Body Glove Company- Its Impact in the Swim Gear Industry Body glove is an American brand that produces watersport accessories and apparel for men, women, and children. It was founded by Bill and Bob Meistrell, who were twin brothers and are credited with inventing the first functional wetsuit in the early 1950s. They created their invention at their California surf shop named “Drive N’ Surf,” located at the back of Redondo Beach. The company’s headquarters are located in the same location it was founded, Redondo Beach, California.
Body Glove Paddle Boards
What Makes the Company Different
The company has stayed in the Meistrell family for three generations, and some family members still work in the company. The fact that the company has remained within the family for this long is what makes it different. The company has also branched out to produce other product categories such as:
- Swimsuits
- Clothing and shoes
- Life vests
- Sunglasses
- Wakeboards
- Paddleboards
- Inflatable Kayaks
- Snorkeling equipment, among other products.
Bill and Bob have always been committed to the safety of the users of their products. They contributed to the safety standard for the diving industry, with Bob becoming the first certified diver in LA County, 1955. The company has also sponsored various pro surfers and wakeboarders like Tatiana Weston-web, Cheyne Magnusson, Jamie O’Brien, and Rusty Marinoski. Bob and Bill also co-founded the Catalina Island Conservancy of Divers to help clean up Catalina’s waters and preserve its ecosystem.
What Makes Body Glove Popular
In 1957, they became the first to customize wetsuits for the military, LA police, lifeguards, and medical, dental, and electronic industries. They also made the first customized wet suit for Yamaha and Kawasaki. In 1958 they worked with the cast of the TV show “Sea Hunt” and provided wetsuits, scuba training, and dive gear.
The company is also famous for designing the first commercial wetsuit and sizing chart created in 1953. This chart is still used universally by wet suit manufacturers to date. The company was also the first to add fun designs such as Kossick stripes on their wet suits in 1960. They also introduced the first back zip wetsuit in 1968, making it easier to get out of a wet suit.
The company designed the first neoprene swimsuits, water-repellant fabric for wet suits, and neon-colored wet suits. The company also released titanium fabric in 1990 that made wet suits warmer. It was the first swimsuit brand to grace fashion magazines such as Vogue and Harpers Bazaar. The company also created the first Surf series in California that paved the way for PSAA and the Bud Surf Tour.
The company also invented the first water-resistant wet suit called the vapor in 2000. The vapor board shorts and bikinis then followed this design in 2002. In 2008, they launched the first eco-friendly wet suit. The company created the wet suits from the purest available stretch material that is not toxic.
Their Products Warranty
The company offers a one-year limited warranty on workmanship and materials. The warranty is valid from the date of original purchase from an authorized retailer of their products. They do not cover for damages caused by alterations. They also do not cover materials from over one year from purchase and 90 days for accessories. Alterations done by third parties not linked to the companies are also not catered for.
The other issues that can limit you from using your warranty include
- Fading from sunlight
- Damage due to misuse or abuse
- Damage from transportation
- Improper fit due to the wrong size
- Warranty requests without original receipts
Wetsuits that require repairs should be returned to authorized company product dealers. The repairs will be conducted after inspection by a company representative. If the warranty is invalid, the client will have to pay for repairs out of pocket.
The company allows for exchange and refunds of products within the first 30 days; however, products purchased online cannot be returned to retailers and vice versa. You should report issues with delivered orders within 14 days after delivery. Returns done after 30 days may be rejected or subjected to a restocking fee. You should ensure returned products have not been worn or altered, and they should include their price tags and packaging.
How to Care for Your Wet Suit
To avoid damaging your wet suit, you should hand wash it in cool water and hang it out to air dry away from direct sunlight. Avoid putting it in your washing machine and dryer as this will cause it to shrink and become stiff. You should also avoid harsh chemicals as this will cause your suit to fade. You should wear and remove your wet suit gently to avoid tearing it and also avoid sharp objects.
Body Glove has, over the years, been creating high-quality products for all genders and sizes. They have a variety of products to meet all your swim gear needs. Contact our online store team for queries on the products they offer.
