I Spent Hours Searching For The Best Period Swimwear, So Here’s What I Found

Leak-proof swimwear for that extra bit of confidence.

period swimwear

by Emma Richardson |
Published on

Although the thought of a sun-soaked day at the beach followed by a balmy evening by the marina seem out of reach right now, the summer months are fast approaching. While some of us may be lucky enough to avoid a period during our beach holiday, many have no choice when it comes to mother nature. Thankfully, there are countless options to help save your vacation - and no - we're not talking about tampons. Enter: period swimwear.

Say goodbye to surprise leakages, and say hello to fuss-free periods, period swimwear exists in all shapes and sizes, and it's a summer holiday game-changer. It's easy to question the practicality of period and leak proof swimwear as it almost sounds too good to be true. But, thanks to moisture wicking, multi layered designs, period swimwear successfully helps prevent any leakages, allowing you to have a carefree day at the beach, or pool.

Grazia's best period swimwear, at a glance:

Editor's pick: Modibodi One Shoulder Swimsuit, £59 on Modibodi

Best value: Love Luna Period Swim Briefs, £18 on John Lewis

Best for heavy periods: Modibodi Swimwear V Neck One Piece, £74 on Modibodi

While period swimwear may seem like some form of sorcery, there are indeed limits to how much each anti-leakage bikini brief or swimsuit can hold, and most briefs will stipulate whether they are designed for heavier or lighter flows. If you have a super heavy flow, fear not, as there is leakage proof period swimwear designed for you. The trick? Knowing where to look.

Whether you're looking for the best bikini or the best swimwear for big boobs, you're sure to find one that's also totally period-proof. From ModiBodi to Love Luna, take a look at some of the best period swimwear pieces that we could find after searching through hundreds of leak-free briefs and swimsuits.

SHOP: The Best Period Swimwear To Buy Right Now

Editor's pick

When it comes to period swimwear, ModiBodi are certified experts. The one shoulder swimsuit is made with two layer period protection, and comes with undetectable, absorbent lining that holds one to two tampons without leaking. The design is available in two colours, lilac and black, and sizes go up to 4XL. Reviewers especially love how comfortable and flattering this design is, but with an absorbency of 10ml, it may not be ideal for those with heavier periods.

Pros

  • 10ml absorbency, the equivalent of 1-2 tampons
  • Inclusive sizing from XS to 4XL
  • Flattering cut

Cons

  • May not be ideal for those with heavier periods

Best value

Mix and match these Love Luna period briefs with your regular black bikini tops for an added layer of protection on your next beach holiday. These briefs feature four layers of protection, with a water-repellent fabric to prevent any leakages mid-swim. Designed to absorb 10-15ml, the equivalent of two to three tampons, this is a great option for those with a heavier flow.

Pros

  • 10-15ml absorbency, the equivalent of 2-3 tampons
  • Flattering hip-hugging design
  • Four-way stretch for extra comfort

Cons

  • Not the most stylish option

Best one-piece

La Redoute's triangle swimsuit proves that you certainly don't have to sacrifice style for practicality. Opt for a daring, plunge swimsuit, containing three layers of fabric to absorb your flow, with moisture wicking technology. Reviewers say that after washing, the swimsuit dries particularly fast, ready to be used again the next day - the perfect holiday companion.

Pros

  • Quick-dry material according to reviewers
  • Flattering design

Cons

  • Sizing only available up to UK18

best for performance

Wuka, Period Racerback Swimsuit
Price: £39.99 (was £49.99)

wuka.co.uk

If you're on the hunt for a sporty swimming costume to wear during your period, look to this Wuka racerback swimsuit. This highly absorbent, moisture-wicking material is especially good if have a heavy flow, or if you suffer from light bladder leaks. Designed for performance, the Wuka swimsuit is a great option for keen swimmers.

Pros

  • 15ml absorbency, the equivalent of three tampons
  • Three absorbent, water-repellant layers
  • Great option or swimmers

Cons

  • Sizing could be more inclusive

Best for heavy periods

This ModiBodi V Neck Swimsuit is perfect for anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable period one-piece. Made with ECONYL yarn and a two layered gusset with leakproof technology, you should definitely consider this your go-to period swimsuit this summer.

Pros

  • 40ml absorbency, the equivalent of 8 tampons
  • Two-way stretch design for added comfort
  • Inclusive sizing from XS to 4XL
  • Crafted from sustainable material

Cons

  • None!

Best high-waisted

Wuka, High Waisted Briefs
Price: £19.19 (was £29.99)

wuka.co.uk

For an added layer of protection, opt for a pair of high waisted period swim briefs that will help beat the period bloat, too. These Wuka briefs can hold up to 10ml of liquid, making it best for lighter periods. These briefs are great if you're looking for a sustainable option that's also incredibly practical.

Pros

  • 10ml absorbency, equivalent to 1-2 tampons
  • Inclusive sizing from XS to 4XL
  • Available in five colours
  • High waisted cut for added comfort

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy periods

Best bikini

ModiBodi briefs are designed to flatter and conceal. No tampons, pads or menstrual cups necessary - especially if you're period is on the lighter side. This brief will hold up to one to two tampons worth of liquid, equivalent to 10ml. They come with adjustable side ties, which we love, meaning you can adjust them to you desired fit for added comfort.

Pros

  • Inclusive sizing XS to 4XL
  • Absorbency of 10ml, equal to 1- 2 tampons
  • Stylish design

Cons

  • Reviews say sizing is not accurate

Best sustainable option

Yet another bikini brief with leak proof technology from ModiBodi. The brands cheeky high-leg bikini brief elongates the legs, and locks in up to 40ml of moisture, making it a great option for heavier periods.

Pros

  • Inclusive sizing from XS to 4XL
  • Eco-friendly made with 100% regenerated fibre
  • Gusset is able to hold up to 40ml of liquid

Cons

  • High-leg design may not be everyone's cup of tea

How Does Period Swimwear Work?

With two or three discreet built-in layers, these innovative designs offer leak-proof protection, allowing you to swim with confidence while you're on your period.

Can I Wear Period Swimwear On Its Own?

If your period is light, you can wear period swimwear on its own, however if you have a heavier flow, pair period swimwear with tampons on menstrual cups for an added layer of protection.

Emma Richardson is a Beauty & Fashion Products Writer for Grazia. She covers shopping, lifestyle, celebs and anything trending.

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