THE slick new swimsuit that has led to 13 world records already this year will be examined by swimming's world governing body, amid debate about the quest for speed in the pool.

'There are concerns about suits being like triathlon suits, which are thicker,' Fina executive director Cornel Marculsecu said. 'There are buoyancy issues. We have to review this.'

There have been 13 world records set since mid-February, 12 in the LZR Racer, a full-length swimsuit made by Speedo.

Marculsecu said the suit would be discussed at the world short-course championships in Manchester next month.

Fina approved the US$550 (S$760) suit, which is made of extremely lightweight, water-repellant fabric - electronically bonded rather than sewn together - with special panels to reduce drag.

The increasing use of such suits has led some swimmers to question the growing importance of technology in competition.

'It is going to be a technological battle come the Olympics,' South African swimmer Roland Schoeman said. 'It would be great to see the final of the Olympics just be basically people and their talent.

'That is true testament to an individual's work ethic and ability - more than the suit to help correct any imperfections.'

ASSOCIATED PRESS