It might seem that men have fewer variables than women to consider when selecting a training swimsuit (see Part 2), but the same basic criteria apply.
In terms of fit, the general considerations are the same for men and women: the fit should be snug but not tight, and the suit should be comfortable and stay in place while you are swimming. For men, this means that if you’re a diver or a lap swimmer who pushes off walls, you’ll want a swimsuit with a drawstring waist.
Whether you swim for fitness or competitively, performance is an issue as well: you want a suit that reduces drag, provides the necessary support and coverage, and allows freedom of movement in the water. Unlike at the beach, where many men opt for board shorts or Bermuda-style swim shorts, baggy doesn’t work at the pool. (In fact, loose-fitting shorts are not even allowed in many pools, especially in France.)
Most good-quality training swimwear of any style will meet the technical requirements for performance, allowing you to focus on improving your technique and endurance without having to think about your suit. (Fabric composition is a separate consideration, though; see Part 1.) So the choice of style often comes down to personal preference, in terms of both what you find most…
