Putting on a Speedo swimsuit, especially a high-compression model designed for performance, requires patience and a methodical approach, focusing on working the fabric up slowly from the legs and avoiding the use of nails.
Understanding Your Speedo Swimsuit
Speedo swimsuits, particularly high-performance racing models like the Speedo LZR Pure Fastskin, are engineered with high compression to enhance hydrodynamics and provide muscle support. This design means the suit will feel exceptionally tight the first time you step into it. Understanding this compression is key to properly donning the suit without damage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Donning Your Speedo
Follow these steps for a smooth and safe process, ensuring the longevity of your swimsuit:
- Prepare the Suit: Ensure the suit is right-side out or gathered neatly for easy access. Starting with dry skin can also make the process easier as moisture increases friction.
- Step In Carefully: Step into one leg opening first, then the other. As soon as you step into the suit for the first time, you'll immediately notice the high compression.
- Work the Legs Slowly: This is the most crucial part. You must keep working the leg fabric up bit by bit slowly. Do not rush or pull aggressively. Use your fingertips or the flat of your hand rather than your nails to avoid snagging or tearing the delicate, high-tech fabric. Inch the suit up over your calves and knees.
- Adjust the Hips: Once the suit is past your knees, continue gradually working it up over your thighs and hips. Ensure the seams are aligned correctly as you go.
- Position the Torso: Once the suit is over your hips and positioned comfortably, gradually pull it up over your torso.
- Clear the Straps: Before pulling the suit over your shoulders, move the straps out of the way to prevent them from twisting or getting caught under the fabric.
- Pull Over Shoulders: Gently slide one arm into its strap, then the other.
- Final Adjustments: Once fully on, gently adjust the suit to ensure it sits comfortably and securely, with no puckering or excessive bunching. The high compression should feel snug but not painful.
Essential Tips for Longevity and Comfort
- Avoid Nails: Always use the pads of your fingers or palms to manipulate the fabric rather than your nails to prevent accidental tears, especially with high-compression materials.
- Patience is Key: The process can take several minutes, especially with new, high-compression suits. Rushing can damage the suit.
- Dry Skin is Best: Putting on a Speedo is often easier when your skin is completely dry, as moisture can create friction.
- Don't Force It: If the suit feels stuck, go back a step and readjust rather than forcing it, which can cause rips.
- Rinse After Use: Always rinse your Speedo in cold, fresh water immediately after use to remove chlorine or salt, which can degrade the fabric over time.
Do's and Don'ts for Your Speedo Swimsuit
To ensure your Speedo swimsuit lasts and performs optimally, adhere to these guidelines:
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Be patient and take your time when donning. | Don't use your nails or sharp objects. |
| Work the fabric up bit by bit slowly. | Don't yank or pull aggressively on the fabric. |
| Use fingertips or palms for grip. | Don't force it if the suit feels stuck. |
| Move straps out of the way before pulling up. | Don't leave it wet in a bag after use. |
| Ensure dry skin for easier donning. | Don't use harsh detergents, hot water, or dryers. |
| Rinse with cold, fresh water after every use. | Don't wring out the suit; gently squeeze excess water. |
Why the Tight Fit?
The high compression you feel when putting on a performance Speedo is intentional and beneficial. It provides essential muscle support, reduces drag by streamlining the body, and helps align the swimmer's posture in the water. This is precisely why you need to work the leg fabric up bit by bit slowly and patiently to ensure the suit is correctly positioned for maximum benefit.
