Can A Sports Bra Be Used As A Swimsuit?

Have you observed that some of the fashionable swimwear is sporty these days? The wearing of sports bra while swimming may seem like a reasonable choice for women. Most especially if you're making a quick transition from swimming into running, but you can't help but get confused if a sports bra can be used as a swimsuit? Is there an advantage or disadvantage to it? 

Sports bra and swim tops look the same. However, each of these bras serves a different purpose. So, if you're wondering, can you wear a sports bra as a swim top, then you've come to the right place. In this article, you will learn interesting things about wearing a sports bra for swimming. You will also know some of the dos and don'ts you should be aware of.

How Can Sports Bra Work as a Swimsuit?  

Perhaps you're wondering if can a sports bra be used as a swimsuit. Technically, yes, but there are things that you need to consider. For a sports bra to be a successful swimwear, you need to get one with outstanding features. Here are the right features a sports bra should have. 

• Suitable Fabric 
  If you’re wondering, can a sports bra be used as a swimsuit, then you must choose the one with appropriate fabric materials. If it is made from heavy padded materials, then it's not ideal for swimming. You must consider the fabrics, especially if you plan to exercise straight after swimming or vise versa.
  
   The fabric must be thin or light to make it comfortable for swimming. Those bras with light and quick-dry features will make it the best swimming sports bra. So, you must be keen when you purchase one to avoid compromising the moment. 
• Strap formation 
  Your sports bra's strap formation is a big factor in making it an ideal swimming bra. The range and the arms swing motion is essential when you're in the pool or sea. I highly suggest that you get a cross-back or racerback sports bra. If the straps sit straight over your shoulder blades, then it will be uncomfortable if you swim.
• Metals 
  If you want your sports bra to be an ideal swimsuit, then the hook and eye clasps must be made from low rust materials. If your bra gets rusty, then it will look unpleasant on you and will likely start damage. The hook and eye should be coated and not exposed to iron. With that, your bra will likely have excellent resistance to rusts.
• Wear and tear
  Regardless if it’s a sports bra or a swimsuit, you must opt for a bra that gives more support and security. Wearing a sports bra in the pool will require higher support because they may not always hold so well. But you should take note that the materials used in a sports bra may not stand the chemical content in oceans and pools. This is another that thing you should consider. On a brighter side, you’d feel more secure and comfortable when you wear your sports bra. 

Advantages of Wearing Sports Bra for Swimming 

Despite all the reasons to consider when wearing a sports bra for swimming, you should know the advantages of sports bra as a substitute for swimming tops. This will help you understand can a sports bra be used as a swimsuit.  
 

Very Comfortable 

When it comes to comfort, sports bras are highly recommended. Unlike most bikini tops that offer support but fails in terms of comfort, the sports bras are designed without annoying and hard metal wires. Sports bras are made from stretchy plastics that are enough to emphasize your shape and prevent pain.  

Comes with Many Designs 

Gone are the days when you're wearing a tedious and sometimes unattractive sports bra design. Brands nowadays came up with better and cooler designs that could be compared to swimming tops.  

Supportive 

Sports bra are way more supportive than a bikini top. If you have larger breasts, you may find it challenging to look for a bikini top to give you reliable support. When you're moving too much in the water, you can always count on a sports bra for support. You will not get conscious when you get carried by strong waves, and you need to move fast.  

 Disadvantages of Wearing Sports Bra for Swimming  

It would be best to consider the possible drawbacks when you wear a sports bra for swimming. Yes, they are indeed comfortable and supportive; however, there are just some things you need to be aware of when you use it as bikini tops.  

Prone to Damage  

Since sports bras are greatly designed to absorb body sweat, then chlorine and saltwater is a no-no. It’s not going to be ideal when you expose it so seawater or pool.  

Dries Slower  

A sports bra can be absorbent, but swimsuits are more of hydrophobic and quick drying. Unlike swimsuits, sports bras are too slow to dry, and it gets heavy and draggy when you wear it wet. So, think twice if you go active after swimming, as it gets uncomfortable after all. 

Conclusion

Many swimmers and athletes wanted to know if can a sports bra be used as a swimsuit. You can use it as long as you feel comfortable wearing it and don't mind the tan lines. Many would call it a strategic swimwear because sports bra and swimsuit tops serve the same purpose: supporting the breasts.

With the guidelines mentioned in this article, I hope you can decide if you can wear a sports bra as a swim top or give all your needs. In the end, it's about the comfort that matters. You just need to figure out if it will work for you.

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