Fitting a tri suit

[Plainsman]

I'm thinking about picking up a tri-suit for my first sprint tri in March. I've heard that you should by a tri-suit at least a size smaller than your regular gear. I'll probably shop online, and although I know I can always send something back I would rather get it right the first time. Is this sizing rule of thumb true? I'm 6'1, 175lbs, and dropping down to a medium in anything just sounds crazy to me.

Also, can anyone recommend a good suit that won't break the bank? Thanks!

[Matt888]

Risky Business shopping online for such an item as fit is so important. You really need to try them on first because they are so snug. And as far as I know unless you get your Mum to make one for you, they are all on the expensive side.

Good luck though, it can be hard to find one you like.

[cjbruin]

Not sure I agree with Matt. I've bought stuff online and been happy with it. Check out Tri Sports. They are having a sale and they typically list the sizing info with the garment. Here's an Orca Tri Suit that is on sale.

http://www.trisports.com/ormeraditris.html

[nycom99]

I agree finding one online is relatively easy. Most websites have fit guides and 800 numbers to call for assistance.

Word of caution, swimming in lakes or rivers turns the white part of a suit brown...I've tried to get mine clean by various methods without much success.

[Matt888]

Maybe I'm just an odd bodied human ( I am quite tall at 6'4 ), I have found it a little difficult finding one in the past.
I use a 2 peice 2XU jobie now and I like it. The ORCA ones I didn't really like. I have one that I only raced in 3 - 4 times and couldn't get used to it even after training in it for a bit. Up to the individual though I guess.

[Plainsman]

Thanks cjbruin, that's just the type of thing I'm looking for. Matt888, can you tell me how the 2 piece works? I mean, do you just swim in tri shorts and then put on a top during the transition, or is this a top that you swim in as well? I'm new to this, so please pardon the naive question. I just assumed you had to go with the full suit if you wanted to skip putting a top on during T1. Thanks in advance.

[rplong]

I wear two pieces, just swim in the top. It will dry out quickly on the bike. I was against a one piece suit b/c I think it might feel kind of restrictive while running. Even though some people say buying online is ok. If you have never worn something before, I think trying on would be the best course of action. Especially since I have never seen a one piece below 80 bucks. Well, that orca is less, good luck to you!

[NitE GameR]

You should check out desoto. they are having a sale on their 2006 stock, and i picked up a 1 piece suit for 24 bucks. I'm about 5'8" with a 30" waist and bought a small. Seems to fit fine. Great product too.


http://www.desotosport.com/products/product.asp?Category=Specials&ProdID=MPSK4

[Matt888]

As Stated, you swim in it (the top that is). Most races I do are wetsuit races so that makes it easier. But they are fine to swim in without a wetsuit. I used to have a cool Canibal top that I used to tuck into my Budgie smugglers and then just pull up as I ran towards T1. That was a good one don't know what happened to it though.