In the world of competitive swimming, a high-quality tech suit can make all the difference. These specialized swimsuits are designed with advanced materials and technology to provide swimmers with a competitive edge. But what are the best tech suits of 2024? Check out my detailed breakdown below.
What is a tech suit? Tech suits offer features such as compression, reduced drag, and improved body positioning, enabling swimmers to achieve their best performance in the water. Reputable brands like Speedo, Arena, TYR, and Finis produce top-notch tech suits tailored to different swimming strokes and distances. From the Speedo Fastskin LZR Pure Valor to the Arena Carbon Air2, there are a variety of options available to suit swimmers’ specific needs and preferences.
Sneak Peek
- Arena Carbon Air 2 – My favorite overall tech suit.
- Speedo LZR Pure Intent – Best tech suit for sprinters.
- Mizuno GX Sonic V – A fantastic suit with both Sprinter and Multi-Racer options.
- TYR Venzo – A great option for breaststrokers.
- Finis Fuse – Entry-level, budget-friendly tech suit.
Factors to Consider When Choosing A Tech Suit
When it comes to selecting the right tech suit for your swimming needs, several factors come into play. Here are some of the essential considerations I kept in mind when reviewing my top tech suits:
Swimming Style and Event: Different tech suits are designed to optimize performance for specific swimming styles and events. Whether you specialize in sprinting, long-distance swimming, freestyle, backstroke, butterfly, or individual medley, it’s crucial to choose a tech suit that enhances your strengths and supports your stroke mechanics.
Compression Level: Tech suits offer varying levels of compression, which can influence muscle support, body alignment, and blood circulation. Some swimmers prefer a higher compression level for added muscle stabilization and reduced muscle vibration, while others opt for a moderate compression level for improved comfort and freedom of movement.
Fit and Comfort: A well-fitting tech suit is essential for optimal performance. Consider factors like size, body shape, and preferred fit (tight or slightly looser) when choosing a tech suit. It should provide a snug yet comfortable fit without restricting your range of motion or causing discomfort during extended periods of wear. Check out my article on tech suit fit.
Material and Construction: Pay attention to the materials used in the tech suit’s construction. High-quality fabrics such as nylon, spandex, and polyester blends offer excellent durability, stretch, and shape retention. Look for features like bonded seams, strategically placed panels, and reinforced areas to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity.
Cost and Budget: Tech suits can vary significantly in price, so it’s essential to establish a budget beforehand. While top-tier tech suits often come with a higher price tag, there are also more affordable options available that provide excellent performance and value. Consider your budget and prioritize the features that matter most to you.
Remember, choosing the right tech suit is a personal decision that depends on your individual preferences, swimming goals, and body characteristics. Consider these factors while reviewing my opinions below.
Let’s get into it!
Review of The Top 5 Tech Suits
1. Arena Carbon Air 2
My Take: The Arena Carbon Air2 is the lightest and most versatile on the market. It’s ideal for competitive swimmers of all levels who value comfort and flexibility and are looking for a lightweight, high-compression tech suit that enhances speed and performance in the water.
Arena Carbon Air 2
- Strokes and Events: All
- Fabric: 65% Polyamide, 34% Elastane, 1% Carbon Fiber
- Compression: High
- Panels: Smart design for a streamlined shape
- Drag Reduction: High
- Range of Motion: Excellent
- Styles: Open back, closed back, jammer
- Price Range: Around $350
The Arena Carbon Air2 is a tech suit that has consistently stood out to me. This suit is a game-changer, and I’m excited to share it as my top overall pick.
The Arena Carbon Air2 is a marvel of swimwear engineering. Its standout feature is the innovative carbon fiber construction. Carbon fiber is renowned for its strength and lightweight properties, and let me tell you, you can feel the difference. When you’re wearing the Carbon Air2, you get the compression you need without any added weight. It’s like a second skin that moves with you, not against you.
One of the things I love about this suit is its comfort. I’ve worn tech suits that feel like they’re squeezing the life out of me, but not the Carbon Air2. It’s snug, yes, but in a way that feels supportive rather than restrictive. I can’t tell you how much of a difference that makes during a long meet.
Another big plus is the water repellency. The Carbon Air2 does an excellent job of keeping water out, which helps to reduce drag and maintain speed in the water. It’s like having your own personal current pushing you forward.
Now, no suit is perfect, and the Carbon Air2 is no exception. Some swimmers might find the fit a bit tight, especially around the shoulders. But in my experience, this is something that can be mitigated with proper sizing. The fabric is also a bit on the thinner side, making it slightly see-through.
In conclusion, the Arena Carbon Air2 is a top-notch tech suit that delivers on its promises. It’s comfortable, efficient, and built to enhance performance. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an ambitious amateur, this is one suit that should definitely be on your radar.
2. Speedo LZR Pure Intent
My Take: The Speedo LZR Pure Intent is best suited for competitive sprinters seeking a high-performance tech suit that offers an exceptional range of motion, high compression, and drag reduction and who are willing to invest in a high-end product for improved performance.
Speedo LZR Pure Intent
- Strokes and Events: All strokes, 50, 100, and 200 events
- Fabric: 73% Nylon, 27% Lycra Spandex
- Compression: High
- Panels: Triple fabric construction with bonded seams
- Drag Reduction: High (due to textured fabric)
- Range of Motion: Exceptional
- Styles: Open back, closed back, jammer
- Price Range: $399 – $599
Another great tech suit, the Speedo LZR Pure Intent, is one that has truly impressed me. Let me share with you why this suit has earned a spot in my swim gear hall of fame.
The Speedo LZR Pure Intent is a tech suit that screams performance. It’s designed with three different fabrics strategically placed to optimize your speed, power, and flexibility in the water. The suit’s high compression zones are designed to support your muscles and reduce form drag, while the flexible zones give you the freedom of movement you need to execute powerful kicks and turns.
One of the standout features of the LZR Pure Intent is its textured fabric. This isn’t just for aesthetics – the texture helps to create microturbulence in the water, reducing drag and helping you to swim faster. It’s a small detail, but in a sport where fractions of a second can make all the difference, it’s a detail that matters.
In terms of fit, the LZR Pure Intent is one of the most comfortable tech suits I’ve worn. It’s snug without being restrictive, and the seams are bonded, which reduces friction and prevents chafing. I’ve worn this suit for long training sessions and competitive meets alike, and it’s always kept me comfortable.
Now, onto my personal opinion. I’m a big fan of the LZR Pure Intent. It’s a suit that delivers on its promises, offering a noticeable boost in performance without sacrificing comfort. I’ve swum some of my best times while wearing this suit, and I’m not the only one – I’ve heard similar feedback from many of the swimmers I coach.
That being said, the LZR Pure Intent is a high-end suit, and its price tag reflects that. It’s an investment, for sure. But in my opinion, it’s an investment that pays off, especially if you’re a competitive swimmer looking to shave off those crucial milliseconds.
In conclusion, the Speedo LZR Pure Intent is a top-tier tech suit that combines innovative design with practical performance benefits. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer looking for an edge or a fitness swimmer who values comfort and durability, this suit is worth considering.
3. Mizuno GX Sonic V
My Take: The Mizuno GX-Sonic V is best suited for competitive swimmers, with options for both sprinters and multi-racers who are seeking a high-performance tech suit that offers a perfect blend of compression, flexibility, and drag reduction.
Mizuno GX-Sonic V
- Strokes and Events: All, ST (sprinter) 50 and 100 events, MR (multi-racer) 200 events and up, as well as IM
- Fabric Composition: 65% nylon, 35% spandex
- Compression: High
- Panels: Sonic Line Design
- Drag Reduction: High
- Range of Motion: Exceptional
- Styles: Open back, Sprinter, and Multi Racer options
- Price Range: $400 – $530
The Mizuno GX-Sonic V has been a topic of many poolside conversations. Let’s dive into what makes this suit stand out and my personal take on it.
The Mizuno GX-Sonic V is a testament to the fusion of technology and design. Crafted with the swimmer’s needs in mind, it boasts the Sonic Line Design, aimed at supporting the swimmer’s kick and reducing muscle fatigue. This is complemented by the suit’s dual material construction, which offers both high compression and unrestricted movement.
The compression zones are exactly where you need them, and the flexibility it offers is unparalleled. This suit is available in two versions: Sprinter (ST) and Multi-Racer (MR), catering to your swimming needs.
It’s important to note that a few of my fellow swimmers mentioned they found the suit a tad challenging to put on, given its snug fit. But once it’s on, it’s like a second skin.
In a nutshell, the Mizuno GX-Sonic V is a powerhouse in the world of tech suits. It’s meticulously designed, performance-driven, and in my books, a game-changer for any competitive swimmer. If you’re on the hunt for a suit that understands your swimming needs, this might just be your perfect match.
4. TYR Venzo
My Take: The TYR Venzo is best suited for competitive swimmers seeking a high-performance tech suit that offers exceptional drag reduction, flexibility, and muscle support, making it ideal for both sprints and distance races. The flexibility makes it a great option for breaststrokers.
TYR Venzo
- Strokes and Events: All
- Fabric Composition: 70% Nylon, 30% Lycra Spandex
- Compression: High
- Panels: Strategic for optimal body position
- Drag Reduction: High
- Range of Motion: Exceptional
- Styles: Open back, closed back, jammer
- Price Range: $400 – $550
When it comes to tech suits, the TYR Venzo has certainly made a splash in the swimming community. Let’s dive into the details and my personal take on this suit.
The TYR Venzo is often hailed as a breakthrough in swimwear technology. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, it boasts features like frictionless fiber construction and surface lift technology. These aren’t just fancy terms; they translate to tangible benefits in the water. The frictionless fiber reduces drag, and the surface lift technology ensures the suit doesn’t become waterlogged, helping maintain a higher body position in the water.
The suit feels like wearing a second skin. It seamlessly adapts to your body, providing the right amount of compression without feeling restrictive. During my swim, I could genuinely feel the difference, especially during my turns and sprints. The exceptional range of motion makes it a great choice for breaststroke.
However, like all things, the Venzo isn’t without its quirks. Some of my fellow swimmers have mentioned that it takes a bit of time to get used to the unique feel of the suit. But in my opinion, the initial adjustment period is a small price to pay for the performance boost it offers.
In conclusion, the TYR Venzo is a testament to how far swimwear technology has come. It’s a blend of innovation and functionality, making it a top pick for swimmers aiming for their personal best. Whether you’re gearing up for a major competition or just looking to shave off a few seconds from your lap time, the Venzo is worth considering.
5. FINIS FUSE
My Take: The Finis Fuse Tech Suit is an entry-level tech suit best suited for swimmers seeking a balance of performance and affordability, making it an excellent choice for both budding competitors and seasoned racers on a budget.
FINIS FUSE
- Strokes and Events: All
- Fabric Composition: 71% Polyamide, 29% Elastane
- Compression: Moderate to high
- Panels: Streamlined design
- Drag Reduction: Hydro-reflective properties
- Range of Motion: Excellent
- Styles: Open back, jammer
- Price Range: $100 – $200
In the ever-evolving world of competitive swimming, the quest for the perfect tech suit never ends. And in this journey, the Finis Fuse Tech Suit has emerged as a noteworthy contender. Let’s dive deep into this suit and see what it brings to the table.
The Finis Fuse is designed with the intent of providing swimmers with a competitive edge without burning a hole in their pockets. Made from a woven fabric, it strikes a balance between compression and flexibility. The hydro-reflective properties of the suit are a boon, reducing drag and helping swimmers glide effortlessly through the water.
I remember the first time one of my trainees wore the Finis Fuse for a championship. They felt the difference, especially in the turns and dives. The suit, with its snug fit, felt like a natural extension of the body, offering support without any restriction.
However, every suit has its quirks. A few swimmers have mentioned that the Fuse takes a bit of time to dry post-swim. But given its performance in the water, this seems like a minor trade-off.
In a nutshell, the Finis Fuse Tech Suit is a blend of affordability and performance. It’s a great choice for swimmers who are looking for a tech suit that delivers without breaking the bank.
Finding the Perfect Fit
When it comes to selecting the top tech suit for your swimming needs, getting the right fit is crucial. A well-fitted tech suit can significantly impact your performance in the water, offering enhanced compression, reduced drag, and improved speed. Here are things to keep in mind:
- Compression: The suit should offer a snug and supportive fit without restricting movement.
- Seam Placement: Look for strategically placed seams that reduce drag and enhance hydrodynamics.
- Body Length: Ensure the suit fits smoothly without excessive bunching or sagging.
- Shoulder Fit: The shoulders should have a comfortable yet streamlined fit.
- Waistband: Check that the waistband provides a secure fit without digging in.
- Leg Length: The legs should sit at the right height without rolling up or down.
- Gasket Seals: Verify that the gasket seals around the legs and arms create a watertight fit.
- Flexibility: The suit should allow for a full range of motion without feeling restrictive.
- Water Entry: Ensure minimal water entry to maintain buoyancy and reduce drag.
- Comfort: Choose a suit that feels comfortable and doesn’t cause chafing or irritation.
For an in-depth guide on how to find the ideal fit for your tech suit, check out my article, Tech Suit Fitting 101: Achieving the Ideal Fit. Dive into the details of measuring, trying on, and fine-tuning your tech suit to achieve the ultimate performance boost.
Taking Care of Your Tech Suit
Proper care and maintenance of your tech suit can extend its lifespan and performance. Follow these guidelines to keep your tech suit in top condition:
- Rinse After Use: Rinse your tech suit with cool, clean water after each swim to remove chlorine and other chemicals.
- Hand Wash: Gently hand wash the suit with mild soap or detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
- Drying: Allow the tech suit to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Avoid Abrasion: Be cautious with Velcro straps, pool edges, and rough surfaces to prevent snags and tears.
- Storage: Store the suit flat or rolled, avoiding folding to maintain its shape.
- Rotate Suits: If you swim frequently, rotate between multiple tech suits to reduce wear and tear.
- Avoid Prolonged Soaking: Minimize extended exposure to chlorinated water to preserve elasticity.
For an in-depth understanding of tech suit care and maximizing its longevity, read my article, Tech Suits 101: Understanding Their Lifespan and Care.
Conclusion
Choosing the best tech suit is a vital step in elevating your swimming performance to new heights. We hope this guide has provided you with the necessary insights and knowledge to make a confident and well-informed selection.
Remember to consider your stroke, event, and personal preferences when choosing a tech suit. Prioritize the right fit, as it directly impacts your efficiency and comfort in the water. For the most versatile tech suit that would make a great fit for just about anyone, the Arena Carbon Air 2 is my top tech suit of choice.
Now, equipped with this wealth of information, it’s time to gear up, hit the water, and unleash your aquatic potential! Happy swimming!
