What is the Difference between Underwear and Swimwear?

What is the Difference between Underwear and Swimwear?

It is suitable to go to the sea for a holiday on a summer's day, and a beautiful bathing suit is a necessity. Some wonder if they can wear underwear to go swimming or play by the sea instead of swimwear. Actually, there are many differences between them and swimwear is the best choice. So, what is the difference between underwear and swimwear?

1. Different functions
Swimwear is required to be waterproof and elastic. And it should have small resistance to water. Base on it, swimsuits are designed to be tight. For underwear, women's brassieres provide support for the breasts and men's briefs serve the same function for the male genitalia. Its manufacturing process is complicated. Underwear cannot be too tight, or it will be uncomfortable to wear that, so it is skin-friendly, breathable and hygroscopic.

2. Different fabrics
Swimwear is often made by waterproof and elastic fabrics such as Lycra, nylon and polyester, while underwear is made by pure cotton fabrics with good water absorption.

3. Different appearances
Swimwear is worn outside so that it is relatively thick and fashionable, with various styles and patterns. Underwear, however, is thinner and lighter. It is mainly in solid color with fewer styles than swimwear.

Therefore, underwear can't be worn as swimwear, and vice versa. A swimsuit is usually worn when people go swimming in summer, while underwear should be worn all the year round. Swimwear cannot replace underwear, because the former does not have breathability and hygroscopicity of the latter. Similarly, underwear cannot replace swimwear, because underwear does not have water resistance of swimsuits.

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About the author
Teresa
Teresa
Teresa is an expert swimwear author and consultant with a rich background in fashion and textile engineering. With over 10 years in the swimwear industry, Teresa has a deep understanding of the evolution of swimwear styles, the technological advancements in fabric, and the market dynamics shaping consumer preferences. Teresa's articles are known for their thorough analysis, blending technical details with style guidance, making them a go-to resource for both professionals and enthusiasts. Passionate about both competitive swimming and recreational water sports, Teresa's articles provide readers with in-depth insights and practical advice on choosing the right swimwear for their needs.