Michigan Swimwear Policy for Public Pools

On January 10, 2006, the Ann Arbor News reported that Washtenaw County in Michigan is most likely the first county in the United States to pass the first swimwear policy that accommodates individuals who cannot, for religious reasons, wear the common bathing suit in mixed company. The Washtenaw County's Parks and Recreation Commission came to this unanimous decision after a 13 year old Muslim female had been ejected from a public pool because of the full coverage attire she chose to wear. For health and safety reasons, street clothes are generally not permitted in public pools. However, Washtenaw county officials investigated the situation after an American Civil Liberties Union attorney wrote a letter to the Parks director informing him that the county had violated the young girl's constitutional rights to religious accommodation. Other religious groups also abide by a modest public dress code including Orthodox Jews, the Amish, and Mormons.

However, the new change in policy proposed by the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission strictly defines what type of clothing and fabric is allowed for public pool use:

 


  • Clothing must allow free movement of arms and legs and be free from hardware such as belts, buckles and rivets.
  • The clothing material must be lightweight as to not inhibit a patron's movement or weigh them down in the pool.
    • Fabrics such as nylon, polyester, Lycra, or thin cotton are acceptable.
    • Clothing also must not be so loose that it could cause entanglement, entrapment or strangulation in pool equipment.

     

     

    We are happy to announce that Splashgear is ahead of the curve when it comes to fabric use and design!

    Through direct research and real-world testing, specific types of polyester fabrics were found to be ideal for in-water use, out-of-water modesty, and personal comfort. Splashgear goes one step further than the Washtenaw County swimwear policy by declaring ZERO TOLERANCE FOR COTTON. Splashgear outfits do not use any cotton, thereby eliminating any risk of water absorption which could contribute to drowning. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, do not absorb water.

    Splashgear outfits are designed and manufactured with the following utmost criteria.

    Outfits must:

    1. Maintain a modest appearance both in and out of the water by utilizing a combination of fabrics and appropriate designs.

    2. Be comfortable to wear and is functional in the water, allowing free movement of arms and legs.

    3. Be lightweight, quick-drying, and not overheat the swimmer.

    4. Be a simple, no-fuss outfit comprised of maximum 3-pieces (hair covering, shirt, and bottoms).

    5. Be fashionable and affordable.

     

    Splashgear looks forward to meeting your full coverage swimwear needs.