What is a Racing Suit—and Do You Need One?
Racing suits (also known as tech suits) are high-performance swimwear designed for big races and top-tier competitions. Made from special hydrophobic fabrics, these suits reduce drag by repelling water and compressing muscles to enhance efficiency, reduce fatigue, and help you swim your best when it matters most.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best at provincials or gearing up for nationals, there’s a tech suit that fits your performance goals, race style, and body type.
Who Should Wear a Tech Suit?
We generally recommend racing suits for
swimmers age 14 and up, once technique, racing skills, and experience are more developed.
Not quite there yet? No problem—we stock a wide range of
entry- to mid-level racing suits for those still building confidence and consistency in the water.
What Racing Suit Is Best for You?
It depends on your level, race specialties, and personal feel. Based on 40+ years of combined experience as swimmers, coaches, and champions, here’s our guide:
| Level | Recommended Suits |
|---|---|
| Mid-level (e.g., Provincials) | Speedo LZR Pro, Arena ST, R-Evo One, Speedo Power Plus |
| High-performance (Nationals/International) | Arena Carbon Series, Speedo Pure Collection |
Finding the Right Size
Getting the right size is
crucial for performance. Racing suits should hug your body like a second skin.
💡
Pro tip: The compression comes from
structure, not tightness.
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Go 1–3 sizes down from your training suit (depending on brand and body type).
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Arena suits typically fit narrow hips better, while Speedo fits suit swimmers with wider hips.
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If possible, try suits on in-store or use our [sizing chart]. You can exchange unused suits with tags intact.
Warning:
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Too big = drag and poor compression
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Too tight = restricts movement and breathing
Putting on a Racing Suit
Yes—it’ll be tough to get on. That’s normal. Here’s how to do it right:
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Take your time (~10+ minutes)
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Use your finger pads, not nails
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Work from the bottom up
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Wear socks or plastic bags over hands to reduce friction
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Don’t yank on seams
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Girls often need help with shoulder straps—this is totally normal
Make sure all sections are in place before final adjustments. A rushed fit = a ripped suit.
Caring for Your Racing Suit
These suits are performance tools—not daily drivers. Handle with care!
✅ Do:
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Rinse with cold water immediately after racing
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Use a gentle cleanser like Aquamate
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Dry flat or hang upside-down (legs up)
❌ Don’t:
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Leave wet in your swim bag
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Wring, twist, or spin-dry
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Use a washer or dryer
There’s no exact race count guarantee—but proper care = longer life.
What Are Racing Goggles?
Racing goggles are designed to be low-profile and hydrodynamic—a sharp contrast from your training goggles. They sit snug in the eye socket and create minimal drag. Tight silicone straps help prevent shifting on dives and turns.
🏊♂️ Final Word
Tech suits are made to maximize speed, muscle support, and water flow. Whether you’re suiting up for your first championship or your tenth, finding the right fit and taking care of your gear will help you hit the blocks with confidence.
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