Newcomers to triathlon are often overwhelmed with the many styles of wetsuits available. Shorty wetsuits are also known as springsuits or short wetsuits. They come down to just above the knee and are usually sleeveless. Full-length triathlon wetsuits cover the entire body with full sleeves and long legs. BeginnerTriathlete.com says regardless of style, the fit of the wetsuit and getting the sizing right will make all the difference in the wetsuit working or not.
Temperature
Shorty wetsuits are designed to be used in warmer water temperatures, while full-length triathlon suits provide more warmth and are designed for use in colder water temperatures. USA Triathlon, the governing body of the sport, publishes regulations regarding wetsuit use. Current rules indicate each participant shall be permitted to wear a wetsuit without penalty up to and including 78 degrees F. Athletes can still wear a wetsuit in water greater than 78 degrees F but less than 84 degrees F, but they will not be eligible for any awards. Age-group athletes shall not wear wetsuits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees F. Participants do run a risk of overheating if they wear a wetsuit in water that is too warm.
Buoyancy
Because of body coverage and thickness of the material, a full triathlon wetsuit makes a swimmer more buoyant in the water. Many weaker swimmers prefer the full suit to the shorty because it allows them to swim more smoothly and with less effort. This also boosts their confidence level. Not only do they float easier, but they don't have to kick as hard to propel forward. The extra buoyancy also helps to conserve energy for the bike and run portions of the race. Popularity of thicker full-length suits prompted USAT to update its guidelines on usage to alleviate the advantage that thicker suits offer. Beginning in 2013, wetsuits are not allowed to exceed 5 mm in thickness.
Comfort
Shorty wetsuits allow for more freedom of movement with less arm restriction and more range of motion. Some swimmers find this more comfortable. Some believe long sleeves take away from the feel of the water and restrict arm motion. Full wetsuit proponents enjoy the way the full wetsuit allows them to glide through the water with minimal effort. While a full wetsuit enhances the swimming experience, it is imperative the athlete feels comfortable with whatever style they choose. Confident swimmers may feel completely at ease in a shorty, while less confident swimmers prefer the comforting boost of a full wetsuit.
Speed
There's little debate among manufacturers and swimmers that full-length triathlon wetsuits speed up most swim times provided that athlete is comfortable. Many high-end suits are even designed with aerodynamic advantages for faster swim times. While a full suit may enhance speed in the water, it will take longer in transition to remove than a shorty. Triathletes should practice removing their suit as efficiently as possible so they don't lose extra time in transition.
Cost
Shorty wetsuits are less expensive than the full-length wetsuits. Most differences in cost include materials used, seams, stitching and thickness of the material. If cost is a factor, a shorty wetsuit is sufficient in most races and will provide a certain level of comfort and warmth to the beginner triathlete. A good wetsuit, regardless of cost, will last for several years.
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