What To Look For
For in swimming wetsuits, what you need is stretch, stretch, stretch. When shopping for your wetsuit, you'll see descriptions such as 30, 60 or 100 percent stretch. These reflect how much of the more expensive "super stretch" neoprene has been used in the suit. Thirty percent suits offer stretch on the back shoulders and arms, 60 percent offers stretch over the top half of the body and down to the knees, and 100 percent suits are stretchy all over. For swimming you will need a 60 or 100 percent stretch suit, but this extra technology will be reflected in the price.
If you're buying a suit for a triathlon, consider a triathlon suit. According to site Wetsuit Wearhouse, these suits have been especially designed for the sport and offer a slick-skin exterior to help you cut through the water. They are also shaped differently with a wider armpit and specially designed neckline to help minimize rubbing against your body while you swim.
Common Pitfalls
No matter how cold the water, your body will produce a significant amount of heat while you swim, so it is important not to buy a wetsuit that is too thick. Wetsuit thicknesses are defined in millimeters and range from 1 mm to 7 mm. Manufacturers also combine several different thicknesses in one suit, with thinner pieces added to provide extra flexibility in places such as the arms and shoulders. For swimming, Wetsuit Wearhouse recommends no more than a 5/3, (maximum thickness of the suit is 5 mm, while the minimum is 3 mm), even in the coldest waters and for swimming in temperatures over 80 degrees Fahrenheit no more than a neoprene vest.
Where To Buy
As a wetsuit must be a glove fit, it is not recommended that you buy over the Internet. Instead, visit a dedicated water sports shop, where you'll be able to try on several different types and make your decision accordingly. When trying on your suit, make the movements you use when you swim to check whether the suit has the right amount of stretch.
Cost
Swimming wetsuits can cost $100 to $700 depending on the quality of the neoprene, how flexible it is, how the seam is stitched (this affects how watertight the suit is) and the suit's thickness. Try several suits in different price ranges and carefully assess what you're getting for your money. Consider whether paying 20 percent extra really gives you that extra flexibility or whether you are simply paying for a name.
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