Swimsuits – current situation from 1 September 2009 to 31 December 2009

Please note the new wording in relation to swimsuits for all competitions, except Masters.

In swimming competitions, the competitor must wear only one swimsuit in one or two pieces which shall not cover the neck, extend past the shoulder, nor past the ankle. No additional items, like arm bands or leg bands shall be regarded as parts of a swimsuit.

Swimsuits – from 1st January 2010
The new rules aim to ban swim suits that give an "unfair advantage" to swimmers. This can be from buoyancy or muscle support. The new rule also bans suits extending beyond the shoulder or the ankle (so no sleeves or feet). These rules come into effect from 1 January 2010.
Following FINA Congress swimwear rules were placed in the Byelaws.

BL 8.2  In swimming competitions the competitor must wear only one or two pieces. No additional items, like arm bands or leg bands shall be regarded as parts of a swimsuit.

BL 8.3  Swimwear for men (boys) shall not extend above the navel or below the knee  (ie NO body suits at all)
and for women (girls) shall not cover the neck, extend past the shoulder, nor shall extend below the knee.  All swimsuits shall be made of textile materials.  (this has yet to be defined but is taken to mean porous - no more rubber or part rubber suits and no Zips).

BL 8.4  All swimsuits must be listed on FINA's List of Approved Swimsuits on the day of competition and worn without modification