A few years ago, I had a job shooting underwater video. My work clothes included a large collection of Speedos - all nylon. They took a licking and kept on ticking. I really regret that durable nylon suits seem to have gone the way of the Dodo Bird. Lycra suits last a mere fraction of the time a nylon Speedo would. Dive gear uses lots of Velcro as a standard attachment tool. If you've ever stuck a Lycra Speedo to Velcro, you know what I'm talking about when I call it 'instant destruction'. I also liked the way nylon suits looked better.
But alas, all my suits now are Lycra, mostly Tyr. At least Lycra briefs are making a comeback among swim teamers, leading to increased availability at the local swim store.
I maintain a collection of 10 - 15 Speedos for my normal lap swimming regimen and annual trip to Hawaii. I try to always have
-a suit or two ready to go but never worn,
-a couple of good looking tight suits with good Lycra stretch,
-a couple old favorites that have seen better days but are still good enough for laps, and may even be left in the bottom of a swim bag "just in case".
-a hot tub sacrificial suit.
The Hawaii trip is obviously the time I don't want to be wearing a rag that's worn out from too many laps, but I also know a week of sun, sand, & salt will age the suit and cost a lot of Lycra stretch. That's far faster than the 1 -2 months I can get out a suit strictly worn to the pool.
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