I disagree that the sexualisation of Olympic sports uniforms isn't a feminist issue, but that's all on the other thread. I will say that what you see as freedom for women to wear what they want, many women see as 'freedom to be perved at'. Because women wearing short shorts and bra tops to the gym allows their bodies to be admired in a 'I'd do her' way then it is socially acceptable for women who conform to a very narrowly defined body image to wear that clothing. That isn't really an option for anyone over size say 14 (aust) who has any issues at all about her body shape. Despite the fact that we are at the gym to tone up or whatever.
I agree that male athletes shouldn't have to cover up their lovely physiques either.
I am interested in your comment that wearing Speedos somehow marks you out as gay. (I understand that it's not necessarily the questioning of your sexuality that bothers you, but rather the agression and threat that can go with such a call.) Is it the showing of more flesh than current male fashion allows? Is it being proud of your physique?
The pool where my kids have swimming lessons in Canberra has a number of guys in Speedos of all ages and I don't recall anyone worrying about their sexuality (but then I don't go in the mens locker room).
As for shorts, can't you wear rugby league footy shorts? I know that this could mean having or pretending to have an interest in rugby league, but wouldn't this solve your shorts issue? Either that or learn to sew so you can take up the hems on the shorts. Fashion will swing back eventually.
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