Swimming and beach going fall under pleasurable activities, but itchy swimwear can add discomfort and put a damper on a fun day. What you wear under your swimsuit is often the key to a perfect beach day. Today, we will walk you through everything you need to know about what to wear under a swimsuit, and why silicone nipple covers are must so you stay comfortable and supported.

Why are Swimsuit Undergarments Necessary?

With swimwear, what’s underneath can be just as important as the suit itself. The right water sports undergarments can greatly enhance your comfort, support, and confidence when participating in any water activity.

Comfort Considerations

Comfort is key when you’re wearing a swimsuit for hours. The right undergarments like silicone nipple covers will keep you protected from chafing, irritation and the feeling of damp fabric stuck to your skin. To remain comfortable all day, you need moisture-wicking, fast-drying materials [1].

Support Requirements

Different body types and activities need different levels of support. Adequate bust support is everything for women, it’s important to those with larger cup sizes. Men may require pelvic support, especially during active water sports. Men and women will find that abdomen support provides a far smoother silhouette and better posture during extended wear.

Modesty Concerns

Another element that can go under the radar when it comes to swimwear is how see-through it can become when wet. With the right undergarments, you can add an additional layer of coverage and feel comfortable in all situations.

Factors that Contribute to Athletic Performance

Whether you’re involved in competitive swimming or any water-related sports, the right kind of undergarment can aid in reducing drag and optimizing hydrodynamics for performance. They can also protect from abrasions caused by surfboards or other gear [2].

Common Questions About What to Wear Under a Swimsuit

Is It Necessary to Wear Anything Under a Swimsuit?

One of the most frequently asked questions, is whether it’s even necessary to don something under a swimsuit. As most of the current swimsuits have linings or padding already stitched into the swimsuit, such as in the breast area.

But some situations may be an exception from that rule. A suitable undergarment can go a long way if you have sensitive skin, if you do high impact water sports or if you want more coverage.

What Sort of Underwear Goes Best Under a Swimsuit?

Not all undergarments play nicely under a swimsuit. The ideal garments, of course, provide support and comfort, while remaining discreet under your swimwear. Some great solutions come in the form of: medical grade silicone wearing, for example SLICKNIPPS™silicone nipple covers provide a completely smooth front for those want to go topless without visible lines or chafing from swimsuit material rubbing on sensitive skin.

Women who need more support will find swim bras that serve that purpose, or seamless underwear, which works well for many as well. The key is to choose moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics that do not compromise the performance of your swimsuit.

Types of Undergarments for Swimwear

There are also some types of undergarment that are made for swimwear. Each has a specific purpose, and each provides different benefits:

1. Swim Liners: Thin, lightweight layers that add a protective second skin under your bathing suits.

2. Silicone Nipple Covers: Nipple covers such as SLICKNIPPS™ are discreet as well as comfortable, providing a smooth, invisible barrier under swimsuits so nipples can't be seen or felt, especially under thinner material.

3. Swim Shorts or Briefs: Provide extra coverage and support, particularly useful for men.

4. Sports Bras: Offers important bust-support to women while in the water.

5. Rash Guards: Long-sleeved or short-sleeved tops that help protect from sun and chafing.

6. Swim Diapers: Essential for all little ones who will be in the water.

7. Built-in Shapewear: For some extra tummy control, lightweight shapewear worn beneath your swimsuit can provide a smoothing effect without being too tight or constricting.

Pros and Cons of Shapewear Under Swimwear:

Underwear: Yes or No?

Should you wear underwear under your swimsuit? It is yet another frequently asked question. Swimwear is largely designed to be worn without underwear, as they are designed with built-in linings. But if you prefer more coverage, seamless underwear or thong liner is a comfortable option.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Swimsuit Undergarments

Choosing the correct undergarments for your swimsuit requires paying attention to a few important guidelines:

Material and Fabric Properties

The perfect undergarment for swimwear should be of fabrics that are:

• Quick-drying

• Saltwater and chlorine resistant

• Breathable

• Soft against the skin

Some common options are nylon, spandex, and polyester blend fabrics made for swimwear, often paired with silicone nipple covers for seamless coverage and comfort..

Fit and Size

A proper fit is crucial for both comfort and function. Undergarments should fit snugly enough to stay where they belong but not so tightly that they create bulges or inhibit movement. If you can, always try underwear things on if and swimwear before buying.

Moisture-Wicking Capabilities

Seek out materials that wick moisture away from the skin. It also helps eliminate that clammy feeling many experience when wet, which helps prevent bacterial growth.

Chlorine and Saltwater Resistance

Fabrics are quickly degraded by continuous exposure to either pool chemicals or saltwater. Choose undergarments that are durable enough to withstand such elements for a long run.

Quick-Drying Features

Fast-drying materials keep you comfortable when transitioning between watersports and mainland activities. They also allow you to easily rinse and reuse your undergarments including silicone nipple covers in between dips at the beach or pool at the end of a long day.

Best Undergarments for Different Swimsuit Styles

It’s worth noting that different swimsuit styles may naturally lend themselves to different types of undergarments for optimal comfort and support:

One-Piece Swimsuits

For one-piece suits, a thin swim liner will give you an extra layer of coverage and keep the chafing to a minimum. Women can wear a supportive sports bra underneath, particularly for the active water sports.

Bikinis

Bikinis are always better with extra support. Extra bust support can come from wearing a sports bra and silicone nipple covers provide discreet coverage for modesty and comfort.

Tankinis

Swim shorts may also be worn for added coverage, as tankinis only cover the upper body. It can be worn over a sports bra or silicone nipple covers for support and modesty.

Board Shorts and Swim Trunks

Men usually wear swim briefs or a liner beneath board shorts or swim trunks for support and to avoid chafing.

Maximizing Swimsuit Comfort with Undergarments

The choice of undergarments swimsuit comfort is the basis of swimming or enjoying water sports. Here are some tips for maximizing comfort under a swimsuit

• Avoid Chafing and Irritation – Opt for seamless designs or flat-lock seams to minimize skin friction.

• Control Sweat and Moisture – Choose moisture-wicking fabrics to keep skin dry and comfortable.

• Increase Airflow – Select undergarments made with mesh or breathable materials for better ventilation.

• Minimize See-Through Issues – Wear matching or nude-colored undergarments to reduce visibility through wet swimwear.

Optimizing Support with Swimwear Undergarments

Support is really important in swimsuits for both comfort and confidence. Age Well: Here’s How to Support Different Areas of the Body

Bust Support for Women

Wear a well-fitted sports bra or a silicone nipple covers for the ultimate help for the bust. For the greatest well-controlled support while participating in energetic water sports, be in mind that you will want wide straps and a snug band [3].

Abdomen Support

Those who want a little more smoothing may opt for swim liners or shorts with light compression features. They can offer gentle support to your abdomen without feeling constricting.

Pelvic Support for Men

Men's swim briefs/liners with a supportive pouch can help provide comfort and security while engaging in water activities.

Lower Back Support for Extended Wear

Those who wear an entire day in a swimsuit might look into undergarments that have a taller waist to help give added support to the lower back or swimsuits with a compression element in the lower half to support the lower back.

Specialty Undergarments for Specific Activities

Specialized undergarments may be required for different water activities:

1. Elite swimming: Swimsuits with integrated propulsion (advanced hydrodynamic swimwear).

2. Surfing and water sports: Rash guards and surf shorts for preventing board rash and sun protection.

3. Beach volleyball and active beach games: A supportive sports bra and swim shorts for freedom of movement.

4. Sunbathe & Chill: Lightweight breathable underthings such as SLICKNIPPS™ silicone nipple covers for low tan lines.

Caring for Your Swimsuit Undergarments

With the right care, the life of your swimwear undergarments can last:

• Immediately after use, rinse in fresh water to wash away chlorine or salt.

• Hand wash in cool water using a mild detergent recommended for delicates.

• Do not wring it, do not twist it; squeezing out the excess water suffices.

• Drying must be air-dried, preferably in a shaded area, flat or hung.

• Keep in a cool dry location out of direct sunlight.

You should replace undergarments once they show signs of wear and tear such as stretched-out elastic or faded color, usually about every 3–6 months with normal wear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When picking your swimwear undergarments, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Wearing regular underwear: Cotton underwear tends to trap moisture, which can cause discomfort or even health concerns.

2. Choosing the wrong size: Too tight undergarments can cause chafing or lack of support.

3. Neglecting to rinse after use: Saltwater and chlorine can quickly break down fabrics, particularly if not rinsed after swimming.

4. Ignoring signs of wear: Old and worn out undergarments won't provide the necessary support or hygiene benefits.

FAQs About What to Wear Under Your Swimsuit

Q: Is it OK to wear a standard bra beneath my swimwear?

A: It's not recommended. Sports bras are not meant to be submerged and will feel uncomfortably stuck to the skin. Make that, instead, a SLICKNIPPS™ silicone nipple covers or an athletic bra that can swim.

Q: Do men need swim shorts when they swim?

A: While they’re not required under most bathing suits, swim shorts or briefs offer additional support and can prevent chafing, which makes them a great addition if you’ll be participating in high-impact water sports.

Q: How do I prevent my swimsuit from becoming see-through?

A: In swimwear, you want a quality, opaque fabric. A swim liner or silicone nipple covers can help with modesty, too.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent wedgies with undergarments?

A: The best wedgie-free swim short or brief is one that conforms to your body and stays in place without pinching. Choose styles that feature silicone grippers around the leg openings.

Q: Is it OK to wear shapewear under my swimsuit?

A: You could, but it’s better to select shapewear intended to be worn if swimming or liners that are made for use in the water, for comfort and functionality.

Conclusion

The right undergarments are important for keeping you fit and supported in the water. It's possible to hugely improve your swimwear experience when you factor in elements like material, fit, and specific activity needs. Keep in mind which options work for you may not work for others, and you may want to try creative solutions such as SLICKNIPPS™ silicone nipple covers.

After all, the end goal is to help you feel confident, comfortable, and supported while wearing your swimwear, so you can fully enjoy your time in and near the water. With some fashionable underpinnings, you’ll be more than ready to soak up the sun at the beach or pool, and you won’t be fixated on discomfort.

References

[1] Senthil Kumar, Kumar, and Rachel 2020; Yang et al. 2019

[2] Chatard, J. C., & Wilson, B. (2008). Effect of fastskin suits on performance, drag, and energy cost of swimming. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 40(6), 1149-1154. 

[3] McGhee, D. E., & Steele, J. R. (2010). Optimising breast support in female patients through correct bra fit. A cross-sectional study. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 13(6), 568-572.