USA Swimming prohibits athletes age 12 and under from wearing technical suits at any USA Swimming sanctioned, approved, or observed meet in the United States. This rule remains in effect for all USA Swimming Competitions. 

What is considered a technical suit? 

A technical suit is defined as a suit that has either of the following: 

• Bonded or taped seams, regardless of fabric type or silhouette 
• Woven fabric that extends past the hips 

Important: Any male or female suit made with woven fabric that extends to the knee or mid-thigh is considered a technical suit, regardless of whether the seams are bonded, taped, or sewn. 

What suits are allowed for 12 & Under swimmers? 

The following suits are permitted: 

• Suits made with woven fabric and sewn seams that do not extend below the hips 
• Suits made with knit fabric and sewn seams that do not extend below the knees 

Exceptions 

Technical suits are permitted for athletes competing in the following USA Swimming events: 

• USA Swimming Junior Nationals 
• USA Swimming U.S. Open 
• USA Swimming National Championships 
• USA Swimming Olympic Trials 

How to Identify Approved Suits 

Some suits that display the World Aquatics (formerly FINA) approval logo are still legal for 12 & Under competition. Approved suits will also display a USA Swimming checkmark next to the World Aquatics logo. 

For additional information, please refer to the FAQ document provided by USA Swimming or review their updated list as of April 2026. Their site has been updated to include lists of approved and restricted tech suits for 12 and under swimmers as well as a detailed breakdown of tech suits by brand.. 

USA Swimming Approved 12 & Under Tech Suits Available at Elsmore 

• Arena Powerskin ST 
• Arena Powerskin ST 2.0 
• Speedo Aquablade 
• Speedo Vanquisher 
• TYR Fusion 2 
• TYR Thresher