Can you do a triathlon in a normal wetsuit?

You could wear a water-sports wetsuit for a triathlon, although you will find it significantly harder both during the swim and also getting it off in transition. A water-sports suit is likely to be enough of a hindrance that you won’t need to worry about being in the mix for the medals.

What is wetsuit legal for triathlon?

USAT rules state that competitors may wear wetsuits if the water temperature is 78 degrees or lower. USAT rules also state that if the water temperature is between 78.1 – 83.9 degrees, competitors may wear wetsuits but will not be eligible for awards.

Do I need a special wetsuit for triathlon?

In America, USAT guidelines state that you may wear a wetsuit if the water temperature is 78 (25.5°C) degrees or below. You may wear a wetsuit if the temperature is 79 (26°C) degrees to 84 (28.9°C) degrees but you won’t be eligible for awards. Anything 85 (29.5°C) degrees or over, no wetsuits are allowed.

How do I choose a wetsuit for a triathlon?

How Should A Wetsuit Fit?

1. Snug but not tight.
2. No folds or excess material.
3. Full range-of-motion through shoulders.
4. Neckline should be comfortable and not suffocating.
5. Arm and leg holes should be snug so water cannot get through.

Should I wear anything under a wetsuit?

Wearing nothing under your wetsuit is totally acceptable, and a matter of personal preference. However, consider these factors: Chafing: Wetsuits can chafe. Give it a try, and wear a swimsuit if it’s uncomfortable.

Should I wear a wetsuit for my first triathlon?

In a triathlon you want to wear what is called a triathlon suit or a triathlon kit (a top/bottom combo) designed to be worn in the swim, the bike, and finally the run. In other words, you do not take it off! With the exception of the wetsuit (if needed), you need not put on any other piece of clothing.

Can you overheat in a wetsuit?

Wetsuits are all designed for different conditions and temperatures of water. If you wear a wetsuit too thick for the water you’re swimming in, you’ll run the risk of overheating.

When should you wear a wetsuit in a triathlon?

1. Is race day water temperature cold enough to make it a “Wetsuit Legal” race? Triathletes are allowed to wear a triathlon wetsuit when water temperatures are too cold for a standard swim.

Can you open water swim without a wetsuit?

A: It can feel very different swimming without a wetsuit, especially if you are used to using one in open water. You’ll have to deal with the reduced buoyancy as well as the cold water. If your leg kicks fades then your speed will really drop and the swim will become harder and harder.

Do you change clothes in a triathlon?

Clothing for a Triathlon You can opt to change into clothes specific to each leg of the race —or not. Some triathletes choose to do the whole race in a swimsuit for quicker transitions. Other swimmers simply pull on a pair of shorts before jumping on their bike.

What is the difference between a triathlon wetsuit and a normal wetsuit?

Wetsuits used for water sports are usually covered by abrasion-resistant Lycra and are not particularly designed for swimming positions. Triathlon wetsuits are designed for flexible swimming positions, making you comfortable especially when your arms are above your head and are pointed forward.

What should I look for in a swimming wetsuit?

4 tips for choosing a wetsuit

• The wrists of the suit should conform well to your body.
• The neck of the suit should conform to the neck and be as tight as possible without feeling like you are being throttled!
• Tapered legs down to the ankles ensure more streamlined kick and help with getting the suit on and off.

How do you know if a wetsuit is too big?

A simple test is to check whether a wetsuit is too big, is to see if you can reach around and zip it up easily yourself. If you can, then the chances are it is too large for your frame. Another method is to tug gently on the lower back, if there is no give then the fit is correct.

What thickness wetsuit do I need for swimming?

The rules state a wetsuit is made of material providing thermal insulation, shall completely cover torso, back, shoulders and knees. They shall not extend past neck, wrists and ankles. They should be between 3mm and 5mm thickness but can be lower in some parts of the suit to allow free movement.