One swimsuit for laps and lounging? Not really.

No single swimsuit does both well. Lap suits are built like wetsuits—chlorine-resistant, tight, minimal drag. Lounging suits are built like… regular clothes. Flattering cuts, softer fabrics, maybe a bit of ruching. One will always be a compromise.

A “sporty” one-piece with thicker straps and a moderate leg cut is your best bet for a single suit. Look for a training suit from Speedo or TYR that has a pattern you actually like wearing outside the water. The fabric will hold up in the pool, and it won’t look ridiculous on a towel. Just don’t expect it to be as cute as your favorite string bikini.

Two suits is the real answer. One for swimming laps, one for sitting by the pool. Future You deserves both.