Swimwear, Aquatic, and Competitive
Welcome to GreenHouseAquatics.com! If you are lookingfor the latest information on all types of swimwear then you have come to the right place. Our site contains information on everything from competitive swimwear to swimwear for aquatic sports and even chlorine resistant swimwear. There are endless possibilities when it comes to swimwear for different activities. GreenHouseAquatics.com does not promote one product or method of use. Our mission is simply to inform readers on which types of swimwear work best for certain activities. As with many types of apparel, different types of swimwear fall in and out of popularity throughout time. With the wide variety of swim attire available it is important for people to understand which type is best for the activity they wish to participate in. Whether it be a leisurely activity or a extreme water sport there are appropriate pieces of swimwear that should be worn.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to water sports; typically they are separated into three categories. In the water sports which require the participant to be submerged in the water; this includes swimming, water polo and even diving. On the water sports are the most common and they merely require the use of water; including wake boarding, wind surfing and rafting, just to name a few. Finally there is the under the water sports, which are less common then the rest because they require underwater breathing apparatuses; scuba diving and underwater photography are the most common. Regardless of the type of water sport you choose you will need to purchase the right swimwear; rather it be the traditional aquatic swimming suit or competitive body suits.
Swimwear is essential for all water activities because it provides the body with an extra layer of protection as well as increases performance potential. All aquatic swimming suits fall into one of three categories; men’s suits, women’s suits or unisex suits.
Men’s suits are typically designed to cover only the lower half of the body. There are three main types of men swimming suits, and two can be used for competitive swimming events.
Board shorts are the most popular type of mens swimming suit outside of competition. They much reflect the style of typical shorts, however they are made with water resistant materials. Board shorts vary in length and can reach below the knee or even mid thigh. Regardless of the length board shorts are typically baggy and loose fitting. This makes them a poor choice for competitive sports because they can detract from speed and accuracy. However, they are perfect for all other water sports from swimming, to wake boarding.
Jammers are most commonly used for competitive water sports. They are usually skin tight leggings that cover the lower torso to the knee. They are usually made of lycra or spandex so that they can stretch and flex the same way the swimmer does without restricting movement. Also the tightness of the material allows the swimmer to move quickly through the water with little traction. A larger version of the jammer is the jammer suit which is made from the same material but covers much of the body; the entire torso and arms. These are also used only in competition and help the swimmier move quickly without resistance.
Briefs, or speedo’s, are constantly rising and falling in and out of popularity because they are rather revealing and many think they are not appropriate for regular aquatic activities. They cover only the groin area leaving the entire torso and legs revealed. They are most commonly used for competitive sports to lower restriction on the body, however they are sometimes used as traditional swimwear.
Women’s swimwear also has three main categories with one being used for competition.
One-piece swimming suits are extremely popular for competition and for regular swimming activities. It covers all of the torso and most of the back and is held up with shoulder straps. These swimming suits come in array of different styles and designs to fit every woman’s interests. Additionally they are the only type of woman’s swimwear that is allowed in competition. They provide female swimmers with lessened resistance as well as support and flexibility.
Bikini’s are extremely popular for water activities outside of competition. They come in two pieces; top and bottom. The top piece is designed to cover the breasts and comes in many different styles. The bottom covers the groin area and also comes in different styles; from briefs to shorts. Bikini’s leave the stomach area exposed allowing female swimmers to tan and be more flexible for water sports.
Tankini suits are similar to bikini’s and come in two pieces. However, the top segment of the suit has more material and covers the entire stomach. Tankini’s most often resemble one piece suits, however they provide swimmers with more flexibility and comfort for many aquatic sports.