Van Manen, J. D., & Rijken, H. (1975). Dynamic measurement techniques on swimming bodies at the Netherlands Ship Model Basin. In L. Lewillie & J. P. Clarys (Eds.), Swimming II (pp. 70-77). Baltimore: University Park Press.

A female swimmer was towed while naked and wearing a high close-necked swimsuit. Drag resistance caused by the swimmer's body was 9% less when wearing the suit.

Although this study used only one subject, it showed that for some individuals, a high close-necked swimming suit could reduce drag most probably by altering the flow lines [the swimmer's shape], which enhances "slipping" through the water. One should not expect a 9% advantage in all swimmers. For some there may be no advantage at all.

This study performed towing. As has been shown in the Hydrodynamics Abstracts section of the Swimming Science Journal, implications for research involving towing are generally invalid for dynamic swimming. One should not place much importance on this investigation.

Implication. For some female swimmers, the use of a tight high-necked swimming suit will reduce drag resistance caused by the body.

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