swimwear

Swimwear is clothing designed for activities in or around water, including swimming, surfing, and beach recreation. It is intended to be quick-drying, comfortable, and, in many cases, supportive, with features such as stretch fabrics, secure closures, and UV protection. Swimwear choices reflect factors such as activity type, climate, modesty, and personal style.

Historically, swimwear evolved from full-body 19th-century garments to more specialized designs in the 20th century. Early suits emphasized modesty and coverage, often wool or cotton. The first modern one-piece appeared in the early 1900s, and the bikini, introduced in 1946, popularized two-piece designs. Advances in fabrics such as nylon, polyester, and elastane produced lighter, stretchier, faster-drying suits, with competitive swimwear emphasizing performance.

Common types include one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, tankinis, swim trunks, boardshorts, and rash guards. Performance suits may be cut to reduce drag and provide high coverage. Materials typically blend nylon or polyester with elastane for stretch and shape retention; wetsuits use neoprene for insulation.

Care tips: rinse after use, wash with mild detergent, and air-dry away from direct heat. Chlorine and sun exposure can degrade fabrics over time. UPF fabrics offer sun protection. Fit and secure fastenings reduce slippage. Swim safety also involves supervision and basic water-skills.

Cultural variations include modest options such as burkinis or hijab swimsuits in some regions. Environmentally minded choices include recycled-polyester or recycled-nylon suits and fabrics designed for longer life and reduced microplastic shedding.