Effective January 1, 2011.
There are now two categories for open water swimwear: Category I is required for all Open Water National Championships and shall be scored separately from Category II, whether in a National Championship event or not.
Category I swimwear shall be made from textile materials. For men, the swimsuit shall not extend above the navel or below the knee. For women, the swimsuit shall not cover the neck, extend past the shoulder, nor extend below the knees. There are no “fastener” specifications.
Category II Everything else, such as wetsuits, rash guards, arm warmers, arm bands, etc.