Can You Swim in a Sports Bra? Technically, Yes, but There Are a Few Downsides
A sports bra can handle a sweaty workout, a rinse in the sink, and plenty of trips through the washing machine. Swimming, however, is another matter entirely. Sports bras are made to support your breasts during exercise, not necessarily withstand prolonged exposure to chlorine, saltwater, and everything else that comes with a dip in the pool or ocean.
That’s certainly worth considering when an opportunity to swim comes up at the last minute. Maybe you’ve packed a sports bra for a hike, only to find yourself at a lake with no bikini in sight (we can think of worse problems). Wearing it for an occasional swim probably won’t cause much trouble, although some bras can become heavier when wet or take considerably longer to dry than regular swimwear. The short answer is technically yes, you can swim in a sports bra, but we’d still choose a swimsuit whenever possible.
Whether you can swim in a sports bra—without compromising its support, comfort, or longevity—depends on what it’s made of, how frequently you’re swimming, and where you’re planning to take a dip. Keep reading for everything worth knowing before taking the plunge.
Can You Swim in a Sports Bra?
Yes, a sports bra can double as a swim top in a pinch, although some are better suited to getting wet than others. Nylon and polyester tend to dry faster than cotton, which absorbs water and can become considerably heavier once soaked. Then there’s the padding to consider. Thick foam cups can hold onto moisture long after you’ve climbed out of the water, so a lightweight, unpadded sports bra may be more comfortable for an afternoon at the lake or an impromptu swim.
There’s also a difference between taking an occasional dip in a lake and wearing your favorite sports bra to the pool several times a week. Most aren’t manufactured with regular swimming in mind, so even if the fabric dries relatively quickly, repeated exposure to pool chemicals or seawater can shorten its lifespan. If you do decide to swim in yours, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterward and allow it to air-dry. And don’t forget to check the care label first (some materials require more careful treatment than others).
The Limitations of Swimming in a Sports Bra
Swimming in a sports bra can be uncomfortable for reasons that have very little to do with how much support it offers. Depending on the construction, some sports bras absorb enough water to feel noticeably heavier, while removable inserts can fold over or bunch up inside the cups. And although a snug band is wonderful for keeping your breasts supported during exercise, having damp fabric pressed against your skin for hours afterward isn’t nearly as pleasant. There’s the possibility of chafing as well, particularly around the underband and anywhere the fabric rubs against your body.
Then there’s the effect swimming can have on the bra itself. Chlorine and saltwater can gradually damage elastic fibers, potentially affecting how well the band and straps retain their stretch. That’s something to think about if you rely on the same sports bra for running, lifting weights, or other workouts where support matters. One swim probably won’t ruin it, but making a habit of wearing your sports bras in the pool could mean replacing them sooner than you otherwise would.
Why a Swimsuit (or Bikini Top) May Be the Better Choice
Swimsuits have one rather important advantage over sports bras: They’re designed to be worn in the water, not just survive getting wet. Swimwear fabrics are generally better suited to repeated exposure to chlorine and saltwater, while the construction is intended to keep everything in place during swimming. And if you’re accustomed to wearing a sports bra for the support, you don’t necessarily have to sacrifice that in a bikini. Plenty of swim tops come with underwires, adjustable straps, and even bra-sized cups for women who want something more supportive than a traditional triangle bikini.
Then again, we’re hardly going to discourage an impromptu dip in the lake just because you forgot your swimsuit. For occasional swimming, a sports bra may be perfectly fine, provided you’re comfortable wearing it in the water. But if you’re spending entire afternoons at the beach or swimming laps several times a week, a proper swimsuit is likely to serve you better. Our editors suggest looking for a bikini top that stays secure when you raise your arms or lean forward, with enough coverage to keep you comfortable while swimming.
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