End of an Era: High-Tech Suits Banned From Competition

It seems like it's been years since we've been able to gaze at the long, lean bodies of competitive swimmers — they're all covered by high-tech swimsuits like the LZR by Speedo. Well, times they are a changing. FINA, the international governing board of competitive swimming, just created a new rule for both the shape and material of the swimsuits worn in competition. The rule limits the amount of skin that can be covered by a suit, and the fabric must be water permeable — no more polyurethane. Speedo introduced the LZR 17 months ago, and its designs were quickly imitated by other swimsuit manufacturers. Watching the 2008 Olympics, these high-tech suits help many swimmers break world records. According to the New York Times, only four world records in Olympic individual events still stand from the prepolyurethane days. This is why the high-tech suits are considered "doping on a hanger." The ban goes into effect in 2010.

Michael Phelps is pleased with the new rule, are you?