Paddle board swimsuits are actually far more important than most people realize. The proper clothing can make your experience much more comfortable because its allows for flexibility, free movement and sometimes even warmth in colder conditions (1).

That’s why – in this article we will be exploring some of the best paddle board swimsuits for men and women. I have broken it up into men and women’s sections to make things a bit easier for you.

Let’s get into it. 👣

Looking for our best paddle board product recommendations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Buyer Guides

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Our Favorite Paddle Board Swimsuits For Women

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What Swimsuits Work Best For Women?

When it comes to paddle board swimsuits for women, you are looking for a few key features to make sure that you’re comfortable on the water.

Material:	Look for swimsuits made from durable, stretchy fabrics like nylon or spandex that offer flexibility and freedom of movement. These materials should also be quick-drying and resistant to the effects of saltwater and chlorine.
Fit and Coverage:	A well-fitting swimsuit is crucial. It should be snug enough to stay in place while moving around on the board but not so tight as to restrict movement. Good coverage is also important to prevent chafing and ensure comfort while sitting or kneeling on the board.
Design Features:	Features like flatlock seams can prevent irritation, and zippers or adjustable ties can enhance fit and make the swimsuit more versatile. Some swimsuits also come with small pockets, which can be handy for carrying essentials like lip balm or keys.
UV Protection:	Since paddle boarding often involves prolonged exposure to the sun, a swimsuit with built-in UV protection is highly beneficial. This helps to minimize sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Bikini or One-Piece Swimsuit: Which is Better?

The best choice between a bikini or one-piece swimsuit for paddle boarding depends on personal preference and the level of activity. A one-piece swimsuit generally offers more coverage and stays in place better during active movements, making it a more secure choice for paddle boarding. Bikinis can offer more freedom and comfort, especially in warmer conditions, but may require frequent adjustments.

So now that we know these features, let’s get into the swimsuits.

I asked my wife to choose these different items for you because she is far better than I could ever be at it 🤸‍♀️

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Recommendation 1: Zip Front Swim Shirt

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The Attraco women’s rashguard is designed with a zip front for easy wear and is made from a blend of 82% nylon and 18% spandex. This swimsuit features a zipper closure and is styled as a rashguard top. It offers excellent sun protection with UPF 50+ UV block fabric that helps shield your skin from harmful rays and prevents rashes and abrasions.

The fabric is skin-friendly, offering a soft 4-way stretch that is quick-drying, breathable, and moisture-wicking, keeping you cool and dry during physical activities. The flatlock stitching ensures chafe-free comfort and durability, and the side splice with a crew neck makes it easy to match with other swimwear.

This swimsuit is ideal for water sports. Its protective features and comfortable fit make it great for extended periods on the water, making your SUP experience better by allowing freedom of movement and protection against the elements… Plus you’ll look great while using it!

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Recommendation #2: Cupshe Short Sleeve Swimsuit

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The Cupshe one piece paddle board swimsuit is a functional and stylish choice for getting out on the water, made from a material blend of 80% nylon and 20% spandex. This one-piece features a high-neck design with a zipper closure and short sleeves, making it comfortable and easy to move in, which are crucial for paddle boarding activities.

Plus – It protects your shoulders from the sun because when you’re standing on a SUP there is a lot of direct sunlight that lands there.

The suit includes fixed soft cups that provide added support without compromising flexibility. It’s also designed for durability and ease of care, recommended to be washed regularly with cold water and without the use of bleach or a tumble dryer.

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Recommendation #3: High Neck Sport Swimsuit

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The CharmLeaks Women’s Bikini Sets feature a high-neck halter top and a crisscross back, crafted from a blend of materials with 82% polyester and spandex for printed versions and nylon and spandex for solid versions. This bikini set is designed to provide a secure fit with its pull-on closure, making it ideal for active water sports like paddle boarding.

The high neck offers added coverage, protecting the chest area from sun exposure while maintaining a stylish look. The crisscross back design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures the top stays firmly in place, allowing for freedom of movement without slips or shifts, which is essential when maneuvering on a paddle board.

Additionally, the modest bottom cut provides coverage and comfort, reducing the risk of accidental exposure when active in the water. The padded bras offer extra support and shaping, contributing to overall comfort and confidence while paddle boarding.

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Recommendation #4: High Waisted Swimsuit Shorts

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The Tournesol Women’s Swim Shorts are great for paddle boarding because they are made to be both comfortable and functional. They have a high waist and a drawstring, so you can adjust them to fit well, which helps them stay in place while you’re active.

The material is a mix of polyester and elastane, which makes them stretchy and durable—perfect for the movement paddle boarding requires. There’s also a side slit in the shorts, which allows for better movement and flexibility as you paddle.

The shorts include built-in briefs, so they’re not see-through when they get wet, and you don’t need additional layers. This combination of features makes these swim shorts practical for paddle boarding, helping you focus on the activity without worrying about your outfit or exposing yourself.

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Recommendation #5: High Waisted Tight Swim Shorts

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The Ekouaer Women’s Board Shorts are practical for paddle boarding due to their material and design. Made from polyester and spandex, these shorts are breathable and comfortable for long periods on the water.

The high waist and drawstring ensure a secure fit that stays in place as you move, which is crucial for maintaining balance and efficiency while paddle boarding. Additionally, the shorts feature UPF 50 sun protection, which is important for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays during extended outdoor activities.

The shorts are also quick-drying and lightweight, making them suitable for water use and comfortable for continuous wear. Their design pairs easily with any swim top, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking for paddle board swimsuits.

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Recommendation #6: One Piece Modest Swimsuit

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The American Trends One Piece Swimsuit is a solid choice for paddle boarding because it’s made from a blend of polyester and spandex, making it stretchy, comfortable, and quick-drying—qualities you want in a swimsuit. The suit features a racerback design and wide shoulder straps which offer good support and freedom of movement, important when you’re paddling and balancing on your board.

The crisscross back and color block print not only look good but also provide a snug fit, ensuring the swimsuit stays in place. It’s designed to be modest without sacrificing style, so you can feel confident as you move. This swimsuit is also equipped with a wire-free padded shelf-bra for some support and shaping, so you feel supported in the water.

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Our Favorite Paddle Board Swimsuits For Men

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When it comes to swimsuits for men, you are looking for pretty similar things, here’s what to look out for:

Material:	Choose swimsuits made from quick-drying fabrics like polyester or nylon.
Fit:	Ensure the swimsuit fits snugly but isn’t too tight, with an adjustable drawstring waist for a secure fit.
Length:	Opt for board shorts that end at or just above the knee to allow easy movement and provide protection.
Design Features:	Prefer swimsuits with flat waistbands to avoid discomfort while lying on the board and secure pockets for carrying small items.

So now that we know these features, let’s get into the paddle board swimsuits.

Recommendation #1: Quick Dry Beach Shorts

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The Silkworld men’s swimsuit are designed to be practical for paddle boarding. Made from nylon or a blend of polyester and spandex, depending on the style, these trunks are lightweight and quick-drying, which helps keep you comfortable while you’re in and out of the water.

They have an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring for a secure fit, ensuring they stay in place as you move. The mesh lining adds comfort without bulk. Importantly, these trunks include multiple pockets, with deep side pockets and a back velcro pocket, providing convenient places to store small items like a wallet, keys, or cell phone securely.

This makes them a good option for paddle boarding, where easy storage and quick-drying material are great.

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Recommendation #2: Swim Shorts With Compression Liner

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The TuoRoad swim shorts are great for paddle boarding because of their design and materials. Made from 100% polyester, these trunks are quick-drying and lightweight, which means they won’t weigh you down or stay wet for long after you get out of the water.

They have a built-in compression liner that helps protect your skin from irritation and scratches that can happen while you’re moving around on a board. The elastic waistband comes with an adjustable drawstring, ensuring a secure fit that stays in place, crucial when you’re active on the water.

Additionally, the trunks feature a 7-inch inseam that provides ample coverage without restricting movement, along with multiple pockets, including a zippered side pocket, which is nice for securely storing things like keys or a phone.

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Recommendation #3: Short Sleeve Swim Shirt

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The Kanu Surf Men’s Short Sleeve Swim Shirt is excellent for paddle boarding because its 100% polyester composition ensures it’s not only lightweight but also quick-drying. This means less discomfort from a soggy shirt when you’re in and out of the water. The shirt features a crew neckline and raglan sleeves, which enhance movement and comfort, making it easier to paddle freely without restriction.

Importantly, it offers UPF 50+ protection, safeguarding your skin from the sun’s harmful rays during prolonged exposure, which is common in paddle boarding. This swim shirt combines essential functionality with a simple, effective design that suits the active nature of paddle boarding.

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Recommendation #4: Long Sleeve Swim Shirt

Why It’s Great For Paddle Boarding

The Baleaf swim shirt is great for paddle boarding because it’s made from 100% polyester, which makes it light and quick to dry. It protects against the sun with UPF 50+ fabric, which is important when you’re out on the water for a long time (so you don’t burn).

The shirt is designed to prevent chafing with flatlock seams and a tagless collar, so it’s comfortable to wear while moving around and paddling. The long sleeves and crew neck offer more coverage from the sun, and the raglan sleeves allow you to move your arms freely. This makes the shirt practical and comfortable for paddle boarding.

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Conclusion:

Finding the right paddle board swimsuit can significantly enhance your experience on the water by ensuring comfort, protection, and flexibility. Whether you opt for a full-coverage rashguard or a supportive one-piece, the key is to choose swimwear that suits your needs and helps you perform at your best while paddle boarding. With options available for both men and women that offer features like UV protection, quick-drying fabrics, and secure fits, you can enjoy your time on the paddle board with confidence and style. Remember to consider these recommended products and features as you prepare for your next aquatic adventure. Happy paddling!

Looking for insider guides to some amazing paddle boarding locations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Location Guides

Paddle Board Swimsuits FAQ

Do You Need a Swimsuit for Paddle Boarding?

Yes, a swimsuit is recommended for paddle boarding because it is specifically designed to handle water, allowing you to stay comfortable and move freely. Swimsuits are also quick-drying, which helps maintain comfort and warmth once you are out of the water.

Can You Wear Normal Clothes Paddle Boarding?

While you can wear normal clothes for paddle boarding, it’s not recommended. Regular clothes are not designed for water use; they can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet, restrict your movement, and take a long time to dry. Specialized water gear or swimwear is preferable for a better experience.

What Do People Wear Paddle Boarding?

People typically wear swimwear such as bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, rash guards, and board shorts while paddle boarding. Depending on the weather conditions, they might also wear wetsuits or drysuits for thermal protection, and sun-protective clothing to guard against UV rays.

Do You Wear Shoes to Paddleboard?

Yes, wearing water shoes or special paddle boarding shoes is advisable. They protect your feet from sharp objects in the water and provide grip on the board, which helps prevent slipping.

Here are our water shoe recommendations: 7 Amazing Paddleboarding Shoes To Try In 2023

Is a Wetsuit or Drysuit Better for Paddle Boarding?

The choice between a wetsuit and a drysuit depends on the water temperature and your personal comfort preferences. Wetsuits are typically sufficient for most conditions as they provide warmth by trapping water that is then warmed by your body heat. Drysuits are ideal for very cold water as they keep you completely dry and are worn with layers of insulation underneath. For most recreational paddle boarders, a wetsuit is adequate and more flexible.

Here is more information on paddle board clothing: Essential Paddleboarding Clothes You Need For All Weather Conditions

References:
1 – What to Wear For Standup Paddleboarding, Taken from: https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/wear-standup-paddleboarding-clothing-skin-protection