This may seem like a weird question but I am new to the forums. I am 50 years old and I have gotten back into swimming within the last year. I swim at least 4 days a week- sometimes 5-- and have recently increased my yardage to between 3500 and 5000. However, my swim suit is causing terrible irritation, redness, and chafing around the shoulder straps. The suit is sized correctly (as far as I can tell) I don't think it is an allergy to the fabric because the only place I have the redness is the shoulder and front of the chest. Has anyone had this problem? Is there something I can out on my skin to prevent this. Do I need a different type of suit?
While they seem to last a long time for me, I've found that the Dolfin suits with the wider straps are particularly good at rubbing my neck wrong, especially as the suits stretch out. Putting some Vaseline on the affected areas before getting into the pool takes care of it. However, I also haven't had the problem with the thinner strapped suits. Try out different brands, strap styles, etc. and see what works best for you.
I am long in the torso as well and I understand the frustration of finding stuff that fits. Nike seems to be the best brand for me...
--mj
That explains why Nike never fit me properly - I have a short torso. For me its Speedo all the way!
My shoulder to chest length is short too, so I tended towards the thicker straps as I was afraid the thin ones would stretch out quickly. It turned out true for a TYR I had, and that one started chafing as well. Currently though, I'm loving my thin-strap Speedo Endurance.
... However, the best cure of all in my opinion is duct tape. If you cover the affected areas with small pieces, it will halt the abrasion completely. Unlike bandaids, duct tape also stays on in the water for long periods of time. ... till it falls off of its own accord.
...
Of course, don't do this without shaving if you happen to have hair in the locations being taped! Otherwise, the removal comes with a kind of "waxing" sound!
try different makes & sizes to find what works best for you
all depends on your size, shape and how you swim
before you swim
try applying vaseline to where the straps chafe you
Ande
This may seem like a weird question but I am new to the forums. I am 50 years old and I have gotten back into swimming within the last year. I swim at least 4 days a week- sometimes 5-- and have recently increased my yardage to between 3500 and 5000. However, my swim suit is causing terrible irritation, redness, and chafing around the shoulder straps. The suit is sized correctly (as far as I can tell) I don't think it is an allergy to the fabric because the only place I have the redness is the shoulder and front of the chest. Has anyone had this problem? Is there something I can out on my skin to prevent this. Do I need a different type of suit?
You may have a suit that is great for a race, but for training you need the next size up. Vaseline should really not be needed, but if it works use it.
You guys have it so easy. All you have to fit is the bottom, although, I've seem some that had trouble with that too.
I saw a swimmer at my gym recently who challenged that statement. Imagine a large lycra shopping bag. Cut holes in the bottom of the bag for your legs to go through. Now pull it all the way on and tie the drawstring near the base of your sternum. That's what he was wearing for his workout! :afraid:
