Triathlon and Swim Wetsuits

A lot of triathletes spend thousands on their bikes, hundreds on their shoes and then try and slug it out in the swim in a $49 scuba diving wetsuit. Time and time again, we hear triathletes bring up their worst fear of the tri…the “dreaded swim!”   Let’s face it…it’s all about speed.  Yeah you may be a beginner, but spending another grand on new wheels for your ride does not “guarantee” you’ll be faster!  But a wetsuit “will” guarantee that you will be faster in the water. Many beginning Triathletes think of using a wetsuit in the swim portion of the race as a means to help keep warm in chilly water.  It does help, but that is not why you want to wear one.  So why you ask?   “SPEED!”  (That is what it is all about)

• Using a triathlon wetsuit results in improved buoyancy and a reduction in frontal resistance, Both of these factors will result in improved performance and efficiency.  A triathlon wetsuit helps raise your body to a better swimming position and the slickness of the suit reduces drag.  
•  You plane out faster.  You use less energy to swim and you swim faster.   (Plus, it does help keep you warmer!) 
• So whether your looking for a win or a better personal time.  Remember tri means 3…so don’t forget about a better time in the swim and a good triathlon wetsuit will get you there.