A Speedo tech suit is a significant investment for competitive swimmers, providing enhanced hydrodynamics, muscle compression, and improved performance in the water. However, these high-performance suits are made from delicate, advanced fabrics that require meticulous care to maintain their quality and effectiveness. Without proper maintenance, a tech suit can quickly lose its compression, stretch out, or become damaged, ultimately affecting your performance. To ensure your Speedo tech suit lasts as long as possible, follow these essential care tips and best practices.
Rinse Immediately After Every Use
Chlorine, salt, and body oils can quickly break down the delicate fibers of a Speedo tech suit. After every swim, it’s crucial to rinse the suit thoroughly in cold, fresh water. Avoid using hot water, as it can weaken the fabric and reduce the suit’s elasticity. If you’ve been swimming in a chlorinated pool, make sure to rinse the suit for at least a minute to remove as many chemicals as possible. Even if you only wore the suit for a short time, chlorine exposure can still degrade the fabric over time. By making rinsing a habit, you can significantly extend the life of your tech suit and keep it in top condition.
Hand Wash Gently—Never Use a Washing Machine
One of the biggest mistakes swimmers make is tossing their tech suit into a washing machine. The powerful agitation and spinning cycle can cause irreversible damage, breaking down the suit’s compression and stretching out the seams. Instead, always hand wash your tech suit using cold water and a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid regular laundry detergents, as they contain harsh chemicals that can degrade the fabric. Gently swish the suit around in the water for a minute or two, then rinse thoroughly to ensure no detergent residue is left behind. Taking the extra time to hand wash your suit properly will help preserve its structure and functionality.
Never Wring Out Your Suit—Pat It Dry Instead
After washing your Speedo tech suit, you might be tempted to wring out the excess water to speed up drying. However, wringing or twisting the fabric can cause the delicate fibers to break down, leading to loss of compression and elasticity. Instead, gently press the suit against a dry towel to remove excess moisture. Lay it flat and use another towel to pat it dry. While this process may take longer, it is much safer for the suit and helps maintain its original shape.
Dry Your Suit Properly—Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat
Once you have patted your tech suit dry, let it air dry completely before storing it. Always dry the suit in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can weaken the fabric and cause fading. Never use a hairdryer, dryer, or place the suit near a heater to speed up drying, as excessive heat can damage the fibers. Hanging the suit up to dry can also cause it to stretch out, so it’s best to lay it flat on a towel in a shaded area. Allowing your suit to dry naturally will help retain its compression and extend its lifespan.
Store Your Tech Suit Properly
How you store your Speedo tech suit when it’s not in use plays a crucial role in preserving its quality. Never leave your damp suit crumpled up in a bag, as this can lead to mildew and fabric deterioration. Once the suit is completely dry, store it in a breathable mesh bag or a dedicated storage pouch to prevent it from coming into contact with rough surfaces. Avoid folding it tightly, as this can create permanent creases in the fabric. Instead, lay it flat in a cool, dry place where it won’t be compressed by other items. Proper storage ensures that your tech suit remains in peak condition between races.
Avoid Wearing Your Tech Suit Outside of Competition
Tech suits are designed for competition use, not for daily swim practices. The more frequently you wear your suit, the faster it will lose its compression and effectiveness. If you want to get used to the feel of the suit before a race, consider wearing it during a few key practice sessions, but avoid using it for every training session. For regular practice, use a standard training suit and reserve your tech suit for meets and important time trials. This strategy will help extend the lifespan of your suit and ensure it performs optimally when it matters most.
Be Careful When Putting On and Taking Off Your Suit
Due to their tight fit, tech suits can be challenging to put on and remove. Rushing or pulling too hard on the fabric can result in tears, stretched seams, or permanent damage. To put on your suit correctly, start by ensuring your skin is completely dry. Slowly work the suit up your legs, gently adjusting it over your hips and torso without tugging forcefully. When taking off the suit, carefully peel it down rather than yanking it off quickly. If needed, ask a teammate for help to avoid excessive stretching. Taking your time to put on and remove your tech suit correctly will prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Keep Your Fingernails and Rough Surfaces Away from the Fabric
Tech suits are made of delicate materials that can easily be snagged or torn by sharp objects. When handling your suit, be mindful of your fingernails, jewelry, or any rough surfaces that could cause damage. If your suit gets caught on a rough pool edge or Velcro from another piece of swim gear, it could weaken the fabric and reduce its lifespan. Always handle your suit with care and avoid unnecessary contact with abrasive materials.
Know When to Retire Your Suit
Even with the best care, a tech suit won’t last forever. Over time, the fabric will naturally lose its compression, stretch out, or develop signs of wear such as thinning material or loosened seams. If you notice that your suit no longer provides the same level of support or feels loose during races, it may be time to replace it. While taking good care of your suit can extend its lifespan, it’s important to recognize when it has reached the end of its performance capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does a Speedo tech suit last?
The lifespan of a Speedo tech suit depends on how often it is used and how well it is cared for. If only worn for competitions and properly maintained, a tech suit can last for 8 to 12 races. However, frequent use and improper care can shorten its lifespan significantly.
2. Can I use regular detergent to wash my tech suit?
No, regular detergents contain harsh chemicals that can damage the delicate fibers of your tech suit. Use a mild detergent designed for delicate or athletic fabrics, or simply rinse the suit in cold water without soap.
3. Can I dry my tech suit in a dryer?
No, never put your tech suit in a dryer. The heat will weaken the fibers, causing loss of compression and reducing the suit’s effectiveness. Always air dry your suit in a cool, shaded area.
4. How do I know when my tech suit is worn out?
Signs of a worn-out tech suit include a looser fit, reduced compression, thinning fabric, and stretched seams. If your suit no longer provides the tight, supportive fit it once did, it’s time to replace it.
Conclusion
Caring for your Speedo tech suit properly is essential to maintaining its performance and longevity. By rinsing it after every use, hand washing gently, drying it properly, and storing it correctly, you can ensure that your suit remains in top condition for as long as possible. Avoid wearing your tech suit outside of competitions, be cautious when handling it, and recognize when it’s time for a replacement. With proper care, your Speedo tech suit will continue to provide the hydrodynamic advantages and compression needed to perform at your best in the pool. Taking a few extra steps in maintenance will help you get the most out of your investment and maximize your competitive edge.
