How To Put On A Wetsuit Triathlon?

Step Number	Step Description
Step 1	Determine the Appropriate Size of Wetsuit.
Step 2	Prepare Your Body and Wetsuit.
Step 3	Don the Upper Half of the Wetsuit.
Step 4	Adjust the Fit of the Wetsuit.
Step 5	Zip and Secure the Wetsuit.

Step 1: Determine the Appropriate Size of Wetsuit

Selecting the right size wetsuit is vital for a comfortable and effective triathlon experience. A wetsuit that is too small will limit your movements and cause discomfort, while a wetsuit that is too large will create drag and impede your performance.

To ensure a proper fit, refer to the manufacturer’s size chart or try on different sizes at a store. It is recommended to opt for a snug fit without any loose fabric or air pockets.

Step 2: Prepare Your Body and Wetsuit

Before putting on your wetsuit, ensure that your body is clean and dry. Sweat or dirt on your skin can make it difficult to slide into the suit. Applying lubricant, such as Body Glide or petroleum jelly, on areas prone to chafing, like underarms and neck, can also help ease the process.

Next, turn your wetsuit inside out and carefully step into it one leg at a time. Pull it up to your waist, making sure it fits comfortably around your hips.

Step 3: Don the Upper Half of the Wetsuit

To put on the top half of the wetsuit, raise one arm at a time and slip them through the sleeves.

Ensure that the sleeves are pulled all the way up to your shoulders before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Adjust the Fit of the Wetsuit

Once you have the wetsuit on, it is crucial to make necessary adjustments for a snug fit. This will prevent water from entering and allow for maximum flexibility and movement. Begin by pulling up the legs of the wetsuit to eliminate any wrinkles or bunching around the knees.

Next, pull up the torso of the suit, ensuring that it sits comfortably around your chest and shoulders.

Step 5: Zip and Secure the Wetsuit

The final step is zipping up and securing the wetsuit. Most wetsuits come with a zipper on the back, which can be challenging to reach on your own.

Choosing the Right Size Wetsuit

Choosing the perfect wetsuit size is essential for a comfortable and efficient triathlon experience.

There are several factors to consider when selecting the right size, including:

Body Measurements: The first step in finding the ideal wetsuit size is to determine your height, weight, chest, and waist measurements. These measurements will help you determine which size will fit you best.
Wetsuit Size Chart/Calculator: Once you have your body measurements, use a wetsuit size chart or calculator to match them with the appropriate size. Keep in mind that different brands may have slightly different sizing, so it’s important to check the specific chart for the wetsuit you are considering.
Trying on Different Sizes: If possible, try on different sizes to see which one fits best. This will give you a better idea of how the wetsuit feels and whether it is too loose or too tight in certain areas.
Seek Professional Advice: Seeking advice from professionals at a local triathlon shop can also be helpful in finding the right size wetsuit. They can provide expert guidance on which size and style will work best for your body type and preferences.
Snug Fit: A snug fit is crucial when choosing a wetsuit. It should fit comfortably but also reduce drag and maintain a streamlined profile in the water.
Neckline: Pay close attention to the neckline of the wetsuit. It should not be too tight as this can cause discomfort and restrict breathing.
Avoid Folds or Looseness: When trying on a wetsuit, make sure there are no folds or looseness in the fit. This can cause discomfort and also create drag in the water.
Balance Between Buoyancy and Flexibility: Finding the right balance between buoyancy (thickness) and flexibility is crucial when choosing a wetsuit size. A thicker suit will provide more buoyancy, but it may also limit your range of motion. On the other hand, a thinner suit will offer more flexibility but may not provide enough buoyancy.
Consider Style and Features: Take into account your preferred style and features when choosing a wetsuit size. Do you prefer a full-body wetsuit or a sleeveless one? Do you need extra insulation for colder water? These factors will also affect the size and fit of your wetsuit.

Also Read: Why Are Triathlon Bikes Different?

Preparing Your Skin for the Wetsuit

Preparing your skin for the wetsuit is crucial for a comfortable and successful triathlon experience. Follow these steps to ensure your skin is ready for the challenge.

Exfoliate: Before donning the wetsuit, exfoliate your skin to remove dead cells, dirt, and oils. This will not only help the wetsuit glide on smoothly, but also prevent irritation or chafing during the race.
Hydrate: After exfoliating, moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and supple. Dry skin can cause discomfort and even lead to rashes when wearing a wetsuit. Choose a non-greasy moisturizer that won’t interfere with the wetsuit’s material.
Shave (if needed): For those with body hair, shaving may be necessary before putting on a wetsuit. Hair can create friction and cause discomfort while swimming, so it’s best to remove any excess hair for a smoother and more comfortable swim.
Consider using a lubricant: If you struggle with putting on your wetsuit, consider using a lubricant such as petroleum jelly or body glide. Apply a small amount to areas that tend to get stuck, such as ankles and wrists, to make it easier to slide into the wetsuit.
Check for cuts or open wounds: Before putting on a wetsuit, check your skin for any cuts or open wounds. These can become irritated and more painful during the race, so it’s best to cover them with waterproof bandages.
Avoid silicone-based products: While silicone-based products may seem like a good idea for lubricating the skin, they can actually damage the wetsuit’s material. It’s best to avoid using them altogether.
Test your wetsuit beforehand: It’s crucial to test out your wetsuit before race day to ensure proper fit and identify any issues. This will also give you a chance to adjust any areas that may be too tight or uncomfortable.
Practice putting on the wetsuit: Putting on a wetsuit can be tricky, especially for first-timers. Practice beforehand to get comfortable with the process and make any necessary adjustments.

Step-by-Step Guide to Putting on a Wetsuit for a Triathlon

Familiarize yourself with the regulations and research the water temperature: Before utilizing a wetsuit for a triathlon, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the event. Additionally, researching the water temperature will help determine if a wetsuit is necessary.

Step into the suit with the zipper facing towards your back: When putting on a wetsuit, begin by stepping into it with the zipper facing towards your back. This will make it easier to zip up later.

Use a plastic bag for assistance: If you’re having difficulty getting the suit over your foot, use a plastic bag to assist in sliding it on. This will prevent any potential tears or damage to the suit.
Pull legs up and eliminate air pockets: Once the suit is on, pull the legs up about 1-2 inches above your ankle and work towards your crotch area to eliminate any air pockets. This will ensure a smoother and more comfortable fit.
Ensure snug fit around waist and legs: The wetsuit should fit snugly around your waist and legs for optimal performance. Be sure there are no gaps or excess material that could cause drag in the water.
Pull sleeves past wrists: For full suits, pull the sleeves 1-2 inches past your watch or wrist area. This will prevent any bunching or discomfort during the swim.
Properly adjust arms: Take time to properly adjust the arms by pointing them towards the sky and working the material towards your shoulder. This will ensure proper range of motion and prevent any restriction in movement.
Have someone assist with zipping and securing collar: It can be challenging to zip up a wetsuit on your own, so have someone assist you in zipping it up and carefully securing the collar to avoid any damage.
Ensure a snug yet comfortable fit around the neck: The wetsuit should feel tight around your neck, but still allow for movement. Use a non-petroleum based lubricant if needed to prevent any chafing.
Allow for expansion in the water: It’s normal for a wetsuit to feel excessively tight out of the water. Once you’re in the water, it will expand and become more comfortable.
Wash and hang dry after use: After using your wetsuit, it’s crucial to wash it with mild soap and hang dry it to ensure its longevity.

Also Read: What Percentage Of The Population Has Completed a Half Ironman?

Adjusting the Fit of Your Wetsuit

Adjusting the fit of your wetsuit is essential for a successful and comfortable triathlon. A well-fitting wetsuit can minimize drag, maintain a streamlined profile, and provide a perfect balance between buoyancy and flexibility.

Here are some top tips to follow when fine-tuning the fit of your wetsuit:

Find Your Perfect Size

The first step in adjusting the fit of your wetsuit is finding the right size. Wetsuits are generally sized based on height, weight, and chest measurements.

However, sizes may differ between brands, so it’s best to try on the wetsuit before making a purchase.

Snug yet Comfy Fit

A triathlon wetsuit should fit snugly without being too tight.

A tight suit can restrict movement and breathing, while a loose one can create drag and slow you down. The suit should feel comfortable on your body, without any creases or looseness.

Check the Neckline

Pay close attention to the neckline to ensure it’s not too tight. A tight neckline can cause discomfort and impede breathing.

On the other hand, a loose neckline can allow water to seep in, making the suit less efficient.

Consider Buoyancy and Flexibility

The thickness and material of a wetsuit play a crucial role in its buoyancy and flexibility. Thicker suits offer more buoyancy, which can aid floatation in the water. However, they may also limit movement and flexibility.

Finding the right balance between these two factors is crucial for optimal performance.

Choose the Right Type of Wetsuit

There are various types of wetsuits available for triathlons, including full-sleeve, sleeveless, and shorty wetsuits. Each type has its advantages and is suitable for different water temperatures and personal preferences.

It’s important to select the right type of wetsuit based on your specific triathlon needs.

How to Zip Up Your Wetsuit Properly

Preparing for a triathlon can be overwhelming, but ensuring that your wetsuit is zipped up properly doesn’t have to be.

Follow these simple steps to get ready for race day:

Spread your wetsuit out on the ground or a towel.
Put on your undergarments or swimwear before slipping into the wetsuit.
Pull the suit up evenly from both sides, ensuring a snug fit.
Gently pull the arms and shoulders up and over your head, making sure the suit fits comfortably.
Before zipping up, make sure all parts of the zipper are aligned correctly.
Carefully pull the zipper up, making sure not to catch any fabric or skin.
Double check that the zipper is fully closed and secure.
If needed, make slight adjustments to ensure the wetsuit is not too tight or too loose.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your wetsuit is properly zipped up and ready for a successful triathlon race.

Tips and Tricks for Easy Wetsuit Removal

Swimming in a triathlon can be a daunting challenge, but it’s even more intimidating when you have to struggle with getting out of your wetsuit.

To make the process quick and easy, here are some tips that you can follow during your next race:

Start by opening the velcro and pulling down the zipper. This will loosen up the suit and make it easier to remove.	Next, peel off the arms one at a time. Take your time and be gentle to avoid any tears or damage to the suit.	With big movements, pull down past your torso and hips. This will help you quickly get out of the suit without getting stuck.
Once you reach your legs, use high knees to remove the suit from each leg. This will require some effort, but it’s worth it for a smoother removal process.	Finally, pull off one foot at a time and voila. Your wetsuit is off.
It’s important to take care of your wetsuit to ensure its longevity. Avoid any forceful movements that could damage the suit, lay down a towel before removing it to avoid getting sand inside, and don’t sit down until the suit is completely removed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the art of putting on a wetsuit for a triathlon may seem like a daunting task, but with our comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to conquer it effortlessly.

From selecting the perfect size and style to prepping your skin and following step-by-step instructions, we’ve covered all the necessary steps for a successful wetsuit experience.

Remember to practice beforehand and make any necessary adjustments for optimal comfort on race day.

Don’t let the fear of struggling with a tight rubber suit hold you back from taking on the ultimate challenge of a triathlon.

Our guide will equip you with the confidence and skills needed to dive into the open waters and cross that finish line with ease.

How To Put On A Wetsuit Triathlon?