Can Sports Bras Double as Swimwear?

Updated 15 October 2025

You’ve probably asked yourself: can I just wear a trusty sports bra instead of a bikini top when I swim? The idea sounds appealing — comfort, support, no fuss. But the answer isn’t quite a simple yes or no.

In this article, we’ll dive into whether a swim bra is a good idea, especially in Australia. We’ll also explore how a sports bra for swimming differs from regular ones, how it should fit, and what features to look for. By the end, you’ll understand when it works and when you might want better options.

What Is a Swimming Sports Bra — and How It Differs from Other Bras?

A swimming sports bra (often called a “swim bra”) is a hybrid between a sports bra and swimwear. It’s designed to be worn in water, rather than just in the gym or as everyday underwear.

How it differs from regular sports bras or everyday bras:

  • Water-resistant / chlorine-resistant fabrics — Swim bras are often made with materials that resist chlorine degradation, fading, or sagging after being wet repeatedly.
  • Faster drying — They have lighter, quicker-drying fabrics so you’re not stuck in soggy padding afterwards.
  • Secure structure under water — They may use tighter elasticity, reinforced underbands, or compression fits so that nothing shifts when you dive or move.
  • Minimal padding or removable cups — To avoid waterlogging, many swim bras either omit thick padding or use thin, perforated, or removable cups.
  • Swimwear lining / mesh — A swim bra might include linings more typical of swimsuits (e.g. more resistant mesh) so it behaves like swimwear rather than a cotton or cotton-blend sports bra.
  • Chlorine & salt durability — Because they’re made for water environments, they can better withstand chlorine pools, salt water, and UV exposure without losing elasticity.

On the Sports Bras Direct site (Australia), you can see their “Swimming Sports Bras” category, which highlights designs made specifically for aquatic use.

A regular sports bra, on the other hand, is optimized for sweat, stretch, bounce control, and comfort during dry-land activity. It might stretch out faster in water or lose shape once soaked.

So, while they share overlap (support, snug fit), a true swim bra is crafted to stay supportive and comfortable in a wet environment.

Can Sports Bras be Used for Swimming

How a Swimming Sports Bra Should Fit

Getting the fit right is essential. If your swim bra is too loose, it will shift in water. If it’s too tight, you’ll feel pinched, especially when wet. Here’s what to aim for:

  1. Band Fit: The band should sit snugly around your ribcage, level front to back. In water, you don’t want it slipping up. But it shouldn’t dig painfully into your skin.
  2. Cup Coverage: The cups should fully contain your bust without spillage or gaps — especially important underwater when movement is multi-directional.
  3. Strap Security: Straps should stay in place without sliding off your shoulders. Adjustable or wide straps help maintain position when wet.
  4. No Gaping or Wrinkling: After putting it on dry, and then when wet, the material shouldn’t pucker or wrinkle — that’s a sign of misfit.
  5. Support with Movement: Try jumping, doing a few arm swings, or mimicking strokes. The bra should stay anchored with minimal bounce or slide.
  6. Comfort Wet and Dry: Don’t choose something you can only tolerate dry. You want comfort when it’s saturated too.

If you’re not sure on your size or just want to double check. Then head over to our Determine Your Size page to find your perfect fit.

Summary of Swim Bra Features (What to Look For)

Here’s a checklist of features that make a swim bra worth your while:

  • Chlorine / UV resistant fabrics – Prevents fading, stretching, degrading over time
  • Quick-dry fabric or perforated cups – Minimizes sogginess, helps you feel more comfortable out of water
  • Compression or encapsulation support – Keeps bust in place during movement
  • Strong underband – Holds bottom of bra steady under motion
  • Wide or adjustable straps – Distribute pressure and prevent slipping
  • Smooth seams / flat edges – Reduce chafing when wet
  • Removable or thin padding – Gives shape without absorbing too much water
  • Lining or mesh panels – Offers modesty and support without excess bulk

These are essentially the traits that help make a swim bra practical in and out of water.

Check out our range of Swimming Sports Bras to find the perfect summer option for you.

Two women relaxing poolside in black swimwear.

Your FAQ’s Answered

Here are some common questions about swim bras (and their answers!):

Can I wear a sports bra for swimming?

Yes, in a pinch. But it depends on the materials and structure of that sports bra. A typical dry-land sports bra may become heavy, stretch out, or lose support when soaked. For casual, low-impact swimming, it might be okay. But for regular use, a proper swim bra or aquatic sports bra is better.

What’s the difference between a swimming sports bra and a regular sports bra?

A swimming sports bra is built with water in mind: chlorine resistance, faster dry times, secure structure underwater, and minimal absorbent padding. A regular sports bra is for sweat control, bounce, and comfort in air. It may not hold shape or support as well once saturated.

Do swimming sports bras dry quickly after getting wet?

Yes, that’s one of the big advantages. Most swim bras use materials and designs that shed water and allow airflow. Thin panels, perforated cups, mesh linings or low-absorbency fabrics help them dry faster than regular bras. But “quick” depends on environment — it may still take a little time in heavy humidity.

Are swimming sports bras supportive enough for active water sports?

They can be — if you pick one designed for high support. For active water sports (surfing, water aerobics, paddleboarding), choose a swim bra with strong compression, wide underbands, reinforced stitching, and secure straps. Don’t expect all swim bras to handle intense splash zones — check product specs and reviews.

Can I wear a swimming sports bra as a bikini top?

Yes, many people do. A well-designed swim bra can double as a bikini top, especially for moderate activities like sunning, light swimming, or beach volleyball. Just make sure it offers enough coverage, shape, and support for your comfort. If you’re going for full performance in the water, combine it with swim bottoms or a matching suit.

What Are the Best Sports Bras for Swimming?

The following are my top six swimming bras. All are racer or cross-back, made of lightweight or chlorine-resistant materials and have no or minimal stainless-steel metals.

Swim With Confidence

So, can sports bras be used for swimming? If by “sports bra” you mean your gym-only, absorbent, cottony support bra — it’s not ideal. But a swim bra — a sports-style bra crafted for water — is a smart, comfy, and functional option. In Australia, swim crop tops and swimming sports bras are growing in popularity, especially for active ladies who want support without switching gear mid-pool.

Hopefully I have answered your swimming bra questions. If I have missed something, please reach out to me. I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Amy x

Amy Jaffers - Sports Bra Expert

Amy Jaffers

Amy is the face behind Sports Bras Direct, Australia’s largest sports bra website. She's a mother of two, outdoors lover and sports bra expert. Her life mission is to help active women get the support they need as well as assisting women in need through her charitable donations.

Bra Finder
SIGN UP & GET $20 OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER!

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.