If you were to ask us, nothing feels quite as good as heading straight to the ocean or pool for a cool plunge immediately from the gym or working out – especially when temps are soaring. The only downside? The extra gear you have to lug along.
But what if you could seamlessly transition from a sweat session to a refreshing dip, all without changing outfits? Enter the game-changing trend in fitness fashion: active swim sets – activewear that doubles as swimwear. Think sports bra styles and bike shorts that work perfectly wet or dry; you'd never know they weren't just for workouts.
These cleverly designed activewear pieces aren't your typical gym gear. They handle water like a pro, and with breathable fabrics and supportive designs, you can dive into any activity – whether in the water or on land – with confidence.
Activewear brands like Ell & Voo and Lorna Jane, and even swimwear labels like Roxy have launched dedicated active swim collections for those who love to cap off their workout with a refreshing post-sweat swim, without having to get changed.
Dive in and shop our coveted sets to take you from gym to swim.
Can I swim in activewear?
If you don't yet have your hands on a set from the active swim collections but love the idea of going from sweat to swim without changing, you might wonder: can you swim in everyday activewear like sports bras, crop tops and short tights? Well, in short, yes you can, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind, such as how well these pieces will hold up in water.
- Fabric: Activewear is often made from materials that may not be designed for prolonged exposure to chlorine or salty water, which can lead to quicker wear and tear.
- Fit and Comfort: Swimwear is designed to fit snugly and reduce drag in the water. While activewear may not provide the same level of comfort and in some cases, may be bulkier. Some activewear can also cause chafing when wet, particularly in areas where there is a lot of movement or friction.
- Drying Time: Some activewear can take longer to dry than swimwear, which is often made from quick-drying fabrics. This could be uncomfortable if you're transitioning to land activities afterward.
- Coverage and Support: Depending on the activity and your preferences, activewear might offer more coverage, but it may not provide the same level of support for swimming strokes as specifically designed swimwear.
- Rinse: Be sure to rinse your activewear with fresh water to wash away any chlorine or salt that can damage the fabric over time.
If you want to use your activewear over active swim collections or traditional swimwear, it's a good idea to opt for pieces that have the following:
What to look for when choosing activewear for swim
- Look for materials that dry quickly to reduce discomfort after swimming. Activewear made from synthetic blends like polyester and spandex is more likely to resist becoming waterlogged, making for a more enjoyable swimming experience.
- Fabrics designed to resist chlorine will hold up better over time and prevent fading and deterioration.
- Choose pieces that fit snugly to reduce drag (no saggy bottom, thanks) in the water and provide a firm hold on the body for targeted muscle support.
- Removable bra cups will keep you supported during land activities and help reduce water retention when you take a dip.
- Flat or contour seams can help prevent chafing and irritation when working out or swimming.
- While not essential for swimming, moisture-wicking materials can help keep you comfortable during transitions out of the water, especially if you're transitioning to land activities afterward.
Bottom line: Wearing your activewear swimming for a quick swim or a casual session should be fine, but for serious swimmers, traditional swimwearshould be your go-to.
Ready to Shop?
Check out our entire sweat-to-swim range or head in-store to speak to one of our friendly rebel staff to help find the right ones for you.