General Discussion Triathlon Talk » The Wet Suit debate..... Rss Feed  
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2017-02-15 7:47 PM


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Subject: The Wet Suit debate.....
Hey there, new to the site and to triathlons. I've been training and will be doing a couple this year. The last bit of equipment I need is to nail down a good wet suit. Having never used one for a Tri before, I don't have much to go off of. Any good recommendations out there? Thanks everyone in advance!

Randy


2017-02-16 7:06 AM
in reply to: RGWhite62

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Middle River, Maryland
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Subject: RE: The Wet Suit debate.....

Wetsuits are very personal, and they run the gammit for quality and price.  Plus you have some decisions to make...

Sleeved vs. sleeveless

One piece vs. two piece

Thickness/buoyancy (typically correlates with price, but not always...)

Fit (this is tough as many of us buy them online)

Price (anywhere from say, $130 for an entry-level sleeveless to almost $1K for the Rolls Royce)

Your swimming ability and style will also play a role in your decision making process, as well as the types of races and water temps you will be experiencing. 

For what it's worth, for a sprint/Oly guy who's 6'3", 200#, and swims in water typically above 66*, I went with an entry level Promotion sleeveless.  I think I got it for about $150.  I ordered it online and I was lucky and it fit perfectly.

I know I didn't really answer your question but hopefully I've sent you towards the right things to think about.  Good luck in your search, and welcome to the tri world!

2017-02-19 8:01 PM
in reply to: RGWhite62

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Great White North
Subject: RE: The Wet Suit debate.....
Fit is king. Make sure you buy a tri specific suit and have shop staff help you. Hopefully they have a trial/return policy.
2017-02-21 1:18 PM
in reply to: RGWhite62

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Tyrone, Georgia
Subject: RE: The Wet Suit debate.....
Like the two others have already stated I feel personal fit should be the #1 priority.

I have used Xterra, 2XU, and now ROKA. I like the ROKA I have but it is also the first sleeveless I have purchased. Just so much more mobility for me through the shoulders. I am 6ft3in myself and have broader shoulders so I found sleeved suits very restricting in the shoulders.
2017-02-21 4:09 PM
in reply to: dandr614

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44
25
Berlin, Berlin
Subject: RE: The Wet Suit debate.....
How do you guys feel about sleeveless in below 65 degrees water? I will be doing my first Trip in Berlin in June & the water will be around 62

Is this too cold or okay? I would rather go for a sleeveless but wondering if I'm going to lose energy keeping myself warm

Incidentally, I am also 6'3" & broad
2017-02-22 11:47 AM
in reply to: lowdon

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Tyrone, Georgia
Subject: RE: The Wet Suit debate.....
I typically use 65F for my cutoff from sleeveless to sleeved but I am a little more sensitive to cold water than others. I think some have a different tolerance/intolerance though and this is definitely a personal choice. I have also seen some races mandate wetsuit use and even recommend neoprene caps as water temps got in the low 60's.


2017-02-23 4:00 PM
in reply to: dandr614

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44
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Berlin, Berlin
Subject: RE: The Wet Suit debate.....
Thanks! Okay, seems like it'll be a close one then

I'm going to head to the shop this weekend & try some out. The shop staff should have an idea if it'll be too much

Will report back
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