Rip Curl is an iconic brand in the world of surfing, born from a passion for waves and the ocean. Rip Curl swimwear is designed for surf sessions, days at the beach, and all water activities. At Snowleader, discover the full range of Rip Curl swimwear: women's one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, boardshorts, swim shorts and UV protection t-shirts. Free delivery from £199, free returns within 60 days.
Why choose Rip Curl swimwear?
Rip Curl swimwear stands out for several practical benefits, whether for water sports or relaxing at the beach:
- Comfort and freedom of movement: Designed for surfing, Rip Curl models offer a fit that moves with your body. Essential when paddling, standing up on your board, or diving into the waves.
- Soft, quick-drying fabrics: Technical materials used in boardshorts and swim shorts dry in just minutes after leaving the water. Perfect for avoiding discomfort at the end of a beach day.
- Fits for water sports and swimming: Depending on the model, Rip Curl offers cuts that stay in place during activity (surfing, paddle) or more relaxed fits for swimming and the beach. D-DD models (Cala Vadella, Shell Cove) are specifically designed for fuller busts.
- UPF UV protection: Several Rip Curl models feature UPF sun protection (Party Wave, Molokai t-shirts), ideal for long sessions in the sun without constantly reapplying sunscreen.
- Surf-inspired designs: Floral prints, colourful patterns, and modern cuts. A Rip Curl swimsuit stands out both on the beach and in the water.
To dry off quickly after your session or change discreetly at the beach, complete your kit with a swim poncho.
Find the Rip Curl swimwear to suit your needs
Our Rip Curl selection covers all types of swimwear, from beach days to surf sessions:
- Men's boardshorts and swim shorts: The Mirage range is the classic Rip Curl men's swim short. Surf-ready fit, quick-drying, technical materials.
- Women's one-piece swimsuits: Several models available to suit your style, including options for fuller busts.
- Women's bikinis: Mix and match tops and bottoms to suit your preferences and body shape.
- Women's boardshorts: A more covering alternative to classic bikini bottoms, ideal for surfing.
- UV protection t-shirts and surf suits: Full body coverage for long sessions in the sun. UV t-shirts provide targeted protection for the upper body and arms.
How to choose your Rip Curl model for your activity:
- For surfing: Choose a men's boardshort (Mirage) or women's boardshort (Cala Vadella Lycra) for maximum support. Add a UV t-shirt for long sessions in the sun.
- For paddle: An intermediate fit between performance and comfort is ideal. Fitted women's one-piece swimsuits stay in place during activity.
- For swimming: A simple, well-fitted one-piece swimsuit offers the best balance of freedom and support.
- For the beach: All models are suitable depending on your style preferences. Prioritise comfort and design.
FAQ: All about Rip Curl swimwear
Do Rip Curl swimsuits fit true to size?
Rip Curl swimwear generally fits to European standards. However, each model has its own specifics:
- D-DD models (Cala Vadella, Shell Cove) are specifically designed for fuller busts, with extra support. Choose your usual size for D-DD cuts.
- Men's Mirage boardshorts fit true to size: choose your usual shorts size.
- For UV t-shirts, choose your usual t-shirt size. Some models fit slightly larger for comfort during activity.
- If in doubt between two sizes, refer to the size guide on each product page. Returns are free within 60 days at Snowleader.
Which Rip Curl swimwear is best for surfing?
For surfing, support and quick drying are key. Here are my recommendations:
- Men: Go for a Mirage boardshort. Designed specifically for surfing, with technical materials that dry quickly and a fit that stays in place.
- Women: The Lycra Boardshort offers optimal support for surfing, more coverage than classic bikini bottoms. Pair with a Balconette D-DD or Halter top to suit your shape.
- For long sessions in the sun: Add a UV t-shirt (short or long sleeves) to protect your skin from the sun for hours.
- For intense sessions: The Party Wave UPF Surf Suit covers the whole body, ideal for long sessions in tropical waters.
What is the difference between a boardshort and a swim short?
There are two main differences between a boardshort and a classic swim short:
- The fit: Boardshorts are longer (to the knee or just above) and cut closer to the body than classic swim shorts. This ensures better support during surfing, with no risk of the shorts riding up while paddling or catching a wave.
- The construction: Boardshorts use technical fabrics (often stretch and quick-drying), with lace or velcro fastening to prevent slipping during impacts. Classic swim shorts often focus on style and beach comfort.
- Usage: Boardshorts are designed for water sports (surfing, paddle, wakeboard). Classic swim shorts are more versatile: swimming, beach, pool, seaside walks.
- Price: Technical boardshorts are generally more expensive than classic swim shorts, due to materials and technical finishes.
How do you care for Rip Curl swimwear?
A few simple steps will extend the life of your Rip Curl swimwear:
- Rinse after each use: Chlorine from pools and salt from the ocean can damage technical fabrics. Rinse with fresh water after each swim to prolong the life of your swimwear.
- Hand wash preferred: Use lukewarm water (max 30°C) and mild soap. Avoid machine washing, which can damage elastomers and seams on technical swimwear.
- No tumble dryer, no radiator: Excessive heat damages elastic fibres and deforms swimwear. Let them air dry in the shade to preserve colours.
- Store flat: Avoid rolling up wet swimwear or compressing it in a closed bag for hours. This can cause mould.
- For UV protection: UPF protection fades gradually with repeated washing. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions to maintain protection levels.
Not sure which Rip Curl swimwear or size to choose? Our experts are available via chat or phone, Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm. Free delivery from £199, free returns within 60 days: shop with confidence.