The number 316 has a particular gravity for people, like me, who live near the coast. It is the rating given to "marine grade" stainless steel, i.e., steel with 10% nickel, 20% chromium and 3% molybdenum added.
It was once reserved for boat rigging, food handling equipment and mortuaries. Now architects use it, for balustrading, door hardware, fixings and even roof sheeting.
Elements within it are known allergens, to roughly 2% of all people. Don't buy this piece unless you have worn stainless steel jewelry, or the likes, and experienced no problems. Don't buy it either, if you're not a strong swimmer. The weight of the hardware will cause you to sink. Exposure to Summer sun will cause the metal to heat, but thanks to the nickel and chromium content, while you're wearing them, the hardware on your swimmers will not become overly hot.
The top features:
- an adjustable under bust band offering plus-or-minus 4cm beyond the recommended size in each range—wear it loose as a bra or when sunbathing then cinch it up tight for high diving or swimming in surf.
- a 10mm stainless steel snap hook for the front clasp
- bagged out seams for comfort and to eliminate the ingress of sand.
- fabric lining as thick as the fabric on the outside.
The bind waist bottoms feature:
- 13mm stainless steel D-couplings rated to 375KG
- fully secured lining throughout the seamless front panel, for comfort and to ensure the concealed seams remain hidden.
- self-lining, front and back, to even anatomical contours and prohibit the ingress of sand
- added rubber tension in the rear seams to resist slippage, for example when surfing.
- a cut that strikes a balance between decorum, tanning and feeling free in the sun and the water.
Materials
- Self fabric and lining in matching 190gsm Vita from Carvico in Milan. It is 78% Recycled Nylon and 22% Xtra Life Lycra. (See technical data from the Australian importer).
- All threads are UV and chlorine resistant polyester.
- For elasticity and endurance, 0.63mm treated latex is ran through all straps and opening seams.
- Stainless steel hardware from Bunnings
Credits
- Each piece individually cut and sewn in Newcastle East in Australia.
- Design and prototyping by Steven Fleming