Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Speedo Aquablade Swimsuit - An Economical Alternative to Fastskin

Before there was Fastskin line of competitive swimsuits, there was Aquablade. This competitive suit was first introduced back in mid 1990s. The launch of this suit meant the start of the top-quality swimsuit innovations. The “big idea” (that sells) behind this piece of swimwear is that the fabric is water-repellent and alternates different textures of fabric in order to cause a water-channeling, drag-reducing effect. It’s an economical alternative to Fastskin suits. What’s more, it is the preferred swimsuit for many high school athletes, i.e. future professionals.

One of a kind Aquablade fabric offers lower drag coefficient. Furthermore, it is much slicker when compared to human skin. Stripes are responsible for the channeling effect in order to streamline water away from the swimmer’s body. Because the water slid off of one stripe faster than the one next to it, vortices were formed and this basically reduced overall drag. In other words, its fabric speeds up the water flow keeping it close to the athlete’s body for longer. So, as a result the athlete glides through the poll as if on rails.

Here are some interesting facts:

  • Longer legs for compression fit as well as added coverage
  • Reinforced seams
  • Draw-cord waist
  • Fully front lined
  • Better, chlorine–resistant fabric, made with 20 percent Lycra spandex and 80 percent polyester
  • Manufactured in the United States
  • Fabric is being imported

This swimsuit is responsible for several world records back in the late 1990s. Although this suit is “old technology,” it still works. It is a good value for around $50, for men’s kneeskin and around $55 for the women’s recordbreaker. This competitive swimsuit tends to fit similarly to the standard meet swimsuit, therefore stay true to size. The women’s swimsuits are a bit tighter across the chest and the men’s jammers run longer when compared to what swimmers are used to.

For future athletes i.e. for kid and teen athletes this suit is both of a great quality and reasonably priced. The suit is perfectly suited for trainings and day-to-day use.

Here are some recommendations:

  • 10 year old boys and girls (and younger) are to stick with the standard beach swimsuit. Competitive swimsuits are not at all meant for these body types.
  • 11-12 year old boys and girls have the option of wearing the standard beach swimsuit, or the Aquablade, but not other professional swimsuits from the Fastskin line. What’s more, these suits aren’t even meant for this body type.
  • 13-14 year old boys and girls are can wear the standard beach suit or Aquablade at the competitions. 13-14 year old boys and girls who compete at Senior Level championships (SR Sectionals or SR. State) can wear some of the Faststkin suits.

Overall, the lining grips at the knee and waistline - this further reduces drag. The composition of the material really hugs the legs, however, not too tight. This gives athletes an awareness of their muscles contracting and flexing. This feedback helps swimmers control their leg movement, providing stability for their lower body and, in turn, their entire line. Unquestionably, it’s perfect for the enthusiast swimmers as well. Its fabric will allow the athlete to improve times over standard suit fabrics. Finally, the Aquablade swimsuit will give the athlete inner confidence and endurance to achieve personal goals.