The Best Compression Swimsuits for a Sleek, Supportive Fit

Choosing the Best Compression Swimsuit: A Buyer's Guide

What is a Compression Swimsuit?

A compression swimsuit is a type that uses a slightly rigid fabric to press against your body. Traditionally, this type has remained a popular option among professional swimmers. But, recently, more people, especially men, are selecting it because of the vast benefits.

This design provides your body with maximum support for different activities. Compression technology enables the body to recover quickly after an extended period of exercise. The slight pressing of the muscles improves blood circulation and helps get rid of post-exercise stiffness.

Benefits of Compression Swimsuits

Although we’ve discussed some benefits above, there is more to compression swimsuits that you should know. Here is a detailed overview of the pros:

Improves warmup sessions

The compression swimsuits increase your blood circulation, which brings more oxygen to the muscle tissues. All this boosts your warm-up sessions and quickly prepares the muscles to withstand the damage caused by a workout.

Reduces muscle damage

During the activity, the compression clothing aligns your muscles and holds them in place. The slight rigidity of the fabric prevents vibration and oscillation in muscles. Hence, your body doesn’t become sore and stressed after hours of working out.

Speeds up recovery

The compression swimsuit continues to offer benefits after the workout/activity is complete. It boosts blood circulation that helps provide a rich supply of nutrients to the muscles for quick recovery. Also, it prevents the buildup of lactic acid to prevent fatigue.

Looks flattering

Lastly, compression swimsuits play a crucial part in upgrading your looks. The swimsuit defines your body parts and makes them appear toned. You can choose a striking color and pattern to further enhance your look.

What Are the Different Types of Men’s Compression Swimwear?

There are various types of men’s swimwear, ranging from full-body suits to trunks. However, when talking about compression, you will come across four main types. These include:

Briefs

The briefs, also called swim briefs, are classic-style swimwear that offers minimal coverage. Its V-shaped design leaves the thighs bare. So, you get an excellent range of motion and little to no drag in the water.

Square-cut shorts

Unlike briefs, these shorts extend to your mid or upper thigh for better coverage. The openings are also straight, which is less revealing and gives you a boxy look. However, they are still quite body-hugging and tight.

Trunks

Swimming trunks have the same structure as most casual, everyday trunks. They have a typical knee-length loose design that includes an inner compression lining. Trunks that are longer than the knees get called boardshorts.

Water shorts

Water shorts are a mix between swim trunks and regular shorts. These knee-length shorts are loose and quick-drying. Plus, they are available in neutral, less beachy colors, so you can wear them anywhere you like.

How to Choose a Compression Swimsuit?

Length

The length of the swimwear depends on two factors: preferred skin coverage and range of motion. If you do not feel uncomfortable showing skin and want your leg movements to be free, an ideal choice would be briefs or square-cut shorts. However, if you wish the swimwear to be less revealing without compromising the range of motion, go ahead with trunks or water shorts.

Fabric

The material of swimming shorts greatly affects the user experience. The shorts should be durable, lightweight, and breathable to offer maximum comfort. Typically, such materials include polyester and nylon. Spandex is also a nice and stretchy fabric, though it works best when combined with other materials. You may find it in blends, like 70% polyester and 30% spandex.
Apart from all this, you should consider the following special fabric properties:

• Chlorine resistance: If you’re a frequent swimmer, a chlorine-resistant fabric will protect the swimwear against chemical damage and last long.
• Four-way stretch technology: This innovative technology stretches the fabric in four directions for a better fit. Its elasticity helps the fabric fit perfectly around all body types.
• Anti-chafing: There are specific materials and short designings that prevent chafing in males. Opting for this property can help reduce redness, swelling, and other chafing-related problems.
• UV protection: Prolonged sun exposure can cause sunburns, red patches, and diseases to develop in your skin. If you’re a regular swimmer, opt for fabrics that block UV rays and protect skin from damage.

Comfort

Although compression technology offers great comfort, certain features can further maximize ease. For example, swimming shorts with padding or an inner lining provide support to feel more comfortable and free.

Fit

Wearing ill-fitted swimming shorts can be a challenge. Not only will it appear flimsy, but you will also have to prevent slipping now and then. Always opt for shorts that fit your waist accurately. If measurements and size charts leave doubts in your head, look for features that help perfect the fit. These include elastic waistbands and drawstrings. You can use them to tighten the waist and secure the shorts.

Pockets

Pockets are an additional feature in swimming shorts. However, having them is mandatory for men who find carrying keys, cards, and other small items essential even at beaches. If you’re one of them, look for the number of pockets offered by shorts. Generally, swimming shorts will have two sides and one back pocket. They may have a button or zipper closure. New designs are also offering velcro pockets that make usage much easier.