Buy a bikini for watersports: Brunotti, Prolimit and Mystic
A watersports bikini is a more sporty two-piece swimsuit that has been specially reinforced, made quick-drying and UV-protective for intensive use on the water. Where a regular beach bikini slips off during a hard fall or boardstart, a sport bikini from Brunotti, Prolimit or Mystic stays in place during kitesurfing, windsurfing and sailing. The range offers models for girls and women in sport, fashion and rashguard bikini styles.
Sport bikini, fashion bikini or rashguard bikini: the differences
The right model depends on how active you are on the water and how much sun you get. The table below helps you pick the right category.
| Type | Material | Use | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport bikini | Lycra 80/20, 4-way stretch | Kitesurf, windsurf, wakeboard | Wide straps, hook closure, secure fit |
| Fashion bikini | Lycra, recycled polyester (Brunotti EcoVero) | Beach, recreational watersports | Trendy prints, adjustable ties |
| Rashguard bikini | Neoprene 0.5-1 mm or SPF 50+ lycra | Surfing, sailing, extended sun exposure | UV UPF 50+, warm, protects skin from board |
Rule of thumb: use a sport bikini with a hook closure if you regularly make boardstarts or hang in a harness. Choose a rashguard bikini if you're on the water for more than four hours a day or burn easily.
Brunotti, Prolimit and Mystic: brands and styles
Brunotti is well known for its wide range of fashion and sport bikinis with bold prints and sustainable EcoVero fabrics. Prolimit and Mystic focus on the active water sports enthusiast: their designs have a tighter cut, wide shoulder straps and buckle closures that won't pop open during a hard splash. For girls there are coordinating sets from Brunotti and Protest in bright colours. Most styles are chlorine-resistant, handy if you also train in the pool. Pair your bikini with swim shorts for men or check out a surf suit if you want extra warmth and UV protection.
Frequently asked questions about watersports bikinis
What makes a sport bikini different from a regular bikini?
A sport bikini has wider straps, a firmer lining and a construction that stops the bikini from shifting or coming off during intense activity. The fabric is made from 4-way stretch lycra that moves with every motion without stretching out or sagging. Regular beach bikinis are often made from thinner, less elastic material that slips off easily during a boardstart or fall. Sport bikinis are also treated to be chlorine-resistant, so they hold up against salt water, chlorine and sun. Closures tend to be more discreet or equipped with stronger buckles so your hook or harness doesn't catch on them.
Which bikini is suitable for kitesurfing or windsurfing?
For kitesurfing or windsurfing, choose a sport bikini with a hook or click closure at the back of the top and wide, non-adjustable shoulder straps. Adjustable ties tend to come undone in a hard fall. The bottoms from Prolimit and Mystic are cut higher at the sides and have a tighter fit so they don't tear when wearing an impact vest or wetsuit. Look for at least 80% polyamide or polyester with 20% elastane for good stretch and quick drying. A rashguard bikini is ideal if you also want protection from board rails, harness or board contact during a fall.
What UV protection does a watersports bikini offer?
Regular lycra bikinis offer a UPF of around 20-30, depending on the density of the weave. Rashguard bikinis or styles with a UPF 50+ label block over 98% of UV radiation. UV exposure on the water is higher than on the beach because water reflects UV rays. A UPF 50+ bikini is a smart choice if you spend extended time on the water, especially for children and people with fair skin. Make sure the bottoms of the bikini are also UV-protected if you spend a lot of time sitting on a board; your back and buttocks receive far more sun through water reflection than you might expect.
How do I care for my watersports bikini after use in salt water?
Rinse the bikini immediately after each session with cold fresh water. Salt crystallises in the fabric when drying and slowly attacks the elastane, causing the bikini to lose its shape. Hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild detergent, or use a delicate machine wash at maximum 30 degrees. Never use a dryer; heat damages the elastane and fades the colour. Lay the bikini flat to dry in the shade, never hang it by a tie as that stretches the fabric. Avoid contact with sunscreen immediately after applying it, as some chemical UV filters permanently stain lycra.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure which product fits your boat? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
