Swimming Wetsuits
Wetsuits are close fitting apparels made of synthetic rubber, used in water sports. Different water sports have different criteria of selection of wetsuits. Wetsuits designed for swimming and diving are entirely different because the former takes into account warmth and buoyancy where as the latter involves considerations of water pressure as well.
How Swimming Wetsuits are Different
Swimming wetsuits are different from wetsuits used for windsurfing or scuba diving in the following ways:
- Designed for easy arm movements
- Neoprene panels with varying thickness are used in different parts
- Have specially designed necks and arm seals.
Why Wetsuits are Preferred
Wetsuits are preferred because of the following reasons:
Flexibility
Wet Suits are made of synthetic materials that are stretchable. They help in the easy movement of hands and legs.
Keeps the Body Warm
When swimming in cold climates wetsuits are a must since they keep the body warm. Water gets inside the suit the suit owing to the pressure differences, but is prevented from going out by the waterproof neoprene. This acts as a warm layering on being heated up by the body.
Added Buoyancy
Neoprene which is used in wetsuit production is filled with bubbles of nitrogen gas which provides added buoyancy. This adds an edge to swimming and helps increase speed.
Reduces Lag
Most wetsuits have slippery surfaces which reduces friction with water. This minimizes drag while moving in water and contributes to increased speed. Research has shown that there is at least a 14% reduction in drag when a wetsuit is used for swimming
How Far Wetsuits are Useful for Competitive Swimmers
Scientific studies have shown that wetsuits benefit triathletes more than swimmers. It is because swimmers have a greater training load which helps them sharpen their skills. They are naturally more skilled at using the buoyancy of the body. Also they are fatter, which, in turn adds to the buoyancy. In this regard wetsuits benefit lean swimmers more. They also give added advantage to the less skilled swimmers.
Types of Wetsuits
There are different types of wetsuits available. They include the following:
Spring Suits
Spring suits are wetsuits which have short or long sleeves and extend only up to knee. These are ideal for warmer climates. Usually they have a thickness of 2mm.
Full Suits
Full suits are long sleeve suits that cover the whole body. They are ideal in low temperatures.
Sleeveless Suits with Long Pants
These are sleeveless wetsuits extending up to the ankle. They are ideal when the water is cold and air is warm.
Short, Sleeveless Wetsuits
These are ideal for mild climates.
Long Sleeve Tops and Shorts
These have separable tops and bottom. They often use a combination of neoprene and Lycra.
Importance of Size and Fit
Ideally wetsuits must snug fit to the body. It should not be too loose around neck or hands because it will allow water to flow in and out preventing it from getting warm.
Taking Care of Wetsuits
It is good to apply a lubricant other than petroleum jelly around the neck, ankles and wrists to prevent chaffing. After the event rinse the suit in cold water if necessary and drip dry using wide wetsuit hangers. Use wetsuit shampoo if necessary. Store in a cool, dry place folded once at the waist.
Sources: wavejammer.com, pponline, wetsuit.com