Page 263 - Anthropometry, Apparel Sizing and Design

258 Anthropometry, Apparel Sizing and Design

return in primary state after strain. That is the property that ensures dimensional sta-
bility of garment model and high body fit. Polyester fiber (PES) is a highly strong syn-
thetic fiber that can endure high elastic strains. Polyester materials are very endurable;
they do not wrinkle or shrink while washing and are dried quickly. Thus maintenance
of such materials is easy, which is very important for swimwear. Properties of polyester
fibers can be modified in a way that materials have touch similar to wool, silk, or cot-
ton. Also, polyester materials can offer high UV resistance, which is important for all
outdoor clothing, especially swimwear (https://www.kiefer.com/swimwear).
Modern materials used for swimwear today are results of technological innovations
in the field of development of new chemical fibers with enhanced properties and
targeted modifications of fibers, yarns, and materials, enabling to achieve wanted
material functionality and higher comfort in use. Additionally, in terms of design, con-
struction, and production technology of swimsuits, such materials provide great pos-
sibilities for production of suits for different age group and body figures.
Quality and expensive swimsuits do not change their shape during use or mainte-
nance. Additionally, implemented materials and suspensors enable body shape stabil-
ity, which mostly refers to production of women’s bras. Equal extension of knitted
material in longitudinal and transversal direction provides dimensional stability dur-
ing wear, meaning that swimsuits will not be stretched in only one direction during
wear, but will tightly fit against the body. Breathability and quick dry of materials
are also characteristics that are significantly affecting quality and use of the final
product.
Considering today’s growing need for safety from unwanted UV radiation and
body thermal protection, many products and swimwear models are designed to cover
most of the body surface. Such swimwear models are made of contemporary, func-
tional materials, proving wearing comfort and thermal protection at low temperatures
of water and high protection of UV radiation from the sun. The brand Kiefer can be
mentioned as one of the industrial producers of such clothing (https://www.kiefer.com/
swimwear).

10.3 Diving suits

Diving suit presents the type of clothing for special purposes with high demands and
criteria for comfort, fit, and functionality (Gupta, 2011). There are three types of div-
ing activities: scuba diving (diving with oxygen tanks), spearfishing (diving with
underwater rifle), and free diving (diving on breath in length or depth). Each of the
three mentioned activities has their own particular characteristics that define demands
and necessary properties of diving suits (Diving Unlimited International Inc, 2013).

10.3.1 Scuba diving suits—Diving with oxygen tanks
Scuba diving is mostly recreational activity. For intensive diving, divers often use
so-called dry suits that are completely waterproof, and it is possible to wear usual
day clothing underneath. That kind of suit is loose fitted enabling air from the tanks