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Triathlon Wetsuits

Twenty years ago, the unique needs of triathletes led Dan Empfield to design the triathlon wetsuit. The materials of triathlon wetsuits are thinner and smoother than other wetsuits and easier to remove quickly. The design features of triathlon wetsuits provide the increased speed, warmth, and safety that triathletes need to compete at their very best.

Triathlon wetsuit features

These are the features to look for in triathlon wetsuits:

• Fit
  Fit matters most, but don't judge triathlon wetsuits like you do clothes. A well-fitted triathlon wetsuit will probably feel tight. Wearing a triathlon wetsuit properly requires you to pull it tight against your crotch and armpits. Keep your socks on, and lubricate your neck, wrists, and shoulders before you swim.
  
  
• Material
  The neoprene in triathlon wetsuits is sleeker and more fragile than other wetsuits. Trim your nails or wear gloves when donning a triathlon wetsuit to reduce the chance of ripping or tearing. When transporting a triathlon wetsuit, make sure it's dry and packed loosely -- preferably inside out to prevent surface nicks.
  
  
• Design
  The two primary triathlon wetsuit styles are fullsuit and sleeveless. Triathlon wetsuits are designed to give swimmers more speed and buoyancy. A full triathlon wetsuit will do that best. However, some triathletes prefer a sleeveless wetsuit because it keeps their arms free and gives them a better sense of the water.
  
  
• Zippers
  Zipper quality and placement is important for getting in and out of a triathlon wetsuit quickly. Back zip wetsuits are the commonest type. Some wetsuits also make use of Velcro flaps for additional closure, or zippers on other areas of the wetsuit such as the wrists or ankles.

  Triathlon wetsuits are more delicate than most. Keep your wetsuit away from heat and direct sunlight, and remember to rinse and clean it regularly. Treat small nicks and holes with neoprene glue before they have time to expand and ruin your triathlon wetsuit.