If you prefer modest swimwear over skimpy swimwear you can still have a lot of fun, possibly even more. What started out as a niche market is gaining a broader appeal beyond the religious community, with sunburn protection being a major consideration.

Modest Swimwear for Women

Gone are the days when modest swimwear was dowdy and embarassing. There are a number of new manufacturers who produce modest swimwear for Christian and Muslimah women, made from modern fabrics like polycottons and Lycra. Brazilian manufacturer Acquagym has just launched a sun safe collection of elegant swimwear for women.

Modest Swimwear for Men

For men there is very little on the market. Many men just improvise and wear T-shirts or Hoodies with jeans or shorts. Keep in mind that light coloured T-shirts can be seen through when wet. Wear two T-shirts on top of each other, maybe a short sleeve one over a long sleeve one. Dark colours underneath light colours look good.

Cotton shirts and jeans are ideal for warm climates as they dry slowly and keep you cool. Sweatshirts, hoodies or anoraks go well with T-shirt and jeans. They just feel awesome when wet.

Create your own Stylish Outfit

Casual clothes are the modest swimwear of choice in most of Asia. Apart from modesty, sun protection and fashion are major considerations. A tan is often avoided because pale skin is considered fashionable. Dark shirts provide better cover against sunburn.

Breathable light weight Shell Suits are becoming popular with both men and women in Asia. They cost very little, avoid sunburn and feel pleasant as they dry in the breeze after you've been in the water. Matching tops and pants make this a practical outfit on land or in the water for less than €20. The advantage of these outfits is that you can also wear them when you're not swimming.

Tracksuits are a low cost alternative, comfy and quick drying. The robust fabric is well suited for fun on the beach and in the water. Make sure you choose an unlined suit; water or air gets trapped between the outer fabric and the lining which can cause discomfort.

Reader Comment

Did anyone ever think to ask the question why it is that we feel the urge to insist that a woman cover her breasts at all, but don't insist upon the same thing with regard to men?

I mean if you actually think about it a woman's breasts and a man's breasts are, by all appearances, identical. Indeed when it comes to breast-size many men beat out many women in this particular area (probably much to the chagrin of the former).

It would be nice to find other people who have also taken the time to think rationally and objectively about this peculiar societal double-standard. -- Tom Marley, Canada