Why is there this push to limit coverage? I don't understand this thinking. If the suit makers are given a clear set of rules to follow in regards to the material that can and cannot be used in making suits, what is so wrong with suits that cover the torso down to the ankles or suits that go waist to ankle?
I think it makes perfect sense.
Additional fabric beyond what is necessary to provide coverage for decency (as mentioned earlier) is only useful for aiding in resistance reduction and buoyancy, otherwise companies would not have produced such a suit. What motivates the R&D and manufacturing of these full body suits is that they enable the swimmer to swim faster than what they were given naturally (birthday suit). Now a wetsuit is different because it is meant to insulate, but in a FINA pool, assuming it is not cold, no insulation is necessary.
In theory, if everyone swam naked, we'd all be on a level playing field. Throw in a full body suit by brand X, someone with one from brand Y, and someone who cannot afford one, then the playing field is no longer equal.
Why is there this push to limit coverage? I don't understand this thinking. If the suit makers are given a clear set of rules to follow in regards to the material that can and cannot be used in making suits, what is so wrong with suits that cover the torso down to the ankles or suits that go waist to ankle?
I think it makes perfect sense.
Additional fabric beyond what is necessary to provide coverage for decency (as mentioned earlier) is only useful for aiding in resistance reduction and buoyancy, otherwise companies would not have produced such a suit. What motivates the R&D and manufacturing of these full body suits is that they enable the swimmer to swim faster than what they were given naturally (birthday suit). Now a wetsuit is different because it is meant to insulate, but in a FINA pool, assuming it is not cold, no insulation is necessary.
In theory, if everyone swam naked, we'd all be on a level playing field. Throw in a full body suit by brand X, someone with one from brand Y, and someone who cannot afford one, then the playing field is no longer equal.
