POWERHOUSE COLLECTION

Photograph of Arne Borg wearing Speedo racerback costume

Object No. 95/232/1

From the beginning Speedo engaged record-winning swimmers to promote its competitive swimwear. Initially it used an international swim star over local Olympic champion Andrew 'Boy' Charlton. The endorsement of popular Swedish champion Arne Borg, who had set thirty-two world records during the 1920s, was seen as a valuable asset in promoting the superiority of its Speedo brand of swimwear. Borg is pictured wearing the company's innovative registered design for the 'Speedo Racer-back costume', an austere, utilitarian figure-hugging one-piece featuring a high Y-shaped back panel that streamlined the shape, reduced drag and alleviated the problem of slipping shoulder straps. The costume is probably fine machine-knitted cotton, which was used for general swimming and training, the more lightweight but expensive silk fabrics being reserved for competition. Equally economical was the choice of colours: navy blue, royal blue and black. Borg's image appeared in advertising that targeted the competitive swimmer with the assuring byline 'The maximum of comfort and the minimum of resistance'. However, speed was not the only consideration in its design. The racer back was also aimed at those seeking a healthy form of leisure: 'For the "sun baker" this costume has instant appeal, giving maximum body exposure to tonic sunshine.' Although the swimsuit clings like a second skin, the image is quite chaste. Borg's athletic physique and lean musculature speak of discipline and strength, with the costume appearing as athletic equipment, an aid to speed. Glynis Jones, Curator