Evolution of suits over the years

[PSDave]

When the 100% nylon suits were worn for competitive swimming there was a different suit made for diving. It was made out of something similar to spandex and was very high over the waist. (usually about 8" sides) It fit very tight and didn't offer water resistance when entering the water. The nylon suits fit much lower and briefer. Though worn tight, the nylon and lower fit offered more chance of a Wardrobe Malfunction when entering the water on a dive. When the nylon/lycra blend was perfected more the suits became interchangeable.

[Byron]

I did not know that but it raises a puzzle I have never resolved, ie when the (banned) full-leg suits were around why were they always cut so low
across the hips ?

[Brent]

Examples of the Aquablade fit.

[Byron]

OK - I recognise the Aquablade brief but what I call the leg suits were waist to ankle but cut so low as to barely cover the pubes.
My thought was always that at that part of the anatomy there would not be the closest of fits and so allow undesirable water drag (an important factor if races are won by a hundredth of a second these days).

Btw was it at Oasis ? (the pics you posted three months ago)

[Byron]

Example: http://www.flickr.com/photos/2616538...n/photostream/

[Lap Counter]

(referencing Byron's picture)

So, somehow chest hair drag went away when swimmers wore suits that covered the legs?