity to ensure that you’re not spilling over the cups but that they are not gaping either. In essence, the suit should lay flat without digging into skin much, though since it’s a swimsuit and not rigged denim, it can still have the ability to stretch to cover.
You also want to make sure that the ribcage band is snug enough to feel supportive without being too tight. One way to test this is to put two fingers under the band for proper fit. And lastly, you want to make sure that the straps are comfortable and thick enough to not cause any undue back strain. Wider straps allow for a more secure hold and won’t dig into your shoulders the way a string bikini might. Whether you have a pre-swim hike or beach volleyball on the horizon, it’s important to know that you are wearing a versatile swim-ready top that can do it all. Scroll down for 10 that we love.
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With thick straps and a longline band at the bottom, this top offers optimal support for every summer activity, but it doesn’t compromise style. The deep V neckline and bright shade make it fun, versatile, and the minimal design means that you can mix and match to pair it with any bottom. The style was even fit-tested on over 100 different women to ensure that “it feels comfortable, looks flattering, and stays put—no matter how you move.”
The front tie closure both elevates this look, making it different from the classic scoop neck style, but it also allows for you to adjust how tight you want the top to feel. Made with 80 percent recycled nylon from recycled fiber scraps, the suit is also eco-conscious.
If you’re looking for an option with an underwire that doesn’t look like you pulled it from your bra drawer, Summersalt’s new swim line has got you covered. This top has the support of a bra with the same adjustable band and straps, but also the fun, bright, color-block style of a summery suit.
Made from recycled plastic bottles, this super silky top is eco-friendly and looks like a crop top, so it’s perfect for a full beach day and then to pair with a skirt for dinner after. The square neckline and compression fabric make it ideal for ultimate mobility without worry of any top or side spillage.
Going for a swim? Hopping on a jet ski? This brightly colored top is so comfortable you won’t want to take it off. The fact that it looks and feels like a classic sports bra means that it is made for activity.
For all the throwback lovers, this retro-inspired top is made from a compression fabric that provides amazing shape and support, a wrap detail for some added flair, and built-in foam cups.
For ultimate comfort, this top—which looks like a sleep bra and a cropped cami had a baby—is ribbed, timeless, and features a V-neck but also holds everything in place. This top is a great option to take from a workout straight to the waves.
This deep architectural top is great for any cup size. The shape is unique, the cut is seamless, and the cross strap back and wide base make it so you can have a bit of cleavage, if you so choose, but also feel safe in the fact that everything will be held in place.
For another option that has the support of a bra with cups and underwire, Good American has got you covered. The style comes in four neutrals and animal prints, and the hook clasp at the back is great for ultimate adjustability.
This super soft swim top is the definition of business in the front, party in the back. The high neckline and generous coverage in the front of the suit is great for keeping everything tucked away while you dive, snorkle, run, or dance the night away.
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