A survey conducted for a German magazine indicates that a majority of women in Germany opposed topless swimming in public pools, a practice that had been allowed in Berlin in the past. The findings show that 55% of participants criticized topless swimming, while 56% of men approved of updated rules that permit bare-chested swimming regardless of gender. In total, 47% of respondents supported topless swimming in pools, and 44% opposed it.
The survey drew participation from 1002 people, offering a snapshot of opinions across demographics and regions. Berlin is not the only German city where topless swimming is permitted; Göttingen had already taken a similar step, extending the policy to include women swimming topless in public facilities.
Historical decisions in Berlin reflect a shift toward more flexible attitudes about public swimwear and body presentation in communal pool spaces. A policy evolution toward topless swimming in some German pools has been accompanied by ongoing discussions about comfort, safety, and inclusivity for swimmers of all genders.
In contrast, Geneva in 2017 implemented a different stance, prohibiting topless swimming and related practices in its pools. This divergence highlights how policy on swimwear can vary widely even among neighboring regions and countries, shaped by local norms, regulations, and community input.
Overall, the data suggest a complex picture: while a substantial portion of respondents supports topless swimming, a comparable share remains cautious or opposed. The dynamics of opinion appear influenced by factors such as gender, age, and the social context of pool environments, with many people seeking a balance between personal freedom and collective comfort in shared spaces.