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USA : Innovative materials aid runners, swimmers & bikers

USA : Innovative materials aid runners, swimmers & bikers

Write: Shamus [2011-05-20]
For triathletes, the race might not be to the swift, but rather to those using the most silicone equipment to keep them dry, comfortable and hydrated.
"In sports even the slightest advantage matters in an athletic competition, so competitors constantly look for gear that will make a difference. Many have found that silicone can enhance the functionality of practically every piece of modern, high-performance athletic gear," explained Eve Luo, Dow Corning global consumer, sports and leisure market leader.
"From swimming caps to hydration devices to advanced footwear, better-performing gear with silicone helps triathletes stay focused on the race and could make the difference between a winner and a close second."
The latest swimming technology:
In competitive swimming, high-quality equipment is almost as essential as proper training. Clear underwater vision is particularly important, making watertight and scratch-resistant goggles a necessity.
Although goggles are available in a variety of materials, those that combine high-quality lenses with a silicone seal are leak-free, hypoallergenic, keep competitors' eyes protected from chlorine and water pollution, and are easier to clean.
Swimming caps reduce drag in the water and are available in latex and silicone formulations. Silicone swimming caps have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their increased durability, non-allergenic surface, and more comfortable fit when compared to latex swimming caps.