Are you an avid swimmer or triathlete looking to take your performance to the next level? In that case, choosing the right wetsuit can make all the difference. Not all wetsuits are created equal, and finding the perfect fit for your specific goals and body type can be a daunting task. But don't worry, because with the right knowledge and guidance you can reach your goal! In this article, I will guide you through the process of choosing the best wetsuit for your swimming or triathlon needs. I cover everything from material and thickness to size and fit, so you can feel safe and comfortable in the water. So grab your swim goggles and let's get started!
Introduction to wetsuits
Wetsuits are an essential piece of equipment for swimmers and triathletes as they help increase buoyancy and reduce water resistance. This means that you can swim faster and longer, while saving energy. In addition, they also help to keep the body warm in cooler water.
It is important to choose the right wetsuit for your needs, as a poor fit can lead to discomfort and limited freedom of movement.
The importance of choosing the right wetsuit for swimming and triathlon
Choosing the right wetsuit can have a big impact on your performance in the water. If the suit is too big or too small, it can limit your freedom of movement and increase water resistance, which can lead to fatigue and a slower swim time. In addition, a poor fit can also lead to discomfort, irritation and wear and tear on the skin. On the other hand, the right size wetsuit can help increase performance and lead to faster and more efficient swimming.
Types of wetsuits - Long sleeve and sleeveless
There are several types of wetsuits, but the two most common are long-sleeved and sleeveless. There are also short sleeves and short legs, which are used quite a bit for the Swim Run. The long sleeve wetsuits are the most common choice for triathlon and open water swimming as they provide the most comprehensive body coverage and buoyancy. Sleeveless wetsuits are a good choice for warmer water and shorter swims as they allow more freedom of movement in the arms and shoulders. It is important to choose the right type of wetsuit for your needs, as each type has different advantages and disadvantages. However, we would recommend the long-sleeved for virtually all swimmers.
Material and thickness of wetsuits
Material and thickness are important factors to consider when choosing a wetsuit. Most wetsuits and those we recommend are made of neoprene, a synthetic material that is both flexible and insulating. The thickness of the neoprene varies from anywhere between 0.3 mm to 5 mm and the thicker the neoprene, the more insulating and buoyant the wetsuit will typically be. Top models will typically have areas that are quite thin, in order to optimize performance in terms of freedom of movement etc. This of course also affects the vulnerability of the suit. Typically, top models will be developed from many different "pieces" of different thicknesses. Whereas the cheaper suits are typically composed of fewer pieces of neoprene, and thus not the same degree of detail. This often affects the freedom of movement around the shoulder area, where they are typically thinner on the top models.
Size guide for wetsuits
Choosing the right size wetsuit is essential for a good fit and optimal performance in the water. Most wetsuits are designed to fit close to the body, so it's important to measure your body accurately and choose the right size. You should measure your bust, waist and hips and compare them to the size guide for the specific wetsuit you are considering. If your measurements fall between two sizes, our best experience is to go with the small size, as a wetsuit will give a little. And if the suit therefore ends up being a little too big, you will be annoyed in the long run. However, the wetsuit should not fit so tightly that you have problems pulling the weather or major restrictions on your freedom of movement and comfort.
Features to look for in a wetsuit - buoyancy, flexibility and comfort
When choosing a wetsuit, there are several features to consider to ensure optimal performance and comfort in the water. Buoyancy is one of the most important factors as it helps keep you afloat and reduces water resistance. A wetsuit with high buoyancy will typically have thicker neoprene on the chest and stomach. Flexibility is also important as it allows more freedom of movement in the arms and shoulders. A well-designed wetsuit will have strategically placed panels of thinner neoprene around the shoulder area to increase flexibility. It is also typically here that you start to see the big price differences. Suits with more detail and a greater degree of differentiation in thickness of neoprene will typically cost more.
Finally, comfort is of course crucial, as you want a wetsuit that fits close to the body, but at the same time feels comfortable and does not irritate the skin.
The best wetsuits for swimming and triathlon - the best brands and models
There are many different brands and models of wetsuits on the market, so it can be difficult to choose the right one. Some of the best brands in our opinion include Sailfish, Zone3, Orca and Deboer. These brands offer a wide range of wetsuits in different price ranges and for different levels of experience. Some of the best models include, Zone3 Vanquish and Sailfish Ultimate IPS Plus 3 . Known for their good buoyancy, excellent flexibility, speed and comfort, these models are a good choice for serious swimmers and triathletes.
If you are looking for a more beginner and affordable wetsuit , Zone3 Agile or Sailfish Ignite 2 are good options.
If you want to step up from the beginner suits, but think that the top models are a bit too expensive, we can warmly recommend Zone3 Vision . Here you still get good buoyancy and a bit more flexibility than the cheaper wetsuits.
Maintenance and care of wetsuits
Taking good care of your wetsuit is important to extend its life and maintain its performance. After each use, we recommend that you rinse your wetsuit in cold water to remove salt, sand and dirt. Be sure to dry your wetsuit on a hanger in the shade and avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can damage the neoprene.
Wetsuit accessories - gloves, feet and hoods
In addition to the wetsuit itself, there are also a number of accessories that can help improve your performance in the water. Neoprene gloves, socks and cap are ideal for swimming in cold water as they keep your hands, feet and head warm and protect against the cold.
We always recommend that you swim with a swimming cap and preferably with a color so that you are easily spotted by other swimmers, kayaks or boats.
In addition, we also recommend that you swim with a swim buoy, with a view to visibility when you swim. In addition, some models are available with storage compartments for keys and the like.
Conclusion and final tips for choosing the best wetsuit for your swimming and triathlon dreams
Choosing the right wetsuit can have a big impact on your performance in the water, so it's important to take the time to choose the right one. Remember to consider factors such as material, thickness, size, buoyancy, flexibility and comfort when choosing a wetsuit. Also make sure to take good care of your wetsuit by rinsing it after each use. With the right wetsuit and the right accessories, you can take your swimming or triathlon dream to the next level!
