Wetsuit definition? - Triathlon Week

08-23-2004, 07:09 PM

What is the definition for a "wetsuit" in triathlon? I recently
purchased a Sugoi "wireless tri suit"
([Only registered and activated users can see links. ])-
would this be considered a wetsuit, and be subject to water temperature
regulations in competition?

thanks,
jeff

08-23-2004, 07:09 PM

In article <0IgAc.1288$[Only registered and activated users can see links. ].prodigy.com>,
JeffK <[Only registered and activated users can see links. ]> wrote:

> What is the definition for a "wetsuit" in triathlon? I recently
> purchased a Sugoi "wireless tri suit"
> ([Only registered and activated users can see links. ])-
> would this be considered a wetsuit, and be subject to water temperature
> regulations in competition?

It's both wet and a suit, isn't it?

I don't know the rule, but since most people who wear these wear them
UNDER a real wetsuit, I don't think they're considered wetsuits.

--Harold Buck

"I used to rock and roll all night,
and party every day.
Then it was every other day. . . ."
-Homer J. Simpson

08-23-2004, 07:09 PM

JeffK <[Only registered and activated users can see links. ]> wrote in message news:<0IgAc.1288$[Only registered and activated users can see links. ].prodigy.co m>...
> What is the definition for a "wetsuit" in triathlon? I recently
> purchased a Sugoi "wireless tri suit" >
> thanks,
> jeff

A wetsuit is what the referee says is a wetsuit; that keeps it simple.
However, the thing you bought does not look like a wetsuit. It looks
'something' like DeSoto's tri-suits, not as stylish though.

If a race is designated "no-wetsuit" because of water temp, etc. then
your swimsuit/tri-suit MAY have to meet a bouyancy test.

If you have concerns, the (pre-race) test usually consists of the
referee wrapping your suit around his keys and tossing them in a pool.
If it sinks, it is not a wetsuit.

I have never known of a swimsuit's bouyancy being disputed; I suspect
that very few ask the ref to test theirs either.

I don't think you'll have a (legality) problem with your example, but
I won't be your ref either.

rsquared