Thanks. That makes sense. I suppose the manufacturers will basically make things that the customers preferred.
But on the other hand, I thought that manufacturers will want suits to not last as long, so that we buy more!
But the Agonswim poly/lycra suit that wore was good -- it fit well.
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For background:
I did a web search and found this science fair comparison (thanks to fabrics from Tyr), but can't tell if this compared suits that had Lycra, or was 100% Nylon or Poly.
http://www.usc.edu/CSSF/History/2006/Projects/J1107.pdf
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By the way, here's what their web site says. I was slightly wrong -- they said that 100% poly suits were often called "Nylon" in the past. But maybe the info on hydrophobic polyester applies to Poly/Lycra suits too.
http://www.agonswim.com/fabricsnew.cfm
Knit Polyester:
100% knit polyester is soft to the touch and quick drying. It is similar to the “nylon” swimsuits manufactured back in the 60s and 70s. It is very durable and does not degrade in chlorine.
and
Polyester versus Nylon:
Polyester is hydrophobic, meaning it does not absorb water. This means that when it is dyed, only the color of the dye dissolves into the fabric (not any water-base), making the dye permanent. Nylon® possesses hydrophilic qualities (that is, it absorbs water). Its inability to repel water causes the fabric to swell and ultimately weakens the molecular structure. The dyestuffs used on nylon® tend to oxidize, a reaction which is catalyzed by light. The microscopic effects range from color fading to complete degradation of the polymer matrix. This is why the colors fade in nylon-lycra® swimsuits over time, but do not fade in polyester-lycra® swimsuits (Man-Made Fiber Yearbook, August 2000).
from
http://www.agonswim.com/fabrics/fabr...ationGuide.cfm