SubSurface; Our Third Installment - DESIGN
Why is it that you can get a super attractive, aesthetically pleasing and still functional running or road cycling kit… but athletic swimwear is always so lame? Our goal with Surface Athletic is to bring all the advancements in fabrics and technical construction that sportswear has enjoyed in the last decade, into the water, leaving behind the unflattering cuts that are unfortunately so common in sports swimwear cough Speedo cough. There will be no cheesy prints, no cuts your grandma would wear (unless she’s cool) and no limits to the sports you participate in. Just simple, contemporary, and flattering suits.
Designing a highly technical swimsuit involves a meticulous process to ensure optimal performance in the water. From sleek flat taped seams to a hybrid liner, every detail is carefully considered to enhance the swimmer's experience. Let's delve into the steps of creating a swimsuit that is both functional and comfortable.
1: Flat Taped Seams
Flat taped seams are essential in a technically constructed swimsuit. These eliminate fabric bulk, absorb less water, reduce chafing and provide a smooth, low profile surface against the skin. By using advanced technology to bond the fabric pieces together seamlessly, with a flatter minimal profile, the risk of skin irritation is significantly reduced, allowing swimmers to focus on their performance without distractions. The bonded seams also work exceptionally well with our light-weight, quick drying fabrics, all-in-all creating a product that holds very little water, weighs next to nothing and takes up less space in your gear bag. 
2: Hybrid Liner
While most swimwear is built using the same fabric for both the external shell layer, and internal skin facing liner, our suits are designed incorporating two different materials. The external layer was chosen with durability and resilience in mind. Our hybrid liner is used to make it lightweight and quick-drying where it counts most, against your skin. We’ve also eliminated the liner where it’s not needed, keeping it only in the intimate areas, again reducing bulk and water retention. This innovative design combines the benefits of different materials and placement to create the perfect garment that is not only comfortable to wear but efficient in moisture management while remaining tough on the outside.
3: Gripper and Body-Hugging Materials
To prevent the swimwear from slipping during movement, we’ve incorporated gripper and body-hugging materials strategically in the design. These materials provide a secure fit that stays in place even during the most dynamic activities in the water. By incorporating our signature Surface gripper technology to the waistband and key areas of slippage, the swimsuit offers stability and confidence, allowing you to focus on the moment without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
4: Extras, Just Because
Why stop there? We thought a lot about what we wished our swimwear could have done for us in the past. Can we make a sports focused swimsuit that’s actually flattering on the body? How about including a gear tab to clip your keys to or hang your sunglasses from? What if we remove the cup padding that most athletes just take out anyways?
From flat taped seams to a hybrid fabric construction and gripper technology, every element is carefully crafted to optimize performance and comfort in the water. By prioritizing functionality and quality in the design process, swimmers can enjoy a swimsuit that meets their needs and helps them achieve their best performance.
