General Discussion Triathlon Talk » How tight should a wet suit fit? Rss Feed  
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2009-03-30 11:04 PM

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Gilbert, Arizona
Subject: How tight should a wet suit fit?
So I ordered my first wetsuit and got it today.  It is an Orca suit and I ordered based on their size chart.  I am at the upper end of their size scaling in chest and weight for the size I bought.  I tried it on and it seems tight in the torso as in hard to zip up unless a push my shoulders back.  I seem to be able to move in it okay.  But not sure what I am looking for in the fit any help from those who aren't typical triathlete body's?  You know big boned or well insulated


2009-03-30 11:39 PM
in reply to: #2050140

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Expert
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Arizona
Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?
Put it on like this:

http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/features/Wetsuit_Demo.shtml

Once you're done, it should be tight everywhere, but the shoulders.
You should be able to swing your arms around without feeling any extra
effort in your shoulders.

Tight around the neck, but not choking you.

Then standing in your living room it should feel hot and sweaty, and
it should feel nice and floaty in the water.

-Jot
2009-03-31 1:52 AM
in reply to: #2050140

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Elite
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Mesa, AZ
Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?
I think they feel HORRIBLE until you get in the water. But if it feels extra tight in the shoulders even on land that wont change much in the water. I basically feel like I am suffocating, but in the water - I'm OK, sort of :p
2009-03-31 9:34 AM
in reply to: #2050140

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Master
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Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?

I always feel like a circus bear stuffed into a prophylactic when I put mine on, if that gives you any idea how it feels.  They're tight. Many people feel claustrophobic in them when they get into the water because the pressure around your chest seems to make you feel that breathing is more difficult.

Once you do stuff your shoulders into the suit, how does it feel? Does it constrict your movement? 

2009-03-31 10:27 AM
in reply to: #2050140

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Extreme Veteran
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Alpharetta, Ga.
Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?

I still haven't worn a tri wetsuit, but I am a scuba diver and those suits are really thick and restrict your movement bad.

Personally I have just gotten used to wearing them over the years.

Seems to me that tight is good, except in the shoulders where yuo have to swing your arms. Everything else doesn't matter much.

2009-03-31 11:04 AM
in reply to: #2050140

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Master
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Flagstaff and Phoenix, AZ
Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?

The tighter the better--in the right places, like the others said. Otherwise water starts to circulate inside the suit and negates its purpose. You only want some water in it that warms up and provides insulation. You'll get used to wearing a wetsuit. Just don't wait until race day to try it out. Do a few practice OWSs in it beforehand.



2009-03-31 11:40 AM
in reply to: #2050140

Pro
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AZ
Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?

Rocky, I think the only way we can truly help you is for you to glide your little butterball into the suit, take pics, and post them so we can evaluate the fit.

Front, side, back will do.

I am totally serious.

2009-03-31 12:36 PM
in reply to: #2050140

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Extreme Veteran
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Arizona
Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?
I wouldn't trust that face.
2009-03-31 3:03 PM
in reply to: #2051162

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Gilbert, Arizona
Subject: RE: How tight should a wet suit fit?
StandsWithFist - 2009-03-31 9:40 AM

Rocky, I think the only way we can truly help you is for you to glide your little butterball into the suit, take pics, and post them so we can evaluate the fit.

Front, side, back will do.

I am totally serious.

 

Well like I said on sunday morning I am not even ready to look at myself in a cycling jersey let alone, the ridicule from the pictures you request. 

 You all have answered my question and I will eventually have to wear it in public so you can take all the photos you want.

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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » How tight should a wet suit fit? Rss Feed