Triathlon - Wetsuit - Pullover or Vest? 5MM vs. 2MM...

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA
Tress94
08-07-07, 03:39 PM
Can someone please demystify the Tri wetsuit options...what are you using...what do you like...I'm looking at the DeSoto stuff...any thoughts? I was thinking about picking up the TI Speedtube pants in 5MM and the 2MM Black Pearl vest, anyone own this stuff? Runs big/small? Is the sizing chart on the website accurate? Any info is great...

Thanks a bunch!

John W
08-08-07, 09:13 AM
Here's my two cents: Never seen them worn at any event I've been in. I guess traditionally I see the full suits (full arms and legs) and the Long Johns (sleeveless and full legs). Seem to be the most popular ones. This is the one I have and I live in New England. http://www.nytro.com/Q_Roo_Ultrajohn_Wetsuit_2007_p/qr07ultjohn.htm I've used it in competition from Florida to New Hampshire and from lakes to ocean. Doesn't ever get too hot for me and is quick to get out of.
chrisesposito
08-08-07, 11:10 AM
The sizing on the website I find to be accurate, although if you want to be sure do what I did, since my torso length / leg length proportion is a bit out of the normal range. I emailed Emilio (De Soto) and he had me take several body measurements and then recommended a size, which fits me perfectly. The customer service at De Soto is outstanding.

You will be faster in the T1 bibjohn than in the speedtube, and in the full (sleeved) T1 pullover than in the vest. I have the Full T1 First Wave Pullover and Bibjohn, and the 5mm Speedtube. Since I do a fair amount of open-water swims by myself, it's handy that I can zip the top closed without assistance. The speedtube has to be pulled all the way up so that it is very snug in the crotch and the drawstring tied tightly or it gathers a bit of water inside and balloons a bit. The full wetsuit is quite warm, and well suited for cooler water.

ItCostsWhat?
08-20-07, 06:22 PM
I use the DeSoto and really like it. I'm 6'1"200lbs and I have a long torso. Dont tell Emilio, but I cut the sleeves of mine for more comfort.
BigCat
08-21-07, 07:22 PM
I bought my Pipe 19 on ebay for $60 and have been very happy with every aspect of it. I checked the manufacturer's website for size guidelines and also talked to the guy who was selling it, who was my size. It is very easy to get on and off if I use a vegetable spray on the legs. It fits perfectly and is very comfortable.