Question about wetsuits for my next tri.

[Cruzomatic]

A buddy of mine and I are going to race in our first open water tri. It's mid next month so we're expecting the water to be a bit chilly. We're considering wetsuits. Can you all please explain the in's and out's of wetsuits. Where to buy, what thickness, full body or short, brands, etc, etc, etc.

Thanks,,,,

[itri-45]

http://www.slowtwitch.com/mainheadings/product2007/wetsuits/wetsuits2005.html

[Psydotek]

Fullsleeve entry level wetsuit which means around $200.

Check www.trisports.com or www.all3sports.com. They usually start having sales on wetsuits about now to make room for the 2008 line.

[nycom99]

I used the folks at www.wetsuitrental.com (http://www.wetsuitrental.com). I rented the sleeveless version for two races last year. This year, I purchased one from them (after renting). I'd recommend renting first to see how you like the different models.

The wetsuit rental site is pretty informative, too. They have 1-2 minute videos showing how to 'don and doff' wetsuits and instructions on how to care for your suit.

Wetsuits decrease water resistance and help keep you hips from sinking. They are very bouyant. I didn't believe it until I put one and jumped in the pool- weird feeling. You should be faster in one than without. I'd suggest getting the suit before the race and try it out in the water (at least in a pool)...

Good luck!
Carlos

[TysonB]

NYCOM,

RENT A WETSUIT!

Don't even consider Not renting one if the water is the least bit chilly. I prefer the full sleeve type, but others seem just as happy with the sleeveless.

You definitely go faster, stay warmer and feel more secure in a wetsuit because they are so bouyant. Modern suits are designed for swimming and racing. (As opposed to the old style scuba suits or surfing kits.)

Because there are lots of different styles and manufacturers, renting is neat because you can see what you like and don't like in a suit before you spend the outlay for a purchase. wetsuitrental.com works with TRI-USA and will ship your suit the Monday before the race so you can have a day or two to get some swims in before your race. Approximately $50.00 including shipping. You have to pay for shipping back.

Tyson

[AaronDavidson]

I swam today off of Rhode Island and the water was still fine. I would definitely rent if I were to do a Tri next month. I swam in spandex and a 'regular' style short bathing suit over. Not the best setup but it works for me right now.

[Cruzomatic]

All great suggestions,,,thanks!!!

[MarkSch]

Haven't done a tri in a few years, but have done about 100 or so in years gone by....lots with wetsuits of different types. Unless the water is REALLY cold, I'd avoid the full sleeves. Remember, a wetsuit works by absorbing some water. That water has weight. Do you really want to be lifting extra weight with every stroke?

My favorite was body and 3/4 legs. Gave you floatation, plenty of warmth, and pretty quick to get out of.

[What]

All things being equal, the full is faster. Of course, if the full inhibits or alters your stroke in some way, you may be better off sleeveless. If you don't have a lot of open-water swimming experience, comfort is key.

But it's been proven that full sleeves are more buoyant and faster.

[ranger5oh]

If a wetsuit is allowed, wear one. If you plan on staying in the sport, I would definitely reccommend buying one. You really need to have it fit perfectly, and train in it a couple times. You will be AMAZED by the amount of buoancy they provide... its on par with a life jacket.

Also, buy a full sleeve wetsuit. There is almost no time the temperature will be at a level you will want sleeveless. The additional floatation you get from the sleeves is great, and with new wetsuits they are designed so well they dont pull on your shoulders at all.