A triathlon swim skin can be a game-changer for athletes competing in races that don't allow wetsuits. If the water temperature is too warm for a wetsuit, a swimskin provides hydrodynamic advantages without the added buoyancy of a triathlon wetsuit. With major races like the IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii often banning wetsuits, a swimskin is your next best bet for performance and comfort.
Trying to find the best gear to improve race-day performance can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand what to look for when buying this key piece of swim training and racing gear, help you compare top brands, and offer tips on how to care for your suit to make it last a long time.
What You’ll Learn in This Article:
- The key differences between swimskins and wetsuits
- When to use a swimskin in open-water triathlons
- How a swimskin can improve your swim speed
- A breakdown of top brands like Roka, Hydrospeed, and Zone3
- Key features to look for when purchasing
- How to find the best fit and avoid chafing
- Proper care and maintenance tips
- Answers to the most frequently asked questions
- Whether a swimskin is worth the investment for your next triathlon
What is a Swimskin and Why Do You Need One?
A swimskin is a tight-fitting, short-sleeved, or sleeveless piece of gear that you put over your bathing suit or tri-suit to wear in the swim portion of a triathlon. They are designed for races where the water is too warm for wetsuits, but competitors still want an aerodynamic, compression-fit suit that enhances their performance. Here’s how swimskins compare to wetsuits:
- Buoyancy: Unlike wetsuits, swimskins do not add buoyancy.
- Hydrodynamics: Swimskins create a hydrophobic surface, reducing drag and helping you swim faster.
- Regulations: Many IRONMAN and USA Triathlon races prohibit wetsuits when the water temperature exceeds 24°C.
- Fabric: Swimskins are made of lightweight, hydrophobic fabric rather than neoprene for insulation and buoyancy.
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When to Use a Swimskin in Open-Water Races
If you want a faster non-wetsuit swim, a swimskin is key. Consider using one at the following events, or any event where you think you'd feel more comfortable in one!
- Non-wetsuit swim conditions in races like the IRONMAN World Championship
- Warm water triathlons where a wetsuit is not allowed
- Sprint and Olympic triathlons with non-wetsuit swim designations
- ÖTILLÖ swimrun races and other multisport events where freedom of movement is key
How a Swimskin Can Improve Your Swim Performance
A swimskin is more than just a race-day suit. You can use it as your typical training suit, making sure to test it out in advance of your race. You'll enjoy the many benefits, such as:
- Reduces frontal drag, increasing your swim speed
- Compression fit enhances muscle efficiency
- Hydrophobic surface repels water, helping you glide effortlessly
- Bonded seams reduce chafing and enhance comfort
Top Brands: Roka, Hydrospeed, and More
The Roka Viper is known as the gold standard in swimskins. It's one of the most widely used swimskins in the triathlon world. It’s known for its durable water-repellent finish, hydrophobic fabric, and fully compressive fit. Features include:
- Super composite skin for maximum water resistance
- Bonded seams for a friction-free experience
- Moisture-wicking materials throughout
- Pull cord zipper for easy removal
TYR, Blueseventy, and Other Options
While Roka dominates the market, other brands offer strong competition:
- Blueseventy PZ4TX – Offers a hydrophobic surface and durability
- Zone3 Shortsleeve – One of Kona’s most popular options
- TYR Torque Pro – Features lightweight fabric and bonded seams
Hydrospeed vs. Roka Viper: Which One is Better?
Below, we offer a handy comparison chart between two popular models, the Hydrospeed and Roka Viper, so you can see what's worth considering when it comes to shopping:
How to Choose the Best Swimskin for Open-Water Racing
When you're shopping for a swimskin for open-water racing, here are some key features to look for:
- Hydrophobic fabric for the fastest swim
- Durability and impact resistance for longevity
- Compression for muscle support
- Ease of removal with a pull-cord zipper
In addition to the brand you choose, ensuring a proper fit will translate best to performance on race day:
- Tight but not restrictive – You should feel compressed, but still be able to breathe.
- Minimal chafing – Look for bonded seams and moisture-wicking materials.
Care and Maintenance: Make Your Suit Last
With proper cleaning and storage, your swimskin will last for years. In addition to basics no-nos like wringing and twisting it, using harsh detergents, or leaving it in your tri bag wet for days, here are a few of our easy maintenance tips:
- Rinse in cold water immediately after use.
- Use the best sports-specific cleaner to maintain fabric quality.
- Dry on thick, supportive hangers, avoiding direct sunlight.
One day, you'll need to replace your skin. If you feel chafing or restriction, or if the fabric has lost its hydrophobic effectiveness (aka streamline in the water via rips or tears), it's time for a new suit.
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FAQs: Swimskins for Triathletes
Q: Do swimskins make a big difference in open-water swims?
A: Yes, they reduce drag and improve swim speed by an average of 3-4 seconds per 100m.
Q: Is the Roka Viper worth the investment?
A: For serious triathletes, yes—it’s one of the most popular models seen on the top age-group triathletes competing at top world championship events.
Q: Can I wear a swimskin in any triathlon?
A: No—USA Triathlon has specific rules regarding water temperature.
Q: How tight should a swimskin fit?
A: It should be tight, but you should still be able to breathe easily.
Q: What’s the best budget-friendly swimskin?
A: The Zone3 Shortsleeve Swimskin offers good value for money.
Q: What are the main features to consider when comparing swimskins like Roka Viper and BlueSeventy?
A: When comparing swimskins such as the Roka Viper and ones from BlueSeventy, you should consider features like hydrophobic surface, fit and stretch, best visibility in water, and overall comfort. It's also important to look at feedback from testers. One male tester we found loved Roka for its buoyancy, for example. It's important to do your research.
Q: How do swimskins from Roka vs. Zone3 perform in terms of speed?
A: In tests, the Roka Viper and Zone3 swimskin have shown to be competitive, with the Roka swim skin saving an average of 3 seconds per 100m compared to a typical training suit. This speed advantage can be crucial during a 3.8km event.
Q: What should I know about sizing?
A: It's important to consider sizing carefully. Looks aren’t everything, and a poorly fitting suit can stop any discomfort you might experience.
Q: What are the best wetsuit cleaners for maintaining swimskins?
A: The best wetsuit cleaners are gentle, neoprene-friendly solutions that help maintain the condition of your swimskin. Look for products specifically labeled as best wetsuit cleaners to ensure they won’t damage the hydrophobic surface possible on your suit.
Q: How can I ensure the best visibility in open water while wearing a swimskin?
A: To ensure the best visibility in open water, choose a swimskin with bright colors or reflective elements. Roka, for example, offers designs that enhance visibility, allowing you to stand out during races.
Q: What are some tips for preparing for the next test swim in a triathlon swimskin?
A: Before your next test swim, practice putting on your swimskin properly to avoid discomfort. Make sure to use the best wetsuit hangers to dry your swimskin after use, and always check for any damage to the hydrophobic surface possible on the suit.
Q: How does the fit of sleeved swimskins compare to sleeveless options?
A: Since sleeved swimskins typically offer more coverage, they can provide better buoyancy and hydrodynamics. However, the fit can be more restrictive. Male testers often note that while sleeved options may be slightly less comfortable, they can enhance performance for longer distances.
Q: What is the difference in performance between a high-end swimskin and a basic one?
A: High-end swimskins, like those from Roka or BlueSeventy, typically feature advanced materials and designs that improve speed and reduce drag. In contrast, basic swimskins may lack these enhancements and can result in slower times during events like a triathlon.
Final Thoughts: Is a Swimskin Worth It for Your Next Race?
A swimskin can be a great investment if you’re racing in warm water at a race where a wetsuit isn’t allowed. If you’re planning to race at the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, for example, or any other event where wetsuits aren't allowed, it’s a smart purchase. Races in Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, and Oceania-Asia will often lend themselves well to the investment in a swimskin.
Looking for a triathlon training plan that fits your level and goals? Sign up for a free personalized training plan from MOTTIV to get race-ready. We’ve got expert-backed strategies and gear tips just like these waiting for you.
