The multisport aspect is often what draws so many professional and amateur athletes to triathlons. With three sports contested in one event, athletes must first brave the swim leg before switching to the bike, and finally the run before they can claim the title of triathlete. Triathletes often don wetsuits not just for their warmth but because they offer buoyancy and speed for a more efficient swim.
Wetsuit Styles
Triathlon wetsuits are available in several styles. A full wetsuit covers the wearer from neckline to ankles, and is designed for cold-water conditions. A sleeveless wetsuit is similar to the full wetsuit, but allows more arm movement during the swim stroke. Generally, a full wetsuit provides the triathlete more warmth and buoyancy than does a sleeveless wetsuit.
Wetsuit Material and Depth
Wetsuits used in triathlon racing attempt to maintain a delicate balance, offering warmth and buoyancy while maintaining flexibility needed to swim freestyle competitively. Triathlon wetsuits are made largely of neoprene and rubber, and the thickness varies from 1.5 mm to 5 mm. The thickness through the arms and shoulders has less depth for freedom of movement while the chest, back, and legs have more depth for warmth and buoyancy.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Wetsuits
Triathlon wetsuits are available in one-piece and two-piece designs. The major difference between the two is the zipper runs from the neck to the sit bone down the back of the one-piece suit. A zipper lets a limited amount of water enter the wetsuit, adding weight and drag that requires more effort during the swim. A zipper can make the one-piece wetsuit more difficult to exit from than the two-piece wetsuit. Although both zipper issues with the one-piece wetsuit are valid points to consider, the two-piece suit is almost extinct, offered by a few companies. Choosing to swim in a one-piece wetsuit gives more choice of brand, features and price range
Conclusion
With all of the manufacturers, sizes, lengths, thicknesses, prices, and construction techniques, it is little wonder selecting a wetsuit is one of the more difficult equipment choices you will make. A wetsuit that fits your budget, body type, and inspires confidence is most likely the correct choice. Feeling comfortable in your wetsuit cannot be overstated on race day.
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