TriSuit versus Tri shorts and Top

I have had great luck with my one piece in sprint and olympic distance.  It has covered pockets so I can put gels in it before the swim and I can wear my heart rate strap under it.  Two less things to fool with in T1.  Based on advice here I am looking for a 2 piece as I get ready for IM Arizona. 

its all about functionality...I like two pieces because I go to the bathroom a lot...more difficult in a one piece and one pieces are more expensive.

I started by swimming with a pair of under armor type shorts under my wetsuit for the first race, then pulling on a top in T1.

Next race I went with Tri shorts and wore a UA type top under the wetsuit.

Third race I was in a 1 piece suit under the wetsuit and have continued to use it since.

I like the fact that I can put my HR strap on, know its not going anywhere, and get outta T1 as quick as possible.  I have not raced in brutal heat yet, but I also like the fact that I can unzip it to let a little more air flow on the run if needed, or pull it to my waist if it were extremely warm.  

I would say personal preference is a big one here, and finding something that is a good fit.   

how is this different from tri shorts/top?  I wear my shorts/top under my wetsuit, with my HR strap, and it has a big zipper also, so not sure how a tri suit is better based on that.

A lot depends on personal preference and what works best for you. I seem to have chaffing issues with the tri top/shorts combo for longer distances, but it makes using the porta potties a little easier. I've never had chaffing issues with my trisuit, but it could be I just haven't found the perfect tri top/shorts combo for me.

Love the 1 piece. So much easier all around.

for oly races and my 1st him i will wear 1 pc....its so much easier.  ALTHOUGH i have to say this.  in florida, 1 pc even in march was very hot.

for sprint races i prefer just shorts, you don't need a top and don't need HR monitor you are racing full blast anyways.