Wetsuits - Triathlon Week

09-03-2007, 12:57 AM

The general consensus is that wetsuits make the swim faster. But they also
slow the transition due to the extra time taken in peeling them off. Any
thoughts on where the break even point is -- 400 meters, 800 meters, longer,
shorter?

Also, what are your thoughts concerning sleeves versus sleeveless?

Thanks.

09-03-2007, 12:57 AM

On Aug 24, 8:24 pm, "gr0tt0" <[Only registered and activated users can see links. ]> wrote:
> The general consensus is that wetsuits make the swim faster. But they also
> slow the transition due to the extra time taken in peeling them off. Any
> thoughts on where the break even point is -- 400 meters, 800 meters, longer,
> shorter?
>
> Also, what are your thoughts concerning sleeves versus sleeveless?
>
> Thanks.

The break even point will really depend on how fast you can get out of
your suit. A good suit will usually save 8-10 seconds per 100 so if
you can be out of it in 30 seconds it's still worthwhile for a 400
meter swim.

Regarding sleeves versus sleeveless, some people are more comfortable
in sleeveless but a full suit will be faster 99 out of 100 times. Just
look at the pro's at an ITU start, they ALL have full suits.

Cheers!

Steve

09-03-2007, 12:57 AM

On Aug 24, 5:24 pm, "gr0tt0" <[Only registered and activated users can see links. ]> wrote:
> The general consensus is that wetsuits make the swim faster. But they also
> slow the transition due to the extra time taken in peeling them off. Any
> thoughts on where the break even point is -- 400 meters, 800 meters, longer,
> shorter?
>
> Also, what are your thoughts concerning sleeves versus sleeveless?
>
> Thanks.

I just hate the feeling of sleeves.
too confining for my claustrophobic nature.
Since the swim is my weakest leg by far I want to be as comfortable as
I can, that is my priority.