The Colorful World of Synchronized Swimming

The synchronized swimming team final was Friday. It’s one of the few sports that preclude men. It’s glamorous, acrobatic and precise, requiring the women to hold their breath for large stretches of time as they perform. To the casual viewer, it’s a visual feast. Here are photos from the event, including the top eight teams.

Jed Jacobsohn for The New York Times

1. Russia won the gold. The women wore costumes decorated with a dragon-like creature with green eyes and pointy teeth.

Jed Jacobsohn for The New York Times

2. The Chinese team’s suits were decorated with a butterfly motif. They won the silver.

Barbara Walton/European Pressphoto Agency

3. The bronze went to Spain, whose costumes had a reptilian feel.

Jed Jacobsohn for The New York Times

4. Canada’s costumes were very bright, even under the water.

Jed Jacobsohn for The New York Times

5. Japan wore gold, silver and black.

Mark J. Terrill/Associated Press

6. This was Britain’s first appearance at the Olympics in synchronized swimming.

Al Bello/Getty Images

7. Egypt’s bathing suits were fierce.

Michael Dalder/X90041, via Reuters

8. Australia came in eighth place. The women wore costumes with an electric guitar emblazoned on their backs.