The 9 Best Athletic Swimwear Brands for Peak Performance in 2024

Whether you swim competitively or for your own fitness goals, the right swimwear can make a huge difference to your performance. Being comfortable in the water and out boosts your confidence. Plus, with the right athletic bathing suit, you can cut through the water that little bit faster.

We’ve brought together a comprehensive list of nine of the best athletic swimwear brands that help swimmers pull away from the competition.

The Best Athletic Swimsuit Brands

What makes a swimwear brand great? Quality is obviously an important consideration, as is how much the brand is trusted by other athletes. A history of providing competitive sportspeople with the right gear is also reassuring. Take a look at these nine bathing suit brands and see how they meet swimmers’ expectations — and at times, exceed them.

1. Speedo

The best athletic swimsuit brand is one that has heritage, trust, and a great reputation. Look out for testimonials from athletes or connections to famous sporting teams. You should also consider the materials used and how the suits support performance.

Speedo is one of the best athletic swimwear brands in the world. The company was founded in Sydney in the early 20th century and has been innovating swimwear since 1928. This was the advent of the Racersuit, the first-ever non-woolen suit, designed to give swimmers better mobility in the water. More Olympic gold medals have been won wearing the Speedo brand than any other.

There is a range of products for competitive swimmers, all designed to reduce drag and increase speed. The Fastskin is a prime example, using hydrodynamic fabric technologies based on space satellite coatings. Compression-fitted suits add to the performance-enhancing qualities of this range.

Innovative suits like this make Speedo swimwear ideal for competitive swimming, from head-to-head racing to triathlons. Speedo also provides gear for regular training or simply enjoying the water recreationally.

Speedo is lengths ahead when it comes to sustainability as well. They’ve started a “Trees for Clean Seas” campaign with the goal of planting millions of mangroves. Mangrove trees remove more CO2 than others, making them a useful partner in fighting climate change.

Speedo gear is available from all major retailers. Prices vary, but a recreational suit can cost as little as $35, while a technical suit might set you back as much as $600.

2. TYR

The TYR brand originated in Huntington Beach, California in 1985. It’s now one of the most recognizable swim brands in the world for both competitive and fitness-focused swimmers.

TYR provides gear for the United States Olympic Swim Team, which is a top endorsement. The brand’s suits are ideal for this thanks to innovative ranges like the Durafast series. These are chlorine-proof suits with colorfast fabrics that won’t degrade no matter how many times you get in the water. The Venzo racing suit is another example of advanced swim gear, boasting friction-reducing techniques and Surface Lift Technology. This prevents the suit from soaking up water and adding weight to the swimmer.

TYR offers triathlon swimsuits well suited for both fun and formal competitions. A TYR suit is ideal for competitive racing and even water polo. TYR suits are also great for anyone who wants to take their fitness goals to the next level.

For those looking for sustainable swimwear, TYR hits that target too. TYReco is a range of athletic swimsuits made from recycled materials, helping lower the brand’s environmental impact.

You can find TYR suits at most good online and physical sports retailers. TYR technical suits can go for $600, while recreational swimwear can cost as little as $50-$60.

3. Sporti

Sporti is a budget-friendly brand that still offers quality swimwear for athletes of all levels. Great-looking swimwear helps those who swim for fun or who are just getting into competitive swimming look and feel good in the water.

Chlorine-resistant, durable fabrics make Sporti a great choice for water lovers. Whether you’re training daily or just love to swim for fun, Sporti suits have you covered.

You can buy a range of swimwear from Sporti, from one-piece suits to swim jammers for men. This makes the range ideal for aqua-aerobics and other swim fitness classes, but also for general swimming for health.

The Sporti Renew line uses offcuts and fabric trims to reduce its carbon footprint. Making suits in this way is actually more environmentally friendly than recycling suits. A great choice for those who want to protect the planet.

Buy Sporti swimsuits exclusively at SwimOutlet. Prices start at around $30 and there are member’s discounts too.

4. Nike Swim

We can’t talk about the best quality swimsuit brands without mentioning Nike Swim. From its innovative entrepreneurial spirit in the ‘60s to its massive global presence in most sporting fields today, Nike is everywhere. Their swim range follows the ethos of their other gear, catering to athletes’ specific needs.

Nike Swim provides a range of technical innovations, including the Hydrastrong race suits. These are chlorine-resistant for extended durability. They’re also crafted with flat seams for comfort and to enhance mobility in the water.

If you’re looking for competition swimsuits, Nike Swim is a great choice. Athletes like Nouf Alosaimi and Manal Rostom use Nike Swim gear, with Alosaimi stating the suits include, “…great technology.”

Nike Swim is a highly inclusive brand, as seen in their advertising. They also promote sustainability, launching a collection that’s made from at least 85% sustainable fabrics.

Nike Swim is available directly from Nike or via all good sports retailers. Prices range from $40 for budget options to $110 for the most technical suits.

5. Arena

Arena swimwear is ideal for athletes focused on high performance and competition. The brand has been supporting aquatic athletes since the ‘70s when they helped Mark Spitz win 7 Olympic gold medals. He’s now their brand ambassador.

Innovations like the Powerskin Carbon series are what allow Arena to support Olympic-level athletes. These suits have Hydroglide fabric to increase glide, and features that help swimmers stay mobile both in and out of the water.

Anyone searching for the best technical racing suits, or tech suits, should consider Arena. However, Arena also provides recreational options and beachwear.

Arena athletic swimwear is available from swimsuit specialists and athletic gear retailers. Prices go up to $600 for a Powerskin Carbon suit.

6. BlueSeventy

Blue Seventy (often styled as BlueSeventy) specializes in advanced hydrophobic wetsuits and swim skins. Many of these are designed to reduce drag in the water, enhancing a swimmer's speed. They have a great reputation for open water and cold-water swimming gear, helping keep swimmers safe, warm, and mobile.

The brand’s innovative hydrophobic wetsuits and swim skins help reduce drag in the water and increase swimmer speed. Some wetsuits use thermal lining called Zirconium to allow swimmers to experience colder temperatures safely.

If your focus is sustainability, you have to consider how often you replace your swimsuits. With BlueSeventy, you’re investing in a suit that should last for years if not decades, making it a sustainable choice.

BlueSeventy is a premium brand and, as such, generally only available at specialized sports retailers and dedicated swim gear platforms like SwimOutlet. Prices range from around $100 for jammers to $700 for a wetsuit.

7. FINIS

The FINIS swimwear brand was founded by swimmers, for swimmers. As such, it’s no surprise that they have a strong focus on highly technical swimwear and accessories.

Browse their range and you’ll notice a strong focus on training equipment. You can buy swim snorkels to help you concentrate on head and body alignment without worrying about running out of air. FINIS also makes the Fuse range of technical suits which are FINA and World Aquatics approved.

FINIS is the best range for technical swim training thanks to its huge variety of accessories. Use their gear to get ready for competitions, or for coaching others.

Investing in durable, reliable equipment helps cut down costs and carbon footprints. With this in mind, FINIS is a sustainable choice for competitive swimmers and coaches.

You can buy FINIS gear at specialist sports retailers and swim gear outlets. Prices vary from $30 for a snorkel to over $3000 for turning training gear.

8. 2XU

Swimmers love 2XU swimwear thanks to its focus on athletic performance, compression, and a range of disciplines. The range is developed by and for athletes, focusing on their needs.

The 2XU compression range helps improve circulation and reduce muscle fatigue. It can also aid in quicker recovery when training or competing.

2XU makes wetsuits, trisuits, and other swimwear designed to make training and competing easier. Ergonomic engineering makes these suits comfortable to wear in and out of the pool or ocean.

Some of 2XU’s suits are made from recycled materials. So, when you need swimwear to excel in the water, it shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg.

9. Mizuno

The Mizuno Corporation was founded in Osaka, Japan in 1906 by Rihachi Mizuno. Since then, it’s become a global leader in sports equipment and apparel. The brand is committed to enhancing athlete performance through advanced technologies.

Mizuno offers sports gear made with precision engineering and a focus on innovation. That extends to the aquatic sports realm, where Mizuno offers swimwear that emphasizes comfort, performance, and durability.

Use Mizuno gear for training or recreational swimming. Their swimwear is also ideal for competitive swimmers thanks to a range of more technical suits.

Mizuno has a wide-ranging sustainability program. They explore three avenues: conservation, physical and mental health, and respect for all people. The company also ensures the use of environmentally friendly materials and processes.

Mizuno products are available globally through various sporting goods stores and online platforms, including SwimOutlet. Prices range from around $50 for a recreational suit to $530 for a tech suit.

How to Select the Best Athletic Swimsuit Brand

Top swimwear brands tend to have a few features in common. They’re usually made of materials designed to reduce drag, such as elastane, spandex, and nylon mixes. They also focus on comfort via features such as open backs or flattened seams.

When looking for a suit, remember to take your personal style into account. The best technical suit isn’t always an option if you can’t stand to see yourself in it. This could impact your confidence in the water.

When looking for the best athletic swimwear brands, remember that not all sizes match exactly. Consult brand size charts to check that you’re getting a suit to fit your figure. It’s also worth browsing customer reviews to see if they note that suits are smaller or larger than expected.

Consider if you want a one-piece swimsuit, extra coverage, or if you need adjustable straps. You also need to think about which brand offers affordable prices and a wide range of products, or if you want to invest in a premium suit. Quality fabrics, fast-drying fabrics, or thicker fabrics might all be requirements for your swimming needs.

Selecting top athletic swimwear brands should also include a look at the company’s brand ethics. Find out what their sustainability practices are, and how they give back to communities.

Find Your Perfect Fit and Dive Deeper With SwimOutlet

Athletic bathing suits should be comfortable and help you achieve more from your swim sessions. The best athletic swimwear brands use innovative techniques and materials to reduce drag and increase mobility.

Find the best women’s bathing suit options and more swimwear choices at SwimOutlet. Remember, think about your needs and what you want from a suit, and choose one that suits your style as well as your performance goals.

FAQs

What brand do Olympic swimmers wear?

Olympic swimmers often wear a brand that sponsors the team; however, some swim gear is chosen by the athlete or their coach. For example, TYR and the USA team announced their partnership for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

What are the sports swimming brands?

Speedo, Arena, and TYR are just some examples of swim brands used by sporting athletes.

What do athletic swimmers wear?

Speedo is the most popular swim brand and has helped swimmers win more Olympic medals than any other brand. TYR and Arena are also popular for competitive swimming.

What is the most expensive swimsuit?

TYR is probably the most expensive swimsuit brand; however, buyers are investing in space-technology-inspired materials and Olympic-level performance.