First off, what are women’s swim shorts?

Unlike your favourite casual denim or cotton shorts, women’s swim shorts are specifically crafted to be worn in the water. They usually reach around mid-thigh and, if designed right, sit at the magical intersection of swimwear and activewear.

Finding your perfect pair

The right pair of swim shorts really comes down to one thing: how much coverage you want. Whether you want the freedom of a shorter, thigh-grazing style while staying totally secure in the surf, or you're looking for full-length defence against the sun and sand, here’s what we recommend.

1. If you want something short

Try our Grace Mini or Alyssa Mid swim shorts. These are the ultimate all-rounders. They give you great coverage in the water, move with you in the surf, and look like a proper pair of shorts the moment you walk up to the cafe.

2. If you want more coverage

Reach for our Miranda Long for everyday wear (they’re our longest shorts!), or our Lara Swim Leggings when you want full-length protection. Both give you maximum peace of mind where it counts, and they're perfect if you want extra sun protection, or simply prefer a more modest look.

The quick swim shorts filter

To make your shopping trip entirely stress-free, use this quick checklist when purchasing swim shorts:

What to look for:

• Thick, high-recovery fabric that sculpts and holds.
• Full double-lining so you never have to worry about transparency.
• A flat, stay-put waistband that moves with you.
• Proportional grading that honors real curves and sizes.

What to avoid:

• Any shorts with cotton blends listed as swimwear. Cotton absorbs water, gets incredibly heavy, and drags you down.
• Single-layer polyester that goes sheer the moment it gets wet.
• Thin, elastic waistbands that pinch, dig, or flip over when you sit down.
• Brands that only size up to a 14. This category should be for every single body.