Buying used wetsuits? - Triathlon Week

08-23-2004, 06:39 PM

I know this thread has come up, but I read in a local CitySports
magazine that the life of a wetsuit is about 4 years. For those who
have owned a wetsuit, has that been your experience?

I'm looking at buying a used Orca Predator 2 wetsuit (retails new
$400, new on ebay for $325). The suit has been used about 10 times
and the owner claims that the suit is 2 years old.

I've looked on eBay and it seems that there are a number of these Orca
Predator 2 wetsuits with broken zippers...is that a common occurrence
for other Predator 2 owners?

I'm currently offering him $185 for the suit. Would I be better off
just buying a less model albeit brand new? Thanks for your input!

08-23-2004, 06:39 PM

Sportsavers, which is the seller that you are probably looking at to buy the
orca, has put a number of these damaged suits up for auction. While I have not
purchased from them, they seem to be able to maintain their business presence
on e-bay.
I own an Orca predator II sleeveless and have had no zipper or seam problems.
I also bought it new. I have three wetsuits hanging in my closet...and I
bought all of them new. I guess I would recommend the same for you. It is a
highly individual 'fit" purchase. I always wore a certain size in a QR, but an
entirely different size range in an Orca. This is one of those things I'd bite
the bullet on and buy from a local dealer that can help you if you have a
problem.