Ronstan wetsuit worn by Jenny Armstrong
Maker
Ronstan
Datec 2000
Object number00030917
NameWetsuit
MediumRubber, nylon
DimensionsOverall: 1275 x 370 x 15 mm, 0.9 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis Ronstan wetsuit was worn by New Zealander Jenny Armstrong when she won gold for Australia at the Sydney 2000 Olympics sailing UGLY DUCLKLING with Belinda Stowell. The 'long john' style suit features grey and red panels, black trimming over seams and rough knee patches.HistoryWetsuits are used by surfers and divers for thermal insulation, as well as for protection against sun exposure, jelly fish, coral and other marine hazards. Different forms of open and closed neoprene are used in warm-water and cold-water suits, and they come in a variety of styles to accommodate the differing needs of the wearer.
Wetsuits were developed in the 1950s, and were first made out of foam rubber neoprene that did not have any form of backing material. In order to stabilise the suits and stop them from easily tearing apart, a layer of nylon was applied to the inside of the neoprene. The more colourful suits of the 1970s were a result of the introduction of double-backed neoprene, where neoprene was set in between two protective outer layers. The external layer meant that designers were now able to incorporate decorative colours, logos and patterns into the suits.SignificanceMade in Thailand, the wetsuit is representative of designs and textile technologies used in the garments worn by sailing competitions during the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
