Even though as swimmers, most of us look "pretty good" for our ages, I still can't help but think that walking around in a modern Speedo is disconcerting for some. Most of the suits are cut for kids who are 22 years old or younger and have as much material in them as a hankie. The correct waist size suit covers less body than my Fruit-of the Looms. Does anyone know of a manufacturer selling a suit more like the old Ocean-Pacific suits we had back in the 60's?
I want to wear a traditional suit and not one of the newer body-suits. I know it doesn't bother other masters swimmers, but I recently officiated a USA meet where a 37 year old man entered and walking around in his Speedo looked very out of place among the kids.
Basically, I'm just wondering if there's a more modest alternative on the market.
Former Member
Speedos don't bother me, but I know that several companies make "masters suits" with a longer side and square cut leg. I think The Victor is one (www.thevictor.com) and Speedo itself may make one. They're probably only available by mail order, though.
There are several more modest styles out there, at least one by Speedo. When I was shopping a few weeks ago, I found a suit that I was convinced was mislabeled - it was way too big to be a 34. When I showed it to the clerk, she convinced me that it was a 'modest style.'
Her comment was that only us old guys were comfortable in the racing suits anymore!:o
This may sound wierd, but check out the Ralph Lauren Polo selection at your local department store.
I have a very good pair of short light trunks I got about 5 years ago. They are very well made and not at all bulky. Also a much more modest look to them than a speedo while not being overly weighty or inefficient.
The really nice thing though is that after 5 years, and probably over 1,000 swims in pools and the ocean, they are not at all faded or worn. 100% brand new appearance- I kid you not.
I think these set me back around $40.00. Not exactly bargain basement, but then again I have had them for 5 years and will likely have them for many, many more.
On a side note, it is rather funny how we in the US obsess over this. If you are a guy in a Speedo you must be gay, and if you are a woman in a string bikini, then it seems you are only supposed to have 2% body fat. Where did we pick up this annoying judgemental habit?
I was in Brazil in November 2001 for 2 weeks during the start of the peak summer season and I was staying at a hotel right on the beach in Ipanema. Everyone wore stringy stuff- young and old, fat and thin, smooth and extremely hairy. People even went into better restaurants on the beachfront dressed like that. In Rio, noone cares. And I must say it is a very cool thing to not have that superficial pressure.
Tom.
Water polo suits tend to be cut a little longer on the side. Many catalogs will tell the length of the side seam, compare against the suit you have.
I just wear my lycra suits a long time and look like the saggy baggy elephant.
Swim fast,
Greg
World Wide Aquatics has a section of "Moderate Racing Style Suits" that might be what you are looking for. Right now they have a deal for 10% off and free shipping (on orders over $30). Special ends tomorrow.
worldwideaquatics.com/.../products.asp
Cheers!
