To measure for a competitive swimsuit, you need to take accurate measurements of your bust, the narrowest part of your torso, and your hips, as competitive-fit suits are designed to be worn tight for maximum drag reduction.
Understanding Competitive Swimsuit Sizing
Sizing a competitive swimsuit is crucial for performance. Unlike leisure swimwear, competitive suits are engineered to fit like a second skin, minimizing drag and optimizing hydrodynamics. A proper fit ensures comfort during races and training while enhancing your efficiency in the water. An ill-fitting suit, whether too loose or too restrictive, can hinder your movement and performance.
Essential Measurements for Competitive Swimwear
Taking precise body measurements is the first step in finding the perfect competitive swimsuit size. You'll focus on three key areas:
- Bust: Measure the fullest part of your bust. Crucially, extend the measuring tape over your shoulder blades at the back to ensure you capture the full circumference that accounts for the suit's back coverage and strap tension.
- Waist/Torso: Locate the narrowest part of your torso. This is typically just above your belly button. Measure around this point, keeping the tape snug but not tight.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest point of your hip area. It's vital to keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor during this measurement to get an accurate circumference.
Practical Tips for Accurate Measurement
For the most precise results when measuring for a competitive swimsuit, consider the following practical insights:
- Use a Flexible Tape Measure: A soft, cloth tape measure is ideal for conforming to your body's curves.
- Measure Against Bare Skin: Always measure directly against your skin, not over clothing, which can add bulk and skew measurements.
- Stand Naturally: Stand upright with a relaxed posture. Avoid sucking in your stomach or puffing out your chest, as this will lead to inaccurate readings.
- Keep Tape Snug, Not Tight: The tape measure should be snug against your body, but not so tight that it indents your skin. You should be able to place one finger under the tape comfortably.
- Get Assistance: For measurements like the bust (especially over shoulder blades) or hip, having someone help you can ensure the tape remains level and accurate.
- Consult Size Charts: Once you have your measurements, compare them against the specific brand's sizing chart. Sizing can vary significantly between manufacturers.
Why a Tight Fit Matters
Competitive-fit suits are designed to be worn tight. This snug compression helps to reduce drag in the water by streamlining the body and compressing soft tissue. This reduction in drag translates directly to improved speed and efficiency, making every second count in a race. While a new competitive suit might feel uncomfortably tight when first trying it on, this is often intentional and necessary for its performance benefits.
Measurement Summary
Here's a quick overview of the key measurements for competitive swimsuits:
| Measurement Area | Description | Purpose/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bust | Fullest part of bust, extending over the shoulder blades at the back. | Ensures proper fit across the chest and upper back; critical for suit support. |
| Waist/Torso | Narrowest part of the torso, typically above the belly button. | Helps determine the suit's compression around the mid-section for streamlining. |
| Hips | Around the fullest point of the hip, with tape parallel to the floor. | Ensures adequate coverage and compression around the lower body and glutes. |
