Speedo swimsuits are arguably some of the best in the biz. And if you're like us, your first encounter with them came as early on as childhood when you were learning to swim. But the brand has come a long way since the plain-black-one-piece-with-the-cut-out-back days you probably remember.
Now you'll not only be able to find swimwear that is performance-focused but said sports swimwear will most likely look pretty darn snazzy too. News that will come as a relief for all those pool-goers who have ever opted for style over support when training and spent the entire session swimming in fear of exposing their one bum cheek to an unsuspecting lane mate.
Speedo's costumes aren't just for regulars, though. If you're a newbie looking to dip your toe into the sport and experience some of those swimming benefits, not having to think about what you're wearing, what it's doing and what body part might be on show will help you to feel more confident and comfortable in the water and leave more space for you to concentrate on the task at hand.
With that in mind, we've gone and found performance-focused swimsuits for those training for a major event, modest swimwear styles for the waders wanting a little more coverage and extra good-looking one-pieces for folks aiming to score style points from the sidelines. Scroll on for our pick of the 19 best Speedo swimsuits available.
WH fashion assistant Courtney Smith has been a long-time fan of Speedo. 'I have had a Speedo swimsuit tucked somewhere in my closet ever since I started swimming at school. They're just so reliable, and it's nice to know that if I want to get some work done in the pool, I don't have to think about what to wear.'
'Plus, they last a really long time regardless of how often you're in the water. At the moment, I am loving the Eco Endurance+ Thinstrap Swimsuit in black. It's simple and gets the job done, but the thin straps and open back add a little something extra.'
How to wash a Speedo swimsuit
According to the brand, you'll want to wash your suit ideally every time you wear it, even if you don't end up getting in the water. This will prevent any sunscreen or moisturizer on your body from damaging the material and keep it in good working condition.
Detergent-wise, a delicate, spandex-specific or swimwear-friendly option is your best bet. And if that isn't available, half a cup of baking soda mixed in a sink full of cool water should do the trick.
As for how you go about washing your new bathing buddy, Speedo recommends skipping the machine cycle and hand washing it instead. All you need to do is soak it for an hour and a half, rinse it in cool, clean water and let it dry naturally out of direct sunlight. Easy!
Speedo updated its classic Thinstrap costume so that you can get even more from your go-to. While it still has the gorgeous open back, namesake thin straps and high-cut leg for maximum freedom of movement, it's now made from ECO Endurance+ fabric. In other words? It's 100% chlorine resistant, a speedy drier and just right for swimming pool regulars.
2
best red Speedo swimsuit
Speedo Womens' eco endurance+ medalist swimsuit red
2
best red Speedo swimsuit
Speedo Womens' eco endurance+ medalist swimsuit red
designed for shoulder flexibility and freedom of movement
front lined
quick drying
Cons
The much-loved Medalist will have you winning in and out of the pool, thanks to the excellent shoulder movement and flexibility, as well as the showstopping red colour (hello poolside Baywatch moment).
Gilly McArthur from the Wonderful Wild Women, a partner of Speedo, opts for the Medalist when braving cold waters. 'My 'go to' costume is the Speedo Endurance Medalist; it’s a brilliant fit for any body shape, feels secure and comes in a range of brilliant colours.'
CREORA® HighClo™ tech ensures it fits like new for longer
fully lined
made in part from recycled materials
Cons
More of a casual wader than a lap lover? You're in luck because this one-shouldered one-piece is just waiting to be shown off. It doesn't skimp on quality, either. Both the chlorine resistance and CREORA® HighClo™ tech will ensure it looks good and fits well for many a swim to come.
If you've been struggling to find performance-based swimwear that works with your bra size, Speedo's swimsuits made exclusively for Bravissimo are about to change your water-based life. The wired costume fits sizes 30D to 40K so that you're fully supported regardless of whether you're getting serious or taking it easy.
Really what's not to love about this bright one-piece? The tie at the back and extra high leg mean maximum flexibility during any stroke (synchronised swimming, anyone?). Then there are the adjustable straps and lined front for added comfort. And let's not forget the striking print. Performance, ease of wear and good looks? Don't mind if we do.
6
best Speedo sports swimsuit
Speedo Women's placement digital recordbreaker swimsuit
6
best Speedo sports swimsuit
Speedo Women's placement digital recordbreaker swimsuit
designed for shoulder flexibility and freedom of movement
quick drying
Cons
Ready to break some personal records, if not world records? Slip into this black number, and who knows what might happen. Made with your movement in mind (the straps have been placed between your shoulders, and the back is open to ensure freedom and flexibility), one thing's for sure; your suit will be working in your favour.
Summer is calling, and what better way to show up than in this stunning green swimsuit? With three different strap options available, you'll be able to pick their position according to the day's activities and look good throughout.
According to buyers, you're going to want to size up for this blue baby, but once that's sorted, you'll be all set to move freely through the water, thanks to the Muscleback design and medium leg cut. We love how the logo print not only adds a little fun to an otherwise plain black swimsuit but also gives it some extra shape.
CREORA® HighClo™ tech ensures it fits like new for longer
light bust support
long sleeves add coverage
made in part from recycled materials
surf and SUP friendly
Cons
On those mornings when you wake up wanting a bit more coverage, a long sleeve one-piece is a great way to get it without hindering your movement. Plus, this colourful cutie will work just as well for the days when you ditch your swimming goggles and opt for a surf or SUP sesh instead.
Technically, this is a legsuit, not a swimsuit, but it's well worth the inclusion. Combining the classic Speedo look and feel with a little extra length in the leg area, it's a good choice for those on the hunt for a slightly more modest cut that still performs.
11
best purple Speedo swimsuit
Speedo Printed thinstrap adjustable swimsuit in purple
11
best purple Speedo swimsuit
Speedo Printed thinstrap adjustable swimsuit in purple
Inspired by Bondi, the brand's birthplace, it's no wonder this suit has some serious style. The thin straps and low back give it a more delicate feel, while the all-over tie-dye print is just what long summer days call for. We'd pack ours for a trip to the coast, where we're looking to get some laps in the sea and look cute on the sand simultaneously.
CREORA® HighClo™ tech ensures it fits like new for longer
padded bust support
u-shaped back for an easy on and off
Cons
This isn't just your average black swimsuit. Twisted details at the front and padded bust support give the one-piece a vintage feel while the stomach panel enhances your shape, and adjustable straps perfect the fit. Hotel pool on your horizon? You won't want to leave this one behind.
designed for shoulder flexibility and freedom of movement
medium leg cut for added comfort
quick drying
Cons
Not much of a red person but ready to get your Medalist on? A blue and white stripe is timeless and equally as beautiful. And when you find yourself wanting to sport nothing but this to the outdoor pool, the medium leg cut will ensure you stay comfy no matter how often you wear it.
Calling all swimmers in search of medium bust support. This square-necked one-piece has a hidden shelf liner ready to provide just that. And the adjustable straps will only aid you in your quest for the ideal fit so that when the time comes to better your speeds, what you're wearing will be the last thing on your mind. Did we mention the near-perfect rating on M&S? Considering how vocal their reviewers are, this sure does say something.
Trust us, as phenomenal as this one-piece looks; it's been designed to go the distance with added coverage in the form of a high neckline and 100%-chlorine-proof quick-drying fabric. We'll be wearing ours as often as is acceptable, which may just be every day.
designed for shoulder flexibility and freedom of movement
front lined
greater side and lower back coverage
quick drying
Cons
If you're looking for unrestricted shoulder movement but more coverage on the sides and lower back, the Fixed Crossback has you covered (we had to). That way, when it comes time for drills, you'll have the comfort and confidence to give it your all. The print and tear-drop back are pretty good aesthetic bonuses too.
We're big fans of the thin strapped styles as they switch between 'serious swimmer' and 'here just to have a good time' so easily. If you're having a serious-swimmer day, you'll appreciate the underbust band providing support as you speed your way through the water and the super-high leg, allowing you to move however you want, regardless of your stroke. Having a here-just-to-have-a-good-time day instead? Well, just look at the colour and those lattice-backed straps. Beautiful.
18
best Speedo high-neck swimsuit
Speedo Women's essential hydrasuit flex swimsuit black
18
best Speedo high-neck swimsuit
Speedo Women's essential hydrasuit flex swimsuit black
CREORA® HighClo™ tech ensures it fits like new for longer
high cut leg for maximum flexibility
light bust support
more coverage
stretchy fabric for added comfort
Cons
The higher neck and zip-up back on this black number prove that full coverage can be just as striking as strappy styles. A high-cut leg means you'll be free to move those lower limbs however you please, and the CREORA® HighClo™ fabric will ensure it fits like new for longer. Simply put, say hi to your new training bestie.
CREORA® HighClo™ tech ensures it fits like new for longer
medium leg cut for added comfort
stretchy fabric for added comfort
wide straps for shoulder comfort and freedom of movement
Cons
If you tend to stick to pretty neutral clothing when it comes to your everyday outfits but are all about pulling out a wild pattern at the pool in order to get your print fix in, then Speedo is the brand for you. There are stunning graphics galore.