The best triathlon wetsuit for you will depend on your swimming ability, the climate you compete in and your personal preferences for fit and easy removal options. The right wetsuit can improve your swim speed by 30 percent, according to the book "Triathlon Training." However, no matter what the quality of your suit, it must fit properly to benefit you in your race.
Full or Sleeveless
The temperature of the water can determine whether you want to use a full or sleeveless wetsuit. Full suits are more buoyant and have less drag, making for a faster and warmer swim. However, you can overheat in a full wetsuit, cautions the Beginner Triathlete website. A sleeveless suit is easier to remove when you hit the transition from swimming to biking. Also, if you want to give your arms more freedom as you swim, you'll likely prefer the sleeveless suits, according to "Triathlon Training." However, if you are struggling with your swim, the buoyancy offered by the full wetsuit will help you close the gap between your level of swim efficiency and a stronger swimmer's level of efficiency.
Fit
A wetsuit is definitely a try-before-you buy item, and size charts don't always predict which size you'll need with absolute accuracy. You want your suit to be snug but not tight and to offer good shoulder mobility. The fit of the neckline is of particular concern so you don't feel suffocated. You need to ensure that no folds or excess material is along the suit, and that leg and arm holes are snug so they don't scoop in water. Zippers come down to personal choice, according to the Beginner Triathlete website. Many suits have zippers down the back and in other places, such as the legs. No matter where the zippers may be, ease of removal for your suit is an important factor, notes Matt Fitzgerald, author of "Triathlete Magazine's Complete Triathlon Book."
Gender Specific
Your sex will play a role in the wetsuit you choose. A women's wetsuit is made to conform to the female shape. Blue Seventy, Promotion, Xterra, DeSoto, Zoot, 2XU, Zoot, Quintana Roo, Fit 2 Race, Synergy and Neosport are all reputable triathlon wetsuit makers that offer women's specific suits. Other reputable brands to check are Orca, Ironman and Aquaman, according to Finch.
Considerations
You can buy a used wetsuit, but check for any tears. Also ensure that older wetsuits conform to USA Triathlon wetsuit regulations, which take effect in 2013. Any wetsuit that exceeds 5 mm in thickness at any point on the suit is banned as of Jan. 1, 2013. The penalty is disqualification. You also can rent a triathlon wetsuit. However, if you go this route, you need to swim in it at least one time before you use it for a race, advises Wes Hobson, lead author for the book, "Swim, Bike, Run."
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