Water workouts are some of the most effective, joint-friendly exercise options available — and some of the most underrepresented in plus size activewear guides. Whether you’re swimming laps, doing water aerobics, paddleboarding, or simply making the most of a beach holiday, what you wear matters.
This guide covers everything you need to know about plus size activewear for water activities — in the water, poolside, and everywhere in between.
In the Water: What Actually Works
Swimming Laps
For lap swimming, you need a swimsuit that stays put through every stroke. Key features for plus size swimmers:
- Secure, adjustable straps — wide straps that don’t slip off the shoulder during freestyle or backstroke
- High-waisted bottoms — stay in place through every kick turn and flip turn
- Chlorine-resistant fabric — standard swimwear fabric degrades quickly in chlorinated pools; look for recycled polyester blends that hold up to repeated pool use
- Removable padding — gives you the option to swim without padding if preferred
Water Aerobics
Water aerobics involves dynamic, multi-directional movement in the water — jumping, kicking, and arm movements that create drag. Your swimwear needs to stay secure through all of it.
- Secure waistband — a wide, elasticated waistband that doesn’t roll or shift in the water
- Full coverage — high-waisted bottoms and a supportive top that stays in place during dynamic movements
- UPF 50+ protection — if your class is outdoors, UPF-rated swimwear protects your skin even when wet
Open Water Swimming
Open water swimming — in the sea, lakes, or rivers — requires swimwear that handles currents, waves, and longer durations in the water.
- One-piece or secure two-piece — waves and currents can dislodge poorly secured swimwear; a secure fit is essential
- UPF 50+ protection — open water swimming often means extended sun exposure; UPF-rated fabric provides consistent protection
- Bright, bold prints — high-visibility prints make you easier to spot in open water
On the Water: Paddleboarding, Kayaking & More
Paddleboarding, kayaking, and other on-water activities require activewear that works both in and out of the water — you’ll get wet, but you’re not fully submerged.
What to Wear
- High-waisted leggings with UPF 50+ — our plus size leggings are UPF 50+ rated and made from quick-drying recycled fabric that handles getting wet and drying fast
- Sports bra or rash guard top — a secure sports bra or long-sleeve rash guard provides sun protection and stays in place during paddling movements
- Bold prints — high-visibility prints are practical on the water and look incredible in photos
Poolside & Beach: The Transition Look
The best water activity wardrobe transitions seamlessly from the water to the beach or poolside. Here’s how to build a look that works for both:
The Formula
- Bold print high-waisted bikini set — the foundation. High-waisted bottoms are flattering and secure; a matching top completes the look
- Matching cover-up or oversized active jersey — our oversized active jerseys in matching or complementary prints layer perfectly over a bikini set
- Bold print leggings for the journey — wear your leggings to and from the beach; strip down to your bikini when you arrive
UPF 50+ Protection: Why It Matters
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures how much UV radiation a fabric blocks. UPF 50+ blocks 98% of UV rays — meaning your covered skin is protected even during extended outdoor water activities without additional sunscreen.
All Azalea Couture leggings and most of our activewear tops are UPF 50+ rated — making them ideal for outdoor water activities, beach workouts, and any extended time in the sun.
Care Tips for Water Activity Activewear
- Rinse in cold fresh water immediately after pool use to remove chlorine
- Rinse after sea swimming to remove salt
- Hand wash or machine wash on gentle in cold water
- Avoid wringing — press gently to remove excess water
- Air dry flat or hang — avoid tumble drying swimwear
- Avoid sitting on rough surfaces in swimwear — can snag fabric
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear plus size leggings for swimming?
Our leggings are made from recycled polyester-elastane fabric that handles water well and dries quickly — making them suitable for paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach activities. For lap swimming or water aerobics, our plus size swimwear is specifically designed for in-water use.
Are bold print swimsuits flattering for plus size bodies?
Yes — bold all-over prints create a cohesive, unbroken visual line that is universally flattering. High-waisted bottoms provide coverage and support, while a well-fitted top completes the look. The key is fit — swimwear that fits well in your size is always more flattering than a smaller size that digs in.
What sizes does Azalea Couture swimwear come in?
Our swimwear is available in sizes L–3XL. Our activewear leggings and tops suitable for water activities are available in sizes L–6XL.
How do I choose between a one-piece and a two-piece for water activities?
For high-movement water activities (lap swimming, water aerobics, open water swimming), a secure two-piece with a high-waisted bottom or a one-piece provides the most security. For lower-movement activities (paddleboarding, beach lounging), either works well.
Make a Splash in Bold
Shop our plus size swimwear collection and full activewear range in sizes L–6XL — bold prints, UPF 50+ protection, and fits designed for real curves. Free shipping on orders over $200.