Arena X-Glide is a swimsuit from the Arena brand, made of pure polyurethane that causes a swimmer to slide through water faster when swimming. One notable example of the efficacy of this suit design is that of Paul Biedermann of Germany who wore the suit in the 2009 World Championships, breaking two world records.[1] The design of the suit covers basically the whole torso and the legs with the impermeable polyurethane, thereby exposing less skin to the water and improving the swimmer's buoyancy and streamlined shape. This significantly reduces the drag on the swimmer as they move through the water.[1][2]
- ^ a b Alan Boyle (July 29, 2009). "The science behind the swimsuit war". Archived from the original on July 31, 2009. Retrieved July 29, 2009.
- ^ Chris Chase (July 28, 2009). "Down goes Michael: Phelps beat in 200m free, first loss since '05". Yahoo. Retrieved July 29, 2009.