Choosing a swimsuit often causes a headache, as there are numerous options. What things should be paid attention to when choosing a swimsuit? In this guide, you will find tips for choosing women's, men's, as well as children's and youth swimwear.
A guide to choosing a swimsuit
Women's swimsuits
Size selection
To make it easier to choose a swimsuit size, we have made our own size tables for each of our brands, where you can find modified European size markings. When fitting, a suit of a suitable size fits snugly in the right place, but the suit must not squeeze or press unreasonably. It's good to keep in mind that the material will stretch when it gets wet, so the suit will have more room from the very first swim. When fitting, it is also good to make sure that the suit does not restrict the range of motion or squeeze, for example, when lifting the legs.
In general, the swimsuits of the Arena brand are slightly smaller than normal. So if you are considering between two sizes in Arena's swimsuit, we recommend choosing the larger one. Speedo's size markings correspond well to their size. Funkita swimsuits stretch a little less in use than other brands, because the suits are made of 100% polyester.
When choosing a size, please note that the models can be different from each other and sit on each person moving in the water differently.
Choosing a model
When swimming, it is important that the swimsuit stays firmly on even at high speed. Therefore, when choosing a swimsuit, you should also pay attention to the model and cut of the suit.
Our selection includes training swimsuits that can withstand hard use. Training swimsuits are not supported and the cuts of the suits vary by model. You can get more support for your training swimsuit by choosing a suit that ties at the back, which you can tighten to suit you. You can find workout swimsuits in our selection from Arena, Funkita, Jolyn & Speedo.
If you want a swimsuit to support your body and you need support for e.g. your breasts, we recommend choosing a shapewear swimsuit. In the form-fitting swimsuits, you will find double fabric on the breasts, and a supportive rubber band below the breasts. In addition to this, the suits also provide support for the middle body. You can find form-fitting swimsuits in our selection from both Speedo, Arena and Funkita.
Men's swimming trunks
Size selection
When choosing the size of men's swimming trunks, you can use the size chart found for each product. In men's swimming trunks, the size is selected by measuring both hip and waist circumferences.
When fitting, swimming trunks of the appropriate size fit snugly. However, swimming trunks must not restrict the movement of the legs. When fitting dry swimming trunks, it's also good to remember that when the swimming trunks get wet, their size stretches a little.
Men's swimming trunks have a drawstring, which makes sure that the swimming trunks stay firmly on. Depending on the model, the straps are either inside or outside the swimming trunks.
Model selection
Our selection includes men's swimming trunks from Arena, Speedo, Funky Trunks and Beco. Swimming trunks are available in three different lengths.
The shortest model can be found in the brief model, which is a traditional model of swimming trunks. In the brief model, the length of the leg varies, depending on the model, from 7cm to 15cm. The middle leg length can be found in boxer-style swimming trunks, where, depending on the manufacturer, the leg length is about 27cm.
The longest leg can be found in jammer-style swimming trunks. The long-legged model is popular with fitness and competitive swimmers alike. The hem of the traditional jammer-style swimming trunks reaches slightly above the knee. In our selection, you can also find Mid Jammer models, where the waist is slightly shorter than the traditional model.
In addition to swimming trunks, the men's swimwear selection includes a wide variety of swimming shorts from Arena and Speedo. The swimming shorts have a drawstring at the waist and mesh inner pants.
Check out the selection of men's swimming trunks
Children's swimwear
Size selection
The sizes of children's swimwear are indicated in the size charts, in addition to the sizes used by the manufacturers, as centimeter sizes commonly used in Finland. Also, in the additional information on children's swimwear, you can find the size tables determined by the manufacturer, which can be used to ensure the correct size.
However, the best way to be sure of a swimsuit of the right size is to try it on. A suitable-sized swimsuit does not tighten or weigh, and does not restrict movement. It's good for the suit to be tight so that it stays on comfortably even at high speed.
If you hesitate between two sizes, we recommend choosing a larger size in Arena's swimwear. Speedo children's swimwear fits well.
Model selection
Children's swimwear can be found in our selection in many different colors and models. In addition to traditional swimming trunks and swimsuits, there are also swimming shorts and bikinis for children.
If you are looking for a swimsuit for the beach or a vacation, we recommend especially bright colors such as pink or orange. In the dark lake water, neon colors stand out best, such as neon green and neon yellow.
If a child needs help to float in addition to a swimsuit, we have various options for this in our selection. Depending on the child's swimming skills, we recommend choosing a floating swimsuit, a swimming vest, inflatable hand floats or a swimming belt. You can find more information about the options and choosing a suit here.
Check out the selection of kids' swimwear
Frequently asked questions about swimwear
Do all swimwear in the same category have the same size chart?
There isn't. In all swimwear of the same brand, the size table within the category is the same, but for example, in women's swimwear, the size tables of Arena and Speedo are different. The size charts differ in the same way between brands for men's, children's and youth swimwear.
What kind of swimsuit do you recommend for a swimmer with a long back?
For swimmers with long backs, we generally recommend Speedo swimsuits, because according to our experience, the sizing of Speedo swimsuits suits people with long backs better. Arena's thin-lined Team Challenge Solid swimsuit is also often a good choice for long-backed swimmers.
I go between two sizes in the size chart, which size should I choose?
If it is an Arena swimsuit, we recommend choosing a larger size. Speedo swimsuits are true to size, so we recommend choosing the size that is closest to your measurements. When choosing a size, you should also take into account the fact that swimsuit models are different and their fits are also different. For this reason, the same size may not fit every model, even if the brand is the same.
How should a swimsuit be maintained?
Proper maintenance of your swimsuit increases its lifespan. Rinse the swimsuit with plenty of, preferably cold, water after each use. Machine washing is not recommended for swimwear, but chlorine and dirt can be washed off with a mild liquid detergent. More detailed product-specific care instructions can be found in the bathing suit washcloth.
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For questions related to the selection of a swimsuit, you can always contact our customer service either by phone or e-mail. We are happy to help you choose a swimsuit! :)