Adaptive clothing options, including seasonal swimwear, are slowly increasing. In fact, popular brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Target, Kohls and JcPenny are now stocking their store shelves and e-commerce websites with adaptive garments. Well, as it turns out, the necessary trend of inclusive fashion just so happens to be pretty profitable for these companies and, in general, other apparel designers.
That’s because, in the United States alone, at least 61 million — or 1-in-4 — adults live with a disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Demand for inclusive products, of course, already exists and is definitely expected to grow — eventually racking up billions in sales thanks to the purchasing power of the disability community, the nation’s largest minority group.
Shopping for well-fitting swimwear can be challenging for anyone ─ with or without disabilities ─ but, perhaps, more so for consumers with disabilities. To help, AmeriDisability took a deep dive into swimsuit shopping! So go ahead… take the plunge into the season’s sun and surf with these adaptive swimwear pieces:
1. Abdominal Access Palms Tankini
Offered in both toddler and girls’ sizes, this sensory-friendly tankini top is made with stretchy fabric with flat seams and no tags. Plus, its adaptive design includes a hidden opening underneath its ruffles for abdominal access.
Available at Target.com | $9-$10
2. Anna Long Sleeve One-Piece Swimsuit
Designed by MIGA Swimwear, this uniquely crafted one-piece features a fashion-forward cut-out on one side and a bold hue. The long, comfy sleeves guarantee no chafing in the armpits, and the sleeve length is also ideal for those with hidradenitis suppurativa (acne inverse), eczema, skin cancer and other chronic skin conditions. The lengthy zipper pulley on the backside makes closure more accessible.
Available at PattiandRicky.com | $150
3. Autism Awareness Retro One-Piece
Moms of special needs kiddos can make a splash with a meaningful fashion statement. This retro-cut women’s swimsuit features the text “I Am His Voice, He Is My Heart.” The lightweight, breathable fabric also features symbolic puzzle pieces which are associated with autism awareness and support.
Available at Amazon.com | $16.88
4. Boy Trunks with Built-in Reusable Swim Diaper
i play. by green sprouts, which also makes built-in swim diaper options for girls as well, is the original swim diaper manufacturer with a patented three-layer design. The wicking liner of these trunks helps prevent diaper rash, the inner absorbent layer helps protect against messes outside of the water and the waterproof outer layer works with the snug-fitting waist and legs to provide secure protection from accidents. Choose from more than 20 cute prints.
Available at Amazon.com | $12.88 – $37.99
5. Cap Sleeve Crop Top + Adjustable Swim Skirt
Because Lands’ End offers mix-and-match swimwear, consumers of all body types can combine the sizes and styles that best meet their unique apparel needs. This cap sleeve crop top comes down further on the torso than a standard bikini top; plus, it has adjustable side ties. Pair with either a swim skirt or swim shorts.
Available at LandsEnd.com | $37.99 top + $54.99 skirt
6. Cheetah Bonita Girls Magnetic One-Piece
A teen or tween can prance about the sand in this purr-fect cheetah print one-piece. Using Magnetease Technology, this adaptive swimsuit has hidden magnetic fasteners across the waist. Plus, the WowEase website offers an array of other adaptive swimwear choices for babies, toddlers, girls, teens and women.
Available at WowEase.com | $41.39
7. Chlorine-Resistant Swim Dress
For those who partake in aquatic therapy, this chlorine-resistant swim dress won’t break down from frequent exposure to pool chemicals. Featuring a squared neckline, this tummy control one-piece also includes undergarment shorts, side pockets, removable soft cups, adjustable straps and UPF 50 sun protection.
Available at LandsEnd.com | $107.99
8. Colette Scoop Neck Tankini Top + Bikini Bottom or Adjustable Skirt
Another design of MIGA Swimwear, fellow beach-goers will be green with envy over this adorable lime green bathing suit. The roomy tankini top provides extra coverage in the torso area, plus features a small pocket. Pair this tankini top with either a bikini bottom or an adjustable waistband skirt that has emerald green detailing.
Available at PattiandRicky.com | $65 tankini, $50 bikini bottom, $50 adjustable swim skirt
9. Easy Dress Flounce Bikini Top + Reversible Bikini Bottoms
A part of the SO accessible clothing line, this classic black bikini top inspires fun in the sun with effortless style at either the beach or pool. Its flounce overlay makes this suit playful. And its easy closure back makes this suit accessible for swimmers of all abilities. Pair this top with reversible, diaper-friendly bottoms.
Available at Kohls.com | $8 top + $8 bottoms
10. High Neck Striped One-Piece Swimsuit
Made by CUPSHE, heart disease survivors who prefer to cover sun-sensitive scars can confidently suit up in this high-neck one-piece. Available in multiple color combinations, the top half features vertical stripes while the bottom half features flowing palm fronds.
Available at Amazon.com | $32.99
11. Mastectomy Tankini with Pockets for Prostheses
With a vibrantly patterned top in blue, hot pink or black/white, this two-piece bathing suit is comfortable for women who’ve had a mastectomy. This tummy-friendly tankini features wide straps and top insert pockets to add removal pads or breast prostheses.
Available at Amazon.com | $22.52
12. Sensory-Friendly Marvel Swimsuit
Intended to look like Spider-Man’s suit, this soft, lightweight fabric garment is tagless for ultimate coziness. It also has hidden openings on the front for abdominal access, with a hook-and-loop back closure for simple dressing. Superhero kiddos of all abilities, sizes XS to XL, can comfortably suit up for marvelous water fun.
Available at Target.com | $30
13. Minnie Mouse Adaptive Rash Guard Swim Set
As part of the Jumping Beans line, toddlers (12 months – 5T) can have a magical time splashing about in this adaptive rash guard swim set featuring one of Disney’s most beloved characters. This suit features a wider neckline, long sleeves, abdominal access and elastic waistband. It also offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Hand-washing is recommended.
Available at Kohls.com | $20.48
14. Mio Halter One-Piece
Accessible and versatile, this women’s halter top one-piece has extra-long straps to allow this garment to be worn in four different ways. Its fuchsia color comes with pops of green and yellow, plus faux button details.
Available at MigaSwimwear.com | $125
15. My Pool Pal Flotation Swimsuit
Standard life preservers can be bulky for little swimmers, whereas the My Pool Pal flotation swimsuit enhances natural balance and stability when in the water. This swimsuit helps novice swimmers gain confidence, coordination, endurance and muscle development. Size options (x-small to large) can accommodate 20 to 70 pounds.
Available at Amazon.com | $38.11 – $49.95
16. Splash About Jammers Incontinence Swim Shorts
Available in men’s, women’s and children’s sizes, Jammers claims to make the most reliable fecal incontinence swim short in the world. The sporty design, which moves with the wearer and offers UPF 50+ for sun protection, comes in either blue or pink.
Available at Amazon.com | $25 – $46 kid size; $36 – 58 adult size
17. STEPIN2NOW Swimsuit
Constructed for and tested by women with arthritis and other mobility problems, the STEPIN2NOW swimsuit features an easy-on, easy-off two-sided design. Just step into each of the two vertical half-suits to achieve a beautiful, accessible look. Choose one solid, pair two solid colors or opt for a print design.
Available at H2owear.com | $73.77
18. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Adaptive Swim Trunks
A part of Tommy Hilfiger’s Adaptive Collection, the cord-lock fastener on the drawstring allows for one-handed adjustability and secures easily into place. Plus, these quick-dry trunks are machine-washable.
Available at Amazon.com | $69.50
19. Tutublue Full Body Rash Guard Swimsuit
An activewear company created by a melanoma survivor, this women’s one-piece suit offers complete UPF 50 sun protection with a zip-up back and long cord for ease. Tutublue has many other full-coverage options for women, men, boys and girls.
Available at Amazon.com | $144.99
20. Wide Strap Scoop Bikini Top + Pocket Bottom
Sold by Aerie, this wide strap top, available in moss green or black, resembles a comfortable sports bra style. Pair it with regular bikini bottoms, ruched high-waisted bottoms or ribbed cheeky bikini bottoms with useful (and super cute) side pockets.
Available at Aerie.com | $14.97 top + $17.47 bottoms
