Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best tech suits for competitive swimming. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to improve your time, selecting the right tech suit can make a significant difference in your performance. In this article, we'll break down the top tech suits currently on the market, highlighting their benefits, design features, and pricing information. Whether you're a sprinter, strokeorer, or distance swimmer, there's a tech suit that's Perfect for you.
[Speedo Fastskin LZR Pure Valor] – Best for Serious Competitors
Speedo's Fastskin LZR Pure Valor is a top choice for competitive swimmers who are looking for the absolute fastest suit possible on race day. This state-of-the-art tech suit features a triple-layer fabric that compresses and reduces drag like few suits do, while also providing compressive paneling to enhance blood flow to the legs when needed most.
Key Features:
- Triple Layer Fabric: Reduces drag and increases speed.
- Compressive Paneling: Enhances blood flow to the legs.
- Textured Exterior: Mimics the skin of a shark, creating vortices for forward propulsion.
- High Pricing: $599 for the kneeskin version, with deals and color patterns available from time to time.
[Arena Powerskin Carbon Core FX] – Best for Maximum Compression and Speed
Arena's Powerskin Carbon CoreFX is a tech suit designed for swimmers who want a compressive, comfortable, and fast racing suit. The Carbon Core FX features Arena's patented carbon cage, providing both vertical and horizontal compression via a carbon fiber grid. The result is a suit that hugs the body without choking, promoting performance-boosting compression for a dominating performance.
Key Features:
- Carbon Fiber Grid: Offers vertical and horizontal compression.
- Internal Taping System: Enhances core stability and compression distribution.
- Reduced Pricing: About $100 less than the Pure Intent, with a cost-effective option.
[Mizuno GX-Sonic V ST] – Best for Sprinters and High Compression
Mizuno's GX-Sonic V ST is the sprinter's version of this highly-rated tech suit, offering high compression and plenty of coverage. The compression paneling elevates the hips and helps maintain proper body position, while the suit's two layers of resistance repel water and compress the muscles.
Key Features:
- Compression Paneling: Elevation of the hips to promote proper body position.
- Two Layer构造: Repels water and compresses muscles.
- Taping System: Helps power the up and down phases of the kick.
[Speedo Fastskin LZR Pure Intent] – Best for Distance and Stroke Swimmers
Speedo's Fastskin LZR Pure Intent is a tech suit built for stroke events and distance races, offering added flexibility for a greater range of motion. With a higher percentage of spandex, this suit provides water-repellence and an excellent balance between compressive and shoulder straps, minimizing the impact on swimming form.
Key Features:
- Increased Flexibility: Ideal for stroke events and distances.
- Spandex Composition: 35% lycra spandex, making it more elastic and durable.
- Moderate Compression: Not as stiffer as Pure Valor, providing a good compromise between comfort and form.
[Arena Powerskin Carbon Glide Tech Suit] – Best for Mid-Distance and Distance Swimmers
Arena's Carbon.glide Tech Suit is designed for mid-distance and distance events, featuring an internal taping system that connects major muscle groups and provides a custom and snug fit both vertically and horizontally. The Carbon Glide has 34% elastane for reduced drag and increased stretch, making it ideal for long distance swimming.
Key Features:
- Carbon Fiber Cage: Provides both vertical and horizontal compression.
- Elastane:(Lycra Spandex): 34% for reduced drag and increased comfort and flexibility.
- Water Repellent: Reduces drag and helps with water retention during long swims.
[Mizuno GX-Sonic V Multi-Racer] – Best for Breaststrokers, Medley Swimmers, and Mid-To-Distance Swimmers
Mizuno's GX-Sonic V Multi-Racer is designed to help swimmers maintain optimal body position in the water, even under fatigue. The suit features a cross-shaped internal tape cage and specially placed compression panels to keep blood flowing to the hips and legs when needed most.
Key Features:
- Internal Tape Cage: powers a stronger kick for longer, maintaining proper body position.
- Compression Panels: Keeps blood flow to critical areas during long swim segments.
- Open Back Only: Allows for full range of motion in the backstroke.
[TYR Venzo Genesis Technical Swimsuit] – Best for Breaststroke
TYR Venzo Genesis is a water-resistant racing suit that combines compression, durable exterior fabrics, and paneled construction for a comfortable yet breathable fit. The Venzo features the Endo Compression Cage, which assists with providing added support for swimmers.
Key Features:
- Endo Compression Cage: Provides added support for breaststroke swimmers.
- Comfortable and Easy to Put On: The vibrant colors and design make it a favorite among swimmers.
- Durable Exterior Fabrics: Ensures the suit can withstand the rigors of long swims.
[Speedo Vanquisher Racing Suit] – Best Budget-Friendly Racing Suit
Speedo's Vanquisher line is a budget-friendly option for competitive swimmers looking for a dual-layered fabric with a generous amount of water-repellent fabric. These suits provide excellent compression, making them a great choice for less important races or as an everyday swimsuit for young swimmers.
Key Features:
- Budget-Friendly: Perfect for younger swimmers and meets that don't require top-tier performance.
- Durable: Features a large amount of water-repellent Lycra Spandex fabric.
- Compliance: Meets FINA regulations for 12 and under swimmers.
[FINIS Fuse Racing Suit] – Best Entry-Level Racing Suit
FINISFuse is an entry-level racing suit that is easy to get on and provides an excellent quality at a reasonable price. The FINISFuse features bonded seams for reduced drag and silicone gripping at the leg holes to help prevent rips and tears.
Key Features:
- Easy On: Silicone gripping on leg holes makes it easier to get into the suit without tearing.
- Excellent Quality: Competitively priced and well-made for beginner-level swimmers.
Tech Suits – FAQs
How to_choose the Right Tech Suit
When choosing a tech suit, ensure it has the right balance of durability and speed for your preferences. Pay attention to the fabrics and how they are bonded, as well as the fit. For maximum compression in strokes events, look for a stiffer suit, while stroke and distance swimmers should aim for a balance between form and comfort.*
What Makes a Tech Suit a Tech Suit?
Premium racing suits, or tech suits, have bonded or taped seams that hold the fabric together. They also feature woven fabric and are generally classified as tech suits, regardless of the type of seam.*
Can I Use a Tech Suit for Backstroke?
Yes, Speedo's Fastskin LZR Pure Intent is a backstroke-specific edition designed with backstroke swimmers in mind.*
How to Make Your Tech Suit Last Longer？
To get the most of your tech suit, care for it properly by rinsing it with cool, unchlorinated water after each use and allowing it to dry naturally when not competing. Avoid using soaps and shampoos that can damage the suit, and always air dry the suit to prevent shrinking or degradation.*
Where Is the Best Place to Buy Tech Suits?
You can find a wide selection of tech suits online at SwimOutlet, which also supports swimmers with branded partnerships and offers a comprehensive collection ranging from budget-friendly to top-tier options.*
Remember, selecting the right tech suit is crucial for your swimming success. Look for the right balance of features that align with your specific needs and preferences, whether you're a professional athlete or a recreational swimmer. Happy swimming and good luck at your next event!
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Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Speedo Fastskin LZR Pure Valor
- Arena Powerskin Carbon CoreFX
- Mizuno GX-Sonic V ST
- Speedo Fastskin LZR Pure Intent
- Arena Powerskin Carbon Glide Tech Suit
- Mizuno GX-Sonic V Multi Racer
- TYR Venzo Genesis Technical Swimsuit
- Speedo Vanquisher Racing Suit
- FINIS Fuse Racing Suit
- Tech Suits – FAQs