Triathlon wetsuits are becoming increasingly popular for races of all distances. The suits' many benefits include conserving energy, reducing drag and increasing speed and buoyancy. Made from blends of neoprene and rubber composite, triathlon wetsuits are coated with a low-friction skin designed to push the water away and allow the swimmer to cut through it faster. This differs from the traditional scuba or surfing wetsuit that is actually designed to capture water to keep the swimmer warm.
When comparing triathlon wetsuits, consider benefits, styles, fit and price. With literally dozens of manufacturers and styles, it helps to be well-informed before making a purchase. The wrong wetsuit can literally slow you down and ruin your triathlon experience.
Benefits
Without question, wearing the proper wetsuit will make you faster in the water. Kevin Koskella of www.triswimcoach.com stresses that a good suit should allow full range of motion in the shoulders, chest and legs while providing maximum buoyancy. The higher you float, the faster you will go. Even in shorter-distance triathlons, wearing a wetsuit is beneficial if you practice how to get in and out of it quickly. In cold water swims, a wetsuit keeps you warmer and conserves energy for the bike and swim legs of the race. Also, triathlon newcomers can feel they won't sink if they find themselves in a panicked situation.
Styles
Most companies make wetsuits ranging from entry level to high end. The main differences are the materials used and the way the suit is stitched. The most popular styles are the sleeveless and the full suit. The sleeveless wetsuit, also known as a Long John, is comfortable for some because of the exposed range of motion in the arms and shoulders, particularly in warmer water. Sleeveless wetsuits are also easier to take off when transitioning to a different sport in a race. Sleeveless wetsuits, however, tend to let in more water around the shoulder area. They are recommended for water temperatures above 75 degrees F. The full-cut suit covers the swimmer's entire body, allowing more warmth and buoyancy, particularly in cold water swims over 50 degrees F. They let in less water, which ultimately reduces drag and results in faster swim times.
Proper Fit
Jack Murray, owner of Jack and Adams Bicycle Shop in Austin, Texas, recommends trying on and testing several suits before deciding on a particular style. He advises that the wetsuit should practically feel like another layer of skin. A triathlon wetsuit should be snug, with no major gaps or folds in the arms and shoulders. Gaps of any kind allow water to sneak in. Many manufacturers also have sizing charts on their websites. Not all wetsuits are cut the same, so sizing may be different from brand to brand. In general, it is important to have full range of shoulder motion without feeling suffocated or pinched in the suit.
Price
The price of wetsuits varies greatly, depending on the style and materials used. Most mid-level suits in 2010 are $200 to $300 and can last several years with proper care and cleaning. Koskella notes the main differences that dictate price are the quality of seams and stitching, blend of rubber, thickness of material, and any specialized material or designs that enhance swimming speed. High-end wetsuits can cost $600 to $700.
Race Guidelines
It is also important to know the rules for wearing wetsuits during races. USAT, the official governing body of triathlon in the United States, has specific wetsuit guidelines, based on water temperatures on race day. USAT guidelines state that a race is "wetsuit legal" if the water temperature is 78 degrees F or below on race day. An athlete may wear a wetsuit if the water is between 79 and 84 degrees F, but he is not eligible for age group awards. Wetsuits are not allowed at all in water above 85 degrees F.
References
- Swimming Coach Kevin Koskella Offers Beginner Tips
- Jack Murray, Owner; Jack and Adams Bike Shop; Austin, Texas
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