TL;DR Adult swim diapers are specifically designed to contain incontinence leaks in water without swelling or disintegrating like regular diapers. They feature waterproof outer layers, snug leg elastics to prevent leaks, and quick-dry materials. Reusable swim diapers are more cost-effective and eco-friendly for frequent swimmers, while disposable options offer convenience. Look for chlorine-resistant fabrics, adjustable waistbands, and a discreet fit under swimwear. WellBefore offers adult swim diapers designed for pool and beach use. Medically reviewed by Poonam Patel, RN-BSN, CPNP The Best Swim Diaper For Adults Incontinence is unfortunately a very common problem in the United States, affecting millions of people of all ages. According to the National Association for Continence, it's estimated that 25 million American adults experience either short-term or long-term incontinence. It is a difficult issue to deal with from many different angles, physically in terms of pain regarding bowel movements, or emotionally given the embarrassing side effects of leaking or having an involuntary bowel movement in public. Here's a great tip though, water sports can be very beneficial for those who suffer from incontinence! Being in the water can provide support for the muscles that help control urine flow, and therefore decrease symptoms that make the individual feel out of control. Additionally, being in water can decrease the pressure on the bladder, reducing the chances of leakage. There are many products offered for those who have to experience incontinence on a daily basis, from adult diapers to bed pads, but what do those who suffer from incontinence do if they would like to partake in swimming or water-based activities? Easy: adult swim diapers! What are Adult Swim Diapers? Adult swim diapers are a type of incontinence product designed for adults who have difficulty controlling their bladder or bowel movements. They have an adjustable fit that are worn like a regular diaper or traditional swimwear and have built-in absorbent material that locks liquids away, preventing leaks and containing accidents. The diapers also usually have a waterproof outer layer that further prevents any liquids from escaping the diaper, keeping both the swimmer and the pool clean, and saving your dignity. You should know that swim diapers are not meant to be worn as a substitute for regular diapers or training pants, and they're not designed to hold large amounts of liquid. There are options for both reusable swim diapers and disposable swim diapers, allowing the wearer to choose what the best swim diapers are for their needs. It's important to change the swim diaper as soon as possible after an accident occurs to stay clean and comfortable. How Can I Choose the Best Adult Swim Diapers? There are a few key factors to consider, and the most important is absorbency. Look for a swim diaper that can hold a sufficient amount of liquid to prevent leakage. The ability to control leaks is also affected by the fit of the diaper, it should be snug but not too tight around the waist and legs. Some of the best swim diapers have adjustable waistbands and leg cuffs, which can be tightened or loosened to ensure a snug fit. Now it has the right fit and right absorbency level for your incontinence absorbency levels, it should be made of quality material and comfortable. Look for high-quality materials that will hold up well in the water and not easily swell up, tear or fall apart (or contaminate the pool you're in), and ones that are comfortable to wear and will not chafe or irritate the skin. Finally, and this is important: the brand reputation of the incontinence product. You want to research and look for a brand that offers both a reusable and disposable swim diaper options that have great reviews. Using a reusable swim diaper may seem cost-effective, however, the more popular option tends to be disposable swim diapers. Get Ready for Swimming with WellBefore If you're looking for the best swim adult diapers out there, look no further than WellBefore! Our top pick for the best swim diapers are the Swimmates Disposable Swimwear Briefs, a product featured in The New York Times, USA Today and many others! These disposable swim diaper briefs come with a moisture-proof barrier and inner leg cuffs help contain bowel movements, keeping your bathing suit clean. To ensure a proper fit, the swim diaper briefs come with tear-away side seams, which keep you comfortable but also enable fast and easy removal and disposal. They come in sizes small to 2x large and can be bought in a case of 88! Don't forget to check out our wide selection of adult diapers and incontinence products, with fast and discreet shipping! Frequently Asked Questions Can you wear a regular adult diaper in a swimming pool? No, regular adult diapers should never be worn in water. They contain super-absorbent polymers that swell dramatically when submerged, becoming heavy and ineffective. They can also disintegrate, creating a hygiene issue. Always use swim-specific diapers designed with waterproof materials that contain leaks without absorbing pool water. How do adult swim diapers work? Adult swim diapers use a waterproof outer shell and snug elastic leg openings to contain fecal and urinary leaks without absorbing water. Unlike regular diapers, they do not swell in water. They allow the wearer to move freely while providing discreet protection. They work best for light to moderate incontinence in aquatic settings. Are reusable or disposable swim diapers better for adults? Reusable swim diapers are more cost-effective for regular swimmers, eco-friendly, and often offer better fit with adjustable features. Disposable swim diapers are convenient for occasional use and travel. Many people keep both: reusable for regular pool visits and disposable for vacations or one-time events. How do I choose the right size adult swim diaper? Measure your waist and hips, then consult the manufacturer's sizing chart. The swim diaper should fit snugly around the waist and legs without being uncomfortably tight. Leg openings should be secure to prevent leaks but not so tight they leave marks. Try a few sizes if possible, as fit varies between brands. Read our complete guide: Best Incontinence Products of 2026 — Complete Buying Guide