Is there a swimsuit silhouette you love the most? For me, it is will always be the tried and true one-piece. I grew up swimming competitively, so maybe that is where my preference comes from. However, having worn one-pieces to many settings, I can say that nothing replaces how secure they feel! One brand that I constantly reach for is Summersalt. I’ve worn their styles everywhere from the beach to Bali. But if you’re new to the brand, you may be struggling to choose a style! In this post, I offer my Summersalt one-piece comparison review of the Sidestroke, Ruffle Oasis, and Marina: what I love about each, and things to consider!
Disclosure: This post makes use of affiliate links, which may result in a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Is Summersalt Worth the $100 Price Tag?
For the price, it is reasonable to question whether Summersalt is worth the $100 price tag. When I compare their pieces to my $30 swimsuit, I do see a difference in fabric quality! No matter the style, I find that Summersalt fabrics have a sleek texture, created by fine and tight stitches. Meanwhile, with my cheaper swimsuit, I can definitely see the ribbing, as the knit feels looser and less compressive.
Another more tactile comparison is doing a quick scrunch test. When I scrunch my Summersalt swimsuit, it feels ‘crunchy’ and resilient, while my $30 comparison swimsuit feels limper. Spandex quality makes a huge different. As such, swimsuits are delicate pieces that require good care. (You can access my Swimsuit Fabric Care Guide here)
Finally, Summersalt prides itself on great fit by utilizing measurements from 10,000 women. Hopefully this precision translates into something that looks and feels great on you! I love that select sizes come in ‘Long Torso’ versions to be more body-inclusive. (You can use my code ‘VIANNAJS10‘ for $10 off full-priced purchases)
Summersalt Sidestroke: One-Piece Swimsuit Review
The Sidestroke is Summersalt’s most iconic design. It is simple, timeless, and comes in so many classic colors along with limited edition prints! Overall, this design is one of my favorites for its versatile styling. However, the lack of bust support one of the biggest drawbacks.
- What I Love: Fabric is compressive, and supportive. Asymmetrical open-back with a nice cut-out. Diagonal seaming. One-shoulder design makes it easy to style as a ‘bodysuit.’
- What to Consider: Doesn’t come with bra cup padding, which as someone with a smaller bust, it can ‘flatten’ you out vs with a larger bust, not enough support. Front is fully lined, while back is partially lined.
- Fit: Size 4 – I own Summersalt swimsuits in both a 2, and 4 but ultimately found 4 to be my best fit. It puts less strain on the fabric, which will help it to keep its stretch for longer.
Summersalt Sidestroke – Navy (size 4)
Ruffle Oasis: Classic Maillot One-Piece
The Ruffle Oasis is definitely a more fun alternative to the Sidestroke, taking a twist on the classic maillot silhouette. Unlike the Sidestroke, this design also comes with built-in soft cups (not removable). There is also seaming at the waist for a flattering, and cinched fit. (Styled and old striped version HERE)
- What I Love: Adjustable straps, and built-in soft cups. Decent coverage, while still offering fun details like ruffles and color-blocking. Neckline has a rubberized edge to help it stay in place. Defined waistline.
- What to Consider: I found this swimsuit to run smaller than the Sidestroke, especially when I pull it over the hips. The front is fully lined, while the back is a single fabric layer. Out of the 3 styles I review, the Ruffle Oasis is the only one that doesn’t have a ‘Long Torso‘ option, which is a complaint from taller customers.
- Fit: Size 2 – I can definitely see myself sizing up to a 4, but ended up keeping it for a last-minute trip.
Summersalt Marina: Color-Block One-Piece
The final style in my Summersalt one-piece comparison review is the Marina. I love that this style has a soft v-neckline, also with built-in soft cups. The diagonal color-blocking also feels fresh and eye-catching. However, the fabric here feels slightly thinner and less supportive than the other two styles.
- What I Love: Adjustable straps, and built-in soft cups. Eye-catching colorblock design.
- What to Consider: Less coverage around the chest and neck than the Sidestroke, or Ruffle Oasis. There are fewer seams in the bodice than the other two designs, which makes it feel less supportive. Lining also has looser stitches than the Ruffle Oasis, which contributes to this style feeling less compressive.
- Fit: Size 4 – Unlike the Ruffle Oasis, this one is easier to pull and off.
Summersalt Marina Swimsuit – Size 4 | Waterproof Slides | Linen Shorts | Sunglasses
Summersalt One-Piece Comparison Review: Front & Back Images
It is easiest to compare different styles when you lay them side-by-side. So here are the images of the inside (front and back), since the details are hard to see on the Summersalt website. I found the leg rise to be the same across all styles.
Sidestroke, Ruffle Oasis, and Marina: Overall Thoughts
Summersalt Sidestroke: Choose this style if you prefer something simple, classic, and can easily double as a bodysuit underneath a pair of shorts or skirt.
Ruffle Oasis: Choose style style if you prefer something with high coverage, but still fun and structured. Remember to size up, as swimsuit runs small.
Marina: Choose this style if you want a one-piece with slightly less coverage. This design felt the least supportive out of the 3 I own, so keep this in mind if you do purchase! As someone with a smaller bust, this style felt more friendly to me, but may not provide the right support to everyone.
