As it gets colder it’s good to have a little more protection when swimming. Here’s a selection of long-sleeved swimwear to help you swim all year round
XSCAPE RASH GUARDS AND MATCHING LEGGINGS
Effectiveness: Made with a polyester fabric that is 100% sourced from recycled plastic bottles and delivered in plastic-free packaging with hang tags made from recycled cardboard, this new range from Aqualung upholds both the quality and eco-credentials that have made the brand the global leader in water sports kit that it is. We tested the women’s range and found the garments to be highly comfortable and easy to move in, while offering a high level of protection against the sun and the cold.
Style: A cool, blue patterned design on a simple, multi-purpose cut.
Value: Good value from Aqualung, which has led the way in terms of technology, durability and sustainability.
Price: Leggings £55, long-sleeved top £40 (aqualung.com).
LILLE RECYCLED RASH VEST & ALEXA RECYCLED BOARDSHORTS
Effectiveness: This lightweight set provides a handy extra layer of protection for those swimming in autumn. Both the top and bottoms feel comfortable to wear due to the elasticity of the material, allowing easy movement in and out of the sea. When the sun is shining, the rash vest protects from UV rays, as well as sand and saltwater.
Style: The teal and yellow combination bring a summery sporty feel. There’s also a black option for both top and shorts.
Value: Good value for each piece, especially as they’re made from recycled material. Best used in spring, summer and autumn, with the rash vest under a wetsuit in winter.
Price: Rash vest £30, boardshorts £30 (animal.co.uk).
DAVY J LONG-SLEEVED TOP AND JONES BRIEFS
Effectiveness: We loved this highly adaptable 100% recycled nylon two-piece. Tough and durable, you could feel the quality of the fabric and stitching. It offered good protection from the cold, without restricting movement. A very environmentally driven brand, the company makes products to last, and when you have finished with them, Davy J asks you to send them back for recycling again. Hooray!
Style: The high-waisted briefs are super comfortable and can also be paired with the body top on warmer days, allowing you to mix and match.
Value: At the higher end of the market, but this is offset by the durability and quality, meaning you will get many years’ wear for your money.
Price: Long-sleeved top £110, Jones briefs £65 (davyj.org).
DULSIE LONG-SLEEVED SWIMSUIT
Effectiveness: This simple long-sleeved swimsuit offers extra warmth as well as UV and wind-chill protection. We found it surprisingly effective at reducing cold, both in the water and when coming out, considering the lightweight fabric. There was no restriction of movement and it retained its shape well. Made from recycled yarn from ocean plastics and nylon waste, it also has a lined body panel for extra support.
Style: Comes in black or red. There is a convenient extra-long zip at the back which made changing easy and quick.
Value: This is an absolute bargain, bearing in mind its environment credentials and durability.
Price: £34.99 (alpkit.com).
FOURTH ELEMENT THERMOCLINE LONG-SLEEVED SWIMSUIT WITH FRONT ZIP
Effectiveness: The perfect bridge between a swimming costume and a wetsuit, and ideal for cold- water swimming. The front zip makes it easy to get on and off, and the Thermocline fabric is a good alternative for anyone who is allergic to Neoprene. The fleece inner layer prevents cold water flowing over your body and dries rapidly when out of the water. Made from 78% recycled nylon, the outer layer is breathable and comfortable.
Style: Sleek, black and a snug fit. The company advises ordering a size up from your usual clothing size.
Value: High-quality, versatile product that should last well.
Price: £159.50 (thewildswimstore.com).
DEAKIN & BLUE LONG-SLEEVED SWIMSUIT
Effectiveness: Made from sustainable Italian Lycra with built-in support for the bust, this high-quality swimsuit is durable, and protects skin well from sea and sun. It can be worn for swimming or surfing, and the zip on the back allows it to slip on and off easily.
Style: This black one-piece provides a perfect, flattering fit with its elegant neckline and soft mesh sleeves and hips. Deakin & Blue create costumes to fit not only sizes but shapes, so you can find the ideal swimsuit for your body type.
Value: A higher price but worth it for style, support, and sustainability. It’s made in London from recycled ocean waste, such as old fishing nets and plastic scraps.
Price: £130 (deakinandblue.com).
XSCAPE 4/3mm WETSUIT
Effectiveness: Flexible and lightweight, this 100% Neoprene-free wetsuit is made with Yulex® – a revolutionary, eco-friendly, natural rubber. The recycled fleece around the torso gives an extra level of warmth throughout the winter. As well as having excellent eco-credentials, it adapts to a wide range of watersports including wild swimming and snorkelling.
Style: The women’s version comes with a tropical print. The ergonomic cut is flattering and ensures maximum flexibility of movement.
Value: The price is mid-range for a quality wetsuit, but this has huge added value in that when you purchase, you know you’re not adding to the pollution of the ocean you love.
Price: £315 (aqualung.com).
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