Identity area
Reference code
2020.2.16
Title
Speedo Fastskin Full Body Swimsuit
Date(s)
- undated [2000-2007] (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
1
Context area
Name of creator
(1914-)
Administrative history
The company was founded in Sydney, Australia by Alexander MacRae. He began by manufacturing knitted underwear and socks using the brand name 'Fortitude'. The company made their first swimwear range in 1927 with a racer-back design and began using the name 'Speedo' in 1928. Speedo swimsuits were first worn by competitive swimmers at the Olympic Games in 1932. Since the 1930s Speedo has made swimwear for racing as well as leisurewear and has pioneered technical advances in materials and designs which have often been controversial. The company was acquired by the Pentland Group in 1991.
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Content and structure area
Scope and content
Black lycra full body sleeveless swimsuit. The black fabric is covered in an overall pattern of V-shapes which are slightly ridged. It is made of curved panels down the chest, over hips and lower back and around the legs. These are sewn together with visible grey stitched seaming. The suit has a high neck and fastens down the centre back with a zip. On the front right chest is the Speedo logo in capital letters.
Country of Design: United Kingdom
Country of Design: United Kingdom
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Script of material
Language and script notes
Physical characteristics and technical requirements
Care label: SPEEDO / GB 71cm/28" F 32 / Made in the U.K.
75% Polyester, 25% Elastane
75% Polyester, 25% Elastane
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Allied materials area
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Notes area
Note
Speedo launched their first Fastskin suits at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. The design was developed by Fiona Fairhurst who was inspired by the skin texture of sharks. The fabric design aimed to mimic the V-shaped ridges of shark skin to reduce drag. It was also coated with Teflon. More significantly the design moulded to the body to act as a second skin, compressing muscles and creating a silhouette to maximise performance in the water. The seaming was also designed to enhance muscle coordination while swimming.