Triathlon Wetsuits
Triathlon is an endurance sport that combines swimming, running and cycling over a distance. Triathlon has a relatively new history. It was incorporated into the Olympic Games only in 2000, in Sydney. Since triathlon combines three different sport categories specialized apparel is required for it. Official time of the athlete includes the time for changing the clothes and transition from one face to another as well.
Triathlon Swimming
Swimming distances in triathlon vary in different races. In Olympic Games the standard is 1500m. Unlike the indoor swimming in lined pools, triathlon involves swimming outdoor.
Wetsuits
Wetsuits are normally used if the waters are very cold. There are regulations against using wet suits in many races if the water temperature is above 78 degrees. Wetsuits are made from neoprene. They provide additional buoyancy and warm and make swimming easier. Most athletes prefer using wetsuits if they are allowed for all these reasons.
Materials used for Wetsuits
Neoprene is normally used for wetsuits. In addition spandex is also used. It is a stretchable material which can be used in tropical weather conditions. Another synthetic material used is thermoplastic. It has more insulation than spandex. Aqua skins made of Teflon, Neoprene and Lycra are also in vogue.
Why Wetsuits
Wetsuits are preferred over other swimming apparels for the following reasons.
Buoyancy
The synthetic rubber used in the construction of wetsuits floats naturally. This is an added advantage since many swimmers prefer using lesser muscular force while swimming to reserve the energy for running.
Keeps the body Warm
Triathlon wetsuits keep the body warm by trapping water between body and the wetsuit. The thicker the neoprene layer the warmer you feel.
Flexibility
Flexibility of the wetsuit helps easy movement of the body.
Minimizes Drag
Triathlon wetsuits have slippery surfaces owing to the silicon surface treatment given at the manufacturing stage. This minimizes the amount of drag when moving in water.
Types of Triathlon Wetsuits
There are different types of wetsuits available in the market. They include sleeveless suits, full suits, sleeveless suits extending up to knee for warmer waters, and two- piece wet suit with a separate top and bottom.
Selection of Wet Suits
Wetsuits must be selected taking into consideration water temperature and body size. The following things must be taken into consideration.
Thickness of Wetsuit
Thickness of a wetsuit is determined by millimeters (mm). For warmer waters a 2mm or 3mm wet suit is ideal. For low water temperatures wetsuits with 3mm to 4mm thickness are necessary. For very cold weather wet suits with 5mm thickness with hood should be worn.
Quality of the Wet Suit
Quality of the suit is often determined by the seam construction. Tightly woven seams should be preferred.
Fit
It is important to select wet suits that fit the body. Ideally wet suits should fit snug on the body, allowing easy movements along with protection from the elements.
Triathlon Wetsuits: Care and Maintenance
Rinse the wetsuit in clean cold water and dry it completely. Do not to use dryers or any other heat source. It can be hung on specially designed wetsuit hangers or folded and kept separately with out anything on the top of it.
Reference: The 12-Week Triathlete: Train for a Triathlon in Just Three Months. By Tom Holland. Fair Winds Press, 2005.