need advice on proper swimsuit fit

[hungrygreenhippo]

I wasn't sure whether to post this on the general WISH board or here since this isn't specifically related to an event. I chose here because I know there are some triathletes in the group and hopefully some people who swim as cross training.

I'm going to be starting swimming lessons next week. It's been years since I bought a swimsuit and I'm not sure what type of fit I should be looking for. I went to Dick's Sporting Goods and tried on a few brands. Nike seems to fit the best overall, but I'm confused by the sizing. I'm petite and usually wear size 0 or XS. For the swimsuits, I seem to be in between size 30 and 32. The 30 is just a smidge tight, but it feels more like compression clothing rather than being too small. The 32 looks better and is more comfortable, but bunches ever so slightly in the front. I'm not sure why, but I can't shake the feeling that when I get in water the suit will have a looser fit than when trying it on "dry".

Is there any change in swimsuit fit between in and out of the pool? Any advice on whether I should size up or down? Thanks!

 

[jmasgat]

Not a definiteive answer, but things to consider......

At a non-elite level--and I think most, if not all of us are in that group!-- I think it probably deosn't matter which of the two you pick. Having it "skin tight" to reduce drag is not really going to be a factor.

I'll have to pay attention next time in the pool what my suit feels like wet vs dry.

One thing I have noticed though is that suits stretch out fairly easily over time. The material just reacts to the chlorine. (So rinse out after every use) It may be that the 30 will buy you a little more life before you have to get a new one. But only if it's comfortable and you feel you have freedom of movement.

Maura

 

[Bephus]

I agree with Maura. They do stretch over time also you will not need to worry about drag since you won't be competing at an elite level. If the 30 isn't uncomfortable it might be the best bet for longevity.

 

[JillPTFLA]

Swimsuits do get a bit looser when wet than dry so I would go for the smaller one if you are unsure.
Did you try any by TYR? I find that those are the most comfortable and best fitting for swim training (plus they last a really long time and look good!)
Jill

 

[Duanerice]

That is a myth, the suit does not get larger when wet. In actuality I get smaller. At least I like to think so

Seriously, buy the smaller size as it does get a bit bigger in the water and it will stretch over time.

Swimming can be a lot of fun. i now swim 3 times a week and USUALLY love it.

enjoy
Duane

 

[slp1650]

I can tell you from experience, if you want someone to tell you if a suit fits right, you'll need to find your local store that specializes in swim suits. I used to work at one and everyone in our store was happy to help size anyone who walked in.

An easy way to tell otherwise would be to see how loose or tight the straps are. If the straps are digging in or are too hard to get your fingers under, then the suit is probably too small (or perfect for a competition for a competitive swimmer). If the suits can go over your ears then it's probably too loose.

If worst comes to worst you get the one you assume fits the best. Then you swim and see if it works. If it does, great! If not, you can either keep using it or go and get one that'll be a better size, but at least then you'll know either to go up or down a size.

Suits do stretch. They can also get what is sometimes referred to as "cancer" which is just the material becoming see-through. Lycra suits will stretch sooner than Polyester suits, but Poly's also cost more. I liked Poly's because they seemed to last forever, but I was also swimming 6 days a week with doubles a lot of time and Poly's eventually saved me money.

Hope that helps some

 

[hungrygreenhippo]

Thank you all for the tips. After pondering all weekend, I've decided to go with the smaller size. It's not so small as to be uncomfortable; I can still move well in it. And hopefully going smaller will lengthen the amount of use I can get out of the suit. You'd think as a runner I'd be used to spending money on athletic gear by now.

Swimming can be a lot of fun. i now swim 3 times a week and USUALLY love it.

My class starts tomorrow and meets 3 times a week, so I hope I grow to love it. And if not, well, it only lasts 4 weeks and then I can switch back to running.

 

[Duanerice]

My class starts tomorrow and meets 3 times a week, so I hope I grow to love it. And if not, well, it only lasts 4 weeks and then I can switch back to running.

Wait a minute - you don't stop running just because you swim 3 days a week Keep those miles up!

good luck,
Duane