Progressive helps Speedo launch ‘groundbreaking’ triathlon suit
27/10/2009
Progressive Sports Technologies, a company spun off from the Sports Technology Institute at Loughborough University, has helped swimwear brand Speedo to develop a world-class triathlon suit, the LZR racer Tri-Pro suit.
Inspired by the LZR Racer swimsuit worn by athletes including Michael Phelps and Rebecca Adlington to take 94% of the swimming gold medals at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, the new triathlon suit is designed to be the lightest, fastest and most comfortable suit on the market.
Progressive tested a selection of elite triathletes running and cycling in the LZR racer Tri-Pro suit in a controlled climate chamber. With a constant temperature of 32°C and 70% humidity, the suit’s quick dry and moisture wicking properties were pushed to the limit. Infrared skin temperature measurements were captured, along with the athlete’s perception of comfort, fit and function.
Dr Tom Waller, head of Aqualab, Speedo’s research and development arm, explains: “Our performance wear is underpinned by extensive research with world-leading experts. Progressive has tested our LZR racer Tri-Pro suit to the extreme to ensure it performs exceptionally across all phases of the triathlon.”
Still based at Loughborough University’s Sports Technology Institute, Progressive works with many of the world’s leading sports brands on cutting-edge research. Current projects include the commercialisation of a garment that boosts athletic performance by training breathing muscles, which has been successfully trialed by members of the Great Britain Triathlon team, which is also headquartered at the University. Progressive has also developed a range of licensed fitness equipment, including an abdominal muscle training device (Ab-pump), which it has recently been able to bring to market.
On announcing the new project with Speedo, Ross Weir, managing director of Progressive, commented: “As a company originating from within Loughborough University, Progressive benefits from excellent relationships with sports scientists and engineers and the array of elite athletes based here. Our work with Speedo has enabled our expertise, coupled with access to Loughborough University’s facilities, to help Speedo launch a groundbreaking product.”
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