What is The Best Fabric For Swimwear?

Summers call for refreshing swimming sessions and ladies, you can’t miss any chance to wear body-flattering, beautiful swimsuits. However, it is necessary to choose a swimsuit material that is perfect for the summer. 

What if we tell you that there are a number of fabric options out there to choose from? Some of these fabrics can be skin-friendly and others can simply be irritating on the skin. So, it is crucial to do some research before you shop. 

Worry not, we have done the work on your part. This article includes the top fabric for swimwear that you should consider.

Why is it Important to Choose Swimwear Fabric?

Choosing the right fabric of swimwear is important due to several reasons.

1. Comfort: You want the fabric for swimwear to be comfortable to wear and move in. A fabric that is lightweight, breathable, and soft against the skin will help prevent irritation and chafing.

2. Durability: Swimwear needs to withstand exposure to chlorine, saltwater, and other harsh elements like sun, sand, and oil. A high-quality fabric that is resistant to fading, stretching, and tearing will ensure your swimsuit lasts longer and retains its shape.

3. Performance: Whether you are a casual swimmer or a professional athlete, you need a fabric that performs well in the water. A material that is quick-drying, water-repellent, and has a high degree of stretch and recovery will enhance your swimming experience and allow you to move freely.

4. Style: The right swimsuit fabric can enhance the look and feel of your swimwear. Different fabrics can provide different textures, patterns, and sheens, allowing you to achieve a unique and stylish look.

Types of Modern Swimwear Fabrics

1. Nylon Blends

Nylon blends are the most common fabric you will find in swimwear.This fabric is soft on the skin and comfortable to wear. Women's swimwear with this fabric hugs your body really nicely.

Nylon is also called Polyamide and is also the group name of Polyamides. It is considered the best fabric for swimwear due to its characteristics. 

Characteristics:

• Lightweight
• Drapes around the body well 
• Resistant to abrasion
• Strong
• Washable with hands
• Dries fast, absorbs less moisture
• Resistant to oil and chemicals
• Low resistance to harsh sunlight

2. Polyester Blends

Polyester blends are commonly found in competitive swimwear. It is yet another best fabric for swimwear. It is strong and it is chlorine and UV-resistant. Polyester blends can also absorb dye and hence they can be printed in rich and attractive designs.

Characteristics: 

• Feels soft
• Stretchable 
• Strong durability
• Quick drying capability
• Can be printed
• Resistant to UV
• Resistant to chlorine
• Can be washed with hands

3. Neoprene

This fabric has traditionally been used for wetsuits. This fabric is also used to make thicker styles of swimwear. This fabric has also become very popular to wear due to its various impressive qualities. 

Characteristics:

• Resistant to water
• Heat retention
• Elastic
• Can bear chemicals
• Resistant to abrasion
• Fireproof
• Oil resistance
• Non-toxic

4. Repreve

Repreve is made from m 82% recycled polyester and 18% spandex. This fabric is a little shinier and has more resistance to the sun. 

Swimwear of this fabric can be found in competitive stores like Cukoo Swimwear. It is really ideal for the body as it also dries quickly.

Characteristics: 

• Water repellent
• Resilient and strong
• Flexible and stretchable
• Resistant to wrinkles
• Durable 
• Lightweight 

5. Velvet 

Velvet is yet another fabric with a nice texture. This fabric has evenly distributed threads and a nice blend of this fabric can be really good for swimwear. Velvet swimwear has a luxurious feel. 

Characteristics:

• Breathable 
• Medium moisture-wicking capability
• Medium heat retention
• Not much stretchable
• No bubbling

Things To Consider When Choosing A Swimwear Fabric

Even if you know each of the swimwear fabrics by name, it is crucial to consider some factors. These factors help to make swimwear buying decisions easier. Here is everything else you need to look for in swimwear fabrics. 

1. Weight

One of the most important considerations in swimsuits is their weight. You do not want to feel an extra weight on your body while swimming or on the beach. 

Lighter swimming costume material feels comfortable on the body and also encourages a great look. Consider 180-200g per square meter of the fabric. 

2. Look and Feel

Swimsuit fabric should have a nice look and feel in order to be comfortable. Choose fabrics that are flexible, soft, and printed nicely. 

These factors ensure that the swimwear you choose not only feels good on the skin but is also pleasing to the eyes. Most modern-day swimsuits do not have exciting patterns. 

How it looks is important so that you are not conscious about the look when wearing it. The fabric should highlight your features instead of hiding them. 

3. Comfort

A swimming suit that is uncomfortable on your body is going to interrupt your swimming experience. Plus, it would make movements a hefty task. Choose a flexible swimsuit that allows you to move. It should be soft to avoid any irritation or chafing. 

4. Fiber Content

The best fiber content for swimwear is a stretchy synthetic material, usually a blend of nylon or polyester with elastane. Such fabrics are water-resistant,  durable, quick-drying, and provide protection from UV rays and chlorine.

5. Colorfast

It is essential to choose a colorfast fabric to avoid color bleeding, especially when swimming. Nylon is known to have poor color retention, so it's safer to stick with polyester-based fabrics, especially if you plan to have logos or prints on your one-piece swimwear.

6. Quick-Drying

A quick-drying swimsuit fabric is a must-have, especially if you swim frequently. Synthetic fibers are water-resistant and dry quickly, ensuring that your swimsuit is always ready for your next swim.

7. Stretch

To ensure a perfect fit, your one or two-piece swimsuit fabric should be flexible and stretchy. Swimwear fabrics are usually made with negative ease, which means they are designed to be figure-hugging. Choose a fabric with a four-way stretch that can stretch up to 60-70% in any direction to ensure comfort and breathability.

Concluding 

Swimsuits come in a number of fabric options. You need to choose the one that feels good and is also appealing. Consider the tips mentioned above to ensure that you pick an ideal swimsuit. Also, choose to shop from a renowned store that has a considerable collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What material are most swimsuits made of?

Most swimsuits are made of synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, and spandex/elastane. These materials are durable, stretchy, quick-drying, and provide protection from UV rays and chlorine.

2. Which type of Fiber is better for your swimsuit?

A blend of polyester or nylon with elastane/spandex is the best type of fiber for swimsuits. These synthetic fabrics are stretchy, durable, water-resistant, and quick-drying. They also provide protection from UV rays and chlorine, making them ideal for regular use in swimming pools or the beach.

3. Is 100% polyester good for swimming?

A 100% polyester swimsuit can be a good choice for swimming as polyester is durable, lightweight, and quick-drying. It also provides some protection from UV rays. However, a blend of polyester and elastane/spandex is a better option as it provides more stretch and comfort while swimming.

4. Is nylon or polyester better for swimsuits?

Both nylon and polyester are good options for swimsuits, but they have different properties. Nylon is softer and more comfortable against the skin, but it tends to fade faster and is less resistant to chlorine than polyester. Polyester, on the other hand, is more durable, resistant to chlorine, and retains its shape and color better.