The optimal amount of beach volleyball clothing

July 23, 2006 9:28 AM

From a purely functional standpoint, what is the optimal amount of beach volleyball clothing?

From a functional standpoint, would women benefit from wearing more clothing? Would men benefit from wearing less?

posted by mrkohrea to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (5 answers total)

I should think tight clothing covering the genitalia, primary and secondary, for protective purposes.
posted by baylink at 9:44 AM on July 23, 2006

I wonder if small-breasted women benefit at all from wearing a top? I've known some A- and AA- level women players who competed in nude leagues (though they played on grass, IIRC). I'd guess (not being a woman myself) that all some women would need is a bikini bottom to keep sand out of the cooter. Functionally speaking, that saves you a few ounces of mass.
posted by jewzilla at 10:42 AM on July 23, 2006

jewzilla: do they receive any benefit? Two words: Sunburned nipples. (of course, TMMV)
posted by Meep! Eek! at 11:41 AM on July 23, 2006

Unless someone is very fit, a tight-fitting shirt is good for both males and females as it keeps stuff from jagglin' about. Just make sure the shirt does not restrict movement.

Think "streamlined."
posted by travosaurus at 1:02 PM on July 23, 2006

I understand that beaches can be rather hot, so maybe wearing a large area of white would help keep you from overheating.
posted by hoverboards don't work on water at 3:11 PM on July 23, 2006