Bathing suits, also known as swimsuits, are worn for many purposes. Basically, for the general public, they are meant to avoid nudity or exposure when going for a swim or sun-bathing in public places like beaches and public swimming pools. Swimmers in a competition may wear them for thermal protection, and contestants in a beauty pageant, for displaying their bodies.

It is illegal to go swimming without a bathing suit in many parts of the United States, as it is considered to be a form of indecent exposure. There are special beaches and resorts reserved for people who wish to go nude while swimming. The number of nudist beaches has risen in recent years, and their popularity is still growing.

There are many types of bathing suits available for men, women and children. Men