Swimmers - suit recommendations?

Janet

I'm looking at replacing my "serious swimming" suit this year. The one I wear for laps but not necessarily for pool parties. My old ones were not serious gear type of suits, but they've served their purpose well, and the newest one is probably 6-7 years old, so they're due for replacement. I got a new "pool party" one piece last year and I'm also stocked up on bikinis for vacations.

What are your favorite lap swimming suits? I need something that accommodates a larger leg opening (serious thighs), but that won't bag in the butt (no booty), and supports a largish chest (32E). I'd like for it to be at least somewhat flattering, in a sporty way.

Suggestions and links welcome!

11 years ago

Shopping

12 replies

Latest reply was from Missey

(website)

Veteran

Not sure on the chest, since it's not an issue for me, but the TYR suit I recommended to Suz on her thread works great for me. I like that it's reversible, too, for a change of color now and then. http://www.sierratradingpost.c.....m_source=G

EDIT: and can you teach me how to swim without sucking air after 2 laps?? I'm trying, but boy it's harder than running.

11 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Thanks for the recommendation, Mo! I'm going to see if there are any b&m stores that carry TYR suits around here so I can try one on. Ugh, not looking forward to that. It's been a long winter.

See, it's funny -- I have an easier time in the water than I do running! I'm not the fastest swimmer, but maybe because I started swimming very young, I've always felt comfortable in the water, even when I'm not in the best shape. I think it helped that I got back into swimming after I'd been running for a couple of years and had built up some cardio endurance.

11 years ago

Anonymous

Speedo is a classic for swim suits:
http://www.speedousa.com/home/.....d=COqR4dKJ
Mo, I swam competitively as a child and was a lifeguard and taught swimming during my college years. If you haven't taken lessons it might be worth taking a class near you.

11 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Janet, I'm no help on the suit issue (still looking for one for myself and intend to try some on in Banff where the gear stores are legion). But Mo, I hear you on swimming! I'm terrible at it. But I like trying anyway. Lessons might be in my own future....

11 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

It's funny how many runners I know who are (supposedly) awful at swimming or hate it! I'm really the opposite -- an enthusiastic swimmer and a reluctant runner. It makes sense though -- my mom was a good swimmer and made sure I started lessons when I was about 5 or so.

Good luck on your suit search, Suz!

11 years ago

Anonymous

Hi Janet, I am the serious runner (& biker) who struggles with swimming. I have a one piece from Athleta I love. The Tyr and speedo suits were to short in the body. The Athleta is really nice, thicker supportive fabric, more chest support, and more room for a non-stick figure. It is a bit tricky to get on and off is the only issue I have. The suit I have is no longer available but it looks like there are few lap swim suits available. Happy swimming :).

11 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Heh, Janet, I struggle with running, too!! About the only things I don't struggle with are skating and biking. It's all in the thighs, you know. But I run (rather, jog) regularly anyway, and don't let my incompetence stop me. I just like doing anything outdoors better than anything indoors.

And I am going to be looking here for recommendations.

11 years ago

(website)

Veteran

Well, my mom was at one point both a lifeguard and a track coach, but I picked up neither sport from her lol.
Can you believe there are no lessons in my area unless you are a 3rd grader. The Master swim was cancelled as well sometime between the last time I had a pool pass and this time around I read up online for technique but really, being shown has to be the best way. Honestly, I did the breast stroke for the last 1/2 or 1/3 of my swim leg in my triathlon.
And Janet, I think a tri would be perfect for you, since you already do all 3 disciplines regularly!
Sorry about the thread jack!!!

11 years ago

Anonymous

I don't know about the fit for large chest. These run small I usually wear a 34 in TYR and Speedo but had to get a 36 in the Dolphin uglies.

The Dolphin uglies are great for lap swimming in chlorine. They have a high polyester content and so last better.
http://www.swimoutlet.com/Sear.....paign=bing

11 years ago

Anonymous

I was on FB this morning and saw this photo. You mentioned you wanted the swimsuit to be somewhat flattering and I do agree but it struck me that when I swim with nose plugs and goggles I don't look the least bit becoming. All the more reason the suit should at least look good. I think I should start wearing one of these too, it was to save ladies complexion in the sun.

http://news.distractify.com/pe.....efore/?v=1

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11 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Lol! I saw that too and was slightly terrified!

11 years ago

Missey

Veteran

I like Tyr for lap swimming suits, they are very durable and come in several styles.

11 years ago

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