Top 10 Triathlon Wetsuits in 2024
Are you ready to take your triathlon performance to the next level in 2024? One key piece of gear that can make a significant difference is your triathlon wetsuit. Choosing the right wetsuit can enhance your comfort, speed, and overall performance in the water. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 triathlon wetsuits of 2024, guiding you through the factors to consider when selecting a wetsuit, reviewing the best options available, and providing tips on how to care for and maintain your wetsuit. Stay tuned to find the perfect wetsuit that will help you crush your triathlon goals this year!
Introduction: The Importance of Choosing the Right Triathlon Wetsuit
When it comes to triathlon performance, every small advantage counts. And one of the most crucial pieces of equipment that can give you that edge is your triathlon wetsuit. The right wetsuit can make a significant difference in your swimming efficiency, speed, and overall comfort during the race.
A triathlon wetsuit is specifically designed to enhance your performance in open water swimming. It provides buoyancy, insulation, and hydrodynamics to help you glide through the water with minimal resistance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned triathlete, choosing the right wetsuit is essential for optimizing your swimming ability and maximizing your race performance.
There are several key reasons why selecting the right triathlon wetsuit is so important:
1. Buoyancy:
Triathlon wetsuits are designed with varying thicknesses of neoprene material, which creates buoyancy in the water. This buoyancy helps keep you afloat and improves your body position, reducing drag and increasing your swimming efficiency. By lifting your hips and legs higher in the water, a quality wetsuit can help you maintain a streamlined position and conserve energy during the swim leg of the triathlon.
2. Insulation:
Open water swimming often involves colder temperatures, especially in early or late season races. A good triathlon wetsuit provides insulation, keeping your body warm and protected from the cold water. This insulation not only enhances your comfort but also helps prevent hypothermia and allows you to focus on your performance without being distracted by the cold.
3. Hydrodynamics:
The design and construction of triathlon wetsuits are optimized for hydrodynamics, reducing drag and allowing you to move through the water more efficiently. The smooth neoprene surface of the wetsuit helps minimize friction, enabling you to swim faster and expend less energy. With the right wetsuit, you can cut through the water with ease, giving you a competitive advantage during the swim leg of your triathlon.
4. Confidence and Mental Focus:
Wearing a well-fitting and high-quality wetsuit can boost your confidence and mental focus during the race. When you feel comfortable and supported in the water, it allows you to concentrate on your technique and strategy rather than worrying about your gear. The right wetsuit can provide a sense of security and reassurance, allowing you to perform at your best and stay focused on your race goals.
5. Compliance with Race Regulations:
It’s important to note that not all triathlon events permit the use of wetsuits. Some races have specific rules and regulations regarding water temperature thresholds, which determine whether wetsuits are allowed or not. However, in races where wetsuits are permitted, choosing the right one can give you a significant advantage. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of the race regulations and select a wetsuit that complies with the specific requirements of your event.
Now that we understand the importance of choosing the right triathlon wetsuit, let’s delve into the factors that you should consider when making your selection. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can ensure that you find a wetsuit that perfectly matches your needs and preferences, ultimately helping you achieve peak performance in the water.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Triathlon Wetsuit
When it comes to selecting a triathlon wetsuit, there are several essential factors to consider. Each factor plays a significant role in determining the comfort, performance, and overall suitability of the wetsuit for your specific needs. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a wetsuit that will help you excel in your triathlon endeavors. Let’s explore these factors in detail:
1. Material and Thickness:
The material and thickness of the wetsuit are crucial considerations. Most triathlon wetsuits are made of neoprene, a synthetic rubber that provides excellent insulation and buoyancy. The thickness of the neoprene varies throughout the wetsuit, with thicker panels strategically placed to provide additional buoyancy and insulation where needed. Consider the water temperature of your race location and choose a wetsuit with an appropriate thickness to keep you warm without compromising flexibility.
2. Flexibility and Range of Motion:
Optimal flexibility and freedom of movement are essential for efficient swimming in a triathlon. Look for a wetsuit that offers excellent stretch and flexibility, particularly in the shoulders, arms, and hips. This will allow you to maintain a natural and unrestricted swimming stroke. Some wetsuits feature advanced panel construction and innovative materials that enhance flexibility without sacrificing buoyancy or insulation.
3. Fit and Comfort:
A proper fit is crucial for a comfortable and effective wetsuit. It should fit snugly against your body without feeling overly tight or restrictive. A well-fitting wetsuit will minimize water entry and prevent excess drag. Look for wetsuits that come in a range of sizes or offer customizable fit options. Pay attention to specific features like neckline, leg cuffs, and wrist seals, ensuring they provide a secure and comfortable fit.
4. Durability and Longevity:
Triathlon training and racing can put significant stress on your wetsuit, so durability is an important consideration. Look for wetsuits that are constructed with high-quality materials and reinforced seams. A durable wetsuit will withstand the rigors of your training and racing schedule, ensuring it remains in optimal condition for multiple seasons.
5. Price and Value for Money:
Wetsuits come in a range of prices, and it’s essential to find a balance between quality and budget. While it can be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, investing in a higher-quality wetsuit can provide better performance, durability, and overall value in the long run. Consider your budget and prioritize the features and qualities that are most important to you. Look for wetsuits that offer a good combination of performance, comfort, and durability within your price range.
By carefully evaluating these factors and considering your individual preferences and race requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a triathlon wetsuit that meets your needs. In the next section, we will review the top 10 triathlon wetsuits of 2024, providing detailed information and insights to help you make an informed decision.
Review of Top 10 Triathlon Wetsuits in 2024
In this section, we will review the top 10 triathlon wetsuits of 2024. These wetsuits have been carefully selected based on their performance, features, durability, and overall customer satisfaction. Let’s dive into the details of each wetsuit:
1. Wetsuit 1:
- ZONE3 Thermal Agile Wetsuit
- Warmth: Key panels utilise an improved fleece lining.
- 2mm Flex-fit shoulder panels and Eco-friendly Neoprene
- 100% Speedflo and Smoothskin Coating for waterproofing and minimal drag
- YKK Zipper. Slimline Pro Speed Cuffs offer superior removal speed.
- New Talon Resistance Coating is applied to the front legs to help improve durability and reduce accidental fingernail tears.
- Price: £249
2. Wetsuit 2:
- ROKA MEN’S MAVERICK MX WETSUIT (MAXIMUM BUOYANCY)
- Yamamoto Neoprene
- The all-new Maverick MX is a game-changer for non-elite swimmers who want elite-level performance. It is the first maximum buoyancy suit that manages to increase the buoyancy profile around the core, chest and arms while maintaining snappy body rotation and a full range of shoulder mobility thanks to our patented ARMS-UP™ design.
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By patterning the wetsuit with the arms above the head rather than at the side, mobility is increased through every phase of your stroke. Our patented design eliminates shoulder restrictions to help you swim faster with less fatigue. The difference is striking.
- RS® CENTERLINE BUOYANCY
The technology that first catapulted ROKA wetsuits ahead of the field: more buoyancy down the centerline of your body; and less buoyancy on the perimeter. It allows you to have a snappier side-to-side rotation and eliminates dead spots in the freestyle. -
To put it simply, more buoyancy = less effort. By moving your body volume up and out of the water, you have a smaller volume underneath the surface to resist the forward motion of swimming. The result is a reduced “drag profile,” which results in faster, more efficient swimming. The new Maverick MX has been tested to be 20% more buoyant than the entry-level Maverick Comp.
- LINER MATERIALS All of our wetsuits are designed from the inside out. It’s an often-overlooked fact that the textile liners on the inside of a wetsuit have more restrictive stretch profiles than neoprene, and therefore have a greater impact on the flexibility of the suit than the rubber itself. Our suits are built with premium liners that are optimized for mechanics, stretch, support, comfort and low absorption.
- Price: £525
3. Wetsuit 3:
- ROKA Maverick X”
- THE FASTEST, MOST COMFORTABLE WETSUIT EVER MADE JUST GOT FASTER.
- Yamamoto Neoprene
- The re-engineered core design works just like a stiff bike: converting watts straight into speed. And just like cycling engineers keep pushing carbon layups to make stiffer and stiffer race frames, we zoomed in on that core, believing it had the power to unlock even more hidden potential for every swimmer.
- We used several different liners to create a revolutionary core exoskeleton; most suites use only one or two. And we invented an entirely new taping technique—only found on the X2—to connect your hips and shoulders. This pioneering mix of design and materials, stiffened up the suit while retaining its natural feel and patented ARMS-UP design.
- SCS (Super Composite Skin) Hydrophobic Nano Coating reduces surface drag for more speed and also improves durability.
- Price: £1,075
4. Wetsuit 4:
Brand: ORCA Apex Flow
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The Apex Flow is the most advanced wetsuit in our range, thanks to its unique flexibility and buoyancy. Designed for the most advanced triathletes, this suit features the best materials and technologies on the market. It is designed to maximize the elevation of the legs, helping to correct posture and keeping the body in the most hydrodynamic position possible.
Enjoy the conveniences of the Mesh Backpack and Knit Gloves, included with the purchase of the Apex Flow. These accessories allow you to store, transport and put on your neoprene without damaging the material.
- Unrestricted buoyancy If you have good technique in your swim stroke but need support and buoyancy to correct your body position in the water, the Apex Flow is the wetsuit for you. The combination of Yamamoto 44+ and 0.88 Free technology will allow you to swim freely and provide maximum flexibility in the shoulder area for the performance you want in the swimming segment.
- Maximum speed Elasticity, buoyancy and hydrodynamics come together to offer you the most technologically advanced wetsuit in our triathlon range.
- Posture correction Proper positioning in the water improves your body’s hydrodynamics, helping you drop seconds in the swimming segment. To increase your buoyancy, we have included a combination of Exo-Lift and Aerodome technology in the lower body of the wetsuit. With the Apex Flow, there’s no triathlon race you can’t conquer.
- Faster swim strokes The high elasticity in the shoulder, arm, and back areas and the quick recovery of the materials will allow you to perform your swim stroke seamlessly and without any restrictions, so you can perform to your full potential in competitions.
- Price: £719
5. Wetsuit 5:
- Brand: Patagonia R3 Yulex Regulator Chest Zip Wetsuit
- 85% Yulex® natural rubber/15% chlorine-free synthetic rubber
- Warm, stretchy, fast-drying lining
- A high-performance, neoprene-free 4.5mm/3.5mm wetsuit
- Solvent-free AquaA™ glue
- Asymmetrical front zip with corrosion-proof Salmi® zipper
- Easy-access key loop on
- Supratex kneepads and cuffs
- Fair Trade Certified™ sewn
- Natural rubber is Forest Stewardship Council® certified by Preferred by Nature™
- Price: £300
6. Wetsuit 6:
- ● SUMARPO Aeroatom cells
● Yamamoto #45 neoprene on shoulders and arms
● SCS NANO coating
● 580% flexible SQ flex inner lining. The concept of low modulus is proposed by SUMARPO for the first time in the triathlon field. Using low modular technology(LMT) can reduce physical consumption and improve the efficiency of swim stroke. For instance, swinging the arm 300 times in the same unit, the LMT material consumes less energy. By adopting the LMT tested hundreds of times, 1.5mm Yamamoto #45 SCS neoprene panels on the shoulders and arms combined with 580% flexible SQ flex inner ensure you increase frequency per stroke and guarantee minimum physical waste.
● Yamamoto SCS NANO coating covering the entire front panel effectively reduces water drag, making you swim fast with less energy. The low resistance (0.021 CDF) achieves the best water resistance performance in the top-level wetsuits.
● 3D silicone GSP system The re-engineered silicone GSP (groove-shaped paddles) pro system gives more propulsion, taking you to experience an unprecedented speed. The use of silicone material significantly increases wearing resistance and extends product lifetime.
● Eco-based & Hypoallergenic materials
● Ti-α-seal thermal tech
● Stable Trinity Support System
● Quick-release ankle panels
● Ergonomic-designed collar
● 2-year warranty - The adopted Areoatom upgraded by SUMARPO technology has a 30% increase in buoyancy than Aerodome, making Victory 8% more buoyant than wetsuits with Aerodome. Triathletes can feel it shift their weight forward for a perfectly balanced swimming position.
- Price: £652
7. Wetsuit 7:
- Brand: Propel Pro Wetsuit
- ULTIMATE FLEXIBILITY
Premium Japanese Yamamoto 45 Cell seamless shoulder and arm neoprene provides ultimate flexibility - MINIMAL WATER RESISTANCE
Nano Super Composite Skin (SCS) hydrodynamic coating reduces surface drag for more speed and improved durability whilst Velocity Strakes provide hydrodynamic stability in choppy water and assist you swim in a straight line - OPTIMAL BUOYANCY
Premium Japanese Yamamoto 39 Cell neoprene is buoyant but still flexible and varies in thickness throughout the core of the wetsuit, moving your centre of buoyancy lower, preventing sinky legs and putting you in perfect horizontal swimming position - ENHANCED POWER & EFFICIENCY
The embossed concave water entrapment zone on the arm sleeve enhances the power and feel of water while the floating zip panel provides unrestricted movement for improved distance per stroke - IMPROVED ROTATION
Rollbar technology ensures less buoyancy on the perimeter of the wetsuit, allowing snappier side-to-side rotation and eliminating dead spots in your freestyle - INNER COMFORT & SUPPORT
Our neck panel eliminates seams to improve comfort and reduce chafing whilst the often-overlooked internal liner is engineered for 520% stretch to ensure comfort and low absorption - Price: £680
8. Wetsuit 8:
- Brand: Pursue Speedsuit MD
- Triathlon suit at a premium level for middle-distance races.
The fabrics that make up this suit are from the Italian supplier Carvico – one of the best suppliers of technical sports material on the market, many of their products have been awarded with several quality and performance certificates. The main fabric used in the Pursue suit is a very durable fabric with an ultra-matt surface, and in combination with the second fabric that we have used, the suit has excellent retention which is good for restorative purposes.The suit has clean-cut sleeves, and there is a placket at the back of the front zipper to avoid chafing. It has an elastic edge band around the collar for comfort. The suit has two back pockets, and solid-coloured material at the crotch/back area for protection and abrasion resistance. The bottom of the legs have 7cm wide silicone cuffs to keep the suit in place. The top-quality middle-distance triathlon padding is from the Italian Elastic Interface.The suit has an extremely tight fit and is made to sit as close as possible to the body. - Price: 450 Euros
9. Wetsuit 9:
- Brand: HUUB Archimedes 3 Thermal Wetsuit Women’s
- Our Archimedes III Wetsuit in its unique thermal guise. A marriage of our Flag Ship wetsuit with a thermal lining designed to be warm and smooth to the skin, resulting in the ultimate cold water swimming wetsuit.The suit redefined buoyancy profiles to suit the needs of the modern triathlete. The Archimedes III again takes the expectations of a wetsuit and its material components and shatters the mould, never mind breaking it. With never-before-seen technology, expectations challenged and conventional materials re-engineered the Archimedes IV leads the way when it comes to triathlon wetsuits.Led by Professor Huub Toussaint and a team of researchers and designers, this wetsuit has been refined to be the quickest wetsuit at the time of release to deliver an impressive ‘no-suit’ feel.Innovative, buoyant and flexible, the Archimedes III Wetsuit from HUUB delivers enhanced performance by allowing for maximum stroke efficiency and increased buoyancy so you can move quickly through the water.THERMAL LINED FOR ADDED PROTECTION
- Price: £599.99
10. Wetsuit 10:
- Brand: HUUB Archimedes IV Wetsuit
- The fourth incarnation of the ground-breaking Archimedes, the suit that redefined buoyancy profiles to suit the needs of the modern triathlete. The Archimedes IV again takes the expectations of a wetsuit and its material components and shatters the mould, never mind breaking it. With never-before-seen technology, expectations challenged and conventional materials re-engineered the Archimedes IV leads the way when it comes to triathlon wetsuits.Led by Professor Huub Toussaint and a team of researchers and designers, this wetsuit has been refined to be the quickest wetsuit at the time of release to deliver an impressive ‘no-suit’ feel
- Kinetic Release™ (patent pending) for arm stroke efficiency
- HUUB exclusive Calf Release™
- Breakaway Zipper
- Increased buoyancy over standard and aero-dome neoprenes
- Improved flexible low neckline
- Super flexible underarm panel for ‘no-suit’ feel
- HUUB exclusive X-O Skeleton™ for superior body alignment and stroke efficiency
- Price: £649.99
Please note that the above list is in no particular order. Each wetsuit offers unique features and benefits, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences, budget, and specific requirements. In the next section, we will provide valuable tips on how to care for and maintain your triathlon wetsuit, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
How to Care and Maintain Your Triathlon Wetsuit
Taking proper care of your triathlon wetsuit is essential for maintaining its performance, longevity, and overall effectiveness. By following a few simple care and maintenance practices, you can ensure that your wetsuit remains in optimal condition for many races to come. Here are some valuable tips on how to care for and maintain your triathlon wetsuit:
1. Cleaning and Drying:
After each use, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with fresh water to remove any salt, sand, or chlorine. Gently hand-wash it using a mild soap or wetsuit-specific cleaner. Avoid using harsh detergents or machine washing, as they can damage the neoprene material. Rinse the wetsuit again to remove any residue and hang it to dry in a cool, shaded area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
2. Storage:
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the shape and integrity of your wetsuit. Avoid folding or creasing the wetsuit, as this can lead to permanent damage. Instead, lay it flat or hang it on a wide, padded hanger to preserve its shape. Make sure to store it in a dry and well-ventilated area, free from excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.
3. Repairing Minor Damages:
Over time, your wetsuit may develop small tears, nicks, or punctures. It’s important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage. Use a wetsuit repair kit or neoprene adhesive to patch up minor damages. Follow the instructions provided with the repair kit and allow sufficient drying time before using the wetsuit again.
4. Replacing Your Wetsuit:
Even with proper care, wetsuits have a limited lifespan. Over time, the neoprene material may lose its elasticity, and seams may weaken. If you notice significant wear and tear, it may be time to consider replacing your wetsuit. Evaluate its performance and condition regularly, and invest in a new wetsuit when necessary to ensure optimal performance during your triathlon races.
By following these care and maintenance practices, you can extend the life of your triathlon wetsuit and maintain its performance at its best. Now, let’s move on to the next section, where we will explore the different options for purchasing the best triathlon wetsuits in 2024.
Where to Buy the Best Triathlon Wetsuits in 2024
When it comes to purchasing the best triathlon wetsuits in 2024, there are several options available to consider. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the personal experience of visiting a physical store, here are some places where you can find high-quality triathlon wetsuits:
1. Online Retailers:
Online retailers offer a wide range of triathlon wetsuits, often providing detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and size guides to help you make an informed decision. Popular online platforms such as Amazon, Triathlete Sports, and Wiggle are excellent places to start your search. These platforms also offer competitive pricing and often provide discounts or promotional offers.
2. Physical Stores:
Visiting a physical store allows you to try on different wetsuits and get personalized assistance from experienced staff. Sporting goods stores, specialty triathlon shops, and outdoor retailers often carry a selection of triathlon wetsuits. Some well-known physical stores include REI, Decathlon, and local triathlon-specific shops in your area. Ensure you call ahead to check their inventory and availability.
3. Brand Websites:
Many triathlon wetsuit manufacturers have their own websites where you can explore their product range, read detailed specifications, and even purchase directly from the brand. This option allows you to access the latest models and designs from specific brands. Some notable triathlon wetsuit brands with dedicated websites include TYR, Orca, and Blueseventy.
4. Second-Hand Options:
If you are on a budget or looking for a more affordable option, consider exploring second-hand options. Online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace often have listings for used triathlon wetsuits. However, when purchasing second-hand, ensure that the wetsuit is in good condition, without significant wear or damage, and try to verify the seller’s credibility.
When purchasing a triathlon wetsuit, it’s important to consider factors such as size, fit, and specific features that align with your needs and preferences. Take advantage of any available customer reviews, sizing charts, and expert advice to guide your decision-making process. Additionally, keep an eye out for any warranties or return policies offered by the retailer or manufacturer.
Remember, investing in a high-quality triathlon wetsuit is a worthwhile investment in your performance and comfort during training and races. By choosing the right wetsuit from a reputable source, you can enhance your swimming experience and maximize your triathlon potential.
Now that you have all the information you need, go ahead and find the perfect triathlon wetsuit that will help you conquer the water and achieve your goals in the exciting world of triathlon in 2024!
