Triathlon Wetsuit

The importance of a triathlon wetsuit is often overlooked. With all the training for the swimming, cycling and running legs, the wetsuit is often an afterthought. But for the swimming portion of the event to go smoothly and successful, then, there are a few things you should consider about the triathlon wetsuit.

As most swimming sections of the triathlon are held in the open water areas, like the ocean, or a lake, the water temperature may be chilly. If the swim leg is for a long distance and the water is cold then a quality triathlon wetsuit is a must.

Wearing a good wetsuit will give you a competitive advantage, through comfort, buoyancy and perhaps more streamlined through the water. However, certain sanctioned events, countries and governing bodies have different rules and regulations for wearing wetsuits. Most allow you to have a triathlon wetsuit if the water is below or at 25.5 degrees Celsius, or 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are some competitions that allow you to wear a wetsuit no matter what the water temperature is. In some events, you may find that they are actually required to wear one. The temperature rules may also differ between professionals, different age groups like children and categories. Be sure to read the rules carefully and if in doubt ask an official. Make sure you get this information prior to the race, so you can train in the wetsuit and get used of its characteristics.

A triathlon wetsuit has different designs, even in a non-wetsuit triathlon; you may be allowed a speed suit, which does not cover your arms or shoulders.

There are a numerous reasons why wetsuit is a good idea in triathlon competition. Not only will the suit keep you warmer, which is important for comfort and speed, the wetsuit will help your legs stay warmer, so the bike section is easier. Numb legs when trying to hop on and ride a bike is not fun.

A wetsuit will also protect you from being stung by jellyfish, which is not only distracting from the race, but in some cases can be fatal. The wetsuit will also offer protection from coral nicks and scrapes.

For poor swimmers or to help you out when you are physically exhausted, a triathlon wetsuit can help you float easier. Obviously that depends on the thickness of the wetsuit, a thicker suit will be more buoyant, but can be less flexible, which is needed for swimming.

You do not want to be halfway through the swim only to find the suit chaffing and unbearable. Some wetsuits have polyester lining, which helps maintain body heat and reduces rubbing.

With new space age coatings and materials a triathlon wetsuit can offer minimal resistance in the water. If you take triathlons seriously, then preparation is important and the wetsuit can make or break your swim leg.