Speedo racing swimsuit trends dictate what other brands will turn out each season. The 2012 Olympics means plenty of new trends for competitive racing

swimsuits. Olympic swimmers know that fit matters most when it comes to finding the right swimsuit for a major competition. Finding the right fit means designating certain suits for different purposes.

1. Find the right fit for practice means looser fits. Relaxed and slightly loose swimwear is comfortable for practice. Speedo has special elastic in their swimsuits to prevent constriction, even with a more fitted swimsuit. The leg openings on a practice swimsuit should be slightly roomy, but still sit flush to the skin. Not every swimmer wants them as tight as the leg openings on competitive swimwear. For the 2012 Olympics and any major competitive swim meet, you’ll notice tight leg openings and nylon fabrics for swimwear.

2. Olympic swimmers are picky about their fabrics for swimsuits. You’ll notice many aerodynamic suits at the 2012 Olympics and for good reason. These thin, fitted suits sit like a second skin on a swimmer’s body, making it easy to swim fast and move freely under water. Olympic swimmers know that a suit’s fit and fabric can help or hinder their performance. One popular trend is for Olympic swimmers to wear full body suits. These are often more expensive than other swimsuits, but are well worth the money since they are ideal for competitive swimming. Innovative fabrics and techniques are implemented for these full body suits. Full body suits should be very snug, but never too tight or cut off circulation. These full body suits may not affect your performance while practicing, but the aerodynamic fabric will potentially help shave seconds off competitive meets.

3. Be careful with swimsuit straps. The vast majority of swimsuits do not have straps. Swimsuit straps slow down competitive swimmers, so straps are usually an extension of the torso portion of the suit. Competitive swimmers don’t need tie-style straps holding them down. Make sure armholes are wide enough to be comfortable, but never with excess or puckering fabric in any area.

4. Be sure there’s adequate coverage in the back. Like with armholes, there shouldn’t be any tugging or puckering in the bottom area for women or men. If the style doesn’t seem to work with your shape, try a different style versus changing sizes in the exact same suit. You’ll notice that Olympic swimmers wear different styles of swimsuits and this is because they choose what works for their bodies while staying within the competition’s swimwear guidelines.

Check out a Speedo racing swimsuit the next time you’re looking for a new suit. You’ll notice Speedo is a brand favored by Olympic athletes and competitive swimmers around the globe.