Take a look at the press release posted on swiminfo.com: www.swiminfo.com/.../6949.asp
Here's a quote that bothers me:
By strategically increasing the surface area, TYR has increased his/her ability to pull without increasing any resistance through the recovery. Just think of it as ascending an aquatic ladder.
Should these be allowed? I would guess that they are o.k. as far as current rules read, but I don't like it. I think these sleeves amount to an aid, sort of like wearing paddles. I guess the question is: what constitutes a swimsuit? Obviously caps are o.k., so you can't argue that it must be one piece.
I think the rules should clearly state that the following pieces of equipment are acceptable during competition:a swimsuit, goggles, cap (and maybe nose-clip?). The swimsuit must be one-piece with the exception that a two-piece "tankini" style women's suit is acceptable. The suit must not cover either the hands or the feet.
Other than that I think it's fair game. The current rules that require no positive buoyancy is good. Special materials that affect drag are acceptable as long as they adhere to the other rules.
I think the rules should clearly state that the following pieces of equipment are acceptable during competition:a swimsuit, goggles, cap (and maybe nose-clip?). The swimsuit must be one-piece with the exception that a two-piece "tankini" style women's suit is acceptable. The suit must not cover either the hands or the feet.
Other than that I think it's fair game. The current rules that require no positive buoyancy is good. Special materials that affect drag are acceptable as long as they adhere to the other rules.
