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How long do tech suits last? It’s a question we get all the time, and the answer may surprise you. Check out our blog post to learn more.
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Introduction
A tech suit is an essential piece of swimming equipment for any serious swimmer. But how long do they last?
Tech suits are made from a variety of different materials, including polyester, lycra, and spandex. They are designed to be snug-fitting and provide a swimmer with extra speed and efficiency in the water.
Tech suits can be quite expensive, so it’s important to know how long they will last and when it’s time to replace them. Here is a look at the lifespan of different tech suits and what factors can affect it.
Polyester tech suits usually last between 20 and 30 swims. This number can be affected by things like how often you swim, how well you take care of your suit, and the mercury content in the water you’re swimming in.
Lycra tech suits have a similar lifespan to polyester suits, lasting between 20 and 30 swims. However, they are more susceptible to chlorine damage than polyester suits, so it’s important to take extra care of them.
Spandex tech suits can last anywhere from 30 to 100 swims. The lifespan of a spandex suit depends on the quality of the material and how well you take care of it. Spandex is more resistant to chlorine damage than lycra, but it is more likely to lose its shape over time.
The lifespan of a tech suit also depends on how often you wear it. If you only wear your suit for competitions, it will last longer than if you wear it for practice sessions as well.
The different types of Tech Suits
There are two types of tech suits: swim suits made with polyurethane and those made with lycra. Polyurethane tech suits last about 20 swims, while lycra tech suits can last up to 100 swims. When you’re shopping for a tech suit, it’s important to keep in mind how often you’ll be wearing it and how long you want it to last.
Polyurethane (PU)
Polyurethane (PU) is the most common type of tech suit. It is made of a synthetic material that is strong and durable. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it a good choice for beginner and intermediate swimmers. PU suits can last for several seasons with proper care.
Polyester (PES)
Polyester is a synthetic fiber that’s derived from crude oil. In the textile industry, it’s known for being strong, durable, and wrinkle-resistant — which makes it ideal for swimsuits. It’s also quick-drying, which is important for swimmers who don’t want to sit in a wet suit after practice or a meet.
While polyester has a lot of great qualities, it also has some disadvantages. One downside is that it doesn’t breath as well as other fabrics like nylon or spandex. This can make long swim practices or meets uncomfortable as your body temperature rises and you start to sweat. Polyester also tends to retain body oils and chemicals more than other fabrics, so it needs to be washed more frequently.
Despite its disadvantages, polyester is still the most popular fabric for tech suits because it provides the most support and compression. It’s also less likely to sag or lose its shape over time than other fabrics.
Nano-Tech
Nano-Tech suits are made with a fabric that has been treated with lasers to create millions of tiny holes. These holes are so small that they offer no resistance to the water, making them extremely fast. However, because the fabric is so thin, it is also very fragile. These suits should be used only for races and should be replaced after approximately 20 swims.
The Different Brands of Tech Suits
Speedo, Arena, and TYR are all brands that make tech suits. Speedo LZR Racer X is a popular choice among competitive swimmers. It is made of polyurethane and nylon and lasts about 20-30 hours of use. Arena Powerskin ST 2.0 is made of polyamide and elastane. It has a lifespan of around 30-40 hours of use.
Arena
Arena is a popular brand of tech suits that is often used by professional and Olympic swimmers. These suits are made of a special material that is designed to help swimmers move through the water more quickly. Arena suits are also often brightly colored, which can help swimmers stand out in a crowded pool.
While Arena suits are generally of high quality, they can be quite expensive. Many suits in this brand range in price from $200 to $500 USD. Additionally, Arena suits often have a shorter lifespan than other brands of tech suits. This is due to the fact that the material in these suits is quite thin and can be easily damaged by chlorine and other pool chemicals.
Speedo
Speedo is a world-renowned brand when it comes to competitive swimwear. Part of the reason their suits are so popular is because they offer a wide variety of suits for different levels of swimmers. They have basic entry-level suits all the way up to FINA-approved suits that are worn by Olympians.
One thing to note about Speedo is that they are one of the only brands that offer sizes for both men and women. In addition, they also have a line of suits specifically designed for junior swimmers.
If you’re looking for a tech suit that is sure to give you an edge in your next competition, Speedo is definitely a brand you should consider.
TYR
Founded in 1985, TYR is a leading manufacturer of competitive and recreational swimwear, apparel and accessories. Based in Huntington Beach, California, TYR also manufactures a full line of triathlon gear including wetsuits, bicycles, wheels and more.
Best known for its durability and comfort, TYR products are designed with the athlete in mind and used by some of the world’s top competitors. The brand is also a favorite of recreational swimmers and triathletes thanks to its affordable prices and stylish designs.
TYR is one of the most popular brands of tech suits on the market today. These suits are designed to provide swimmers with an extra level of speed and performance in the pool. But how long do they actually last?
Most tech suits will last for about 20 to 30 swims before they start to lose their “compression” or become less effective. Of course, this will vary depending on the quality of the suit and how it is cared for. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and storing your tech suit to help prolong its life.
How Long Should a Tech Suit Last?
A tech suit is an important investment for any competitive swimmer. They can help you shave precious milliseconds off your time, but they’re not cheap. So, how long should a tech suit last?
PU
Polyurethane (PU) is a type of plastic that is highly versatile and used in a variety of applications. It is strong and durable, making it an ideal material for use in swimsuits. However, PU is also susceptible to degradation over time, particularly when exposed to sunlight and chlorine. As a result, tech suits made from PU will not last as long as those made from other materials such as polyester or nylon. The average lifespan of a tech suit made from PU is between 2 and 3 years.
PES
Polyethylene terephthalate, more commonly known as PES, is a semi-crystalline polyester used as a fabric in swimsuits, especially competition suits. It is part of a family of polymers that can be melt-processed into fibers, films, or shapes.
Nano-Tech
Nano-tech suits are made with a material that is 50% polyurethane and 50% polyamide. They are designed to last between 20 and 30 wears.
How to Care for Your Tech Suit
A tech suit can last a long time with proper care. Here are a few tips to help you care for your tech suit:
Washing
Handwash your tech suit in cool water with a mild, non-bleach soap. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, Woolite or other detergents that may damage the fabric. Gently rub the suit in a circular motion to work up a lather and rinse thoroughly. Do not wring or twist the fabric as this can break the fibers and damage the suit.
Drying
One of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your tech suit is to let it air dry. never put your tech suit in the dryer, as the heat will damage the material and cause it to degrade more quickly. hang your tech suit up by the straps or legs so that air can circulate properly, and try to avoid folding it too much so that creases don’t form.
Storing
To get the most out of your tech suit, you need to take care of it. That means storing it properly when you’re not wearing it. Here are some tips:
-Wash your tech suit after every use.
-Hang your tech suit to dry. Do not put it in the dryer.
-Store your tech suit in a cool, dry place.
-Do not fold your tech suit. Store it rolled up in a mesh bag or hung on a padded hanger.
Conclusion
Overall, tech suits can last anywhere from 3-8 years depending on the brand, quality, care, and usage. With proper care, a tech suit can last closer to the 8-year mark. Those who swim often or in chlorinated pools will see a decrease in the lifespan of their tech suit.
