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Picking the right swimwear isn’t just about looking good on the sand — it’s about comfort, sun protection, and feeling confident whether you’re dipping in the sea or lounging by the pool. The right pair of swim shorts can be as freeing as a good pair of trainers; the wrong pair feels like you’re wearing a plastic bag. In the UK climate, where a surprise sun spell can happen at any moment, a swimsuit that dries quickly and offers UV protection is a real game-changer.
Comfort starts with fit. Swim shorts come in styles from short 3-inch lengths to classic 9-inch or 10-inch cuts, and choosing the right inseam affects mobility and style. A 4-inch to 6-inch inseam tends to be sporty and flattering for many, while a longer 8-inch to 10-inch gives a more traditional, relaxed look. Look for designs with adjustable drawstrings, elasticated waists, and stretch fabrics to get the sweet spot between snug and restrictive.
Style matters because it influences how you feel. Prints, retro stripes, block colours, and subtle logos all send different messages. Want to blend in at a quiet beach? Neutral tones like navy or olive work. Want to stand out at a rooftop pool party? Bright colours or bold patterns do the trick. Brands in the UK offer everything from minimalism to maximalist prints, so you can match your mood and the occasion.
The UK market hosts a mix of homegrown and international brands that cover performance, fashion, and budget categories. Two names worth spotlighting from the current selection are Lindex and Björn Borg — both offer well-made options that cater to different tastes. Beyond them, familiar retailers like Speedo, ASOS, H&M, Marks & Spencer, Next, John Lewis, and Decathlon provide wide selections for any budget.
Lindex has made a name for offering swimwear with UV protection built in, making their pieces practical without sacrificing style. Their range includes swim sets with built-in sun defense, classic swim shorts, and swim skirts for sporty alternatives. If you want swimwear that’s easy to wear and gives extra sun safety, Lindex’s UV-protective fabrics are worth checking out, especially for family beach days or when you plan to be outdoors for several hours.
Björn Borg sits at the intersection of sporty design and fashion-forward details. Known for their Borg-branded swim shorts, they offer retro cuts alongside modern stretch and elasticated styles. Expect comfortable fabrics with reliable stretch, retro-inspired stripe details, and a snug, athletic fit that’s great for both pool laps and casual days at the beach. If you like a polished yet playful look, Björn Borg is a solid bet.
For those who take swimming seriously, Speedo remains the benchmark for performance swimwear. Their training trunks, jammers, and competition suits focus on hydrodynamics and endurance. If your day at the water involves laps, triathlon practice, or serious training, Speedo’s fabrics and cuts are engineered to reduce drag and hold up session after session.
Retailers like ASOS, H&M, Marks & Spencer, Next, and John Lewis balance trend-led styles with affordable price points. ASOS and H&M are great for seasonal trends—think bold prints and retro reissues—while Marks & Spencer and John Lewis offer reliable everyday options that are well-made and easy to return if the fit isn’t right. Decathlon is the place for affordable, technical options if you want function over fashion without breaking the bank.
Choosing swim shorts comes down to a few simple decisions: the length you prefer, the fabric performance, and any tech like UV protection or quick-dry materials. Think about how you’ll use them. Are they for holiday lounging, active swimming, or both? That purpose shapes which features matter most.
Shorter lengths—around a 3-inch to 6-inch inseam—are sporty and great for showcasing legs, while a longer 8-inch to 10-inch style offers more coverage and a timeless silhouette. If you’re unsure, try a mid-length 6-inch; it’s a versatile middle ground that suits many body types. Make sure the waistband feels secure but not pinching, and that the leg openings don’t cut into the thighs when you move.
Look for polyester blends and fabrics described as quick-dry or fast-drying. These materials wick water away and reduce the soggy feeling when you slip into a car or a beach chair. Stretch panels or elastane blends improve comfort during active use. Lining matters too—mesh linings can help with support and airflow, but if you prefer minimal bulk, opt for unlined or partially lined options.
Many brands now add UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to swimwear. A UPF-rated fabric is helpful if you’ll be in the sun for long stretches, and it’s a smart move if you’re pale or prone to burning. For full protection, pair UV-protective swimwear with an SPF-rated sunscreen on exposed skin and a hat for peak sun hours.
One of the joys of modern swimwear is how easily it moves from sand to street. With a few styling tricks you can wear swim shorts with confidence beyond the shoreline.
Keep a lightweight linen shirt or a loose cotton tee handy to throw over swim shorts; it instantly upgrades the look for a casual lunch or drinks. A pair of slides or espadrilles create a relaxed vibe, while a canvas jacket and clean trainers make the outfit feel more put together. Don’t forget polarised sunglasses and a wide-brim hat when the sun’s out.
Neutral colours like navy, grey, and olive are the most versatile. If you like prints, choose one patterned piece and keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid clashing. Stripes, retro blocks, and tropical prints are perennial favourites—Björn Borg’s retro styles and Lindex’s modern cuts lend themselves well to both subtle and bold choices.
Buying swimwear online gives you wider choice and often better prices, but trying pieces on in store removes guesswork. Both routes have pros and cons, so it’s about picking the approach that matches your priorities.
Online shopping opens up international brands and niche styles you might not find on the high street. Websites often offer size guides and customer reviews that help you pick the right fit. Look out for retailers with clear return policies so you can try a couple of sizes at home—just remember to check tags and keep items unworn to retain return options.
Trying swimwear in person lets you assess comfort, lining feel, and true colours under natural light. Stores like Marks & Spencer, John Lewis, and Next have helpful staff and immediate gratification—no waiting for delivery. If you’re unsure of your size or want to avoid the hassle of returns, popping into a store is still a smart move.
Good swimwear care extends the life of your favourite trunks and preserves colours and elasticity. A few simple habits go a long way toward keeping swimwear feeling fresh season after season.
Rinse your swimwear in cool water after each use to wash away salt, chlorine, and sunscreen. Gently squeeze out excess water—avoid wringing, which can stretch the fabric—and lay flat to dry in shade. Direct sun dries faster but can fade colours and weaken fibres. When storing, keep swimwear flat or loosely folded to prevent stubborn creases and to maintain elasticity.
Avoid harsh detergents and bleach; use mild soap or a detergent designed for delicates. Don’t machine wash or tumble dry unless the label explicitly says it’s safe. And resist sitting on rough pool edges—abrasive surfaces accelerate pilling and thinning. Treat your swimwear like an investment, and it will repay you with seasons of reliable wear.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to look good at the beach, but there are times when investing in a quality pair of swim trunks pays off. Knowing when to save and when to splurge helps you build a balanced swimwear wardrobe.
If you’re updating your seasonal colours or experimenting with bold patterns, cheaper high-street pieces are ideal. They let you test trends without commitment and are easy to replace if they fade after heavy use. Retailers like H&M and ASOS excel here with seasonal, affordable lines.
Splash out on swimwear when you need performance fabrics, reliable fit, and long-lasting colours. Brands that use premium quick-dry fabric, reinforced stitching, and built-in UV protection are worth the extra cost if you swim frequently or want a pair that lasts for multiple summers. Think of these as your "go-to" trunks—the ones you reach for first on every holiday.
Try on different lengths and styles to find the silhouette that makes you feel best. Pay attention to lining comfort and waistband adjustability. And don’t be afraid to mix affordable trend picks with one investment piece that offers longevity. With the wide range of UK options—from UV-protective pieces to retro-inspired designs—there’s a perfect pair out there for every body and every beach plan.
Conclusion: Finding the right swimwear in the UK is about balancing comfort, function, and style. Whether you prefer the UV-conscious designs of Lindex, the sporty-retro edge of Björn Borg, or the range found at major high-street and online retailers, choosing the right length, fabric, and care routine keeps you feeling great on the sand, in the sea, and everywhere in between. Happy shopping — and here’s to sunny days that match your new look.
