Phelps Matrix
The Matrix tech suit is the top-of-the-line FINA approved race suit from Phelps. This race suit is packed full of features that you would see in other high end race suits from Speedo, Arena, and TYR.
The most notable feature is Phelps’ proprietary Exo-Core technology which combines two types of fabrics for maximum compression without compromising freedom of movement. This material has one-way progressive stretch to ensure compression in the direction you need and flexibility in the direction you want to be able to perform at your peak. The Matrix suit also features Flat Adapted Compression Sustaining Tape System, which is the gold tape along the back of the suit; this technology helps to improve body positioning and muscle efficiency in the water.
Our Swim Experts have tested the fit of these suits and we have found that these suits fit
small.
We recommend going 2 sizes up if you wear Speedo, or 1 size up if you wear Arena. Alternatively, if this is your first ever racing suit, we recommend starting by
trying on the same size as your training suit.
Note: we ALWAYS recommend trying a tech suit on when possible, especially if it is a brand or style that you are not familiar with.
Scores:
Compression: 8.5/10
Flexibility: 7/10
Seams: Bonded/Welded
FINA: Approved
Fit: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Overall: 31.5/40
Best for: Sprinters
Phelps XPRESSO
The XPRESSO race suit is a collaboration between AquaSphere and swimming legend Michael Phelps. Their purpose was to design a race suit that both performed well and was comfortable. They hit the mark on this race suit and created a suit that performs well and is comfortable enough to wear through a full prelim session at a meet; making this suit a perfect choice for any age group swimmer or prelim suit for those who like to save their high end race suits for finals.
This race suit is comprised of two fabrics; their Exo-Foil fabric and the Aqua Core fabric. The Exo-Foil fabric has 3D stretch technology to provide flexibility while the Aqua Core fabric offers a high level of compression and support. The suit was constructed by strategically placing these differing fabrics to maximize flexibility and freedom of movement and compression/support to help keep your muscles working efficiently and blood flowing.
The suit is constructed with bonded seams to reduce drag and materials are hydrodynamic to help repel the water.
Our Swim Experts have tested the fit of this suit and we have found that these suits fit small. We recommend going 2 sizes up if you wear Speedo, or 1 size up if you wear Arena. Alternatively, if this is your first ever racing suit, we recommend starting by trying on the same size as your training suit.
Note: we ALWAYS recommend trying a tech suit on when possible, especially if it is a brand or style that you are not familiar with.
Scores:
Compression: 7/10
Flexibility: 7/10
Seams: Bonded
FINA: Approved
Fit: 7/10
Performance: 6/10
Overall: 27/40
Best For: All Events