Pirkanmaa is breaking with Finnish tradition by allowing swimwear in public saunas.File photo. Image: Juha Kokkala / YleYle News13:29In Finland, nudity has long been the norm in saunas at public swimming pools. But that is beginning to change — at least in Pirkanmaa, where public swimming pools across the region will now allow visitors to wear swimwear in the sauna.The change, according to local authorities, is intended to promote equality and make swimming pools more accessible.The new policy applies to public pools in Tampere, Nokia, Ylöjärvi, Lempäälä and Valkeakoski.Bathers now have the option of wearing swimwear in the sauna, but it won't be mandatory. Those who prefer to sweat naked can continue to do so.Showering will still be required before entering the pool, and all other hygiene rules remain in place. Authorities also said that chlorine evaporating from swimwear in the sauna is not considered a health risk.The new policy will be introduced as an open-ended trial. During the pilot, authorities will monitor customer feedback as well as its impact on day-to-day operations, pool water quality, visitor numbers and the overall experience. The trial will be reviewed next spring, when local authorities will decide whether to make the change permanent.Some swimming pools, including Neidonkeidas in Lohja, already allow visitors to wear swimwear in the sauna. Local authorities say the change has boosted customer satisfaction and attracted new groups of visitors.