The Best Swimsuits for Women in Canada This Summer
Finding the perfect swimsuit can be a hassle – there are so many different styles out there that it can be hard to choose just one. Still, there’s sure to be a perfect swimsuit out there for you whether you’re heading to the local pool or for a sunny beachside vacation.
No need to frantically visit hundreds of online storefronts to find the perfect style – we’ve collected a wide variety of the best beach wear available all in this guide. Feel free to plan out your perfect swim session while you scroll through our top swimsuit picks.
Our top picks
What to look for in swimsuits
Sizing – Seeing small, medium, or large on the tag probably isn’t going to give you much of an idea of how a swimsuit will fit. If you haven’t already, take a measuring tape and get some measurements done so you know exactly what size to buy. You’ll typically want to take your bust, waist, and hip measurements.
Adjustability – If you find yourself getting easily bored, try to look for swimsuits that you can change the look of. For example, some bikini tops can be tied up in different ways. Another thing to look for are adjustable straps – there’s nothing worse than buying a cute bikini top online only to find that the straps don’t fit you at all.
Materials – Be sure to have a look at what your swimsuit is made of – swimsuits made of a nylon or polyester blend are usually your best bets for comfort and being light weight. Swimsuits made of natural fibers like cotton will tend to be quite heavy after becoming wet.
Best One-piece swimsuits
SHEKINI Women’s V-neck one peice swim skirt
Modest swimsuits don’t have to be frumpy – this one piece features a skirt like design with shorts built in underneath so you can feel cute and secure at the same time. Plus, it features a little ruching in the front and removable padding to help emphasize and keep the bust area supported.
If you’re picky on colours or designs, not to worry – there’s a wide array of colours and patterns available for this swimsuit. If you’re not a fan of the straps, or if you want to show off more back, there’s a similar version with a halterneck tie.
Overall, customers found that the sizing for this swimsuit was true to size and comfortable to wear. Plus, many found that the overall quality and stitching was excellent and durable.
However, petite customers found that this swimsuit was just a tad too long.
Pros
- Most find this swimsuit fits true to size.
- Comes in a variety of colours and patterns.
Cons
- Petite women may find that this swimsuit is too long.
GAP Recycled Bunny-Tie Cutout Swimsuit
If you’re tired of basic one-piece swimsuits with basic pattern, we think this cute one-piece bathing suit might be just the thing for you. It comes in 3 different floral prints as well as plain black, in case you aren’t feeling so adventurous.
Plus, if you want to show a little more skin but don’t want to pick up a bikini, this swimming suit can help you compromise – it features a small cut out under the bust area and a moderately low back.
One other little bonus about this swimsuit is that it’s made with both recycled nylon and polyester – any little helps when it comes to helping keep the environment cleaner.
Overall, customers find that this swimsuit is flattering and that the material is quite comfortable. Additionally, most found that this bathing suit fit true to size.
Pros
- Made with recycled materials.
- True to size.
Cons
- N/A.
Best Bikini & Two-piece swimsuits
Cupshe Paula Bandeau High Waisted Bikini
If you’re someone with a smaller bust that’s been finding that traditional bikini tops aren’t fitting quite right, a bandeau bikini top might be the answer. You won’t experience gapping and you’ll still have a cute swim outfit to boot. If you want some extra support, this bandeau also comes with removable pads.
Additionally, this swim set comes with high waisted bottom, which is great for people who are trying to make their legs look longer. Plus, it’s great for people who are looking for some stomach coverage without wanting to wear a one-piece swimming suit.
Overall, customers found that this bikini set fits true to size and that the bandeau top fits quite securely.
Pros
- Good option for smaller busts.
- True to size.
Cons
- N/A.
Shekini Push Up Halter Bandage Bikini
If you want something just a little different from your typical bikini, this set could be a good fit – it features crisscross front detailing and a halterneck tie at the neck. Plus, with over 30 different sets to choose from, you’re sure to find one that’s your style.
As with many other swim sets, this one also comes with removable padding so you can adjust your level of support as needed.
Overall, customers of various different body types found that this swimsuit fit quite well – however, some did note that this swimsuit may pill a little after a few swims.
Pros
- Fits several body types well.
- Affordable.
Cons
- May pill after a few wears.
Best long sleeve swimsuit
Patagonia Women’s Long-Sleeved Swell Seeker One-Piece Swimsuit
If you’re looking for a swimsuit with the ultimate upper body coverage, this long-sleeved swimsuit is probably as close as it gets. It comes in two cute patterns/colours, plus it’s made of 83% recycled polyester and 17% spandex, making it soft and comfy and great for swimming, surfing, and sun protection.
As many people know, Patagonia is known for making high quality outdoor clothing and apparel. However, what many people may not be aware of is that several of their clothing lines (including this swimsuit) are Fair Trade Certified™ sewn. What this means is that the premiums that Patagonia pays for such lines goes directly to factory workers who can vote on where to allocate such funding – examples of where this funding has gone to include community projects like childcare centres or local health programs.
Overall, customers find this swimsuit flattering, comfortable and easy to wear (the zipper in the back is easy to zip up). However, some customers found that the torso of this one piece was too short. Additionally, people with larger busts found that this swimsuit was tight.
Pros
- Ethically made.
- Good upper body coverage.
Cons
- Has short torso area.
- People with larger busts may find this swimsuit too tight.
- Pricy.
Daci Two Piece Long Sleeve Swimsuit Rashguard
If you’re especially prone to getting sunburn, this is another long-sleeved swimsuit worth looking into – it’s made with UV block fabric with a UPF rating of 50+ to keep your skin protected from the sun all day long. Plus, it comes in over 25 different designs and has sizes from X-Small to XX-Large.
Not a fan of traditional bikini bottoms? This set has you covered – it comes with swim shorts to give you the extra coverage that you want.
Overall, customers find that this swimsuit is supportive and that it’s true to size. However, you should note that this swimsuit does have a non-removable sewn in bra.
Pros
- Protective against the sun.
- True to size.
Cons
- Non removable support.
Best Tankinis
Modlily Color Block Ombre Cross Front Tankini
Let’s face it – while one pieces are great for coverage, they can be a pain to go to the washroom in. That’s where tankinis come in – they have a similar look but without the washroom problem. Additionally, this one comes in a unique ombre design – perfect for people who want something that’s not basic.
In particular, this would be a good swim top for someone who’s looking an overall modest look with good stomach coverage.
Overall, customers found that this swim top fit true to size and that the material is thicker than expected considering the cost. On the flip side though, this listing only comes with a top – you’ll have to find your own bottoms to match.
Pros
- Good stomach coverage.
Cons
- Doesn’t come with bottoms.
Old Navy Underwire Longline Swim Top for Women
If you’ve been finding your swimsuits don’t give you enough support, this Old Navy swimsuit might be worth a try – it features underwire, removable cups and side-boning support to provide you with the most bust support possible. Plus, it even gives you UPF 40 sun protection. Still, you’ll need to apply sunscreen in whatever areas this top doesn’t cover.
If you’re someone with wider hips, this top is also worth considering, since it has a sweetheart neckline – it’ll help balance out your figure overall.
Customers found this swimsuit to be comfortable and supportive – however, some reviewers found that the removable cups weren’t quite big enough for anyone beyond a D cup.
Pros
- Comes with side-boning, removable cups and underwire for bust support.
Cons
- Cups may not work for anyone beyond a D cup size.
- Comes with top only.
Best toddler swimsuit
GAP Toddler Recycled Rash Guard Swim Two-Piece
If you plan on taking your toddler for a beach outing, you’ll want something that’s comfortable, provides UV protection and is easy to wash. Fortunately, this swim set ticks all the boxes – it’s made with soft, stretchy recycled polyester and spandex, it has long sleeves provides UPF 50+ and you can throw it into the washing machine.
Overall, this set should work for girls anywhere from 1 years old to 5 years old.
Pros
- UPF 50+ protection.
- Has sizing options for ages 1-5.
Cons
- Only comes in one design.
Nozone Tahiti Full Zip Sun Protective Baby Swimsuit
If your toddler is especially prone to getting sunburnt, this full coverage one piece swimsuit is exactly what you need to prevent red, peeling skin after a full day in the sun. Plus, it’s easy to put on and take off due to the full length zipper on the front.
It features UPF 50+ sun protection to keep your kid safe from damaging UV rays – remember to apply sunscreen to whatever this swimsuit doesn’t cover.
No one likes getting out of the water and being stuck in a soggy swimsuit – especially not kids. Luckily, this swimsuit has low water retention, meaning drying off will be a cinch whenever your toddler needs a break from the water.
Additionally, this toddler swimsuit comes in 8 different colours/designs – great for if you want your kids to match but you don’t want them to be wearing the exact same pattern.
Overall, customers find that this full body swimsuit fits well and is great for keeping your kids warm on windier days.
Pros
- Good sun protection.
- Easy to take off and put on.
Cons
- N/A.
Best Maternity Swimsuit
H&M MAMA Padded-cup Swimsuit
For a comfortable and cute swimsuit that’ll stretch to accommodate your baby bump, consider this scalloped edge swimsuit from H&M. It even has removable cup inserts as well as wide shoulder straps to provide you better support as you progress during your pregnancy.
If you’ve been trying to buy more eco-friendly clothes in general, we’ve got some good news for you – the lining of this swimsuit is made from recycled polyester and the shell from recycled polyamide.
Overall, customers find that this swimsuit is both flattering and true to size. However, if you’re not into black, you’re out of luck – this one piece only comes in black.
Pros
- True to size.
- Has removable cup inserts.
Cons
- N/A.
EastElegant Maternity One Piece V-Neck with Halter
Maternity swimsuits don’t have to be out of fashion or frumpy – this one comes in over 6 colours/patterns and features a V-neck design as well as a halterneck tie. V-neck lines can help elongate and balance your silhouette – especially for those with larger stomach areas.
No need to worry about your stomach not having enough room – this swimsuit is designed to be loose around the abdomen so that you can wear this bathing suit all throughout your pregnancy. Additionally, the chest pads are removable, so you can customize the level of support you.
Overall, customers found that this swimsuit fit well throughout pregnancy. However, especially short women (5 ft or under) may find that this swimsuit is too large.
Pros
- Accommodates growing abdomen well.
- Chest pads are removable.
Cons
- Not suited for shorter women.
Best vintage style swimsuit
Shekini Women’s Vintage Ruched Bikini
If you’re someone who’s into retro chic, this might be the bikini for you – way easier than trying to find an old swimsuit in your size (and more sanitary.)
It features a push up plunging neckline with wide shoulder straps to emphasize your bust area as well as high waisted bottoms for stomach coverage and lengthening your legs. Plus, it comes in over 6 colour combinations, so even the pickiest people can find a colour or pattern that they like.
Overall, customers found the material quality of this set to be excellent – however, many reviewers found that they had to size up. Still, customers found that this brand’s customer service was responsive and helpful with any issues they had.
Pros
- Good stomach coverage.
Cons
- May need to size up.
Best girls swimsuit
Aisyee Girls Bikinis
This range of polyester swimsuits comes in sizing suitable anywhere from 5 years of age to 16 years of age. Plus, they come in several different patterns so there’s sure to be one that your kids will like.
No need to worry about the shoulder straps being too large or too tight – they’re adjustable so that even when your children hit a growth spurt, they can adjust the top as needed.
Another nice feature about this swimsuit set is that it’s made of SPF 50+ rated fabric- anything helps when it comes to sun protection. Still, don’t forget to reapply sunscreen often, since it’ll wear off faster than normal when you and your kids are in the water.
Overall, customers were satisfied with the quality of this bikini set and found that they fit true to size.
Pros
- Has adjustable straps.
- Made of SPF 50+ rated fabric.
Cons
- N/A.
Best bathing suit cover ups
Aerie Chiffon Cape
If you’re looking for something cute and stylish to pop on when you’re taking a break from the water, this online exclusive chiffon cape from Aerie is a great choice that offers 4 different colour options (our favourite is the baja blue.)
When you need a minute to hide from the sun, this cover-up will do the job – it’s long sleeved and also covers your upper legs. Plus, it’s light weight and thin enough that you won’t feel smothered. (Don’t forget to apply sunscreen anyway so you don’t get odd tan lines!)
Overall, customers attest to how lightweight this coverup is – additionally, several have noted that this is a great piece to use outside of swimming outfits as well. However, reviews note that since this is a one size fits all item, particularly short people may feel like they’re swimming in this cape.
Pros
- Light weight.
Cons
- Only comes in one size fits all.
Swimco Tofino Towel Pebble Poncho
This little cover up is great for drying off your kids and giving cover from the sun. It’s made from Turkish muslin cotton, which is both highly absorbent and quick drying mean your kids will be dried off in no time without having to lug around a damp heavy towel. Plus, there are a few colour options to choose from – coral, navy and grey.
It’s meant children from ages 2-6, so you should be able to get several years of use out of this poncho.
Overall, reviews find that the material is quite soft and that this coverup washes very easily.
Pros
- Soft material.
- Can be worn by kids 2-6 years old.
Cons
- N/A.
Our methodology
Our team spent over 10 hours researching to create a guide filled with a wide variety of women’s swimwear suited for budgets and bodies of all types. Additionally, we consulted several reputable sites to learn about what types of materials work best for swimsuits.
For this list in particular, we only chose swimsuits that had a customer rating that of 4 stars or above to ensure that we’re bringing you the best available swimsuits.
Frequently asked questions about swimsuits
What is the best swimsuit material?
As with basically everything, this varies on your needs and preferences. In general, however, most people want swimsuits that dry quickly so that you’re not walking by the pool feeling bogged down. So, for the most part, people generally don’t go for swimsuits made of natural fibers like cotton or wool. (If you’re planning on just sitting by the water and not going in, then a swimsuit made of those types of materials would be fine).
Otherwise, you’ll find that most swimsuits will be made of either nylon blends or polyester blends. With nylon blends, you’ll find these swimsuits are comfortable, stretchy, and fit well. However, they aren’t really UV or chlorine resistant.
On the other hand, polyester blends are a little less soft, but they tend to be more UV and chlorine resistant. Swimsuits for competitive swimming tend to be made of polyester blends rather than nylon. Additionally, they can absorb dye, so you’ll find that swimsuits made of this material can have vibrant, printed designs.
What is the best swimsuit for big hips?
For big hips, there’s a few styles of swimsuits that really suit this body type. Take high waisted bikinis for example – they take the focus away your hips while also highlighting your curves and making your waist look slimmer. Another option to consider is high cut pieces. High cut swimsuits help your legs look longer and really accentuate your hips at the same time.
One other thing to think about are the patterns on swimsuits – for example, color blocked swimsuits can be quite flattering for people with large hips, so long as the darkest colour is not on your sides.
What is the best swimsuit to hide tummy?
If your stomach is something you don’t want attention drawn to, not to worry – there’s several types of swimsuits that suit this purpose. For example, dark coloured one-piece swimsuits can help camouflage your stomach area and help cinch things in.
Another option is swimsuits that are light coloured on top and dark coloured on the bottom – the lighter part of the swimsuit will help people focus upwards and away from your belly.
If you want something a little fancier, swimsuits featuring tiered ruffles are also a good choice for masking and drawing attention away from your tummy area.
What is the best swimsuit for big thighs?
One good choice for larger thighs are high cut bottoms – while it may seem counterintuitive to show off more leg, this type of cut helps make your legs seem longer, which makes them look slimmer.
If you’re shying away from that idea, you can also consider adding a cover up or wrap to your suit – there’s many cute and stylish ones out there.
Other things you can consider are wearing swimsuits with small patterns or wearing a swimsuit with vertical stripes – these types of patterns are helpful in making you look slimmer overall.
How to choose the best swimsuit for your body type?
In addition to the above advice, here are a few more things to consider when you’re between several bathing suit styles for your body type:
- Short torso – If you have a shorter upper body, wearing low-rise bottoms and a halter neck top can help draw attention to your neck and shoulders rather than your upper body as a whole.
- Long torso – Did you know that there are one-piece swimming suits that are specifically made for people with long torsos? No more feeling like your swimsuit is overly tight. (Pro-tip: Avoid one-pieces with vertical lines – they’ll lengthen your torso even more.) Another option are tankinis and swim skirts – this is a cute combo that suits long torsos really well.
- Large bust – You’ll want to find something that’s supportive – look for swimsuits that offer cups and underwires. Additionally, thicker straps can help you feel more secure.
- Small bust – For a smaller bust, try finding a swimsuit with ruffles or other decorations in the area for more volume. Alternatively, swimsuits with padded cups can also be a great option here.
- Back rolls – If your back isn’t something you want to show off too much of at the beach, try a swimsuit with a high back and thick straps to keep things smooth in the back.
- Pregnant – Swimming can be a great exercise to do even while you’re pregnant. You’ll probably want to look for a swimsuit that has adjustable straps as well as more support up top in general (whether that’s through cups or underwire). If you’re going for a one-piece, it goes without saying that you should make sure that it’ll stretch comfortably over your stomach.
Ultimately, you should wear whatever swimsuit makes you happy, even if it doesn’t align with all the swimsuit tips you’ve been reading online.
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