Pretty and Comfortable in the Lineup
Hey everyone, I'm here to talk about something I often get questions about, and I've noticed that many of my friends sometimes feel a bit lost on this topic. Whether you've been following me here or you're new, I hope these tips come in handy heheh. What's the best bikini, swimsuit/maio, or wetsuit to tackle surfing comfortably and without the risk of revealing too much during a wipeout?
Well, since bikinis and wetsuits are my "work uniforms," and I know this topic well, let's dive in!
Wetsuits:
Now, for the winter season, wetsuits can be a bit contradictory, as it depends on each person's tolerance to the cold. For example, I can't stand surfing in a wetsuit. So, for me, super flexible wetsuits, preferably 2.2 or 3.2mm, work best.But, often, the super flexible ones lack durability and barely last through one winter. So, if you don't have this issue, it's better to go with a regular model that will last longer.
About zipper placement, back or chest zippers can be a dilemma as well. Putting on and taking off a wetsuit with a front zipper can be a bit challenging, it is like “normal birth” everytime you go surfing. But even this, for me, there's nothing worse than duck diving on that first wave of winter and feeling an icy bucket of water from Alaska directly on your neck with a back zipper. So, I personally recommend a front zipper, no doubt about it.
Bikinis:
Now, let's get to the good part of the year, summer and bikinis:
I've lost count of how many times I've pulled the side string of my bikini during a take off and ended up going topless for free. The good thing is, there are so many stories of girls going through all sorts of embarrassing situations that it almost makes you feel better knowing that losing your bikini while surfing "is rare but happens a lot," (brazilian expression).
I have one favorite story from a friend. Once, she was surfing and, while catching a wave, she heard everyone cheering and celebrating each turn. She thought, "Wow, I must be killing it!" But when she reached the shore, she realized her boobs had been exposed the whole time, and the cheers were also for another reason, hahahha
So, to avoid such situations, I recommend bikinis that are secure, with fixed straps at the back, and avoid those with too many strings. The crisscrossed ones at the back are also a good option to ensure the top stays even firmer. For the bottoms, hot pants models are incredibly comfortable and stylish, or any model with strong elastic. We have to trust the elastic, because when we're out and a big set comes straight on your head, it's a situation where you don't know whether to breathe, adjust your bikini, hold onto your board, or dive.
As for neoprene bikinis, I personally don't like them. I've tried a few models, and since neoprene is a waterproof material, all the ones I've used inflated and were carried away by the wave when duck diving.
Swimsuits/ Maio:
Now, about my favorites:
For me, it's the most comfortable option for surfing in the summer or on not super cold days. The only issue is that, depending on the design, you might end up with a "sexy" tan line with a white belly and the rest of your body all bronzed. That's why I usually opt for long-sleeved options, which not only protect you from the sun and wind but also help to conceal those tan lines.
In addition to comfort and protection, I also consider style. I always liked to be one colorful dot in the middle of the crowd, where most dudes are in black wetsuits with white boards, and it also increases the chance of appearing in photos since you're easy to spot.
So, here's a tip and I recommend one of my favorite brands in Brazil, which I've been using for a few years, both for bikinis and Swimsuits, Wilders. It's a brand created by women who are passionate about surfing and adventure, designed to provide us with all the necessary comfort and plenty of style to make the most of our lives in nature, doing what we love, free and, as the name suggests, wild.
I hope this has been helpful, and I look forward to seeing all of you comfortable and colorful, ripping in the lineup!
