High waist bottoms will make your legs look longer and are more flattering if you have a bigger bum. They also give the appearance of a flatter stomach for those times you are feeling a little self-conscious after eating too many burritos.
Over the past 13 years I have gained experience in designing and creating surf swimwear. In this time, I have received feedback from sea lovers with different surf skill levels and body shapes, and personally tested Dkoko products in all kinds of waves around the world.
The other day a friend of mine asked if I could create a guide on how to choose the best surf bikini. My friend’s seemingly random request made me realise this precious information is second nature to me and I have been taking it for granted. I hadn’t considered that there are women out there who are confused by the ocean of swimwear options.
So if you are one of these women, I am writing this for you, the ultimate guide on how to choose the best swimwear for surfing.
Let’s start at the beginning...
1. One Piece or bikini?
Why not both?!
Dkoko bikinis and one piece suits are all made for surfing so whatever you decide, we’ve got you covered.
I personally like them both, it all depends on how I’m feeling at the time. I like a small bikini for minimal tan lines and when I’m feeling sexy. If I want to be ultra-comfortable or am feeling more sporty, I choose a comfy one piece.
These days I’m more of an early morning or late afternoon surfer but if I do find myself in a midday surf session when the sun is at its hottest, I wear a full piece surf suit with long sleeves to protect my skin.
2. Bikini Tops
The most important thing to consider when choosing a top for surfing is your body type. The bigger the bust, the more support needed under the chest and in the straps. It is also important to have enough coverage to keep the girls in place so we can focus on our floaters.
If you have a smaller bust you can get away with any of our surf tops, including a smaller coverage triangle top. But if you’re on the bigger side like me (I measure 82 cm under bust and 95 cm around the bust), I recommend choosing a sports-inspired surf top so you’ll be able to enjoy the waves without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
All Dkoko surf tops have a wide and strong band under the bust. This gives support to the bust and stops the top from being pulled upwards when we duck dive or get worked by a big set.
3. Bikini Bottoms
First, choose a bottom for surfing that has a tie so they don’t come down with your first duck dive.
Nobody wants to lose their pants in the middle of a crowded lineup!
Second, think how much coverage you want. This is all about preference. What suits your body shape? How trendy do you want to look? How do you want to feel?
I like wearing skimpy bikini bottoms for short boarding as I’m sitting underwater from my waist down so nothing is exposed. Alternatively, while I’m waiting for a wave sitting on my mal, I’m floating above the surface with my legs wide open (as the board is way wider) I like having more coverage in the crotch area. The more discrete fit bottoms that I wear while longboarding are suitable for all water sports for ladies who prefer a bit more coverage at all times.
Thirdly, what kind of fit should I buy? Ask yourself if you want a low rise, mid rise, or high waisted fit.
In my personal opinion, high waisted bottoms are trendy and elegant but I don’t like the tan lines from wearing them too many days in a row. I like how my body looks with low rise bottoms (I have a very small bum) and mid rise sporty bottoms are more fun. I like wearing them after a surf if I’m playing on the beach with my son pushing him into waves.
Low rise bottoms are more flattering for those of us that have a smaller bum. They are also great for minimising tan lines.
