Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Pipa Compression Bottoms good for active water sports like surfing and paddleboarding?
Yes. The Pipa Compression Bottom is designed for active water sports and built to stay put when you move. It uses a high-compression fabric that offers strong hold and shape retention, seamless construction to reduce chafing during long sessions, and a medium-high rise for added coverage when paddling or popping up on a board. The piece also provides UPF 50+ sun protection, which helps shield exposed skin during extended time on the water. Who benefits most are active women and moms who want a secure, flattering fit for surfing, paddleboarding, swimming, and beach workouts. One limitation: because it is intentionally snug for performance, those who prefer a relaxed, non-compressive fit may prefer sizing up or a different cut.
How does the Pipa Compression Bottom fit — should I size up or down?
The Pipa Compression Bottom fits snugly by design because it is a high-compression swim bottom, so most people wear their usual size for firm support and shaping. Specific features that affect fit include the medium-high rise that provides extra coverage at the front, seamless construction that molds to your body, and compression fabric that has strong stretch recovery. If you are between sizes or prefer a more relaxed, less compressive feel for lounging, consider sizing up. This style best suits shoppers who want sculpting support and secure coverage for active days; if you prefer a looser or bikini-cut feel, a different silhouette may be a better match.
What makes the Pipa Compression Bottom sustainable and safe for sensitive skin?
It is both more sustainable and skin-friendly than many conventional swim bottoms. The Pipa Compression Bottom is made from recycled materials equivalent to about five recycled plastic bottles per garment, and Carve Designs’ swim line is produced from recycled, upcycled, or organic fabrics. The construction uses no toxic chemical finishes, and the fabric offers UPF 50+ sun protection for skin safety in the sun. These concrete attributes make it a good pick for shoppers who value eco-conscious materials and low-irritant, performance-oriented construction. One caveat: while the materials are recycled and safer-finished, the fabric is still engineered for performance and will have a sporty, compressive feel rather than the softness of some casual lounge fabrics.
Sustainability Isn't A Feature - It's Our Foundation
When Carve Designs began in 2003, we didn't add sustainability to our checklist - we made it our core vision. That hasn't changed.