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Speedo’s LZR Racer Swimsuit is already invoked controversy, with critics believing that the swimsuit is, “Too slippery when wet.” In fact, officials at the International Swimming Federation (FINA) have already contemplated banning the suit.
However, FINA made the decision to allow the LZR Racer under the condition that other swimsuit makers were allowed to copy the design without risk or challenge of infringing Speedo patents.
With the Beijing Olympics just around the corner, it should come as no surprise that rival manufactures are responding with copycat swimsuits. One company, Arena International, has launched their ‘very similar’ swimsuit. Gizmodo is calling it a ‘swimsuit arms race’.
How much does the suit really make a difference? Put it this way: since the LZR Racer was launched, 33 world records have fallen. The Australian notes that swimmers are calling the suit, “Doping on a hanger.”
The cost: $800.
Known as "doping on a hangar" and the "Speedo surfboard," the LZR has hugged the bodies of 30 record-breaking swimmers since its introduction in February. Rivals complained about fairness, and the International Swimming Federation (aka FINA) scheduled a meeting with Speedo to discuss the seamless, ultrasonically bonded suit. The meeting went swimmingly, for Speedo. Not only did FINA dismiss rivals' claims, they also turned around and endorsed the suit for future pro swimming events.
(gizmodo)
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