The fact that your attempts at swimming laps in the pool resemble more cumbersome doggy paddle than seal-like smoothness may not be entirely your fault; maybe it’s your lack of swimwear tech.
Speedo – the iconic swimwear brand that has been making cutting-edge pool kit for nearly 100 years - has just launched its new 2016 Fastskin LZR Racer X, the swimsuit that will be worn in next year’s Olympics by the members of Team Speedo, including the likes of multi-medal winners Ryan Lochte, Missy Franklin, Nathan Adrian and Team GB’s own Michael Jamieson and James Guy.
Designed by Speedo’s Marvel-esque sounding Aqualab, the brand has devised the suit based on 3D scanning and simulations, plus personal feedback from the swimmers, coaches and swim experts.
“I think breaststrokers have a bit more detailed feedback to give,” says Jamieson. “You’re really aware of your hip rotation, and the slightest change in the buoyancy or material, we can really feel that all over. I love it – I do genuinely think it’s the best suit around.”
Boasting an improved microfibre waistband that is soft, yet still supportive, better compression with horizontal stretch resistance and ultra sonically bonded seams to improve how the body’s muscular kinetic chain is linked, thus improved body positioning, which could make all the difference in the water.
James Guy says he can really notice the difference from the previous suit, “The Lazer X Suit II was a great suit when you first wore it, but after a couple of times it kind of got a bit loose. But this one is always quite tight – I’ve worn it loads and it’s still really tight. Any skin or excess fat you’ve got, when it’s compressed, it stops it wobbling about so there’s less resistance and drag.”
Jamieson adds: “It’s a hard enough job as it is to win medals on the world stage, so to give yourself the best equipment really helps.”
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