Courtesy of arena, a SwimSwam partner.
arena is proud to announce the launch of Powerskin ST NEXT, a next-generation competitive swimsuit that is lighter, more durable, and is made from recycled fabrics. The suit’s exclusive limited-edition design celebrates and promotes sustainability with a unique print inspired by the sea, for the sea.
Building on the success of its predecessor, Powerskin ST 2.0, the new ST NEXT raises the bar by being lighter, faster and greener. Over 60% of the yarns utilized in the fabrication of the ST NEXT come from pre-and-post consumer waste, which would have otherwise been destined for landfills. The resulting fabric has a reduced rate of water absorption, which in turn makes the suit feel 20% lighter in the water. The ST NEXT is approved by FINA in terms of its construction, materials, and logo-branding, and can therefore be used in FINA-sanctioned events at all levels. The suit is also available in a junior version for youngsters 12 and under.
As its ambassador for the new suit, arena has partnered with Red Bull cliff diver, Eleanor (Ellie) Smart. “I’ve been diving in the Powerskin ST for years, and when I tried the ST NEXT, I really loved the compression and fit of the new suit,” she said. “It feels the same as a normal suit, so it’s nice to know arena has started making Powerskin ST competition suits with recycled fabric. When I was in Europe, I met with arena, and I’m so happy to become part of their project, the ST NEXT and their philosophy are perfectly in line with my project.”
The 26-year-old from the American Midwest grew up doing Olympic-style diving, mostly from the 10m platform, and has since moved on to cliff diving, claiming a permanent place in the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in 2019. Having had a number of unpleasant incidents relating to the cleanliness of the water – including being hospitalized with kidney infections – she took action, co-founding The Clean Cliffs Project with her partner and fellow cliff diver, Owen Weymouth, to prevent plastic pollution and inspire others to take action. From beach clean ups at World Series events to educational get-togethers with local communities, she’s now always the first to step forward and take action in cleaning up the planet.
“The release of the ST NEXT race suit is a proud moment for us,” said Greg Steyger, arena Product Director. “It demonstrates that performance, comfort and sustainability do not have to be mutually exclusive and can actually be compatible. As we shift our design and development goals to be more responsible and sustainable, it’s great to have a personality like Ellie on our team; she shares our values and we are proud to have her as an ambassador for this project. She has proven her commitment to the environment, is prepared to roll up her sleeves and get stuck in and inspires others with her example. We look forward to working with Ellie on this project and hope this collaboration will continue and lead to future projects, to find sustainable solutions for our planet.”
The range will be available starting 16th November on https://www.arenasport.com/powerskin-st-next and selected swimwear stores.
For more information please visit www.arenasport.com
About arena
arena has revolutionized the world of aquatic sport through insightful collaboration with world class athletes and the development of cutting edge competitive swimwear since 1973. Today, this spirit of collaboration and innovation lives on through a continuous evolution of advanced materials and Italian design that improves the performance, style and expression of all those who chose arena. From leading the lanes to living in style, arena is dedicated to providing all swimmers with the tools they need to express themselves, feel confident, win and achieve more.
