Swimwear

For beach lounging and pool swims, bikinis or one‑pieces offer comfort and easy movement, while boardshorts and rashguards suit ocean or river paddling. For surf and abrasion-heavy board use, lean toward neoprene or surf-specific pieces; styles like the Patagonia Baggies 5in Short work well for paddling and hiking near water.

Sizing varies by gender and cut, so check each brand’s size chart and expect stretchy fabrics to hold shape. Many bikinis have adjustable tops and bottoms in compression or standard geometries, and boardshorts such as the O'Neill Chilli H20 Short use elastic waists for mobility.

Polyester and nylon (polyamide) blends are the go-to choices for UV, chlorine, and abrasion resistance while keeping stretch and breathability. You’ll also find durable pieces like the Nani Swimwear Flat Rib Marine Bikini Bottom that use stronger fibers to maintain coverage and shape during activity.

Yes — thinner, stretchier neoprene provides abrasion resistance and better mobility on a surfboard without adding excessive warmth. That construction emphasizes durability and shape retention in rough, contact‑heavy conditions while still allowing paddling and pop‑ups.

Wear a rashguard when you need extra coverage for sun protection or when paddling and surfing where chafing or abrasion is likely. These tops, often made from polyester blends, offer added coverage on river or ocean paddles and are handy for hiking transitions near water.