Swimming is meant to be fun, but swimwear hurdles can quickly suck all the joy out of a relaxing jaunt in the pool. In particular, for masc-presenting women and women who prefer more coverage than your typical bikini bottom has to offer, swimwear that’s both comfortable and confidence-inducing can seem downright elusive.
With all of us in mind — because there are way more of us than many retailers would like to believe — we’ve compiled some of the best swim shorts for women you’ll find this side of the internet, from leakproof board shorts and hidden gem men’s shorts to bike shorts-esque options and even some max-coverage swimming capris.
Knix is known for its leakproof intimates that provide more function and less frills. These bestselling leakproof swim shorts fit the bill, providing mid-rise, full-butt coverage and protection from up to three tablespoons of leaks via their smooth, absorbent inner liner.
Made with UPF 50+ material, the shorts come in several colors and are machine-washable. For best results, go for a snug fit.
“These made me feel confident in my swimwear postpartum,” wrote a reviewer named Carly.
These leakproof swim board shorts are purportedly Knix’s most-requested swim style, providing maximum front and back coverage, a wider waistband for extra comfort and a mesh interior lining to absorb leaks. Made with UPF 50+ sun-protective material, these shorts are labeled Knix Teen, but several adult reviewers have happily sprung for them, too.
“I’m 46 yrs old and wanted something more then a bikini bottom or cycling short for aquafit,” wrote a reviewer named Tanya. “I absolutely love these shorts and wish they were around when I was a teen.”
“I’m [an] adult, so went up a size to fit the shorts. Very comfortable and feel like workout shorts. Nice quality as usual,” said another reviewer, Brittany P.
Baleaf — the Amazon-based athletic brand responsible for some of our readers’ favorite quick-dry pants of all time — has a robust selection of swimwear that includes these 4.5-star-rated swim shorts that are available in two different inseams and sizes XS-3X. They feature a built-in brief and generous pockets for comfort and convenience. “These fit perfectly, are the perfect length, and are very flattering,” wrote unstrung, one of the 2,000+ reviewers that gave these shorts a 5-star rating.
These beach-to-boardwalk shorts come in an abundant array of eye-popping prints and feature an elasticized drawstring waistband, generous pockets and contrast piping for a sporty look. FYI: Reviewers note that there isn’t an inner liner, so these may be best for wearing over an existing swimsuit for additional coverage. Check out the reviewer photos to see how folks have styled the short with swim tanks and cut-out one-pieces.
Made of stretchy spandex and nylon with a V-cross front design to highlight your waist, these Yonique swim shorts are a great choice for anyone who lives in their bike shorts (but needs an actually-waterproof option for the pool).
Available in five colors, these shorts are comfy and easy to throw on, according to reviewers. “[They] fit and look great. Makes this 60 year old look pretty good,” wrote one reviewer.
These Calypsa board shorts sport generous 4.7-inch by 7-inch pockets, side slits for more comfortable movement and a full-coverage 7-inch inseam. Designed to be worn over your regular bikini bottoms, these shorts are unlined, though they’re outfitted with a comfy elastic waistband and a drawstring for a just-right fit. They’re available in a ton of different colors and designs and are made with UPF sun-protective material.
“As a woman in my 60s, I especially love the style with the longer leg. The quality and fit are wonderful,” wrote one reviewer.
Shopping managing editor Emily Ruane owns these Columbia swim board shorts, professing that she’s obsessed with them. “I actually wear them all day long, all summer long. They’re ultra-lightweight, dry insanely fast, and are absolutely swimming with pockets. I find the silhouette to be really flattering, and I’m complimented on them all the time. Because they dry so fast, they’re perfect for beach or pool days where I’m in and out of the water all the time.”
Lightweight with an ultra-relaxed fit, the nylon shorts offer UPF 50 sun protection and side and back pockets to store everything you need while you’re out. They even have belt loops for you to attach a carabiner and keys.
“I am a woman and I LOVE these shorts. I get the ones with the shorter inseam. I bought one pair to try them out and ended up getting several other colors in the same style,” wrote a reviewer named Lauren. “They fit great, they are the right length, and are so comfortable. I like these better than the fit of the women’s shorts. Definitely recommend.”
Grab them in up to 13 colors and in two inseam options.
Chubbies may be marketed towards men, but according to the internet, masc women, assigned female at birth (AFAB) folks and femmes seeking fuller coverage deem Chubbies’ swim shorts an excellent option due to the brand’s various inseam options and plethora of fun prints.
Plus, the shorts come equipped with side and back pockets, a stretchy elastic waistband and UPF 50 sun protective material.
A reviewer named Jenna entitled her review “purrrrrr” and wrote: “These shorts are perfect if you have some curves. For size reference, I am a woman who typically wears size medium 5-inch inseam men’s shorts or 4 to 5-inch women’s large or XL shorts. For these, I got an XL with a 4-inch inseam, and they fit perfectly.”
Tomboyx is known for ultra-comfy, gender- and size-inclusive clothing and underwear, and when it comes to swimwear options, the brand shines: The internet repeatedly recommended the site for well-fitting, actually-cute swim shorts.
The Heritage board short is the brand’s bestselling swim style, made with a longer 7-inch inseam and Oeko Tex-certified fabric. Many of the shorts’ eight designs are also reversible, so you’ll get two pieces in one.
“These feel comfortable and look great,” wrote a reviewer named Lorrie. “It used to be soooo stressful to buy a swimsuit, but TomboyX makes it fun again! I’ve never liked swimsuits until now.”
These reversible 4.5-inch inseam swim shorts are another popular option from Tomboyx, giving you two styles in one so you can switch it up depending on your mood (and helping you actually pack lighter). Available in six reversible prints, the stretchy shorts sport smooth seams so you can avoid chafing and are enhanced with UPF 50 sun protection.
“Cute print, good coverage and sturdy enough for rocky beaches,” wrote one reviewer. “This is my third swim suit from TomboyX and all have exceeded expectations in terms of style, fit, and durability.
These mid-rise, pull-on L.L.Bean swim shorts sport a ready-for-anything 5-inch inseam, two side pockets and UPF 50 sun protection. Outfitted with a drawstring and elastic waistband, the shorts are made with a comfy blend of nylon and lycra to ensure stretchiness that won’t peter out over time.
“Great fit! I like the way this covers my 72-year-old backside. The shorts dry quickly,” wrote one reviewer. “Excellent purchase that lives up to the LL Bean name.”
You can grab these in three colors.
These swim capri leggings from UV Skinz may be the answer for anyone seeking the coverage of real pants and the versatility of cropped leggings in the pool. High-waisted and made with a body-contouring compression knit, these swim capris are made with UPF 50 material to keep your skin protected from the sun’s rays while helping you feel confident and covered. They’re available in up to four colors.
“I love UV Skinz … I’m 5’2 and curvy. I wear about a size 10. I love the fact that these pants accommodate my fullness and that the pants do not leave their seams on my calves and thighs. It’s not pinching my tummy either!” wrote one reviewer. “Thank you for making a product that will accommodate more than 1 body type.”