Frequently Asked Questions

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.
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.
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.
Ratings & Reviews
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
Based on 100 reviews
Total 5 star reviews: 72 Total 4 star reviews: 15 Total 3 star reviews: 9 Total 2 star reviews: 1 Total 1 star reviews: 3
87%would recommend these products
FitRated -0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
Reviews Summary
Customers say these compression bikini bottoms offer excellent fit and stay securely in place during active water activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and surfing. The soft, high-quality fabric provides comfortable coverage without being too tight or restrictive. Many appreciate the flattering rise that offers good belly coverage while maintaining a stylish look. The material thickness feels substantial and not see-through. Common feedback includes praise for consistent sizing and the secure fit that doesn't ride up or shift. Some mention needing to size down due to the compression feature, while others note certain colors may fade or have transparency issues. Overall, customers find them comfortable for all-day wear at pools and beaches.
100 reviews
  • LD
    Leslie D.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Pipa Compression Bottom: Surfside
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn MD
    Height 5'6 - 5'8
    Body Type Average
    Size Purchased MD
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    2 weeks ago
    SO COMFY

    I know these are considered “compression” but they don’t feel tight at all, in a good way. I was worried these would squeeze me too much. But this might actually be the comfiest swimsuit I’ve ever owned. I have a lot of Carve bathing suits, and they’re all comfy which is why I keep coming back (I live in Florida and have a boat, so, i am in a bathing suit a lot). But wow, these are hands down the comfiest. I will def be adding more from the compression collection in the future.

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
  • CB
    Courtney B.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Pipa Compression Bottom: Disco - FINAL SALE
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn LG
    Height 5'6 - 5'8
    Body Type Hourglass
    Size Purchased LG
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 weeks ago
    Best Fitting Bottom

    I have two of these bottoms. I am curvy and carry my weight in my hips, butt, and stomach. I do a lot of water sports and struggle to find a bottom that works for me (comfortable, stays put, flattering, stylish). I also own and like the Erin bottom. This one is a little more sporty,

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
  • M
    Melanie
    Reviewing
    Pipa Compression Bottom: Dusk
    I recommend this product
    Rated 4 out of 5 stars
    3 weeks ago
    4 Stars

    love color

    material but pricey

  • JP
    Jessica P.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Pipa Compression Bottom: Wave - FINAL SALE
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn MD
    Height 5'9 - 5'11
    Body Type Athletic
    Size Purchased LG
    Rated 4 out of 5 stars
    4 weeks ago
    Excellent, but size up.

    The fabric is wonderful, the seams are flat, but these are too tight in me. I am 5'10", size 8. I started with a medium. Ordered the large. It still digs into my hips unflatteringly. Now I'm ordering the XL.

    FitRated -1.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
  • BC
    Brooke C.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Pipa Compression Bottom: Isla
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn MD
    Height 5'6 - 5'8
    Body Type Average
    Size Purchased MD
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 month ago
    Impressed

    Love the fit, love the fabric

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
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When Carve Designs began in 2003, we didn't add sustainability to our checklist - we made it our core vision. That hasn't changed.

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