Swimwear Features

Swimwear Features

What features should I look for in girls' swimwear?

When choosing swimwear for your daughter, it's worth looking beyond colours and prints. Quality swimwear should be designed to keep girls comfortable, protected and confident, whether they're at swimming lessons, the beach or enjoying a family holiday. The right features can also help a swimsuit last longer and perform better throughout the season.

Look for swimwear made from high-quality fabrics that offer plenty of stretch and return to their original shape after swimming. UPF50+ sun protection helps shield covered skin from harmful UV rays, while chlorine-resistant fabrics are ideal for girls who regularly swim in pools. Secure straps, double-lined construction and quality stitching all contribute to a swimsuit that stays comfortably in place during active play. Older girls may also appreciate features such as removable modesty pads, giving families flexibility as their daughters grow. Choosing swimwear with thoughtful design features means your daughter can spend less time adjusting her swimsuit and more time enjoying the water with confidence.

What is chlorine-resistant swimwear?

Chlorine-resistant swimwear is made using specially designed fabrics that are better able to withstand regular exposure to chlorine found in swimming pools. While all swimwear will gradually wear over time, chlorine-resistant materials help maintain their shape, colour and elasticity for much longer than standard fabrics.

This type of swimwear is particularly beneficial for girls who attend weekly swimming lessons, squad training or spend a lot of time in the pool during summer. Without chlorine-resistant fibres, repeated exposure to pool chemicals can cause swimsuits to fade, lose their stretch and become loose or uncomfortable. Although chlorine-resistant swimwear offers greater durability, it's still important to rinse swimsuits in fresh water after swimming and follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. With the right care, chlorine-resistant swimwear can provide better long-term value while helping your daughter stay comfortable and confident every time she swims.

What is UPF50+ swimwear?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and UPF50+ is the highest sun protection rating available for clothing in Australia. Swimwear with a UPF50+ rating blocks at least 98% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from reaching the skin covered by the fabric, helping reduce sun exposure during outdoor activities.

While UPF50+ swimwear provides excellent protection, it's important to remember that it only protects the areas covered by the garment. Exposed skin should still be protected with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and families should continue following other sun safety recommendations such as wearing hats, sunglasses and seeking shade during the middle of the day. Choosing UPF50+ swimwear is especially valuable for children, who often spend long periods playing in the water where sunscreen can wash away more quickly. Combined with sensible sun-safe habits, UPF50+ swimwear is an excellent way to help protect your daughter's skin while she enjoys the beach or pool.

Why is double-lined swimwear better?

Double-lined swimwear includes an additional layer of fabric inside the swimsuit, offering greater comfort, durability and confidence. The extra lining helps the swimsuit feel more supportive while reducing transparency when the fabric becomes wet, giving many girls and parents greater peace of mind.

A second layer of fabric can also help the swimsuit maintain its shape for longer, reducing stretching and improving the overall fit throughout the life of the garment. Many quality swimwear brands use double-lined construction in the main body of the swimsuit while keeping sleeves or other areas single-lined to maintain flexibility and comfort. Although double-lined swimwear may cost slightly more than single-layer options, many families find the improved quality, comfort and durability make it a worthwhile investment. For growing girls, thoughtful construction can make a significant difference in helping them feel secure and confident while swimming.

Help your daughter feel more comfortable and confident around the water with our guide, Beach Confidence.

What is the best fabric for girls' swimwear?

The best swimwear fabrics combine comfort, durability and performance. Most quality swimsuits are made using blends of polyester, recycled polyester or nylon combined with elastane or spandex, creating a fabric that stretches comfortably while returning to its original shape after swimming.

Polyester-based fabrics are generally considered more resistant to chlorine than traditional nylon, making them a popular choice for girls who regularly attend swimming lessons or spend a lot of time in pools. Recycled fabrics have also become increasingly popular, offering the same high performance while helping reduce environmental impact. When choosing swimwear, look for fabrics that feel soft against the skin, provide excellent stretch and include UPF50+ sun protection where possible. A high-quality fabric not only feels more comfortable to wear but also helps the swimsuit retain its colour, fit and performance for many seasons.

Learn more about navigating this important stage of childhood in our guide, Understanding the Tween Years.

Why do quality swimsuits last longer?

Quality swimsuits are designed using better fabrics, stronger stitching and more durable construction methods, allowing them to withstand frequent swimming, washing and exposure to chlorine and sunlight. While lower-priced swimwear may initially look similar, the differences often become noticeable after repeated wear.

Premium fabrics are more likely to retain their stretch, resist fading and maintain their shape throughout the season. Features such as reinforced seams, secure straps, double-lined construction and chlorine-resistant materials all contribute to a longer-lasting swimsuit. Proper care also plays an important role. Rinsing swimwear after each use, avoiding harsh detergents and drying it away from direct sunlight can significantly extend its lifespan. Investing in quality swimwear often provides better value over time, particularly for girls who swim regularly or spend much of the summer at the beach or pool.

What are removable modesty pads?

Removable modesty pads are lightweight inserts that can be placed inside selected swimsuits to provide additional coverage during the early stages of breast development. Many swimwear brands include these in larger youth or teen sizes, allowing families to decide whether or not they are needed.

Every girl develops at her own pace, so removable modesty pads offer flexibility without changing the overall fit or appearance of the swimsuit. Some girls prefer the additional coverage for confidence, while others choose not to use them until later. Because they can be removed, they also make washing and drying the swimsuit easier. The most important consideration is your daughter's comfort. Swimwear should help her feel confident and supported without drawing unnecessary attention to her changing body. Having the option to use removable modesty pads allows families to make the choice that best suits their daughter's individual stage of development.

 

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