Whether you’re buying swimwear for yourself or as a gift for someone else, finding the right swimwear will depend on two main factors: function and style. Some swimwear is geared more towards intense swimming activities such as swimming laps, while others are great for hanging around poolside for the occasional dip. If you’re looking to increase lap times and swim primarily for exercise, picking a swimsuit that is skintight to reduce drag is best, such as a bikini bottom or a pair of jammers. Also consider the water temperature you’ll be swimming in and if you want your suit to offer any insulation, like a wetsuit for the ocean and surfing.
For hitting up hotel pools or a few beach parties, you might want more legroom and the looser fabric found in trunk styles and board shorts. The extra space between your legs will help you dry faster between dips and reduce chafing. If you are out in the sun a lot, consider a style with more sun protection such as mens’ one-piece suits or shorts with a long hemline.
Choose something comfortable with a style that suits you. It could be a navy pair of board shorts or a pair of personalized swim shorts with a pattern or custom text you pick, like your partner’s face for a funny anniversary gift. Longer suits that come to the thighs or past the knee are more conservative, while tight-fitting suits could leave less to the imagination.