Essential Tips for Choosing Your First open water swimming Wetsuit

If you are thinking about buying your first triathlon wetsuit there are a few things to take into consideration. 

 You can swim in any wetsuit designed for water sport, but it is not very comfortable. A triathlon or open water swimming  wetsuits Are specifically designed for swimming. In triathlon, the maximum allowed neoprene thickness is 5 mm, so you need to take that into account as well. Some wetsuits not designed for triathlon could be thicker. A good wetsuit is comfortable, flexible and fast for swimming. It doesn’t allow a lot of water inside. The inner lining is smooth and silky and doesn’t cause rashes. It should feel like a second skin. 

When choosing a wetsuit most important is the sizing. If you look at the size chart, check at the weight first, length is not quite as important. Best if possible is to try it out before buying. Most triathlon wetsuits are made of Japanese Yamamoto neoprene, there are still some differences in the quality of the rubber. The higher the number (Yamamoto 38, 39, 40, 42…44) the lightest and most flexible it will be. But it is really the design and cut that makes a huge difference between brands and models. The MAKO range, for example, has a very unique “arm up”  cut that allows for maximum mobility. A triathlon wetsuit should feel quite tight, but it shouldn’t restrain your movements, and it should allow you to breathe easily. It should be quite tight around the neck, but the collar should be quite low, so it doesn’t press against your throat. The arms and shoulders should be quite thin to allow for maximum flexibility, while the torso and the thighs could be quite thick, ensuring good buoyancy.  

Most triathlon wetsuits have a back zipper that opens from top to bottom. but some wetsuits, like the Mako top range, have a reverse zipper, which opens from bottom to top. This way the zipper won’t open accidentally during the swim, and it is a more natural motion to open the zipper in transition.

 A good triathlon wetsuit can be used for several years. But remember to take good care of it. Be careful with sharp nails when you put it on. Avoid exposing it to heat or direct sunshine. Don’t use any petrol based lubricants like vaseline with the wetsuit, prefer gentle baby oil or a neck protector. Rinse with clear water after use and time to time when necessary you can deep clean it by soaking it with a mix of water and dishwashing liquid.  

Related article: What’s a triathlon wetsuit? Why do I need one?