Wetsuit Question
632
Member
723 days
Ironmom posted 1 year ago.
I've only used sleeveless wetsuits for 20 years of doing tris and they have suited me just fine so far. I think I'm finally going to get a full-sleeve though for a few reasons:
1) I've heard that they've gotten to the point where the range of motion in the shoulders is very good. That was my main complaint when I tried them on a few years back, I have very flexible shoulders and I felt they were too constricting for a good stroke.
2) There's some races in colder lakes where it would be nice to have full sleeves
3) My experience at IMFL this year taught me that even if the water is warm, if the air is really cold (believe it or not, it was in the 30's counting windchill) and you have to be out of the transition area a signifigant time before the race start, you get really really cold in a sleevless suit.
4) IMFL was also my first ocean swim, and I found that salt water increases chafing. I've never had chafing problems on my arms from my wetsuit before, but I did in the ocean. A full wetsuit would not have this problem.
So I'd say unless you know you will only be doing races in relatively warm water temps, I'd go for a full wetsuit. If you can get to a store to try a bunch on, find one that doesn't hamper your shoulder mobility.
Blue Skies, -Robin-
http://ironmom.blogspot.com/
1127
Member
975 days
UFTriGator posted 1 year ago.
I have a QR superfull that I picked out specifically because it allows more flexibility in the shoulders. Never had any chafing issues. Thought I did once, but turned out to be a jellyfish instead! The wetsuit worked out really well for me last season, so I'd suggest trying one of those guys on.
______________________________________________
-Matt
Not fast enough.
4483
Member
1635 days
kylie posted 1 year ago.
I also use a full QR because the shoulders felt the best of all the suits I tried on. I've heard good things about the blueseventy suit shoulder construction as well.
I am entering my 3rd year of triathlons. I have yet to swim using a wetsuit. So far, all my swims have been in lakes that were 78 degrees or warmer - so I have not really had a need.
This year I have signed up for the Muncie Endurathon 1/2 IM distance and Chicago - among other local ones here in St. Louis. I am also considering doing IMWI in the next few years (if my wife will let me train that much).
Should I get a full wetsuit or a sleeveless wetsuit? I have not worn a wetsuit for swimming (only for surfing) and kind of like the idea of having nothing on my arms. Any advice? Pros/cons? Thanks.