For size reference, I’m 5’1ft, petite and 100lbs (45kg) and I’ll mention what size I wear in each style.
Rhea Bikinis
Kalei Top + Oleana Bottoms || Hana Top + Alani Bottom
You know it’s good when you come up from a heavy wipeout and everything is still exactly where it’s supposed to be. The Kalei top straps are adjustable, like music to our ears, whilst the band below the bust is thick elastic, which holds the top securely in place. The bottoms are a super cheeky cut with a band at the top which holds them snugly around your waist. There is an identical bottom but with more coverage for those who would prefer it. The Hana top is a scoop neck style which is fastened at the back by a thick tie making it easily adjustable and supportive. The Alani bottoms fit snug in all the right places and hold perfectly on the hips whilst the panels give a flattering fit with a cheeky behind. Again with these bottoms, there is a fuller coverage option in the same style. Both tops and bottoms look really flattering on and allow me to surf with no distractions! I’m an XS in both styles and they fit me perfectly where they are snug and supportive. I have also surfed in their Sage top and Senna bottoms which also stayed put, however, for bigger busts, you may feel like you want a little more support.
Imsy Swimwear
Claire Top + Justine Bottom || Sierra Top + Taylor Bottom
Designed by a surfer for surfers, Imsy Swimwear combines function and fashion with reversible and tie-free designs. The tops are a sporty style with the Sierra top following a sports bra style and the Claire top showing a little more skin but just as supportive in the surf. The Taylor bottom is high waisted and hugs the hips so they feel secure and stay in place whilst the Justine bottom is low rise, but ruched in the back so they sit perfectly in place whilst offering a cheeky flattering cut. As I mentioned above, all of these bikinis are fully reversible which means the material is double layered so it sits firmly on the skin without cutting in. The prints also last exceptionally well without fading, even in the Caribbean sun! The XS in top and bottom fit me spot on!
Röhnisch Beachwear
Venice Bikini Top || Surf Top + Fold Over Briefs
Originally a Swedish activewear brand, Röhnisch recently released their beachwear range and it’s seriously impressive. Following the sports bra design, the Venice top has thick elastic below the bust to hold the top firmly in place with adjustable straps. The surf top is ideal for those days when you know you’ll be in the water for a while to keep you protected from the sun. It’s one of the most lightweight and comfortable rashguard style tops I’ve ever used, with a small zip at the back to reduce any loose material and rubbing around the neck. The fold-over briefs have a more moderate coverage compared to my other choices and sit high up on the waist with small grippy strips along the inside edge to hold them in place on your skin. The materials used are all made of regenerated ECONYL® nylon yarn from recycled fishing nets and other nylon waste which are lightweight and offer 4-way stretch whilst remaining eco-friendly and sustainable.
Vivida Lifestyle
Women of the Sea Rashguard || Hermosa Top + Hermosa Bottoms
This one might be a little biased, but I’m proud to have helped Vivida with the final designs for this bikini and even more proud to have tried, tested and approved it! For both kiting and surfing, this bikini is solid and sturdy whilst the rashguard offers stylish protection from the sun. The Hermosa top has a cross tie back with a thick elastic around the bust to comfortably hold the top in place. The bottoms are a cheeky cut and sit higher than the standard, so your hips help to hold them in place. The rashguard is cropped which holds it in place below the ribs and the long sleeves and slight compression offer comfortable support. All of the Vivida swim range is made from thread by plastic bottles and high-quality spandex which offer UPF 50+ protection! Sun-safe, eco-friendly and functional! Winner!
Indrah Swimwear
Ohani Top + Bottom || Portsea One Piece
Indrah Swimwear not only have some of the most gorgeous prints and materials, but their seamless suits also provide support, comfort and hold up against the elements. The Ohani top has adjustable straps and a soft but thick tie that runs under the bust and ties at the back. The bottoms are a cheeky cut and sit comfortably but firmly on the hips to hold them in place. The Portsea one piece has adjustable straps and you can vary between cross back and an open back. The cross back gives me the most support but I often switch to the open back for a more relaxed fit when I’m out the water. I wear small in all of the above and they fit me really well. It’s important to note that I have a small bust, so you may find the Ohani top doesn’t offer enough support, but Indrah has more supportive styles that you can mix and match the bottoms with!
And there you have it; my 5 go-to bikinis for a wild day on the water! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask away whether it’s about the fit, style, cut, support or even if you have a personal favourite. I’d love to hear from you!
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