What Are Swim Jammers?

Swim jammers in action.

Swim jammers are tight-fitting, bicycle-shorts-style swim attire constructed of nylon or spandex and primary used by competitive swimmers.

Manufacturers

Swim Jammers are manufactured by many of the leading competitive-swimwear companies, including: Speedo, Dolphin, TYR, Agon, Arena and Nike.

Fit

Jammers are worn very tight, with the typical size being two sizes smaller than a recreational suit. This allows for the fabric to relax when wet.

Availability

Although common in competition, jammers are not found in many discount stores. They can be purchased at larger sporting-goods stores, boutique shops that cater to swimmers or triathletes or online.

Function

Jammers reduce drag when moving through the water. Highly competitive swimmers prefer higher-end materials with greater water resistance.

Jammers or Briefs?

Jammers offer a more modest fit than the traditional small briefs worn for competition and are popular for young swimmers who might be self-conscious about the more revealing briefs (also known as Speedos).

Cost

In 2009, Jammers ranged in price from about $25 for lesser materials to more than $100 for high-end, water-repelling textiles.

References

• The history of men's swimwear
• The history of Speedos
• Speedo a history of swimsuit innovation

Resources

• Reference list for allowable swimsuits for competition