As new athletes delve into the multisport world of triathlons, one of the first major investments should be a wetsuit. Temperatures in open water will vary from season to season and location to location. Not only will a wetsuit safeguard you from becoming hypothermic, but also it will also provide a significant amount of buoyancy and will make for a faster swim time. As wetsuits vary considerably from sport to sport, you want to purchase a wetsuit that is triathlon or swim specific. These types of wetsuits are typically very slick and “rubbery” looking (for lack of a better term) as opposed to the surf or scuba suits that are made of neoprene. If finances are an issue, any suit will keep you warmer than nothing at all, but you want to make sure that your mobility is not restricted through your arms and shoulders.
Before your rush out to purchase the newest top of the line suits out there, you can save some money by purchasing a great suit to fit your needs that wont break the bank. Chances are, unless you are an absolutely stellar swimmer already you will not notice a huge difference between a $400 suit and a $150 suit. Below are some guidelines as you shop for you suit:

• Wetsuits should have a tight, secure fit, so as not to fill up with water as you are swimming. The suit however should not restrict your breathing.

• Wetsuits should be race or training specific. You should discern what your needs are prior to buying the suit. Will you be swimming in Southern Cal? Competing in the Alcatraz triathlon? These have a bearing on whether or not you should purchase a sleeveless suit or one with arms. You can also purchase a “farmer john” which is a sleeveless suit with short legs.

• Whatever suit you choose should allow your arm and shoulder to go though a full range of motion without feeling restricted.

• Putting on the suit should be done in stages. (think pantyhose) Make sure to not dig fingernails into the suit as you put it on.

• Sometimes a bit of chaffing may occur with a new suit around the neck and underarm. You can use some body glide to lubricate areas that may chafe.

• Wearing a wetsuit does provide for a faster swim, however you need to practice getting out of it efficiently in order to not lose time.

Kelly is the owner and head coach of Tridivas. She has competed in 8 Ironman events, 2 Ultraman events was on the 2005 USA Team. She is a USAT Level 2 coach and a USATF Certified coach. She has 16 years of triathlon experience and 11 years of coaching experience. If you would like to find out more information about Kelly or Tridivas visit www.tridivas.com.