A great triathlon wetsuit is definitely a must-have for any triathletes who get themselves in the water, especially if you find yourself spending long periods of time in the water. The most important part of finding a wetsuit is finding one specifically for triathletes. Of course, you have your beginner’s wetsuits all over the market, but here we go over some of the best wetsuits in the market. It’s definitely an investment that will go a long way.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Triathlon Wetsuits in Review
Triathlon wetsuits have a significant impact on the performance of your swimming. Every moment matters, which is why it’s crucial to move at optimum comfort. There are numerous brands in the market, yet it’s not easy to look for reliable ones. Here are some of the best triathlon wetsuits to consider:
- Endorphin Sleeveless Quick Triathlon Wetsuit by Synergy
- Vortex Triathlon Wetsuit by XTERRA
- Fusion Fullsleeve Triathlon Wetsuit by Blueseventy
- Alpha Triathlon Wetsuit by ORCA
- Sleeveless Triathlon Wetsuit by Fit2Race
- P:2 Propel Wetsuit by 2XU
- Adrenaline Fullsleeve Smoothskin Triathlon Wetsuit by Synergy
- Wave 1 Full Sleeve Wetsuit by Zoot
- Thermal Reaction Triathlon Wetsuit by Blueseventy
- Hurricane Freak Nature Wetsuit by TYR
#1. Endorphin Sleeveless Quick Triathlon Wetsuit by Synergy – Best Overall Triathlon Wetsuit
Specifications
- Material: Silicone, and Hydrodynamic Neoprene
- Type: Sleeveless
- Thickness: 0.20 inches
- Available Color: Black
- Suitable for: Men
Triathlon athletes need exceptional comfort, which makes the Endorphin Sleeveless Quick Triathlon Wetsuit by Synergy famous. It earns its spot as one of the most outstanding wetsuits for triathlon athletes because it’s good for all levels and various body sizes. Furthermore, it has approvals from USAT and Ironman.
This wetsuit promotes optimum performance as it comes from Yamamoto #39 and #40 material, with SCS silicone coating. You’ll love its 0.20-inch buoyancy panel and its 0.12-inch panels on the legs and back parts. These panels will support you on every move in the water.
Athletes love the Endorphin Sleeveless Quick Triathlon Wetsuit more due to its 680% flexibility. You will never find it too hassling to remove or wear as it features an anti-corrode zipper. It will decrease the drag as you go out of the water, making it more convenient to move. This wetsuit is comfier because it features triple-stitched seams on the inner lining.
If you’re looking for further support as you swim, the Bio Align Panel feature of this wetsuit will satisfy your demand. Moreover, one of its edges is the low neck style, which most users admire. It provides a lightweight feeling around their neck for added comfort.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with SCS coating | Only available in black color |
| Has heat taped joints | Too tight on some users |
#2. Vortex Triathlon Wetsuit by XTERRA – Best Full Sleeve-Triathlon Wetsuit for Men
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.20 inches
- Available Color: Black
- Suitable for: Men
Men don’t have difficulty looking for full-sleeve-wetsuits since there are vast options in the market. However, some can’t find the ideal one for their body types. If you’re having a hard time looking as well, one of the most recommended is the Vortex Triathlon Wetsuit by XTERRA.
This wetsuit is very competitive because it provides optimum performance to athletes. The 0.12-inch back panel sustains further ease during swimming and biking moments. It also gives optimum buoyancy, thanks to its upgraded hydrodynamic material.
The comfort that the Vortex Triathlon Wetsuit provides is incomparable. It features the X-FLEX LINER 2.0 interior lining, which helps a lot for smooth transitioning. Athletes don’t have a hard time moving from one activity to another because it can stretch up to the flexibility rate that their body needs.
This wetsuit is desirable to triathlon newbies because it works well in cold water. The double-stitched and tripled-glued liner assures warmth as they dip their bodies in the water. Moreover, you can expect full comfort on every paddle because the sleeves are only 0.6 inches thick, making it more hassle-free to swim.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses Limestone Neoprene material | Unwanted folds and wrinkles due to excessive glue |
| Uses the X-Flex liner 2.0 | Not ideal on warm weather |
#3. Fusion Fullsleeve Wetsuit by Blueseventy – Comfiest Full Sleeve-Triathlon Wetsuit
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene and Silicone
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.20 inches and 0.8 inches
- Available Color: Black
- Suitable for: Men
Triathlon wetsuits can give you discomfort, especially if you’re a newbie in the sport. Most would choose a comfy wetsuit over an attractive one, and this is where the Fusion Fullsleeve Wetsuit by Blueseventy comes in demand. Athletes, especially beginners, love this wetsuit because of its exceptional comfort.
Aside from the quality material it uses, one of the edges of this wetsuit is having a thick neckline. The panel is 0.6 inches thin, making it easier for users to breathe. Part of the wetsuit’s style is the lowered collar, which comes with a zipper. This feature decreases chafing since the closure flap reduces the height of the rear collar. Aside from this advantage, it also adds further coziness to the user.
You can expect optimum flexibility from the Fusion Fullsleeve Wetsuit because the fabric has a four-way stretch advantage. The quick-release feature from the single-seam tube legs supports every transition. Moreover, the liquid taping will provide convenience to you in adjusting the internal seam to your preferred height.
This wetsuit is one of the suggested brands for downhill swimming. The overall structure lets athletes focus on their strokes more than their wetsuits. Furthermore, it comes with honeycomb forearm panels for extra propulsion.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has a curved closing flap | Too snug for some athletes |
| Thin Neckline | Uncomfortable zipper |
#4. Alpha Triathlon Wetsuit by ORCA – Best Full Sleeve-Triathlon Wetsuit for Women
Specifications
- Material: 40 Cell Neoprene and 39 Yamamoto Coating
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.4 inches and 0.8 inches
- Available Color: Black with blue and pink highlights
- Suitable for: Women
Women feel more discomfort than men when it comes to wearing wetsuits. On the other hand, ORCA’s optimum performance of Alpha Triathlon Wetsuit provides the desired features that most women triathlon athletes love. It even has a stylish overall look.
It’s one of the most competitive full sleeve-wetsuit because of its 0.88 Free Technology. This advantage is exclusive to this wetsuit. It uses the most flexible material in the market, which is why you can count on its coziness despite any activity. Moreover, the lining comes with a titanium layer, providing exceptional thermal insulation as you swim in cold water.
The Alpha Triathlon Wetsuit comes with a shorter zipper scheme for secure zipping. It’s favourable for most athletes because the reverse zip keeps the wetsuit from opening, especially during races.
What makes this wetsuit more in demand is the SCS treatment it has, which lessens friction during swimming. It enhances the user’s agility because the wetsuit features FT1 Technology on its HydroLite Panels. As it decreases the resistance, your speed is improving, as well as the transitions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight arm sleeves | Doesn't provide enough warmth |
| Stylish design | Challenging to move |
#5. Sleeveless Triathlon Wetsuit by Fit2Race – Most Versatile Triathlon Wetsuit
Specifications
- Material: Nylon and Polyester
- Type: Sleeveless
- Thickness: 0.12 inches and 0.20 inches
- Available Color: Black
- Suitable for: Men and Women
Some wetsuits are ideal for professional triathlon artists, yet you can’t immediately tell by look. On the brighter side, you can check out the Sleeveless Triathlon Wetsuit by Fit2Race. This wetsuit is suitable for all levels, regardless if you’re a pro or a newbie.
This wetsuit is USAT and Ironman-approved because it doesn’t disappoint in proving maximum coziness to both women and men athletes. It features a technology with a lamination process advantage to promote friction-free movement, which is suitable during the swimming part of the competition. Moreover, this technology will help you get optimum speed as you swim.
Customers admire the Sleeveless Triathlon Wetsuit because of its blued seams and blind stitching. These features lessen chafing, which is significant support in getting smoother transitions during the entire competition. Also, the back shoulder panels add convenience to shifts.
This wetsuit doesn’t compromise flexibility, yet it’s one of the most affordable brands that beginners can consider. If you’re looking for an entry-level, this brand will not be a disappointment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features blind stitching for exceptional warmth | No other colors available |
| Affordable | Small sizing for others |
#6. P:2 Propel Wetsuit by 2XU – Most Stylish Triathlon Wetsuit
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene, Silicone, Nylon, and Rubber
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.20 inches
- Available Colors: Black and Dresden Blue or Black and Silver
- Suitable for: Men
Aside from comfort, other triathlon athletes consider the overall look of a wetsuit. It’ll undoubtedly impress the audience if you feel great because of the wetsuit you’re wearing. If you want a wetsuit with an exceptional look, you should check out the P:2 Propel Wetsuit by 2XU.
This wetsuit is not only famous for its superhero style. People love this wetsuit because of its exceptional Distance per Stroke or DPS advantage. It can support you in getting optimum performance during the swimming part of the competition. Aside from the DPS advantage, the embossed bowl-shaped water set-up zones can enhance it further while you swim in open water.
The P:2 Propel Wetsuit by 2XU comes from quality materials, with SCS coating. This coating gives vast benefits to the user, from performance to comfort. This coating lessens the drag in the water, which pushes the athlete to move smoothly out of the water. Furthermore, it makes it more convenient for the user to remove during transitions.
If you’re curious to know about its flexibility, this wetsuit comes with a 520%-stretch lining. The seamless arm and shoulder panels also add impact to their buoyancy, making it easier for you to move your arms during swimming. Moreover, it features a roll bar that can enhance your body positioning for maximum agility.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very stretchable | Beginners may experience slower transitions |
| Easy to clean | Slow arm mobility |
#7. Adrenaline Fullsleeve Smoothskin Triathlon Wetsuit by Synergy – Best Wetsuit for Open Water
Specifications
- Material: Silicone and Hydrodynamic Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.20 inches
- Available Color: Black
- Suitable for: Women
Some wetsuits have features that can enhance your agility as you swim in open waters. If you’re in search of these, you should consider the Adrenaline Fullsleeve Smoothskin Triathlon Wetsuit by Synergy.
This wetsuit is famous for its optimum resistance because of its 0.12-inch core buoyancy panel. It can make you float higher, which is advantageous during the race’s swimming part. Aside from helping you to float, it can also boost your speed as you swim your way out of the water. Moreover, it saves energy, which you’ll further need on the succeeding stations.
The Adrenaline Fullsleeve Smoothskin Triathlon Wetsuit is ideal for all levels, whether you’re a professional athlete or a novice. It’s USAT and Ironman-approved, making it more competitive than other brands. Furthermore, you’ll love how flexible it can be in a full range of movement.
Customers find this wetsuit more ideal than other brands because of its low neck style, which comes with smooth skin. It adds comfort to the athlete because it provides a lightweight feeling around the neck. Moreover, it comes with an internal YKK zipper, lessening the drag as athletes move out of the open water.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides exceptional warmth on the body | Not apt for humid climate |
| 680% flexibility | Not ideal for cold water |
#8. Wave 1 Full Sleeve Wetsuit by Zoot – Best Triathlon Wetsuit in Consistency
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene and Silicone
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.20 inches
- Available Color: Black or Black and White
- Suitable for: Men
The Wave 1 Full Sleeve Wetsuit by Zoot is one of the most admired wetsuits by professionals because it doesn’t fail to provide maximum speed and power. It’s advantageous compared to other brands because it comes with AQUAlift flotation panels. These panels promote exceptional stretchability to the torso and legs for quicker paddling.
You can expect satisfying comfort from this wetsuit because the neck panel removes the constriction, which limits the water from entering. This advantage doesn’t compromise your performance as you paddle at your fastest movement. Moreover, the SCS double-closure feature promotes a friction-free measure.
One of the edges of the Wave 1 Full Sleeve Wetsuit by Zoot includes the ability to hold the water temperature rating down. It can reach 50 degrees to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more viable than other wetsuits that don’t have this advantage.
Another exciting thing about this wetsuit is the Yamamoto GLIDEflex chest panel. It enhances lung expansion for optimum breathability. Also, it supports shoulder rotation, letting you move freely despite any speed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features OKD or Optimal Kick Design | Too snug for other users |
| Features AQUAlift Flotation panels | Limited styles available |
#9. Thermal Reaction Triathlon Wetsuit by Blueseventy – Best Triathlon Wetsuit for Cold Water
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.20 inches and 0.8 inches
- Available Color: Black
- Suitable for: Men
Most of the time, you’ll encounter cold water in triathlon competitions. Hence, it’s crucial to look for a suitable wetsuit that can help your body cope with any water temperature rating during races. One of the best options is the Thermal Reaction Triathlon Wetsuit by Blueseventy.
This wetsuit’s edge is the Thermal Liner, which comes from an upgraded zirconium jersey liner. It doesn’t only provide a “wool-like” feeling, but it also gives optimum protection from cold water. You’ll find it more interesting because it can hold down to 8.5 degrees Celsius or 48 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Thermal Reaction Triathlon Wetsuit features the Reactive Stretch Technology (RST), which provides excellent mobility. It can lessen fatigue feeling on the shoulders and back part of the body because it uses a thinner Neoprene material. Aside from this technology, it also has a Quick Exit Leg-advantage for a smoother and quicker transition. You can immediately go out of this suit.
This wetsuit will undoubtedly meet your expectation when it comes to maximum performance, thanks to its S-Grip Forearm and S-Flex Side panels. These features enhance the body position during swimming, and it gives an exceptional grip as you stroke your arms.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features VO2 chest panels for exceptional stretching | The zipper system may cause inconvenience sometimes |
| Exceptional in cold water | No other styles available |
#10. Hurricane Freak Nature Wetsuit by TYR – Recommended for Optimum Speed
Specifications
- Material: Yamamoto Neoprene and Silicone
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness: 0.20 inches
- Available Colors: Black or Gold and White
- Suitable for: Women
Swimming is the toughest part of the triathlon competition. It doesn’t only need maximum energy, but it also requires a good wetsuit if you want to have a head start. If you can’t find the best brand to check out, consider the Hurricane Freak Nature Wetsuit by TYR.
This wetsuit features FON 360 Core Stabilization, which has to do something with stamina. It’s ideal to endure the athlete’s core strength, which is necessary for longer swims. Aside from this advantage, it also features FON Speed Wrap panelling, which uses the lightest material on the leg, core, and chest parts to lessen the drag as you come out of the open water. These two features are the main factors that can boost you while swimming.
The Form-Fitting Wrist Cuffs of this wetsuit are ideal for powerful strokes, which exploit energy outputs and stop water from going inside. It also features Quick Release Ankle Cuffs, which are suitable for reversing, releasing, and opening.
The flexibility of this wetsuit is reliable as it can also support athletes in floating. Moreover, it can help you with your body rotation while you’re in the open water.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features FON V-GCP for optimum power | Not suitable for cold water-usage |
| Features a speed wrap panel | Bulky feeling |
Top Pick – Endorphin Sleeveless Quick Triathlon Wetsuit
Out of these trustworthy brands, the top pick is the Endorphin Sleeveless Quick Triathlon Wetsuit by Synergy. The comfort it provides to every triathlon athlete is never questionable since it uses high-quality materials, inside and out.
The panels with different thicknesses serve their purposes for optimum performance. The core buoyancy, back, and leg panels can enhance your agility in swimming. Furthermore, the 680% flexibility advantage of this wetsuit makes it more convenient for athletes to float on the water for easy moving.
Aside from the panels, another edge is the low neck style satisfies athletes because they don’t struggle in breathing correctly during the event. It has a lightweight feeling, which is why many users consider buying it more than other brands with dashing styles.
If you’re looking for a wetsuit that can provide you with the agility and coziness you need during competitions, you should consider buying this brand.
Some Benefits of Wearing Wetsuits
When it comes to water activities, wetsuits will come in handy, especially if you’re competing in triathlons. If you’re wondering why you need to wear one, here are some of the advantages you need to consider:
Assures Safety
Regardless if you’re a newbie or a pro in triathlon, wetsuits will provide you with safety, especially in swimming open water. It gives optimum buoyancy, which can help you float in the water.
Provides Warmth
Wetsuits might have a 0.20-inch or 0.12-inch thickness, yet these can provide exceptional warmth to the body, especially if you’re swimming in cold water. Some triathlon competitions might let you experience cold open water, which is why you should pick a suitable wetsuit that can manage cold water.
Prevents the Drag
Most triathlon wetsuits use hydrodynamic materials, which makes these very durable. This advantage doesn’t provide warmth to the body. On the other hand, it prevents drag as you swim in the open water.
Enhances the Speed
Aside from providing safety and warmth, triathlon wetsuits can enhance your speed. Some wetsuits have features that will give ease to the arms for faster paddling.
Move Easily
With a triathlon wetsuit, you can move with ease because the garment is very flexible. It’s one of the primary advantages of wearing wetsuits. You can move freely, knowing that this sport will require vast movements from swimming to running.
There are some good points in wearing a wetsuit, especially in triathlon. You need to invest money in finding the best triathlon wetsuit. Every movement is crucial in this sport, which is why wetsuits have a significant impact on an athlete’s performance.
Handy Tips for Maintaining Triathlon Wetsuits
Keeping a wetsuit clean is crucial because it can cause bacteria to build up without following the proper procedures. You don’t just rinse and hang wetsuits when it comes to cleaning these. There are also other points to consider when it comes to taking care of these.
- Never leave your triathlon wetsuits inside your car’s trunk, especially when it’s outside and under the sun. Putting your wetsuit inside the vehicle is not a good practice because heat can compromise its material. Also, it’s prone to folds and wrinkles.
- Always use a hanger on your wetsuits as you store these inside your closet. Look for a full rack, so it doesn’t leave indents on the wetsuit’s shoulder. Also, make sure the drawer is not too small or short for the wetsuit.
- Never use hot water in cleaning wetsuits that use a Neoprene material. It can ruin its flexibility. Take your wetsuit off before enduring a warm bath to make sure you don’t ruin the content.
- Never use a washing machine for laundry wetsuits, especially in the dryer. Don’t leave it in the laundry basket. Clean it by yourself instead since it’s not too difficult to clean these.
- If you are to clean your wetsuit, make it quick. After cleaning, rinse it and dry it immediately as well. Freshwater will help you remove the dirt with ease. However, consider whether you need to use salt or not. It can compromise the quality of a Neoprene material.
- Never iron your wetsuits if you don’t want them to melt. It’s never safe to roll it. Hence, hanging it on tall closets will prevent folds and wrinkles.
- Never use bleach to clean the wetsuit or potent powders. If you want to use soap, there are mild ones that are suitable for triathlon wetsuits.
- In drying wetsuits, make sure to dry them inside and out. If you don’t want a stinky wetsuit on your next game, you should let both sides dry.
Cleaning wetsuits is tedious, yet if you’re a triathlon athlete, you’ll frequently clean them. It’s not hassling to clean these. However, you’ll need to find suitable storage since you can’t fold these. Nonetheless, having a clean wetsuit will keep you away from bacteria and undesirable odors.
Getting the Best Triathlon Wetsuits – Buyers Guide
Since wetsuits are one of the most significant gears that every triathlon athlete should consider, you have to wear the comfiest wetsuit so you can perform well during competitions or training. If you want to get the best, most suitable wetsuit, here’s a buyer’s guide to consider.
Wetsuit Material
The primary thing to consider before buying wetsuits is the used material. Comfort starts with fabric materials, and there are different types of wetsuits. These are Neoprene, Lycra, Polyester, and Nylon.
Neoprene
Most wetsuits use this material because of its performance. You’ll find three types of neoprene materials, such as the following:
Laminated Neoprene
This type is the most affordable. It’s stretchy, yet it’s not too expansive, unlike insulated types. These come from a rubber material, which comes along with polyester or nylon. Furthermore, it’s mostly for durability than flexibility.
Insulated Neoprene
This type has the highest demand in the market because it’s very flexible. It’s lightweight as well, which makes the material very comfortable. On the other hand, it’s more costly than laminated ones.
Skin Neoprene
This type doesn’t have the same characteristics as laminated and insulated ones. It focuses more on providing an exceptional swimming performance. Furthermore, this material is stretchier than laminated, yet it’s not close to the insulated one’s level.
Lycra
Lycra, along with spandex, is the most common wetsuit material before the rise of Neoprene. It provides excellent stretchability, yet it’s not expensive. It gives a proper fitting to athletes, which is favourable as they swim. Some wetsuits use this material, even though Neoprene is becoming trendier.
Polyester
Polyester has minor differences from nylon, and it’s next to Neoprene’s demand level. It utilizes laminated fabrics for sturdiness, as well as water resistance. Moreover, it functions as an insulator, which adds ease as athletes wear or remove it.
Nylon
Nylon typically comes with Spandex or Polyester. Some prefer this material because it’s more durable than polyester. However, it’s not ideal for water-level repellency. Hence, this material is typically the interior lining, instead of the exterior.
Zipper Panels
Zippers are also crucial when it comes to triathlon wetsuits. Sometimes, these can discomfort when bulky. On the other hand, it provides further ease to users as they remove or wear the wetsuit. There are also different types, such as breakaway, floating, or reverse zippers.
Wetsuit Types
Determining what the comfiest wetsuit type is for you is vital when it comes to triathlon. There are two types, such as the sleeveless and the full sleeve. Some athletes move freely with sleeveless wetsuits. Some want complete protection from the heat and water, so they choose full sleeves over sleeveless ones. The best type is subjective, which is why you should explore both to see which is comfier.
Thickness
The thickness of the wetsuit material is the primary concern of most athletes because it can enhance or affect comfort and performance as they wear it in competitions. There are various measures, such as 0.6 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.15 inches, or 0.20 inches for thickness. Thickness means having better buoyancy.
Panelling
Panelling has something to do with the wetsuit’s breathability. It can also provide an exceptional transition. Some of these panels are on the chest, shoulders, and thighs. As you look for wetsuits from various brands, check whether these have panel features.
Range of Motion
Considering the range of motion will support you in obtaining an excellent swimming position. Some wetsuit brands highlight their field of action for the shoulders and the hips.
Triathlon wetsuits may look meek, yet there are some necessary points you need to consider before buying blindly. It’s not always about the look. If you’re finding a suitable wetsuit for you, this buyer’s guide will help you in deciding which one to choose.
Conclusion
Triathlon athletes don’t focus on buying the most competitive bike. They focus more on looking for the comfiest wetsuit they can find for training and competition. There are numerous brands on the internet these days, which makes it more challenging to look for a trustworthy one. Check these reviews to know more about each brand’s edge if you’re struggling to find the best triathlon wetsuit. Moreover, the buyer’s guide will help you further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How should I store my triathlon wetsuit?
Q: Is it fine to wear wetsuits that have over 0.20-inch thickness?
Q: How to preserve my triathlon wetsuit?
Q: Can athletes wear undergarments inside the wetsuit?
Related Resources
G’day, my name is Rach Taylor and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former Australian Olympic athlete and Australian representative surf sports athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at many of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which also rubbed off on my two young sons! I am also lucky to spend a lot of ocean-time in my favorite second home, Indonesia. In addition to SurfHungry I have founded several other websites in my areas of passion, namely coffee and rock climbing, and am also a regular rowing content contributor.
