Abstract: A shoelace retaining system for securing individual free ends of shoelaces after the shoelaces have been tightened on the shoe, with a quick and easy engagable and disengageable retaining means. The shoelace retaining means has an open slot on one side that allows insertion of the shoelace along its length into the retaining portion, for tightening of the shoelace by pulling the shoelace relative to the retaining device in one direction. Easy release of the shoelace is accomplished by merely pulling the shoelace outwardly through the slot and away from the retaining portions.

Abstract: A suit is provided having a flexible garment portion which mounts thereon, preferably at spaced intervals, a plurality of armor elements. The suit can be incorporated with a conventional wetsuit construction, or the armor can be imbedded in a chain mail garment worn exteriorly of a wetsuit.