Women's Practice Suits

Women's practice suits have advanced within the past few years.  When I started swimming, the only option I had to choose from was a racer-back, lycra suit.  This suit lasted me about a month before it became stretched out, saggy, and see-through.

Now, things are different.  Speedo, Nike, TYR, and many other brands have developed different materials that last longer and are chlorine resistant.  Some are made from polyester, PBT, lycra.

Below are some definitions to familiarize yourself with the different materials that you will be wearing:

• Polyester--- Polyester is a woven fabric with less stretch.  It is highly chlorine resistant, so chlorine will not harm it. 
• PBT--- PBT is a light, textured polyester that has a stretch resembling spandex.  It has less give or stretch that a regular Lycra suit, but chlorine does not hurt PBT.  It is a great choice because it is chlorine resistant.
• Lycra--- Spandex is the generic name for Lycra.  It has a great amount of stretch.  It is usually lined on the inside with another layer of Lycra.  This suit is not chlorine resistant; chlorine harms this suit.
• Xtra Life Lycra---  These can be found in Speedo bathing suits.  They can be combined with polyester to produce a suit that stretches and is highly resistant to chlorine.

Most training suits are now made of polyester with a combination of PBT or Xtra Life Lycra.  My advice would be to stay away from Lycra-- It easily stretches out and fades.  I would rather spend my money on a polyester suit that will last me well over a year.

There are many great suits out there!  Check them out!  My advice would be to go to www.swimoutlet.com.  They have awesome suits, and a great description of the suit's materials.

Good luck! Swim well, fast, and swiftly! :)