Extra Coverage Swimwear: Finding Your Fit
Swimmers choose extra coverage for all sorts of reasons: confidence, comfort, sun protection, modesty or simply preferring a suit that stays put. Whatever the reason, the suit should still let you swim properly. This guide sits within our guide to choosing swimwear.
What styles of extra coverage swimwear are there?
Extra Coverage Styles
| Style | What it covers | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| High neck swimsuit | Higher front and back neckline | Security and bust coverage |
| Kneesuit | Shoulder to knee | Lane swimming and confidence on poolside |
| Short-sleeved or long-sleeved suit | Arms as well as torso | Sun protection, modesty and warmth |
| Swimsuit with leg or skirt | Covers the top of the thigh | Comfort and coverage in a classic shape |
How should extra coverage swimwear fit?
Just like any training suit: snug when dry, with no gaping or bagging. More fabric means more places for water to collect if the suit is too loose, which adds drag and makes the suit feel heavy. Check the fit at the neckline, under the arms and around the legs, and do a bend-and-reach test.
The mistake: Choosing a size up in a coverage suit so it feels "less clingy".
What happens: The extra fabric fills with water, drags you back and rides up or bags out during lengths.
How to avoid it: Choose the size that feels comfortably snug when dry. If you want a looser look, choose a style with a different cut rather than a bigger size.
How do you get support in a coverage suit?
Look for wider straps, built-in shelf bras, adjustable or racer-style backs and high fronts. Swimmers with fuller busts often get the best result from suits designed specifically for support; our bust support swimwear is a good place to look.
Which fabric is best for coverage suits?
If you swim regularly, chlorine-resistant fabric. Coverage suits use more material, so durability matters even more. Our post on chlorine-resistant swimwear explains the options.
THREE THINGS TO LOOK FOR
THREE THINGS TO LOOK FORSecure neckline
Secure necklineNo gaping when you push off or bend forward.
Flat legs
Flat legsLeg openings or hems that stay put without riding up.
Durable fabric
Durable fabricChlorine-resistant if you swim more than twice a week.
Where can you find extra coverage styles?
Our women's extra coverage swimwear brings coverage styles together in one place. Kneesuits are another popular option; our women's training kneesuits are built for lane swimming. Our swimwear experts can help you find a style that fits, and our shop in Dordon is a good place to try a few. Our period swimwear is another option for swimmers who want extra confidence. Once you've found your suit, see our swimwear care guide to make your suit last.
Why Buy Swimwear From Allens Swimwear
We've been helping swimmers find suits they feel good in for 50 years.
Written by a swimwear specialist at Allens Swimwear, 50 years of expert fitting. Updated 26 October 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is extra coverage swimwear?
Swimwear that covers more of the body than a standard swimsuit, such as higher necklines, longer legs or sleeves. It's available in training-quality fabrics for regular swimming.
Is extra coverage swimwear good for swimming lengths?
Yes, as long as it fits snugly. Kneesuits and well-fitted high neck suits are popular with lane swimmers.
Should coverage swimwear be loose?
No. A loose suit fills with water and drags. Choose a snug fit and pick a different style if you want a different look.
Can you get extra coverage swimwear with bust support?
Yes. Look for wider straps, built-in shelf bras and high fronts, or suits designed specifically for bust support.
Is a kneesuit extra coverage swimwear?
Yes. Kneesuits cover from the shoulder to the knee and are a popular choice for swimmers who want more coverage that stays in place.