If you’ve ever swum laps with a big bust, you already know: not all swimsuits are made for moving in water. Between the slipping straps, the chafing seams, and the “supportive” details that make swimming harder, not better, it can be a real challenge to find a suit that fits, supports and stays out of your way.
We’ve been there. Here’s what works when you’re swimming with a D-cup or beyond and what to avoid.
What to Look For
1. Full coverage over the structure
You don’t need underwires or moulded cups when swimming laps. You’ll likely regret them. What you do need is:
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Enough fabric across the chest and sides to contain everything
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A high neckline or compression-style fit to prevent movement
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A racerback or cross-back that keeps the suit anchored without digging
The best suits for swimming with a larger bust act like a good sports bra - compressive, secure and with minimal fuss.
2. Chlorine-proof fabric
If you’re swimming 3–4 times a week (or even just once), invest in swimwear made byl swim brands. Arena, TYR, Speedo, Funkita, Kozii and Zoggs all make suits designed for performance, which means:
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Fabrics that last
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Cuts that account for movement
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Styles that stay put in the water
Avoid fashion brands that market underwire or push-up support; they’re built more for lounging, not laps.
3. A flexible approach to sizing
Swimwear fit is personal. Some women with larger busts opt for a one-piece suit in a size up to accommodate the extra room they need. That’s okay, most performance suits are designed to be tight anyway. Some women prefer to mix and match two-piece suits (especially from brands like Funkita or TYR), combining a medium top with a small bottom, for example. Use the True Fit size tool on each product page shop all here
Swim-Run & Ocean Racing Considerations
If you're doing run-swim events or ocean swims with a jog to the finish, what matters changes slightly. You’ll want:
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A suit that won’t bounce or shift when running wet
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No tie-backs, padding, or floaty materials that absorb water and weigh you down
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A secure neckline and shoulder straps that don’t dig or chafe when moving
In this case, the water still supports you during the swim but the run is where bad swimwear choices catch up to you. A compressive one-piece is your best bet, or a snug two-piece top that doesn’t shift, even when soaked.
And if you're wearing a wetsuit over the top, make sure the swimsuit underneath lies flat and won’t bunch.
What to Avoid
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Tie-backs: These may look adjustable, but they can come loose mid-swim or bounce uncomfortably when running.
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Padding: It absorbs water, adds drag, and shifts around. You don’t need it.
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Underwires: Not only can they poke and shift while you swim, but they also restrict movement in your upper body, and that affects your stroke.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece
Most one-piece sports suits work well for larger busts, especially if you go for high-neck or racerback styles. If you prefer a two-piece (especially for pool or ocean swims), look for:
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A longline top with compression rather than padding
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Mix-and-match sizing options
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A snug elastic band underneath, not just fabric
Good two-piece options for busty swimmers are still harder to find, but brands like TYR and Funkita offer solid choices. And if you're mostly in the water (rather than lounging poolside), remember: the water itself provides support. You don’t need extra structure, just smart design.
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