Buying a Triathlon Wetsuit - The Real Guide!

If you have got the "tri" bug and have decided to take part in a triathlon event, you will most likely need a triathlon wetsuit. Of course, there are same rare occasions when an event takes place in warm conditions and triathlon wetsuit is not required.

When it comes to buying a tri wetsuit, especially for the first time, a lot of people get understandably confused. If you check the manufacturers websites you will find that most of them claim to use some unique technology or other which will help you glide in the water.

The truth is that most tri wetsuits are pretty much the same. After all, a Japanese rubber company called Yamamoto supplies almost all of the big brands.

Yes, a triathlon wetsuit may help you swim faster due to added buoyancy, but if you haven't put the time in the pool no tri wetsuit will do the work for you.

So, if most triathlon wetsuits are very similar, how do people choose which one to buy? There are 3 main factors.

1. Price - Most manufacturers have different models in 3 price ranges - under £150, £150-£300 and £300+. Before you decide which wetsuit is for you, you need to decide how much you can afford to spend.

2. Fit - As similar as tri wetsuits are, there are some differences when it comes to sizing. You need to know your measurements - weight, height and chest. The sizing parameters are different for men and women. It is possible that a brand may not have a tri wetsuit in the exact size that fit you, but another brand will.

3. Looks - Lets face it, all triathletes like to look good in the water, on the bike and while running. I have a lot of friends that have bought a more expensive tri wetsuit not because it is better or will make them swim faster, but because it looks better, its different and cool.

There you have it, the no BS real guide to buying a triathlon wetsuit. Whichever brand you decide to go for - Quintana Roo, Orca, Aqua Sphere or 2XU - just make sure your triathlon wetsuit fits well and it doesn't burn a hole in your pocket. Well, unless it looks really good of course.