When you’re choosing swimwear, coverage isn’t just about how it looks. It plays a big role in how your swimsuit feels and performs in the water. The right level of bum coverage can affect everything from comfort and movement to how secure you feel during a swim.
Whether you’re swimming laps, heading into the ocean or mixing it up between the two, understanding how different coverage levels work can help you find a fit that truly supports the way you swim.
What Does “Bum Coverage” Actually Mean?
At Face The Water we offer three general levels of coverage across our swimwear range:
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Cheeky (minimal coverage) – less fabric, more exposed
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Mid coverage – a balanced, in-between fit
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Full coverage – maximum coverage across the bum
While these categories sound simple, the way they feel in the water can vary depending on cut, fabric and how the suit is constructed.
Why Coverage Matters More Than You Think
It’s easy to treat coverage as a style preference, but in reality it influences how your swimwear performs.
1. Security in the Water
Lower coverage styles can shift more as you dive, push off the wall or swim in surf or waves. More coverage generally means a more anchored, stable fit.
2. Freedom of Movement
Minimal coverage can feel lighter and less restrictive, which some swimmers prefer, especially for shorter swims or more relaxed conditions.
3. Drag and Hydrodynamics
While fabric plays the biggest role here, coverage can subtly impact how water flows over your body. A well-fitted mid or full coverage style often creates a smoother feel in the water.
4. Comfort Over Time
What feels fine for a quick dip might not feel the same after 30–60 minutes of continuous swimming. Coverage can affect how much adjusting you may need to do mid-swim.
5. Sun Protection
For outdoor swimmers, coverage can also play a role in sun safety. Styles with more coverage offer additional protection from UV exposure, which can be especially helpful during longer swims in outdoor pools, the ocean or open water.
Pool vs Ocean: Does Coverage Make a Difference?
In the Pool
- Movements are repetitive and consistent
- Push-offs and turns can shift lower coverage styles
- Many swimmers prefer mid to full coverage for reliability
In the Ocean
- Conditions are unpredictable (waves, currents, entry/exit)
- Suits can shift more with movement and impact
- More coverage often = more confidence, especially in surf
That said, some swimmers prefer cheeky styles for freedom and feel - it really comes down to your comfort level and how you move in the water.
How Fabric and Fit Change the Feel of Coverage
Two swimsuits with the same “coverage level” can feel completely different depending on the material and construction.
Chlorine-resistant fabrics
Often feel firmer and more compressive, helping coverage stay in place during lap swimming.
Soft or fashion fabrics
Can feel lighter, but may move more—especially in lower coverage cuts.
Leg line
A higher leg cut can reduce coverage visually, even if the back panel is technically “mid” or “full”.
Coverage isn’t just about how much fabric there is - it’s how that fabric behaves in the water.
Choosing the Right Coverage for You
Instead of focusing on what’s “best”, it’s more useful to think about what suits your swim style.
You might prefer cheeky coverage if you:
- Like a lighter, less restrictive feel
- Swim casually or in calmer conditions
- Don’t mind a bit of movement in your suit
Mid coverage is often ideal if you:
- Want a balance of freedom and security
- Swim regularly in both pool and ocean
- Prefer a “set and forget” fit with minimal adjusting
Full coverage works well if you:
- Swim laps or train consistently
- Want maximum security and stability
- Prefer a more held-in, supported feel
- Spend extended time swimming outdoors and want a little more sun protection
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