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{{short description|Swimwear and sports goods company}} |
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{{About|swimwear maker Speedo International|North American licensee Speedo USA|Warnaco Group|the clothing style|swim briefs|other uses|Speedo (disambiguation)}} |
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| ⚫ | '''Speedo International Limited''' is a British distributor of [[Swimsuit|swimwear]] and swim-related accessories based in [[Nottingham]], England, known for its [[swim briefs]]. The company has roots in Australia but is not based there anymore. Founded in [[Sydney]] in 1914 by [[Alexander MacRae]], a Scottish emigrant, the industry-leading company is now a subsidiary of the British [[Pentland Group]]. Today, the Speedo brand can be found on products ranging from swimsuits and goggles to wristwatches.<ref name="Speedo2">{{cite web|url=http://www.speedo.com|title=Speedo|work=Speedo.com|publisher=Warnaco Group, Inc|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The Speedo brand was previously manufactured for and marketed in North America as Speedo USA by [[PVH (company)|PVH]], under an exclusive perpetual licence,<ref name="YearEnd2009">{{cite journal |title=2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K |pages=1–3 |author=Warnaco |journal=Warnaco 2009 Annual Report |year=2010 |url=http://phx.corporate-ir.net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9Mzc4NjUyfENoaWxkSUQ9Mzc3ODc0fFR5cGU9MQ==&t=1|format=pdf}}</ref> which had acquired prior licensee [[Warnaco Group]] in 2013. As of January 2020, the Pentland Group purchased back the rights from PVH for $170 million in cash, subject to regulatory approval.<ref name="PentlandBuyout">{{Cite web|url=https://swimswam.com/speedo-international-parent-company-buys-speedo-north-america-for-170-million/|title=Speedo International Parent Company buys Speedo North America for $170 Million|date=2020-01-09|website=Swimswam|language=en|access-date=2020-01-10}}</ref> |
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'''Speedo International Limited''' is an Australian-British distributor of [[Swimsuit|swimwear]] and swim-related accessories based in [[Nottingham]], England. |
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| ⚫ | In accordance with its Australian roots, Speedo uses a [[boomerang]] as its symbol.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newsweek.com/speedo-making-splash-90567|title=Speedo: Making a Splash|last=AM|first=Keith Naughton On 6/20/08 at 11:15|date=2008-06-20|website=Newsweek|language=en|access-date=2018-12-29}}</ref> Due to its success in the swimwear industry, the word "Speedo" has become synonymous with racing bathing suits. |
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| ⚫ |
Founded in [[Sydney]] in 1914 by [[Alexander MacRae]], a Scottish emigrant, the company is now a subsidiary of the British [[Pentland Group]]. Today, the Speedo brand can be found on products ranging from swimsuits and goggles to wristwatches.<ref name="Speedo2">{{cite web|url=http://www.speedo.com|title=Speedo|work=Speedo.com|publisher=Warnaco Group, Inc|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The Speedo brand was previously manufactured for and marketed in North America as Speedo USA by [[PVH (company)|PVH]], under an exclusive perpetual licence,<ref name="YearEnd2009">{{cite journal |title=2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K |pages=1–3 |author=Warnaco |journal=Warnaco 2009 Annual Report |year=2010 |url=http://phx.corporate-ir.net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9Mzc4NjUyfENoaWxkSUQ9Mzc3ODc0fFR5cGU9MQ==&t=1|format=pdf}}</ref> which had acquired prior licensee [[Warnaco Group]] in 2013. |
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| ⚫ |
In accordance with its Australian roots, Speedo uses a [[boomerang]] as its symbol.<ref>{{Cite web |
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== History == |
== History == |
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Company founder [[Alexander MacRae]] emigrated from [[Loch Kishorn]] in the western [[Scottish Highlands|Highlands of Scotland]] to Sydney, Australia in 1910. Originally working as a [[milkman]], he founded ''MacRae and Company Hosiery'' four years later, manufacturing [[underwear]] under the [[brand name]] ''Fortitude'' (taken from his [[family crest]]).<ref name=Speedo3>{{Google books|QqtinbjO0oEC|1001 Australians You Should Know|page=361}}</ref> The [[Australian Army]]'s need for socks during the [[First World War]] provided MacRae with enough business to expand and in 1927 his first line of swimwear, called a "racer-back costume" was introduced. The following year, a naming contest held among the MacRae staff yielded the slogan "Speed on in your Speedos." The brand name was born. The contest winner, Captain Parsonson, was awarded £5 for his slogan and the company was renamed ''Speedo Knitting Mills''.<ref name=Speedo3 /> |
Company founder [[Alexander MacRae]] emigrated from [[Loch Kishorn]] in the western [[Scottish Highlands|Highlands of Scotland]] to Sydney, Australia in 1910. Originally working as a [[milkman]], he founded ''MacRae and Company Hosiery'' four years later, manufacturing [[underwear]] under the [[brand name]] ''Fortitude'' (taken from his [[family crest]]).<ref name=Speedo3>{{Google books|QqtinbjO0oEC|1001 Australians You Should Know|page=361}}</ref> The [[Australian Army]]'s need for socks during the [[First World War]] provided MacRae with enough business to expand and in 1927 his first line of swimwear, called a "racer-back costume" was introduced. The following year, a naming contest held among the MacRae staff yielded the slogan "Speed on in your Speedos." The brand name was born. The contest winner, Captain Parsonson, was awarded £5 for his slogan and the company was renamed ''Speedo Knitting Mills''.<ref name=Speedo3 /> |
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The controversial yet revolutionary [[racerback]] style's open shoulder and exposed back allowed greater range of motion in water and was quickly adopted by [[Swimming (sport)|competitive swimmers]], despite being banned by some beaches.<ref name=Speedo4>{{cite web |url=http://www.powerhousemuseum.com/australia_innovates/?Section_id=1040&article_id=10053&behaviour=view_article |title=Speedo Swimwear |access-date=15 January 2011 |publisher=Powerhouse Museum |work=Australia Innovates}}</ref> In 1932, Speedo made its Olympic debut when 16-year old Australian [[Clare Dennis]] won the [[Swimming at the Summer Olympics|Women's 200 metre Breaststroke]] at the [[1932 Summer Olympics|Los Angeles Olympic Games]]. After nearly being disqualified for "showing too much shoulder" in her regulation silk Speedo brand swimsuit, Dennis went on to set a world record time of 3:06.3.<ref name=Speedo5>{{ |
The controversial yet revolutionary [[racerback]] style's open shoulder and exposed back allowed greater range of motion in water and was quickly adopted by [[Swimming (sport)|competitive swimmers]], despite being banned by some beaches.<ref name=Speedo4>{{cite web |url=http://www.powerhousemuseum.com/australia_innovates/?Section_id=1040&article_id=10053&behaviour=view_article |title=Speedo Swimwear |access-date=15 January 2011 |publisher=Powerhouse Museum |work=Australia Innovates}}</ref> In 1932, Speedo made its Olympic debut when 16-year old Australian [[Clare Dennis]] won the [[Swimming at the Summer Olympics|Women's 200 metre Breaststroke]] at the [[1932 Summer Olympics|Los Angeles Olympic Games]]. After nearly being disqualified for "showing too much shoulder" in her regulation silk Speedo brand swimsuit, Dennis went on to set a world record time of 3:06.3.<ref name=Speedo5>{{cite book |chapter-url=http://adbonline.anu.edu.au/biogs/A130687b.htm |title=Dennis, Clara (Clare) (1916–1971) Biographical Entry |chapter=Dennis, Clara (Clare) (1916–1971) |access-date=15 January 2011 |publisher=Australian National University |work=Australian Dictionary of Biography Online}}</ref> The [[1936 Berlin Olympics|1936 Berlin Summer Games]] also saw some controversy as the men's Australian swim team featured shirtless swim trunks for the first time. Also in 1936, Alexander MacRae became involved in the [[Surf Life Saving Australia|Surf Life Saving Association]]. To this day, Speedo continues to support the Australian volunteer organisation.<ref name=Speedo6>{{cite web |url=http://explore.speedousa.com/speedo-history/ |title=Speedo History |access-date=15 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo International |work=Explore Speedo |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101225095148/http://explore.speedousa.com/speedo-history/ |archive-date=25 December 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> |
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=== Post-War expansion === |
=== Post-War expansion === |
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<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:Hendricks 1956.jpg|right|thumb|upright|Australian [[Jon Henricks]] after record-breaking 100 meter freestyle finish at [[1956 Summer Olympics|The 1956 Melbourne Summer Olympics]]]] --> |
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:Hendricks 1956.jpg|right|thumb|upright|Australian [[Jon Henricks]] after record-breaking 100 meter freestyle finish at [[1956 Summer Olympics|The 1956 Melbourne Summer Olympics]]]] --> |
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After devoting most of its resources to the [[War effort]] during [[Australia during World War II|World War II]], Speedo enjoyed a great [[post-war]] demand for swimsuits, specifically the recently invented [[bikini]] style. The company quickly reestablished itself as a leader in swimwear manufacturing and once again drew controversy when its two-piece was banned by Australian beach inspectors.<ref name=Speedo6 /> In 1951, Speedo Knitting Mills (Holdings) Ltd. [[Corporation|incorporated]] and [[Initial public offering|went public]], selling its stock on the [[ |
After devoting most of its resources to the [[War effort]] during [[Australia during World War II|World War II]], Speedo enjoyed a great [[post-war]] demand for swimsuits, specifically the recently invented [[bikini]] style. The company quickly reestablished itself as a leader in swimwear manufacturing and once again drew controversy when its two-piece was banned by Australian beach inspectors.<ref name=Speedo6 /> In 1951, Speedo Knitting Mills (Holdings) Ltd. [[Corporation|incorporated]] and [[Initial public offering|went public]], selling its stock on the [[Sydney Stock Exchange]].<ref name=Speedo6 /> In 1955, nylon was used for the first time in the company's swimsuits<ref name=Speedo7>{{cite web |url=http://www.convictcreations.com/culture/inventions.htm |title=The Inventive Australian Mind |access-date=16 January 2011 |work=ConvictCreations.Com}}</ref> and the next year, the increasingly popular swimsuit brand returned to the Olympics when its home country hosted the [[1956 Summer Olympics|Melbourne Summer Games]].<ref name=Speedo3 /> The Speedo sponsored [[Australia at the 1956 Summer Olympics|Australian men's swim team]] took home eight [[gold medal]]s<ref name="sports-reference">{{cite web |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/olympics/countries/AUS/summer/1956/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200417044353/https://www.sports-reference.com/olympics/countries/AUS/summer/1956/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=17 April 2020 |title=Australia at the 1956 Melbourne Summer Games |access-date=12 October 2010 |work=sports-reference.com}}</ref> and brought a new worldwide level of notoriety to the company which debuted the [[swim briefs]] that would become synonymous with the brand name. By 1957, Speedo had the exclusive licence to manufacture and distribute [[Jockey International|Jockey]] brand men's underwear in Australia.<ref name=Speedo9>{{cite news |title=Australia's Finest Sportswear |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=lXhWAAAAIBAJ&dq=speedo%20knitting%20mills&pg=1072%2C5251610 |newspaper= Sydney Morning Herald |date=25 February 1957 |access-date=17 January 2011}}</ref> The company finished off the 1950s by exporting to the United States and exploring potential opportunities in South America, Europe, New Zealand and Japan.<ref name=Speedo6 /> |
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The end of the 1950s also saw the beginning of a long-lasting business partnership which continues to this day. In 1958, Speedo began the manufacture of American [[Warnaco Group|Warnaco's]] [[White Stag (clothing)|White Stag]] ski-wear line. In exchange, in 1961, White Stag became the exclusive US distributor of Speedo swimwear. Through White Stag, Speedo's product line expanded to include men's and women's sportswear.<ref name=Speedo10>{{cite news |title=Profits |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=gIVWAAAAIBAJ&dq=speedo&pg=2816%2C6331813 |newspaper= Sydney Morning Herald |date=17 April 1970 |access-date=17 January 2011}}</ref> By the middle of the 1960s, Speedo had acquired 30% of [[Nottingham]], UK textile manufacturer ''Robert Shaw and Company Ltd.'' and had established a European subsidiary. Licences were also granted to Japanese and South American corporations.<ref name=Speedo6 /> The [[1968 Summer Olympics|1968 Mexico City Summer Olympics]] saw 27 of the 29 gold medalists—22 of which set world records—wearing Speedo brand swimsuits.<ref name=Speedo6 /> |
The end of the 1950s also saw the beginning of a long-lasting business partnership which continues to this day. In 1958, Speedo began the manufacture of American [[Warnaco Group|Warnaco's]] [[White Stag (clothing)|White Stag]] ski-wear line. In exchange, in 1961, White Stag became the exclusive US distributor of Speedo swimwear. Through White Stag, Speedo's product line expanded to include men's and women's sportswear.<ref name=Speedo10>{{cite news |title=Profits |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=gIVWAAAAIBAJ&dq=speedo&pg=2816%2C6331813 |newspaper= Sydney Morning Herald |date=17 April 1970 |access-date=17 January 2011}}</ref> By the middle of the 1960s, Speedo had acquired 30% of [[Nottingham]], UK textile manufacturer ''Robert Shaw and Company Ltd.'' and had established a European subsidiary. Licences were also granted to Japanese and South American corporations.<ref name=Speedo6 /> The [[1968 Summer Olympics|1968 Mexico City Summer Olympics]] saw 27 of the 29 gold medalists—22 of which set world records—wearing Speedo brand swimsuits.<ref name=Speedo6 /> |
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The 1990s saw the creation of the low-drag S2000 suit, the [[chlorine]] resistant Endurance line as well as the Aquablade series which was worn by more than three-fourths of medal winners at the 1996 Atlanta Summer Games.<ref name=Speedo6 /> |
The 1990s saw the creation of the low-drag S2000 suit, the [[chlorine]] resistant Endurance line as well as the Aquablade series which was worn by more than three-fourths of medal winners at the 1996 Atlanta Summer Games.<ref name=Speedo6 /> |
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Speedo began the 21st century with the introduction of its Fastskin swimsuit and, again, broke world records when the Summer Games returned to the swimwear leader's home town. The company website boasts that 13 out of the 15 swimming records broken in the [[2000 Summer Olympics|2000 Sydney Olympics]] were by athletes wearing Speedo.<ref name="Distillations">{{cite journal|last1=Roberts|first1=Jacob |title=Winning Skin |journal=Distillations |date=2017|volume=2|issue=4|pages=8–15|url=https://www.sciencehistory.org/distillations/magazine/winning-skin|access-date=22 March 2018}}</ref> Three years later, Speedo celebrated its 75th anniversary with special limited edition lines endorsed by [[Jerry Hall]], [[Naomi Campbell]] and others. In 2004, [[Michael Phelps]] wore the Fastskin II, the latest evolution of the Fastskin series,<ref name=Speedo6 /> in [[2004 Summer Olympics|Athens]] to become the first swimmer to earn eight medals.<ref name="Distillations"/><ref name=phelps>{{cite web |url=http://swimming.teamusa.org/athletes/michael-phelps |
Speedo began the 21st century with the introduction of its Fastskin swimsuit and, again, broke world records when the Summer Games returned to the swimwear leader's home town. The company website boasts that 13 out of the 15 swimming records broken in the [[2000 Summer Olympics|2000 Sydney Olympics]] were by athletes wearing Speedo.<ref name="Distillations">{{cite journal|last1=Roberts|first1=Jacob |title=Winning Skin |journal=Distillations |date=2017|volume=2|issue=4|pages=8–15|url=https://www.sciencehistory.org/distillations/magazine/winning-skin|access-date=22 March 2018}}</ref> Three years later, Speedo celebrated its 75th anniversary with special limited edition lines endorsed by [[Jerry Hall]], [[Naomi Campbell]] and others. In 2004, [[Michael Phelps]] wore the Fastskin II, the latest evolution of the Fastskin series,<ref name=Speedo6 /> in [[2004 Summer Olympics|Athens]] to become the first swimmer to earn eight medals.<ref name="Distillations"/><ref name=phelps>{{cite web |url=http://swimming.teamusa.org/athletes/michael-phelps |title=Michael Phelps {{!}} Athletes {{!}} USA Swimming |access-date=19 January 2011 |publisher=United States Olympic Committee |work=Team USA}}</ref> Phelps followed up this performance four years later, earning eight golds<ref name=phelps /> at [[2008 Summer Olympics|Beijing]], while wearing Speedo's LZR Racer suit<ref name=Speedo6 /><ref name="Distillations"/> In 2010, the company launched Speedo Sculpture ShapeLine, a new line of body-shaping swimsuits for women.<ref name="shape">{{cite press release |title= Speedo Launches Shapeline – Swimwear Made By Real Women For Real Women|url= http://www.prlog.org/10553698-speedo-launches-shapeline-swimwear-made-by-real-women-for-real-women.pdf|publisher= Speedo|date= 1 March 2010|access-date=18 January 2011}}</ref> |
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== Products == |
== Products == |
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=== Footwear === |
=== Footwear === |
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The Speedo brand can be found on a wide variety of footwear including sandals, [[flip-flops]], and water shoes. Speedo USA offers waterproof sneakers for aqua fitness training.<ref name="shoes">{{cite web |url=http://www.speedousa.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=3701560 |title=Footwear |access-date=16 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo USA |work=speedousa.com |archive-date=8 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150308232312/http://www.speedousa.com/category/index.jsp?clickid=topnav_footwear&categoryId=3701560 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
The Speedo brand can be found on a wide variety of footwear including sandals, [[flip-flops]], and water shoes. Speedo USA offers waterproof sneakers for aqua fitness training.<ref name="shoes">{{cite web |url=http://www.speedousa.com/category/index.jsp?clickid=topnav_footwear&categoryId=3701560 |title=Footwear |access-date=16 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo USA |work=speedousa.com |archive-date=8 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150308232312/http://www.speedousa.com/category/index.jsp?clickid=topnav_footwear&categoryId=3701560 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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=== Speedo Digital === |
=== Speedo Digital === |
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The Speedo Digital line of accessories includes the waterproof Aquabeat and LZR Racer Aquabeat digital music players and related accessories, which are manufactured by South Korean consumer electronics company [[Iriver]].<ref name="iriver">{{cite press release | publisher = Iriver | date = 14 April 2009 | script-title=ja:スピード レーザー・レーサー アクアビート |trans-title=Speedo LZR Racer Aquabeat | url = http://www.iriver.co.jp/images/press/pdf/iriver_press20090414.pdf | access-date =18 January 2011 | language = ja }}{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}</ref> Speedo's electronics offerings also include the Auquashot waterproof [[digital camera]]. |
The Speedo Digital line of accessories includes the waterproof Aquabeat and LZR Racer Aquabeat digital music players and related accessories, which are manufactured by South Korean consumer electronics company [[Iriver]].<ref name="iriver">{{cite press release | publisher = Iriver | date = 14 April 2009 | script-title=ja:スピード レーザー・レーサー アクアビート |trans-title=Speedo LZR Racer Aquabeat | url = http://www.iriver.co.jp/images/press/pdf/iriver_press20090414.pdf | access-date =18 January 2011 | language = ja }}{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}</ref> Speedo's electronics offerings also include the Auquashot waterproof [[digital camera]]. |
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=== Speedos Café === |
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== Swimwear == |
== Swimwear == |
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Speedo USA's men's collections are categorised as: Competition, Racing, [[Boardshorts]] and [[Trunks (clothing)|Swim Trunks]], Fashion, and [[Lifeguard]].<ref name=USA>{{cite web |url=http://www.speedousa.com/home/index.jsp |title=Speedo USA Swimwear |access-date=16 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo USA |work=SpeedoUSA.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110129020311/http://www.speedousa.com/home/index.jsp |archive-date=29 January 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Speedo International's men's offerings also include wetsuits.<ref name="International">{{cite web |url=http://store.speedo.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Home_10651_10202_-1 |title=Official Speedo Swimwear, Online Sales & Info |access-date=16 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo International Limited |work=Speedo.com |
Speedo USA's men's collections are categorised as: Competition, Racing, [[Boardshorts]] and [[Trunks (clothing)|Swim Trunks]], Fashion, and [[Lifeguard]].<ref name=USA>{{cite web |url=http://www.speedousa.com/home/index.jsp |title=Speedo USA Swimwear |access-date=16 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo USA |work=SpeedoUSA.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110129020311/http://www.speedousa.com/home/index.jsp |archive-date=29 January 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Speedo International's men's offerings also include wetsuits.<ref name="International">{{cite web |url=http://store.speedo.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Home_10651_10202_-1 |title=Official Speedo Swimwear, Online Sales & Info |access-date=16 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo International Limited |work=Speedo.com}}</ref> Both Speedo USA and Speedo International also offer a wide range of children's styles including performance, racing, fashion and beginner lines.<ref name=USA /><ref name=International /> |
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=== Controversial technology === |
=== Controversial technology === |
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In 2000, British designer and former competitive swimmer [[Fiona Fairhurst]] was named as a finalist for [[European Inventor of the Year]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.epo.org/topics/innovation-and-economy/european-inventor/nominees/2009/fairhurst.html|title=A revolutionary swimsuit|publisher=[[European Patent Office]]|access-date=29 April 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090423061041/http://www.epo.org/topics/innovation-and-economy/european-inventor/nominees/2009/fairhurst.html|archive-date=23 April 2009|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Fairhurst helped Speedo's Aqualab design team invent the first-of-its-kind Fastskin swimsuit. Inspired by the varying skin texture of a [[shark]], Fairhurst told the [[BBC]] that she was "looking to develop a fabric that mimics nature".<ref name="Fastskin1">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/nottingham/content/articles/2009/05/01/fiona_fairhurst_design_heroes_feature.shtml |title=Design Heroes: Fiona Fairhurst |access-date=18 January 2011 |publisher=BBC |work=Profiles |date=May 2009}}</ref> Both the Fastskin and Fastkskin FS II are textured with bumps and ridges in key places, similar to those on a shark's skin. These ridges are claimed to channel the water over the swimmer's body in a more efficient manner than traditional material suits.<ref name=Fastskin2>{{cite web |url=http://www.howstuffworks.com/swimsuit-swim-faster4.htm |title=Can a swimsuit make you swim faster? |access-date=18 January 2011 |publisher=Discovery |work=HowStuffWorks.com |author=Susan Nasr|date=24 February 2009 }}</ref> However, research in 2012 has suggested that the artificial sharkskin patterning does not benefit human swimmers, whose body movement is different from sharks.<ref name="Distillations"/> |
In 2000, British designer and former competitive swimmer [[Fiona Fairhurst]] was named as a finalist for [[European Inventor of the Year]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.epo.org/topics/innovation-and-economy/european-inventor/nominees/2009/fairhurst.html|title=A revolutionary swimsuit|publisher=[[European Patent Office]]|access-date=29 April 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090423061041/http://www.epo.org/topics/innovation-and-economy/european-inventor/nominees/2009/fairhurst.html|archive-date=23 April 2009|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Fairhurst helped Speedo's Aqualab design team invent the first-of-its-kind Fastskin swimsuit. Inspired by the varying skin texture of a [[shark]], Fairhurst told the [[BBC]] that she was "looking to develop a fabric that mimics nature".<ref name="Fastskin1">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/nottingham/content/articles/2009/05/01/fiona_fairhurst_design_heroes_feature.shtml |title=Design Heroes: Fiona Fairhurst |access-date=18 January 2011 |publisher=BBC |work=Profiles |date=May 2009}}</ref> Both the Fastskin and Fastkskin FS II are textured with bumps and ridges in key places, similar to those on a shark's skin. These ridges are claimed to channel the water over the swimmer's body in a more efficient manner than traditional material suits.<ref name=Fastskin2>{{cite web |url=http://www.howstuffworks.com/swimsuit-swim-faster4.htm |title=Can a swimsuit make you swim faster? |access-date=18 January 2011 |publisher=Discovery |work=HowStuffWorks.com |author=Susan Nasr|date=24 February 2009 }}</ref> However, research in 2012 has suggested that the artificial sharkskin patterning does not benefit human swimmers, whose body movement is different from sharks.<ref name="Distillations"/> |
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In addition, the suits are custom designed for the type of [[Swimming stroke|stroke]] the swimmer will use as well as being engineered differently for women and for men. These high-tech suits make use of elastic compression materials to limit muscle oscillation and to compress the swimmer's body, while in other areas a more flexible fabric is used to allow greater range of motion. Leaving no detail overlooked, the design team also uses low-profile seams. According to author Frank Vizard, the Fastskin suits reduce drag by up to four |
In addition, the suits are custom designed for the type of [[Swimming stroke|stroke]] the swimmer will use as well as being engineered differently for women and for men. These high-tech suits make use of elastic compression materials to limit muscle oscillation and to compress the swimmer's body, while in other areas a more flexible fabric is used to allow greater range of motion. Leaving no detail overlooked, the design team also uses low-profile seams. According to author Frank Vizard, the Fastskin suits reduce drag by up to four percent.<ref name=fastskin3>{{Google books|q9M4pe3kmUC|Why a Curveball Curves: The Incredible Science of Sports|200}}</ref> Speedo adapted this new fabric technology for the [[2006 Winter Olympics]].<ref name=USAToday /> The full-bodied Fastskin FSII Ice suits were debuted by the [[silver medal]] winning [[Bobsleigh at the 2006 Winter Olympics – Two-woman|American women's bobsled team]].<ref name=Bobsleigh>{{cite web|title=Torino 2006 Official Report – Bobsleigh |url=http://www.la84foundation.org/6oic/OfficialReports/2006/Results/Bobsleigh.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120612013222/http://www.la84foundation.org/6oic/OfficialReports/2006/Results/Bobsleigh.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=2012-06-12 |work=Torino Organizing Committee |publisher=LA84 Foundation |date=March 2009 |access-date=7 July 2009 }}</ref> |
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By the time the bobsledders were given the opportunity to don their Fastskin suits, the line had already gone through several evolutions including the Fastskin FS-II and Fastskin FS-Pro. From the very beginning, these drag reducing suits were met with great resistance. At issue was [[FINA|Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA)]] rule 10.7, which stated "No swimmer shall use any device that may aid his speed, buoyancy, or endurance during a competition (such as webbed gloves, flippers, fins etc). Goggles may be worn".<ref name="FINA">{{cite web |url=http://www.fina.org/H2O/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=287:sw-10-the-race&catid=82:swimming-rules&Itemid=184 |title=SW 10 The Race |access-date=19 January 2011 |publisher=Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) |work=Rules and Regulations |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110108080553/http://www.fina.org/H2O/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=287:sw-10-the-race&catid=82:swimming-rules&Itemid=184 |archive-date=8 January 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Early in 2000, Speedo hand-delivered their new Fastskin suits to 150 Olympic hopefuls and promised 6,000 more would be made available for Olympic trials. Fearing the possibility of Speedo-clad race winners being stripped of medals due to challenges, the [[Australian Olympic Committee]] (AOC) asked the [[Court of Arbitration for Sport]] to examine the legality of the FINA-sanctioned suits.<ref name="ABC1">{{cite web |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/olympics/features/fastskin.htm |title=Olympics Features – The Fastskin |access-date=19 January 2011 |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |work=ABC News Online |date=April 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000511183541/http://www.abc.net.au/news/olympics/features/fastskin.htm |archive-date=11 May 2000 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref> In May that year, a CAS-appointed arbitrator backed the FINA ruling allowing use of the suits for Olympic tryouts. Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates, however, said in a press conference that their swimmers would be allowed to wear the futuristic neck to ankle covering suits, but would do so "at their own risk".<ref name=Independent>{{cite news |title= Bodysuits ruling still not resolved |
By the time the bobsledders were given the opportunity to don their Fastskin suits, the line had already gone through several evolutions including the Fastskin FS-II and Fastskin FS-Pro. From the very beginning, these drag reducing suits were met with great resistance. At issue was [[FINA|Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA)]] rule 10.7, which stated "No swimmer shall use any device that may aid his speed, buoyancy, or endurance during a competition (such as webbed gloves, flippers, fins etc). Goggles may be worn".<ref name="FINA">{{cite web |url=http://www.fina.org/H2O/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=287:sw-10-the-race&catid=82:swimming-rules&Itemid=184 |title=SW 10 The Race |access-date=19 January 2011 |publisher=Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) |work=Rules and Regulations |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110108080553/http://www.fina.org/H2O/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=287:sw-10-the-race&catid=82:swimming-rules&Itemid=184 |archive-date=8 January 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Early in 2000, Speedo hand-delivered their new Fastskin suits to 150 Olympic hopefuls and promised 6,000 more would be made available for Olympic trials. Fearing the possibility of Speedo-clad race winners being stripped of medals due to challenges, the [[Australian Olympic Committee]] (AOC) asked the [[Court of Arbitration for Sport]] to examine the legality of the FINA-sanctioned suits.<ref name="ABC1">{{cite web |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/olympics/features/fastskin.htm |title=Olympics Features – The Fastskin |access-date=19 January 2011 |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |work=ABC News Online |date=April 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000511183541/http://www.abc.net.au/news/olympics/features/fastskin.htm |archive-date=11 May 2000 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref> In May that year, a CAS-appointed arbitrator backed the FINA ruling allowing use of the suits for Olympic tryouts. Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates, however, said in a press conference that their swimmers would be allowed to wear the futuristic neck to ankle covering suits, but would do so "at their own risk".<ref name=Independent>{{cite news |title= Bodysuits ruling still not resolved |
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|author= John Pye |url= https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/bodysuits-ruling-still-not-resolved-717384.html|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20101112003421/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/bodysuits-ruling-still-not-resolved-717384.html|url-status= dead|archive-date= 12 November 2010|newspaper= The Independent|date= 2 May 2000|access-date=20 January 2011|location=London}}</ref> Coates later stated that the ruling he sought was whether the suits should be classified as costumes or devices.<ref name=Independent /> |
|author= John Pye |url= https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/bodysuits-ruling-still-not-resolved-717384.html|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20101112003421/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/bodysuits-ruling-still-not-resolved-717384.html|url-status= dead|archive-date= 12 November 2010|newspaper= The Independent|date= 2 May 2000|access-date=20 January 2011|location=London}}</ref> Coates later stated that the ruling he sought was whether the suits should be classified as costumes or devices.<ref name=Independent /> |
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[[Professor Emeritus]] of [[Exercise physiology|Exercise]] and [[Nutritional science]]s at [[San Diego State University]], Brent S. Rushall claimed in a report sent to CAS that the suits were – by FINA's definition and based on manufacturer's claims – in fact devices, rather than costumes<ref name=Rushall>{{cite web |url=http://coachsci.sdsu.edu/swimming/bodysuit/CASsub.htm |title=A serious threat to the very nature of competitive swimming or not? |access-date=19 January 2011 |publisher=San Diego State University |author=Brent S. Rushall |date=April 2000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100801124634/http://coachsci.sdsu.edu/swimming/bodysuit/CASsub.htm |archive-date=1 August 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> and are therefore in violation of the FINA rule, which disallows equipment such as fins or flippers. In the report, Rushall equally criticises [[Adidas]] (who had a similarly designed bodysuit) and Speedo for giving FINA members ''[[Bribery|presents]]'' and declares that these members should recuse themselves from ruling on the legality of these suits.<ref name=Rushall /> |
[[Professor Emeritus]] of [[Exercise physiology|Exercise]] and [[Nutritional science]]s at [[San Diego State University]], Brent S. Rushall claimed in a report sent to CAS that the suits were – by FINA's definition and based on manufacturer's claims – in fact devices, rather than costumes<ref name=Rushall>{{cite web |url=http://coachsci.sdsu.edu/swimming/bodysuit/CASsub.htm |title=A serious threat to the very nature of competitive swimming or not? |access-date=19 January 2011 |publisher=San Diego State University |author=Brent S. Rushall, PhD, R.Psy. |date=April 2000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100801124634/http://coachsci.sdsu.edu/swimming/bodysuit/CASsub.htm |archive-date=1 August 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> and are therefore in violation of the FINA rule, which disallows equipment such as fins or flippers. In the report, Rushall equally criticises [[Adidas]] (who had a similarly designed bodysuit) and Speedo for giving FINA members ''[[Bribery|presents]]'' and declares that these members should recuse themselves from ruling on the legality of these suits.<ref name=Rushall /> |
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Ultimately, the suits were approved for use in the Sydney Olympics and in December 2000 the super-suit earned a place on ''[[Popular Science]]'s'' "100 Best of What's New", alongside the [[US Navy]]'s [[General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon|F-16]] [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|replacement]] and [[Eastman Kodak#Digital picture frames|Kodak's Smart]] [[Digital photo frame|Digital Picture Frame]] with built-in [[modem]].<ref name=popsci1>{{Google books|IyBQ4E9G0iQC|Popular Science|page=46}}</ref> |
Ultimately, the suits were approved for use in the Sydney Olympics and in December 2000 the super-suit earned a place on ''[[Popular Science]]'s'' "100 Best of What's New", alongside the [[US Navy]]'s [[General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon|F-16]] [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|replacement]] and [[Eastman Kodak#Digital picture frames|Kodak's Smart]] [[Digital photo frame|Digital Picture Frame]] with built-in [[modem]].<ref name=popsci1>{{Google books|IyBQ4E9G0iQC|Popular Science|page=46}}</ref> |
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{{Main|LZR Racer}} |
{{Main|LZR Racer}} |
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[[File:NASA LZR Racer.jpg|right|thumb|upright|[[NASA]] computer image used in development of the Speedo LZR Racer]] |
[[File:NASA LZR Racer.jpg|right|thumb|upright|[[NASA]] computer image used in development of the Speedo LZR Racer]] |
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Speedo's most controversial move came with 2008's unveiling of the LZR (pronounced "[[laser]]") Racer. The super smooth suit, which was optimised with the help of NASA [[wind tunnel]]s, uses welded seams and multiple woven fabrics to reduce drag by up to six |
Speedo's most controversial move came with 2008's unveiling of the LZR (pronounced "[[laser]]") Racer. The super smooth suit, which was optimised with the help of NASA [[wind tunnel]]s, uses welded seams and multiple woven fabrics to reduce drag by up to six percent.<ref name=Fastskin2 /> In addition, the LZR, like the Fastskin, utilises a core stabiliser, which acts almost as a [[girdle]], to reduce muscle movement. This was designed to help the swimmer maintain the proper angle in the water for longer periods of time.<ref name=Fastskin2 /><ref name=economist1 /> ''[[Popular Science]]'' magazine named the suit one of their "100 Best of What's New '08" list, calling it "The fastest swimsuit in the world".<ref name="popsci">{{cite web |url=http://www.popsci.com/bown/2008/product/speedo-lzr |title=Best of What's New '08 |access-date=18 January 2011 |publisher=Bonnier Corporation |work=Popular Science |date=November 2008}}</ref> Subsequent research revealed another reason for the suit's success: tiny air bubbles tended to be trapped between the swimmer's body and the suit, lifting the swimmer slightly so that they benefited from lower friction against air as compared to water.<ref name="Distillations"/> |
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Speedo's website boasts that the LZR Racer was "so fast, it was banned from competition".<ref name=LZR1>{{cite web |url=http://explore.speedousa.com/lzr-racer-collection/ |title=LZR Racer Collection |access-date=21 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo USA |work=Explore Speedo |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101218090320/http://explore.speedousa.com/lzr-racer-collection/ |archive-date=18 December 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Indeed, the LZR Racer was banned from international competition by FINA in 2009, along with all full-body polyurethane suits. Men's suits were also banned from extending above the waist or below the knee. Women's suits could not extend past the shoulders or go below the knee.<ref name="Distillations"/> |
Speedo's website boasts that the LZR Racer was "so fast, it was banned from competition".<ref name=LZR1>{{cite web |url=http://explore.speedousa.com/lzr-racer-collection/ |title=LZR Racer Collection |access-date=21 January 2011 |publisher=Speedo USA |work=Explore Speedo |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101218090320/http://explore.speedousa.com/lzr-racer-collection/ |archive-date=18 December 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Indeed, the LZR Racer was banned from international competition by FINA in 2009, along with all full-body polyurethane suits. Men's suits were also banned from extending above the waist or below the knee. Women's suits could not extend past the shoulders or go below the knee.<ref name="Distillations"/> |
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| [[Swimming Canada]] || Canada|| N/A||<ref name="CAN">{{cite web |url=https://www.swimming.ca/ourpartners |title=Our Partners |access-date=22 January 2011 |publisher=Swimming Canada |work=Swimming.ca |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225705/https://www.swimming.ca/ourpartners |archive-date=21 July 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> |
| [[Swimming Canada]] || Canada|| N/A||<ref name="CAN">{{cite web |url=https://www.swimming.ca/ourpartners |title=Our Partners |access-date=22 January 2011 |publisher=Swimming Canada |work=Swimming.ca |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225705/https://www.swimming.ca/ourpartners |archive-date=21 July 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> |
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|- |
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| Diving Plongeon Canada || Canada || N/A ||<ref name="Canada2">{{cite web |url=http://www.diving.ca/english/html/home.htm |title=Sponsors |access-date=22 January 2011 |publisher=Diving Plongeon Canada |work=Diving.ca |
| Diving Plongeon Canada || Canada || N/A ||<ref name="Canada2">{{cite web |url=http://www.diving.ca/english/html/home.htm |title=Sponsors |access-date=22 January 2011 |publisher=Diving Plongeon Canada |work=Diving.ca}}</ref> |
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| Synchro Canada || Canada || N/A ||<ref name="Canada3">{{cite web |url=http://www.synchro.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=category&id=73&Itemid=44 |title=Sponsors |access-date=22 January 2011 |publisher=Synchro Canada |work=Synchro.ca}}</ref> |
| Synchro Canada || Canada || N/A ||<ref name="Canada3">{{cite web |url=http://www.synchro.ca/index.php?option=com_content&task=category&id=73&Itemid=44 |title=Sponsors |access-date=22 January 2011 |publisher=Synchro Canada |work=Synchro.ca}}</ref> |
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*{{official website|https://www.speedo.com|name=Speedo International Limited}} |
*{{official website|https://www.speedo.com|name=Speedo International Limited}} |
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| ⚫ | |||
{{Sports equipment brands}} |
{{Sports equipment brands}} |
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| ⚫ | |||
[[Category:Speedo| ]] |
[[Category:Speedo| ]] |
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[[Category:Swimwear manufacturers]] |
[[Category:Swimwear manufacturers]] |
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[[Category:Water polo equipment manufacturers]] |
[[Category:Water polo equipment manufacturers]] |
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[[Category:Australian subsidiaries of foreign companies]] |
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