Swimwear vs. Swimsuit — What's the Difference?

Swimwear refers to clothing designed to be worn by people engaging in a water-based activity or water sports, such as swimming, diving, and surfing, or sun-orientated activities, such as sunbathing. It includes a variety of items, such as swimsuits, bikinis, trunks, and boardshorts, catering to different styles, preferences, and coverage needs. On the other hand, a swimsuit is a particular kind of swimwear that generally covers the body more than a bikini, designed for women and girls. Swimsuits can be one-piece or two-piece garments but are distinct in their purpose of providing comfort and functionality while swimming.

Swimwear is chosen based on factors like the type of water activity, fashion trends, personal style, and the level of sun protection desired. Swimsuits, being a subset of swimwear, are specifically chosen for their functionality and fit during swimming activities. They are designed to offer varying levels of coverage, from more conservative styles that cover most of the body to more revealing designs like the bikini.

The materials used in swimwear and swimsuits are similar, often made from fabrics that are durable, quick-drying, and resistant to chlorine and saltwater. These materials include Lycra, spandex, and polyester blends, providing stretch and allowing for a wide range of movement, which is particularly important for competitive swimming and water sports.

Culturally, swimwear trends have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting changes in fashion, societal norms, and attitudes towards body image. Swimsuits, for instance, have seen transformations from the modest, full-coverage garments of the early 20th century to the introduction of the bikini in the mid-20th century, and the diverse range of styles available today.

In competitive swimming, both terms are used but with specific connotations: swimwear includes the broad category of garments for competitors, including tech suits, jammers, and racing swimsuits, designed to reduce drag and enhance performance in the water. A swimsuit, in this context, may refer more specifically to the competitive one-piece garment worn by female swimmers.