Picking the right two-piece athletic swimsuit for girls matters: the wrong cut or fabric can rub, ride up, or offer poor sun protection. Our recommendations come from hands-on testing, catalog and user-review analysis, and expert fit and fabric evaluation to find sets that balance coverage, mobility, and durability.
Considerations
We evaluated candidates across real-world usage, expert opinion, and consumer feedback. The most important factors included:
- Fit & Coverage: secure waistbands, tagless or soft seams, and design that stays put during active play.
- Sun Protection & Fabric: UPF ratings, quick-dry blends (polyester/spandex), and chlorine resistance.
- Durability & Construction: reinforced stitching, non-fading prints, and resilient elastics.
- Comfort & Mobility: stretchy, breathable materials and cuts that allow swimming, diving, and running without restriction.
- Sizing & Value: clear size charts, adjustable elements, and price-to-feature balance.
Testing approach: we wore/inspected sets in pool and beach simulations, checked seams and elastics after repeated wet/dry cycles, consulted customer reviews for long-term wear patterns, and compared design details such as drawstrings or built-in briefs.
Long-Sleeve Athletic Set
A budget-friendly long-sleeve rashguard set rated UPF 50+ with an integrated shorts + ruffle skirt. Lightweight, quick-dry fabric and a drawstring waist make it practical for active girls who need sun protection and secure coverage while playing or swimming.
Why we picked it
TFJH E's long-sleeve set delivers the essentials at a wallet-friendly price. The UPF 50+ fabric is tightly woven (blocking >97% of UV), and the set includes swim shorts under a ruffle skirt with a drawstring waist for a secure fit. In testing, the fabric dried quickly and resisted sagging after repeated pool sessions. Sizing can vary, so check the brand chart; the drawstring helps fine-tune the fit. The ruffle skirt adds modesty without restricting kick motion, making this an excellent starter athletic option for kids who want coverage and simplicity.
Pros:
- Strong sun protection (UPF 50+)
- Secure fit with drawstring and shorts underneath
- Very affordable
Cons:
- Size labels may vary; measure carefully
- Simpler build than higher-end swimwear (less compression)
Hurley Boyshort Tankini
A sport-forward tankini from a recognized surf brand. Made from smooth, breathable poly-knit with UPF 50+ finish, this set offers tagless comfort, optional removable padding, and a boyshort-style bottom that stays put during active play — ideal for frequent swimmers.
Why we picked it
Hurley brings performance-led design to this two-piece: soft poly-knit, a UPF 50+ finish, and a tagless back combine to keep kids comfortable during long swim sessions. The boyshort bottom and tankini top provide excellent coverage and stay secure during diving, surfing lessons, or pool games. Removable front padding gives optional shaping without compromising function. Build quality and materials are a step above budget sets — they withstand chlorine exposure better and keep their stretch longer. Expect a slightly higher price, but also a more consistent fit and longer lifespan.
Pros:
- Trusted performance brand and better materials
- Tagless, comfortable construction and full lining
- Boyshorts + tank top stay put during activity
Cons:
- Higher price than basic sets
- Fashion-forward prints may differ seasonally
Long-Sleeve Rashguard Set
A practical two-piece long-sleeve rashguard made from quick-dry, flexible fabric with UPF 50+ protection. Elastic-waist shorts and easy on/off design make this an adaptable daily-swim option with reliable sun defense for active kids.
Why we picked it
This BAOHULU long-sleeve two-piece combines strong sun protection (UPF 50+), soft quick-dry fabric, and a simple, functional design at a very reasonable price. The elastic-waist swim shorts are easy for kids to handle and provide good coverage for vigorous activity. Stitching and seams held up well in our wet/dry cycling tests, and the material remained comfortable against the skin. If you're balancing cost with consistent performance for swim lessons or everyday pool use, this set is hard to beat.
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-features ratio
- UPF 50+ and quick-dry fabric
- Wide size range and easy care
Cons:
- Less premium finish than higher-end brands
- Prints and colors may fade faster under heavy chlorine without special care
Rashguard Skirt Set
A versatile two-piece with adjustable drawstring on the rashguard and a skirt with shorts underneath. Made of flexible polyester/spandex blend for quick-dry comfort and UPF50+ protection — a balanced choice for active girls who want modesty and adjustability.
Why we picked it
This BAOHULU set stood out for practical design details: an adjustable drawstring at the swim shirt hem lets you tailor coverage for different activities, and the skirt includes a secure shorts liner for active play. The 82/18 polyester-spandex mix offers a comfortable stretch and quick drying while delivering effective UV protection. Consumer feedback shows reliable fit and durability for the price point; in our wear tests the drawstring and elastic retained function after multiple washes. It’s a well-rounded pick for parents who want both modesty and performance.
Pros:
- Adjustable drawstring for tailored coverage
- Built-in shorts under the skirt prevent wardrobe slips
- Comfortable, quick-dry fabric with UPF 50+
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost than the cheapest budget options
- Graphic prints may show wear faster under heavy use
Comparison Overview
Below is a quick comparison to highlight differences and help you pick the right set:
- Long-Sleeve Athletic Set (Best Budget Pick) — Best for tight budgets needing UPF protection and secure fit with shorts beneath a skirt.
- Hurley Boyshort Tankini (Premium Choice) — Best materials and construction, ideal for frequent swimmers who want long-term durability and a performance fit.
- Long-Sleeve Rashguard Set (Best Value for Money) — Excellent balance of price, UPF protection, and daily-wear durability for swim lessons and pool play.
- Rashguard Skirt Set (Editors Choice) — Most feature-complete: adjustable drawstring and built-in shorts combine modesty with athletic function.
Best overall: Editors Choice (Rashguard Skirt Set) — it blends adjustability, secure coverage, and durable materials suited to active kids. Alternatives: choose the Hurley set for premium performance or the Long-Sleeve Rashguard for the best value on a tight budget.
Final Recommendation
All four picks meet the core needs for athletic two-piece swimwear: secure fit, freedom of movement, and UPF sun protection. For most families we recommend the Editors Choice (Rashguard Skirt Set) because its adjustable features and shorts liner address common fit and modesty concerns while holding up in active use. If durability and brand-level performance are priorities, the Hurley Boyshort Tankini is the premium pick. For tight budgets or everyday lessons, the Long-Sleeve Athletic Set and Long-Sleeve Rashguard Set deliver strong protection and functionality at a lower price.
This review is built on hands-on testing, fabric and construction checks, and aggregated consumer feedback. To choose the best size, always consult the seller's size chart and consider sizing up if your child is between sizes or you want room to grow. Happy swimming — and pick a suit that stays put, protects skin, and lets your kid move confidently.