Tri suit vs wet suit

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2012-02-28 4:28 PM


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Subject: Tri suit vs wet suit

Hey all,

I am doing my first tri in March and the water temp is estimated to be 60 - 65 degrees.  I am looking into getting a tri suit that can be worn for the entire race, but am a bit concerned that the swim will be cold without a wet suit.  Being new to the sport I don't want to invest in both a tri and wet suit.  Any advice or should I just buck up and jump in? 

Thanks!!

2012-02-28 5:32 PM
in reply to: #4071336

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Subject: RE: Tri suit vs wet suit
See if a local shop rents swimming specific wetsuits....not diving or surfing wetsuits. If not, buy one and use it several times before the race. Last thing you want is to be uncomfortable during the swim...it's stressful enough Wink.
2012-02-29 6:51 AM
in reply to: #4071336

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Subject: RE: Tri suit vs wet suit

you can use things other than a tri suit for the entire race, a sleeveless cycling kit or a swim suit with a tri top, or a tri top with cycling shorts, its all pretty similiar, whatever you have.

You can find a place online to rent a wetsuit for a week for around $45, that will put the $45 towards a purchase if you decide you want to buy. just google triathlon wetsuit rentals and you'll have luck

2012-03-06 9:25 PM
in reply to: #4071336


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Subject: RE: Tri suit vs wet suit
Would you all recommend wearing a wet suit in 60 degree water?
2012-03-07 4:11 AM
in reply to: #4084009

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Subject: RE: Tri suit vs wet suit
60 degrees is pretty cold.  I would wear a wetsuit.  Plus, you get the additional buoyancy and speed.  As a beginner, you want your first experience to be an enjoyable one.  If it's not too much of an additional expense I would invest in the tri suit (you'll be able to use it multiple times) and also rent a wetsuit.  It should come a few days before the race, make sure to try it on a get in the water with it.  As mentioned, you don't want to mess around with it on race day.  Good luck and most of all have fun! 
2012-03-13 11:53 AM
in reply to: #4071336

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Subject: RE: Tri suit vs wet suit

Having raced in Clermont these last 2 years in March, I was happy to have a wet suit.  But, there were a few without and they lived. 

enjoy,

Duane

2012-03-14 5:37 PM
in reply to: #4094236

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Subject: RE: Tri suit vs wet suit
As a FL native, I would be wearing a wetsuit for any swim under 70 degrees with rare exception of a sprint race and that is even a maybe.   That said, plently of other good advice already given regarding rentals etc.   Try it out and get a few good practice swims in as the constricted feel of the suit will take some getting used to.  
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