Back in the 60's the TV show 'Batman' was on. Both Robin and Batman wore tights. The networks were concerned about the overt display of the mens' privates. They devised a way to make the tights less revealing by additional inserts and undergarments. The idea of not displaying the males genitals is nothing new. At the end of the last century the speedo was not an uncommon sight by pools or beaches. However, when the gays came out of the closet they seemed to be wearing speedos. It was also the unofficial uniform of the Pride parades. Thus, outside of water ports, Speedos=Gay. As you will notice, most of the speedo wearers are guys that got used to them in the 80's or 90's - before the stigma arrived. Now, even a straight guy in speedos is either assumed gay, ribbed by their friends as being gay or about the size of their bulge or, the worst, get hit on by a gay. The last is a real cinched that he will never wear them again. His masculinity has been challenged. Straights almost all have a pair or two in their drawer, but worn under swim shorts. (occasionally on vacation or by a back yard pool)
It is a fact - a once comfortable and practical swim suit has been labeled Gay. It may change in future decades but as gays seem to like to flaunt themselves in speedos, it isn't likely. The guys that are intent on wearing white unlined speedos or bikini style suits - usually too small - have really sealed the fate of their reputation . Its sad that the few using their over exposed state to use as a way to get laid, or prancing in a parade to announce their gayness have ruined it for the guys that just want the freedom of a brief fitting suit. Whining about it won't change anything. Responsible actions in a speedo when in public is the only way to make them more acceptable.
|