Competitive swimwear may look like many of the other swimsuits that are available in your average store. However, these suits are often quite different, made in different styles with different materials that are designed to enhance a swimmer’s movements in the water. These suits also typically provide more coverage than the suits you can buy in any department store. Because competitive suits are built differently, you need to learn how to properly size one.

Measure Yourself

Measuring for competitive swimwear is quite easy for most swimmers. Men should measure their waist and their hips to get the proper fit. Women must measure their waist and hips, as well as their bust, to ensure the right fit in their swimwear. Once you know your measurements, you will need to retake them each year to accommodate any changes in your body.

Use Size Charts

Every brand of competitive swimwear has its own sizing chart to use. If you wear one size in one brand, don’t assume you will wear the same size in all brands. Many of the best brands are similar in size, but it is best to make sure you are matching up your measurements to the right chart so you can be sure of the proper fit.

Order Up

Many swimmers don’t fit perfectly into one size on a brand’s chart. When this happens, it is best to order a size up rather than a size down. While it may seem that the drag of the extra material would not be beneficial to swimmers, the effect is minimal. Wearing an uncomfortable suit that restricts your movement is much more detrimental to your swimming.

Try It On

Before you jump in the pool with your new competitive swimwear, make sure you try it on. If it doesn’t fit properly, it is best to exchange it for a different size. This can be complicated if you buy online, but it isn’t impossible. However, this is why you should always follow the right steps to reduce the chances of needing to return the suit.

Competitive swimwear fits much differently than typical swimwear, making it essential to learn how to get the right fit. Because you need freedom of motion and a good fit to be an effective swimmer, it is important to measure yourself regularly, compare your measurements to the sizing chart, order up if needed and try the suit on before you start to use it.