# Best racing swimsuits [Our recommendations in 2026]
Source: https://swimsorted.ie/test-of-competition-swimsuits/
Published: 2026-09-28
Modified: 2026-09-28
## Excerpt
To outsiders, you might not think so. But when it comes to swimsuits, there are both training suits and dedicated competition swimsuits. But why is that, what's the difference, and what are the actual benefits? I'll cover that and more in this guide, where I'll also present the race suits we recommend as the best...
## Content
To outsiders, you might not think so. But when it comes to swimsuits, there are both training suits and dedicated competition swimsuits. 

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/arena-powerskin-carbon-core-fx-large-internal-coverage-4-23-1024x565-1.jpg)

But why is that, what’s the difference, and what are the actual benefits? 

I’ll cover that and more in this guide, where I’ll also present the race suits we recommend as the best – and where you can buy your new suit.

**Specifically, in this guide I’ll cover:**

- What makes a competition suit unique compared to a standard one
- What makes competition suits so fast
- What you need to consider before buying a new suit
- Which swimsuits I recommend as being the best
- What the difference is between the most popular Arena suits
- How to find the right size
- How to maintain and care for your new suit
- Questions I often get asked about suits, along with my answers
- Where you can buy your new competition swimsuit

## What makes a competition swimsuit unique compared to a standard one?

Let’s start with the first point: what makes a competition swimsuit unique compared to a standard one. 

Even though swimsuits are primarily made so we’re not naked in the pool, there are several major benefits to competition suits. And we’re talking about significant advantages that can easily mean the difference between winning or finishing fourth!

### Material / fabric

The biggest and most significant difference is the material they’re made from. While standard swimsuits are designed for maximum comfort and durability, competition suits are made purely to achieve the highest possible speed. 

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/arena-powerskin-carbon-glide-carbon-extreme-cage-2-20-1024x565-1.jpg)

Standard training suits are made from nylon and polyester. This means they keep their shape very well and are chlorine-resistant. The latter also helps them retain their colours for a really long time. 

On the other hand, competition suits are made from more high-tech polyamide and elastane. This makes them super water-repellent and stretchy, allowing them to expand and fit extremely tight to your body.

The tighter the suit fits your body, the less drag you’ll experience in the water. The same applies to water repellency, as the suit repels water rather than absorbing it and weighing you down. 

### Fit

A competition swimsuit needs to fit tightly. Really tightly. On the other hand, it’s not strictly necessary for a training swimsuit to fit quite as tight. 

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/arena-powerskin-carbon-core-fx-carbon-cage-1-1024x565-1.jpg)

A standard training swimsuit should be easy and straightforward to put on. A competition swimsuit, however, should be so tight that the first time you put it on, it takes 15 to 20 minutes to get into. 

That’s why you’ll typically need to choose a racing suit that’s four sizes smaller than your regular training suit. So if you wear a size 30 in standard sizing, you’ll generally need a size 26 for competitions.

### FINA approved

If you want to swim in competitions in your swimsuit, it must be approved by FINA (Fédération Internationale de Natation, the international swimming federation). Racing suits are approved, whereas most training swimsuits are not. 

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/FINA-approved-logo-1024x342-1.jpg)

Granted, some training swimsuits are FINA-approved. But generally speaking, that’s not the case, so if you’re competing in official FINA events (which all Irish competitions are), you’ll need a racing suit. 

### Psychological effect

Besides the obvious practical benefits of a competition swimsuit, there’s also a real psychological edge to wearing one. And the mental game definitely shouldn’t be underestimated!

When you’re wearing a racing suit, you know you’ve got the best of the best on. You know you’re at least on an equal footing with your rivals when it comes to your swimwear. 

If you’re standing on the starting block in a standard swimsuit while your competitors are wearing racing suits, your brain will naturally start doubting your chances. That’s the last thing you want when you need to be 100% confident in your own abilities.

You’ll automatically feel faster in a competition suit. And if you feel faster, you swim faster. Even if it sounds simple.

There’s simply nothing worse than preparing down to the finest detail, only for your gear to hold you back. Once your kit is sorted, that alone gives you a massive psychological edge!

## What makes racing suits so fast?

I’ve already touched a bit on what makes racing suits so fast. But now I’ll go through the three most important factors that make these suits so much faster.

### They are water-repellent

You know it just as well as I do; when you take off your training suit after a session in the pool, it’s heavy from all the water it’s absorbed. And that’s not ideal when you want to swim fast. 

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/arena-powerskin-carbon-air-2-one-piece-construction.jpg)

The lighter your suit is, the faster you can swim in it. And the less water it absorbs, the less water resistance it creates. 

### They provide compression

There are two benefits to compression. First and foremost, it increases blood flow in your muscles, which has the advantage of helping clear lactic acid from your muscles faster. This means it either takes longer before you get tired, or you can work harder before lactic acid builds up. 

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/arena-powerskin-carbon-core-fx-front-chest-aperture-3-22-1024x565-1.jpg)

Secondly, the compression also holds your body tighter together. This makes you more hydrodynamic, so you experience less water resistance. If you have a tiny roll, for instance, the compression will press it in so it doesn’t create drag in the water. 

In short, compression gives you a slimmer profile in the water.

### They have no seams

You might not think it matters that much. But in the hunt for milliseconds, it makes a big difference whether your suit has seams or not. And in a racing suit, there are no seams. 

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/arena-powerskin-carbon-glide-carbon-extreme-cage-2-20-1024x565-1.jpg)

When it comes to water resistance, it’s important that water can flow over the suit as smoothly as possible. If the water hits a seam, turbulence is created, which leads to increased water resistance. 

So by removing the seams and instead bonding the suit using seamless methods (such as heat bonding the materials together), water resistance is significantly reduced. 

At the end of the day, it’s all about making the suit act like an extra layer of skin rather than a piece of clothing.

## How much faster is a racing swimsuit compared to a regular swimsuit?

With the points mentioned above, there’s no doubt that a racing swimsuit is faster. But just how much faster is a competition suit really?

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/arena-powerskin-carbon-core-fx-large-internal-coverage-4-23-1024x565-1.jpg)

I’ll give you a pretty clear answer to that right now. 

Dutch researchers have actually tested racing suits and found they reduce water resistance by 16.6% compared to a standard training swimsuit when the swimmer glides in a streamline position. And there’s a 5.2% reduction in water resistance when it comes to swimming on the surface. 

That’s quite significant! It gives you a longer glide phase, meaning you travel further with each stroke, which leads to better swimming economy.

So in short: a racing swimsuit lets you swim faster, just with less effort!

## What to consider when choosing the right race suit for you

I hope you now have a much better idea of what a competition suit is and what makes them so fast. You might be considering getting one yourself so you can swim faster at your galas. 

But before you buy a suit, there are a few things you should consider. That’s what I’ll go through now. 

### Price point vs. your swimming level

This point is perhaps the most important one. Racing suits can easily get expensive, so you should decide how much money you want to invest in your own speed. 

As a rule of thumb, I’d say the faster you are, the more benefit you’ll get from a racing suit. Especially when it comes to the small margins, like those gained when the suit has bonded seams instead of stitched ones. 

However, all the advantages of a racing suit will benefit everyone to some extent. 

Still, let me share a few suggestions based on how many training sessions you do each week.

#### 2–3 training sessions a week

If you’re brand new to competitive swimming and train up to 2-3 times a week, a beginner-level suit will be plenty. And here, nothing beats the Arena ST 2.0 in either the junior or adult model, depending on your age. 

**Arena ST 2.0**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/22UK_13661.01-C-04-03-04-02_1-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena ST 2.0 here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits&pid=8289)

You’ll want the [junior model](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-girls-st-next-dark-red&pid=8289) if you’re up to 13 years old. And the [adult model](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-st-next-dark-blue&pid=8289) if you’re 14 or older. 

Prices for this suit are around €115 for the junior version and €135 for the adult version. So we’re at the budget-friendly end of the price range for racing suits, even though it performs really well.

#### 3–5 training sessions a week

If you train 3–5 times a week and want a better suit than the entry-level options, I’d recommend going for a suit like: 

**Arena Carbon Air 2**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/22UK_4392.01-H-32-03-01-04_1-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Air 2 here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits&pid=8289)

This suit costs around €335, so it’s a fair bit more expensive than the Arena ST 2.0. In return, it’s significantly more advanced, featuring horizontal carbon fibre bands that help stabilise your core, among other benefits. 

#### More than 5 training sessions a week

If you train more than five times a week, you’re definitely among the more serious swimmers. That calls for a serious race suit too. You really can’t look past the [Arena Carbon Flex](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-black-gold-limited-2024&pid=8289) or [Arena Carbon Core FX](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-racing-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-turquoise-red&pid=8289). 

**Arena Carbon Flex**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/26UK_2766.01-G-15-04-02_1-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Flex here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits&pid=8289)

**Arena Carbon Core FX**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/22UK_2783.01-B-17-02-04-02_1-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Core FX here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-racing-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-turquoise-red&pid=8289)

The main difference between the two suits is simply that the Core FX is a newer version of the Carbon Flex. The features are the same, but there’s a slight difference in design. The Carbon Flex can also often be found a bit cheaper since it’s an older model. 

The carbon fibres in the suit help provide targeted support around your legs, making it easier to keep them at the surface of the water. On top of that, both of these suits offer exceptional buoyancy.

Both suits normally retail for around €430. That’s at the higher end for racing suits, but in return, you’re getting absolute top-tier quality. 

### Design

The features your new suit needs are one thing, but you naturally also have to think it looks great. The suit can help make you plenty fast, but if you don’t feel like you look fast in it, you’ll miss out on that psychological edge. 

Some suits only come in a single design, while others offer several styles to choose from. So take a look through all the models and find the design you like best. 

### Preferred swimming stroke and/or distance

Let me start by making it clear that this section isn’t necessarily for everyone. It’s mainly relevant for top-level elite swimmers who need that final 0.2% on their side. 

Some race suits are more specialised for specific strokes than others. For example, if you specialise in the 100-metre breaststroke, you’ll get the absolute best out of a suit designed specifically for that stroke and distance. 

Below, I’ve rounded up which suits are specialised for specific strokes and distances. But keep in mind that all suits can be used for all types of swimming. Some suits just provide a very, very small advantage in certain strokes.

#### All strokes and distances

If you swim a mix of all strokes and distances, the racing swimsuits below are great choices:

- [Arena ST 2.0](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DArena%2BSt.%2B2.0&pid=8289) for girls and women
- [Speedo LZR Pure Intent](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits&pid=8289)
- TYR Avictor
- TYR Venzo

#### Medley and 400, 800 and 1,500-metre freestyle

If your focus is medley or the 400, 800 and 1,500-metre freestyle (or both), the suit below gives you those extra marginal gains. It does so because it’s more flexible and offers slightly less compression, as there isn’t as large an amount of lactic acid needing to clear from the muscles. 

**Arena Carbon Air 2**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/22UK_4392.01-H-32-03-01-04_1-1-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Air 2 here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits&pid=8289)

If you’re a beginner or an intermediate competitive swimmer, the Arena Carbon Air 2 will also perform really well across other strokes and distances.

#### 50 and 100 metres breaststroke and butterfly, as well as 200 metres freestyle and backstroke

If you specialise in 50 and 100 metres breaststroke or butterfly, or 200 metres freestyle and backstroke, the suit below gives you those crucial final competitive edges. It combines a great balance of flexibility and compression, which is beneficial for managing the amount of lactate your body produces in these strokes. 

**Arena Carbon Flex**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/26UK_2766.01-G-15-04-02_1-1-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Flex here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits&pid=8289)

**Arena Carbon Core FX**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/22UK_2783.01-B-17-02-04-02_1-2-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Core FX here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-black-gold-limited-2024&pid=8289)

#### 50 and 100 metres freestyle and backstroke

50 and 100 metres freestyle and backstroke cause your muscles to produce huge amounts of lactate. That’s why it’s important that your suit delivers maximum compression, keeping muscle fatigue and lactic acid at bay. 

Flexibility, on the other hand, isn’t as crucial here. That makes the suits below the best choice for 50 and 100 metres freestyle and backstroke:

**Arena Carbon Ultra**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/5_3_1ebe70c7-5c1a-48d1-a750-782f2213b5d0-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Ultra here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits%3Ffilter.p.vendor%3DArena&pid=8289)

**Arena Carbon Glide**

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/22UK_7174.01-B-29-02-01-01_1-1-859x1024-1.jpg)

[Buy Arena Carbon Glide here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-dark-blue&pid=8289)

## These racing suits are the best

We’ve now reached the point where it’s time to get into which racing suits are the best. And let me tell you right away; they are all very evenly matched. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that the qualities of the different suits depend on the swimmer wearing them. 

Below, I’ve put together a small comparison chart showing the pros, cons, and considerations for the various suits. All the points are things I’ve gathered by listening to my female swimming teammates at the pool, who have used the suits across different strokes and distances. 

This chart isn’t a definitive checklist, but I hope it gives you a great overview of which suits are the best for the strokes and distances you specialise in.

|  | **Arena St. 2.0** Entry-level model | **Watery Rapidskin** Entry-level model | **Arena Carbon Air 2 ** Mid-to-top model | **Arena Carbon Flex ** Discontinued model | **Arena Carbon Core FX ** Top-of-the-range model | **Arena Carbon Glide ** Top-of-the-range model | **Speedo LZR Pure Intent ** Top-of-the-range model |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Approx. price | €127 | €97 | €335 | €389 | €449 | €495 | €509 |
| Features | Like a regular training swimsuit, just water-repellent | Like a regular training swimsuit, just water-repellent | Maximum comfort, less compression | High compression and high comfort | High compression and high comfort | Maximum compression, less comfort |  |
| Strokes and distances | All strokes | All strokes | 400, 800, and 1500 metres freestyle, as well as 400 metres individual medley | 50 and 100 metres breaststroke and butterfly, as well as 200 metres freestyle and backstroke | 50 and 100 metres breaststroke and butterfly, as well as 200 metres freestyle and backstroke | 50 and 100 metres freestyle and backstroke | All strokes |
| For beginners | Choose this no matter what | Choose this no matter what |  |  |  |  |  |
| 2–3 training sessions a week | Choose this if price is important | Choose this if price is important | Choose this if price doesn’t matter |  |  |  |  |
| 3–5 training sessions a week |  |  | Choose this if price is important | Choose this if price doesn’t matter | Choose this if price doesn’t matter |  | If you prefer Speedo, go for this one |
| 5–10 training sessions a week |  |  |  | Choose this if price doesn’t matter | Choose this if price doesn’t matter | Choose this if you’re a sprinter | If you prefer Speedo, go for this one |
|  | [**Buy it here**](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-st-next-dark-blue&pid=8289) | **[Buy it here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits%3Ffilter.p.vendor%3DWatery&pid=8289)** | [**Buy it here**](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-air-2-light-blue&pid=8289) | [**Buy it here**](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits%3Ffilter.p.vendor%3DArena&pid=8289) | [**Buy it here**](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-black-gold-limited-2024&pid=8289) | [**Buy it here**](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-dark-blue&pid=8289) | [**Buy it here**](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Fspeedo-racing-swimsuit-for-women-lzr-pure-intent-20-light-blue-multi&pid=8289) |

## The difference between Arena St. 2.0, Air 2, Core FX and Glide

As you might have already noticed, a clear pattern emerges that the best racing swimwear is from Arena. And I definitely believe that’s the case. But what exactly is the difference between the various Arena suits?

I’ll explain that for you below.

### Arena ST NEXT

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/6_2_e445beac-3695-48f8-879f-30e7c5854876.jpg)

Arena competition swimsuit - ST NEXT

### Arena competition swimsuit for women - ST NEXT

Lowest price found: €117

[Buy with price match here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-st-next-dark-blue&pid=8289)

- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)

5/5

Based on 43 reviews

[Arena ST NEXT](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-st-next-dark-blue&pid=8289) is designed for both training and competition. It has an open back and is made from a blend of materials that delivers sensible hydrodynamics and compression in key areas. 

This boosts your speed and offers muscle support right where you need it. 

The open back gives you a great sense of freedom, while a built-in band supports your core muscles. 

**Pros and cons of the Arena ST NEXT:**

Open back gives great freedom of movement

Suitable for both training and competitions

Surface material is designed for improved hydrodynamics

Targeted compression panels provide muscle support

FINA/World Aquatics approved

Very budget-friendly

Features seams that, although low-profile, create slightly more drag

### Arena Carbon Air 2

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/22UK_2764.01-G-19-03-03-01_1.jpg)

Maximum comfort and less compression

### Arena Carbon Air 2 Open Back 2020

Lowest price found: €281

[Buy with price match here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-air-2-light-blue&pid=8289)

- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-grey.svg)

4/5

Based on 10 reviews

The Arena Carbon Air 2 features integrated horizontal carbon fibre bands that provide targeted support, especially around your core. At the same time, it supports the body in areas that tend to become overstretched. 

The suit itself is made from a single piece of fabric, stitched together only where it won’t affect water resistance. Because it’s crafted in one piece, it fits just like a second skin. This means it absorbs less water, ultimately reducing drag and helping you glide further and more easily with every stroke. 

Inside the suit, there are three separate panels specifically placed to enhance your freedom of movement. For instance, there’s less compression across the chest so you can breathe more easily, while keeping firm compression around the most critical muscles. 

**Pros and cons of the Arena Carbon Air 2:**

One-piece construction fits like a second skin to minimise drag

Horizontal carbon bands provide core muscle support

Optimised glide properties help you glide further and easier with every stroke

No compression across the chest makes breathing easier

Delivers excellent compression around key swimming muscles

Stitched construction means slightly less comfort, even though seams are placed away from high-drag areas

Price is close to top-tier models without providing the ultimate marginal gains of a flagship suit

### Arena Carbon Core FX

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/28UK_5369.01-B-14-02-01-03_1.jpg)

Maximum comfort and high compression (latest top model)

### Arena Carbon Core FX Suit Limited 2020

Cheapest price found: €353

[Buy with price match here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Farena-competition-swimsuit-for-women-carbon-core-fx-black-gold-limited-2024&pid=8289)

- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-grey.svg)

4/5

Based on 21 reviews

The Arena Carbon Core FX gives you all the support and compression you could possibly need. It’s equipped with both horizontal and vertical carbon fibre bands that deliver exceptional support and compression to your core and hard-working muscles. 

It also features built-in taping that runs from the upper glutes down the hamstrings. These bands help keep your legs high in the water, even when you start to tire. 

The entire suit is constructed in a single piece with integrated carbon fibre bands. This ensures an ultra-tight fit to minimise drag as much as possible. And because the bands are placed strategically, they give support where you need it while keeping your shoulders and chest completely unrestricted. 

The suit is seamless, so it truly feels like a second skin once you’ve put it on.

**Pros and cons of the Arena Carbon Core FX:**

One-piece construction fits like a second skin to minimise drag

Horizontal and vertical carbon cage delivers comprehensive compression and support throughout

Taping running from the glutes down the hamstrings helps keep your legs high in the water – even when fatigue sets in

Feels like a second skin for maximum comfort and minimal water resistance

Seamless design eliminates friction and drag for ultimate comfort

Priced alongside top-end models, but you get a premium suit where every single detail has been perfected

### Watery Rapidskin

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WomenRapidskin2.0OpenBack-DarkBlue_2.jpg)

Watery women's competition swimsuit - Rapidskin 2.0

### Watery women's competition swimsuit - Rapidskin 2.0

Cheapest price found: €73

[Buy with price match here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Fwatery-competition-swimsuit-for-women-rapidskin-2-0-dark-blue&pid=8289)

- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)

5/5

Based on 31 reviews

[Watery Rapidskin 2.0](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fproducts%2Fwatery-competition-swimsuit-for-women-rapidskin-2-0-dark-blue&pid=8289) is designed for both training and competition. It has an open back and is made from a material combination that provides sensible hydrodynamics and compression in the most critical areas. 

This boosts your speed and offers muscle support right where you need it. 

The open back gives you a great sense of freedom, while a built-in band supports your core muscles. 

**Pros and cons of Watery Rapidskin 2.0:**

Open back gives great freedom of movement

Suitable for both training and competitions

Surface material is designed for improved hydrodynamics

Targeted compression panels provide muscle support

Very budget-friendly

Features seams that, although low-profile, create slightly more drag

### Arena Carbon Glide

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Arena_Carbon_Flex_dragt_-_Sort_lyserod-_Watery_1_800x.jpg)

Maximum comfort and high compression (older model)

### Arena Carbon Flex suit

Lowest price found: €3,199

[Buy with price match here](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits%3Ffilter.p.vendor%3DArena&pid=8289)

- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-full.svg)
- ![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/themes/vandklar/assets/img/star-half.svg)

4.5/5

Based on 17 reviews

Arena Carbon Glide is the ultimate competition swimsuit, featuring all the latest technologies. Just like its older little brother, Arena Carbon Core, it has both vertical and horizontal carbon fibre bands that give support and compression to your core and other muscles. 

It’s also crafted from a special material that Arena calls Hydroglide Fabric. This creates the absolute lowest amount of water resistance possible with today’s technology. Combined with a truly snug fit, it reduces drag even further.

In short, it lets you glide further and more easily than other suits on the market.

The suit also features muscle-activating carbon fibre bands that engage your muscles before you even dive into the pool.

**Pros and cons of Arena Carbon Glide:**

One-piece construction fits like a second skin to minimise drag

Crafted from Arena's Hydroglide fabric for the lowest possible drag modern technology can offer

Horizontal and vertical carbon cage delivers comprehensive compression and support throughout

Built-in muscle-activating carbon bands prime your muscles before you even dive into the pool

Feels like a second skin for maximum comfort and minimal water resistance

Seamless design eliminates friction and drag for ultimate comfort

Among the most expensive competition suits on the market, but delivers the absolute pinnacle of swimwear technology

## Size – find the correct size

I touched on this earlier in the guide, but when it comes to sizing, it’s vital that you find the exact right fit to get the absolute most out of your suit.

As a rule of thumb, you should go down four full sizes from your normal training suit when choosing a racing suit. So if you wear a size 30 in your normal suit, you should generally go down to a size 26 in a competition swimsuit.

Going down four sizes is only a guideline, though. The best approach is always to choose a suit based on your own body measurements. 

If you buy your new competition suit from the swim shop [Watery.ie](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2F&pid=8289), they’ve thankfully made it easy to compare sizes on each product page. They show photos of different swimmers in various sizes, making it as simple as possible for you to compare. 

### Sizing: Arena vs. Speedo vs. TYR

If you already have a kneeskin and want to buy a new one, but aren’t sure how sizing compares between the different brands, I’ve created a handy guide below comparing sizes across Arena, Speedo, and TYR. 

| Arena ST 2.0 Junior | 8–9 years | 10–11 years | 12–13 years |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Arena ST 2.0 Women’s |  | 22 UK | 24 UK | 26 UK | 28 UK | 30 UK |  |
| Watery Rapidskin Junior |  | 10–11 years / 140 cm | 12–13 years / 152 cm |  |  |  |  |
| Watery Rapidskin Women’s |  | 22 UK | 24 UK | 26 UK | 28 UK | 30 UK | 32 UK |
| Arena Carbon Air 2 |  | 22 UK | 24 UK | 26 UK | 28 UK | 30 UK | 32 UK |
| Arena Carbon Flex / Core FX |  | 22 UK | 24 UK | 26 UK | 28 UK | 30 UK | 32 UK |
| Arena Carbon Ultra / Glide |  | 24 UK | 26 UK | 28 UK | 30 UK | 32 UK |  |
| Speedo LZR Pure Intent |  |  | 23 UK | 24 or 25 UK (usually 25) | 26 UK | 27 UK |  |
| TYR Venzo |  | 23 UK | 24 UK | 25 or 26 UK | 27 or 28 UK | 29 or 30 UK |  |
| TYR Avictor |  | 23 UK | 24 UK | 25 or 26 UK | 27 or 28 UK | 29 or 30 UK |  |

### Moving from girls’ to women’s sizing in Arena ST 2.0 – which size?

If you currently wear an Arena ST 2.0 in the girls’ version and want to move up to a larger size in the same model, you’ll need to go for a size 24 UK. Just like shown in the chart above. 

Over time, I’ve seen quite a few girls at swim clubs accidentally buy a size 22 UK when stepping up to an adult model. But a 22 UK is actually smaller than the 12–13 years size, which means swimmers end up with a suit that’s tighter than what they had before. 

So, if you’re switching from the girls’ size 12–13 years to an adult model, go for a size 24 UK.

## How to properly care for your race suit

When you’ve invested good money in a race suit, you naturally want it to last as long as possible. Fortunately, a few simple care tips can help you get the most out of your suit:

### Don’t wear your suit any longer than necessary

Whenever you wear your suit, you stretch the fabric it’s made from. The longer you wear it, the more it stretches out. Once the fabric stretches, it gradually loses its tight fit and its ability to compress your muscles effectively. 

That’s why it’s not a good idea to train in your racing suit, and you shouldn’t keep it on when you’re not swimming. 

However, you also want to avoid taking it on and off between heats at galas. Pulling it on and off puts extra strain on the material. Put your suit on right before your first race, and take it off straight after your final swim.

### Wear clothes over your suit when you’re not in the water

When you’re not swimming between your heats, it’s important that you wear some clothes over your racing suit. You should do this to minimise the risk of sharp objects, like fingernails, making a hole in the suit.

It doesn’t matter what you wear over it. It can be a t-shirt and a pair of shorts. As long as you just wear something that protects the suit.

### Take your time putting the suit on and taking it off

Before getting into the water, make sure you set aside plenty of time to put the suit on. The quicker you try to get it on, the greater the risk of tearing a hole in it or stretching it unnecessarily. And stretching it unnecessarily is especially critical. 

The same applies when you take it off again. Take your time. You don’t want to stretch the material too much, as it will lose its ability to fit as tightly as possible. 

So generally speaking, the more time you spend putting it on and taking it off, and the more gently you do it, the longer your racing suit will last.

### Rinse it with cold water after use

Once you’ve taken the suit off, don’t try to clean it with soap and water under a hot tap. Or even worse, don’t wash it in the washing machine. 

Simply fill a basin or similar with cold water, place the suit in it, and gently move it around in the water. That’s more than enough.

### Transport your wet suit wrapped in a towel

When you’ve finished your last swim, don’t try to dry it by wringing it out. Instead, take it home wrapped in a towel. This stops the wet suit from soaking the rest of your bag. 

All in all, I always recommend transporting your suit in a towel. That way, you won’t risk your swimming gear accidentally making a hole in the suit’s material. 

### Leave it to air-dry flat

As I mentioned in the previous point, you must never wring the suit out to dry it. Instead, leave it to dry somewhere away from direct sunlight. 

It’s important that you don’t hang the suit up to dry, but instead lay it flat on a clean surface. If you hang it, the weight of the water will stretch the fabric. And you definitely don’t want that when you want to extend its lifespan.

### Only use it for competitions

As I touched on earlier, don’t use your competition suit for training. It exposes it to unnecessary stretching. So only use your suit when you’re competing. And if you have several competition suits, save your best one for the most important meets.

When you only use your competition suit for meets, you’ll also feel much faster once you put it on. That alone gives you a huge psychological advantage!

## Frequently asked questions about competition swimsuits

Over time, I’ve heard many questions and challenges about competition swimsuits around the swimming clubs. The most common ones are how many suits you should have, how to get into the suit most easily, and how tight it should fit.

So to help you with the questions you’re most likely wondering about, I’ve answered those three key questions below.

### Should you have more than one competition suit?

This question is most often asked by parents. A competition suit is definitely a big investment, and older and senior swimmers often have more than one race suit. 

However, I’d say that having two suits isn’t strictly necessary, especially in the younger age groups. Older swimmers compete in both heats and finals on the same day, so having multiple race suits is definitely an advantage for them. 

For younger kids, it’s really not essential. It’s only once swimmers reach around 16 or 17 that having two competition suits becomes a good idea. Until then, just one suit is more than enough.

### What’s the easiest way to put the suit on?

There’s no doubt that a race suit is tough to put on, and that’s exactly how it should be. You’ll also want to look after it as best as possible, so you don’t want to pull and twist it too much either. 

That’s why I’ve put together a quick guide on how to put your suit on as easily as possible without damaging it.

#### 1 – Be 100 percent dry

Give yourself at least 30 minutes in the changing room to get completely dry before putting on your suit. And remember, you shouldn’t wear another swimsuit underneath. 

#### 2 – Flip up the bottom part of the legs

At the end of both legs, there’s a rubber gripper designed to keep your suit in place on your legs. Flip these up so you can slide your legs through more easily.

#### 3 – Put one foot through the suit at a time

Sit down and slowly guide one foot through the suit leg at a time. This can take up to 30 minutes in total, so make sure you take your time!

#### 4 – Carefully pull the suit up to your knees

Carefully pull the suit up to your knees and avoid using your fingernails. If needed, use thin fabric gloves to prevent your nails from tearing the suit. And pull gently, one leg at a time. 

#### 5 – Make sure the suit is evenly positioned on your legs

Make sure both legs of the suit sit evenly on your legs. Panels, patterns and so on should sit in the exact same spot on both legs, without being twisted or pulled out of shape. 

#### 6 – Gently pull the suit up one centimetre at a time

To best avoid overstretching the suit, gently pull it up one centimetre at a time. This prevents unnecessary stretching and twisting of the fabric. 

#### 7 – Alternate between each leg

The higher you pull the suit, the harder it gets to pull. Especially once you get past your knees. To take the best care of your suit, alternate between each leg in small increments (about one centimetre at a time).

#### 8 – Get the suit over your hips

The hardest part of putting on a race suit is getting it over your hips. Especially if you naturally have wider hips! Make sure the entire suit is pulled up above your kneecap before you pull it over your hips. 

This is the stage where you’ll get the most exhausted and will probably wonder if the suit is too small. But that’s completely normal. It’s designed to be that tight!

#### 9 – Carefully pull the suit up to your shoulders

Before pulling the shoulder straps up, make sure you’ve pulled the entire suit as high up as possible. The closer you get the suit itself up to your shoulders, the less you’ll have to stretch the straps. And the less you need to pull, the less you stretch it out.

#### 10 – Flip the bottom of the legs down and get ready to swim!

Once the entire suit is properly in place across your body, flip the bottom part of the legs down. That’s the part with the silicone grippers that you rolled up earlier. And just like that, you’re ready to swim!

### How tight should the suit fit to be correct?

Many swimmers really start to doubt how tight the suit should actually be once they try putting it on. They really are tricky to get into. But that’s the whole point, because a tech suit needs to fit *very* tightly!

The suit should be so tight and snug that it takes 15–20 minutes to put on the first time. So as you can imagine, it really needs to fit tightly.

## Where can I buy a competition kneeskin?

Hopefully you now feel much more clued up on everything you need to know before buying a competition kneeskin. I’ve certainly done my best to give you the full rundown.

That brings us to the next question: Where can you buy a race suit?

The answer is pretty straightforward. You won’t find these high-tech suits in regular sports shops, so it’s best to look to a swimming specialist. Here at Watery, swimming is our specialty – which is why we warmly recommend checking out our range.

Besides going the extra mile to provide practical size examples, you’ll also find a massive selection – not just of race suits, but of all types of swimming gear. And with our fast delivery, you’ll have your new suit in no time.

Plus, our Trustpilot score is right at the very top.

That’s why we recommend picking up your new competition swimwear right here at Watery.

![](https://swimsorted.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Watery-Logo-Horisontal-Lockup-MoerkBlaa-RGB-1500px-1-17-1024x179-1.png)

[Explore and buy competition kneeskins here!](https://swimsorted.ie/?vtp_go=1&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwatery.ie%2Fcollections%2Fcompetition-swimsuits&pid=8289)

## Metadata
- Type: Post
- Author: Daniel
- Categories: All guides and recommendations, Swimming gear