One of the biggest questions many first-time triathletes face is: "Do I need a wetsuit for triathlon?" The short answer is no, you don’t have to wear a wetsuit to compete, but in most cases, it’s highly recommended—especially for beginners.
All of us at MOTTIV have been in your shoes and understand the mix of excitement and nerves that come with preparing for your first open-water swim. Remember that achieving your race goals is possible, and having the right gear, like a wetsuit, can make all the difference.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about triathlon wetsuits, from understanding the rules to finding the perfect one for your race.
What You'll Learn in This Article
- Understanding triathlon wetsuit rules
- Benefits of wearing a wetsuit in open water swims
- How a wetsuit enhances swimming performance
- Types of wetsuits and how to choose the right one
- Tips for wearing and maintaining a wetsuit
- Special considerations for 2024 Ironman events
- FAQs about wetsuits and triathlons
Understanding Triathlon Wetsuit Rules
Yes, there are rules around wetsuit use that vary between countries and race organizations. Since wetsuits help you swim faster, the rules establish a fair playing field for all races. Additionally, if the water is extremely warm or extremely cold, wetsuit use can become a safety issue.
When Should Triathletes Wear a Wetsuit?
Wetsuits are optional in most triathlons, but they’re highly recommended for safety and performance, especially if you’re a beginner. Governing bodies like USA Triathlon have specific rules:
- Wetsuits are mandatory when the water temperature is below 16°C (60.8°F).
- Wetsuits are disallowed if the water is above 24.6°C (76.1°F).
- The decision whether to allow wetsuits or not is often a nuanced one, especially in warmer climates like Florida or Mexico. The final word may be announced just 20-40 minutes before the race, so always check for the latest update from race organizers.
Triathlon Wetsuit Requirements for Different Races
The length and type of race also affect wetsuit rules:
- Sprint and Olympic Triathlons: Wetsuits are usually optional unless temperatures are extreme.
- Ironman and Other Full-Distance Races: Wetsuits are often allowed but may have stricter guidelines due to longer swim portions.
- Pool-Based Triathlons: Wetsuits are rarely used, as the water is warm and controlled.
Open Water Swim: Why Wear a Wetsuit?
Most triathlons take place in bodies of open water (rivers, lakes, oceans and reservoirs), which are more unpredictable than pool. Currents, waves, chop, and sighting can make it more difficult to stay buoyant, and can impact your energy expenditure. Remember, there’s no pool wall to rest at in the open water!
Benefits of Wearing a Wetsuit in Open Water Swims
Wearing a wetsuit provides the following advantages in the open water:
- Buoyancy: Helps you stay afloat, making swimming far easier and conserving energy.
- Warmth: Keeps you warmer, reducing the risk of hypothermia and calming your nerves in colder water.
- Reduced Drag: Creates a hydrodynamic layer that helps you swim faster.
- Safety: If you panic, you can flip onto your back and float, which can prevent dangerous situations.
How a Wetsuit Enhances Swimming Performance
Here’s what you get from wearing a wetsuit:
- Improved Body Position: Neoprene helps lift your hips and legs, improving your body position in the water.
- Forward Progress: The snug fit reduces resistance, allowing for more efficient strokes.
- Energy Conservation: A wetsuit helps you maintain speed with less effort, leaving you fresher for the bike and run legs.
Is a Wetsuit Necessary for Ironman Competitions?
For Ironman events, a wetsuit can be crucial. The longer distances and colder swims make warmth and buoyancy essential. In warm-water Ironman races, however, wetsuits might be disallowed or prevent you from winning an award. Always check the governing body rules before the race.
Learning to swim as an adult can be one of the biggest challenges for aspiring triathletes. Our book, Triathlon Swimming Foundations, is a great place to start if you want proven instructions on how to become more comfortable in the water. We’ve helped thousands of adults learn to swim!
Choosing the Right Wetsuit for Your Triathlon
Wetsuits come in all shapes and sizes, with strategically-designed materials placed in key areas around the body. For example, a triathlon wetsuit will have increased flexibility around the shoulders so that you’re not fighting the wetsuit when swimming. Most triathletes choose one wetsuit for racing, but if you’re racing a lot of warmer-water swims, you might want to add a second, sleeveless suit to your gear kit.
Types of Wetsuits: Full Sleeve vs. Sleeveless
Deciding between a full-sleeve or sleeveless wetsuit depends on your needs:
- Full Sleeve:
- Offers maximum warmth and buoyancy.
- Provides a more hydrodynamic surface for better speed.
- Can feel restrictive around the arms and shoulders.
- Sleeveless:
- Offers more freedom of movement.
- Ideal for warmer water but less insulating.
- Suitable for shorter swims or warm enough conditions.
Comparing Swimming Wetsuits and Surfing Wetsuits
If you already own a surfing wetsuit you might be wondering if you can use it for your first triathlon. Though similar, the two types of wetsuits are actually very different:
- Swimming Wetsuits: Designed for triathlon racing with thinner neoprene around the shoulders for better mobility, these wetsuits are focused on buoyancy and reduced drag.
- Surfing Wetsuits: Built for durability and warmth in cold conditions, with thicker neoprene that can hinder a swimmer’s body position in the water and limit arm movement.
What will I Spend on a Wetsuit?
Wetsuits are relatively inexpensive to the rest of the gear that you need for triathlon. Entry-level wetsuits like the ROKA Maverick or XTERRA Vortex cost between $400 to $500. Higher-end wetsuits can cost upwards of $1,000, boasting increased hydrodynamics and different thicknesses of neoprene in strategic areas. We recommend purchasing a wetsuit and not renting one; a new wetsuit can be used several times and tends to hold its value well.
Wearing a Wetsuit: Tips and Tricks
Wearing and swimming in a wetsuit takes some getting used it. The first time you put one on, you’ll notice that you’ll work up a sweat! You may feel restriction around the neck and in the shoulders, and feel a bit “squeezed.” With practice putting it on and swimming in it, however, it will start to feel like a second skin.
How to Wear a Wetsuit Properly for Comfort and Speed
Follow these steps to get the most out of your wetsuit:
- Wear your tri suit under your wetsuit: Doing this saves time during transitions(no need to change clothes), provides extra moisture-wicking and comfort, and works seamlessly with the neoprene layer for streamlined performance.
- Use lubricant: Before you put the wetsuit on, apply a triathlon-approved lubricant such as Body Glide to areas prone to chafing, like the neck and underarms.
- Roll it on gradually: Start with your legs and work up to your shoulders, rolling it on from the inside rather than gripping the outside, where your fingernails can cause damage.
- Eliminate gaps: Ensure the suit fits snugly, especially around the chest and arms. Pull it up higher than you think it needs to go, especially around the shoulders.
- Practice using it in training: Get comfortable moving your arms and body position in the water during training. Wear your wetsuit as often as you can—even in a cold pool—so that you’re very comfortable in it come race day.
Looking for a training plan? The MOTTIV app has custom-built training plans, including pre-race open-water swims, that will help you overcome challenges and reach your endurance race goals.
Wetsuit Maintenance and Care for Longevity
Wetsuits won’t break the bank, but you still want to keep yours functioning for as long as possible. To keep your wetsuit in good shape and help it last through many triathlons, follow these easy steps each time you swim with it:
- Rinse it with fresh water after each use to remove salt and chlorine.
- Hang it to dry on a wide hanger, avoiding direct sunlight.
- Store it flat or loosely folded to prevent creasing.
- Check for damage, especially near the seams, and repair small tears promptly.
14-Day Preparation: What to Do Before Your Race
Prepare for success with this two-week checklist:
- 14 Days Out: Test your wetsuit during a practice open water swim.
- 7 Days Out: Double-check the race day weather forecast and water temperature.
- 2 Days Out: Pack your wetsuit and other tri gear to avoid last-minute stress.
Special Considerations for Ironman World Championship Athletes
Wetsuit Guidelines for Ironman World Championship Events
The Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i follows strict rules for wetsuit use:
- Wetsuits are mandatory in water below 16°C (60.8°F).
- Prohibited above 24.6°C (76.1°F).
- Always check event-specific guidelines, as conditions can vary.
FAQs About Wetsuits and Triathlons
How do I know if I need a wetsuit for my triathlon?
If the water temperature is cold or you’re a beginner, a wetsuit is highly recommended for added buoyancy, warmth, and safety. Generally, wetsuits are recommended for temperatures below 24.6 degrees Celsius as they protect against the cold while allowing you to perform optimally.
Can I use a surfing wetsuit for swimming?
While possible, a surfing wetsuit is less hydrodynamic and can restrict movement, making it less ideal for triathlons.
How does the water temperature affect wetsuit choice?
Choose thicker neoprene for colder water and thinner or sleeveless wetsuits for warmer conditions. Wetsuits are prohibited above 24.6°C (76.1°F).
What are the benefits of a sleeveless wetsuit?
A sleeveless wetsuit allows for greater arm mobility and is better for warmer water or shorter swims.
What are the benefits of wearing a wetsuit for open-water swimming?
Wetsuits provide several advantages for swimmers in triathlons. They help maintain body warmth by creating a layer of water that your body heats up, effectively insulating you against colder temperatures. Additionally, a specific wetsuit can provide buoyancy, helping you to float better and swim faster, which could lead to a personal best time. Moreover, they offer some protection from potential hazards in the water, such as sharp objects or marine life.
What are the temperature limits for wetsuit use in triathlons?
According to organizations like British Triathlon, wetsuits are generally recommended for water temperatures below 24.6 degrees Celsius. If the temperature drops to 14 degrees Celsius or lower, wearing a wetsuit becomes increasingly important for safety and performance. However, if the temperature exceeds these limits, competitors may wear a wetsuit, but it could affect their overall standing in the race.
Can you still swim without a wetsuit in open water?
Yes, you can swim without a wetsuit in open water, but it’s essential to consider the water temperature and your comfort level. If the water is warm enough, you might find swimming without a wetsuit more comfortable, allowing for greater flexibility and freedom of movement. However, if the water is cold, you’ll struggle without the thermal protection a wetsuit provides.
What should you consider when choosing a wetsuit for triathlon?
When selecting a specific wetsuit for your race, consider factors such as water temperature, your body type, and the type of swimming you’ll be doing. Look for a wetsuit that fits snugly but doesn’t restrict your movement. The thickness of the wetsuit is also crucial; it should not exceed 5mm thickness anywhere, as this is a standard regulation in many triathlon events.
Conclusion
A wetsuit is more than just a piece of gear—it’s a performance enhancer and safety net for your triathlon race. Whether you’re preparing for your first sprint or tackling an Ironman, the right wetsuit can make all the difference. By understanding the rules, benefits, and options, you can confidently decide what type of wetsuit is right for you.
If you’re ready to get started, download the MOTTIV training app for a free, personalized training plan that does all of the planning for you. We want to make sure you’re properly trained and confident to tackle your first race.
