Researching the best triathlon and swimming wetsuits can be very challenging. In my experience, it’s very hard finding triathlon wetsuits that fit well in both the chest and legs.
Most people recommend women to buy one size larger than they usually would, however, I’ve never seen a brand that offers that size. I mean, I’m not talking about one or two sizes bigger. I’m talking about 5-10 sizes bigger!
That’s why I’ve gone to the trouble of sifting through all of the top brands’ men’s wetsuits for the year 2022.
Read through this buyer’s guide and you’ll be able to choose the best triathlon and swimming wetsuits for your body-type.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| ORCA 1.5 Alpha Mens Triathlon Wetsuit | Best Overall |  |
| Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm | Budget Pick |  |
| 2XU Mens Propel Pro Wetsuit | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. ORCA 1.5 Alpha Mens Triathlon Wetsuit
(This review is for the 2012-13 model, but the 2013-14 model will use the same technology)
The ORCA 1.5 wetsuit has a few nice features that set it apart from a lot of other wetsuits in its price bracket. The first is the "GUARD LOCK SYSTEM" mentioned above in the summary; its built in DuPont Kevlar threading in the suit's lap seal makes for an excellent way to reduce overall suit leakage, which is a problem that commonly plagues cheaper wetsuits and can become a big issue in cold water.
The other nice feature is the ample use of flatlock stitching. This type of stitching is more durable and comfortable against bare skin than flat falls.
2. Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm
Pros:
- Can be worn in a variety of conditions from warm 80 degree water to frigid icy water
- Great for USAT competitions
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons:
- Some complaints that the suit can be a bit tight for women with big breasts
- Feels hot when worn indoors
A wetsuit is a neoprene suit that functions by trapping a thin layer of water between the neoprene jacket and the skin of the swimmer. This thin layer of water serves the purpose of insulating the swimmer from the cold temperatures of the water.
The advantage of wearing a wetsuit is the added thermal protection that you have from the water, which allows you to swim faster than you would be able to in a regular swimsuit.
Wetsuits are not illegal for use during non-USAT races. However, you may be required to wear shorts and a swim cap along with your wetsuit during the swim leg of your race if your swim course is marked by buoys/corrals.
3. blueseventy 2019 Men's Helix Triathlon Wetsuit
Pros:
- Faster in open water
- Looks fantastic
Cons:
- Overall, the price is a bit hefty
- The sleeveless models tend to be a bit restrictive
A go-to if you are competing in triathlon and need the fastest, best-looking suit out there.
This high-end triathlon wetsuit will keep you warm in below freezing waters–you'll still have to surface for air–and shave a few seconds off your swim time.
4. Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm
Pros:
- Very flexible neoprene
- Great suit for open water swimmers who get cold easily (or are just starting out)
- Very economical
- Great for supporting a wide range of temperatures
- The open cell of this neoprene will dry quickly
- Very durable
Cons:
- Not as warm as a 7mm wetsuit
- Not appropriate for high intensity swim workouts
We were thrilled to find this exceptional value in a wetsuit with options for both Men and Women.
We found this wetsuit incredibly versatile for supporting a wide range of temperatures. If you're a competitive amateur swimmer or triathlete who is a bit on the slim side, you will find this suit to fit quite comfortably.
The Smoothskin Neoprene used in the Synergy 5/3mm will dry out very quickly when it starts to get wet. This is particularly beneficial for open water swimmers who often get themselves wet during workouts. It is also very durable.
5. ORCA 1.5 Alpha Womens Triathlon Wetsuit
ORCA 1.5 Womens Triathlon wetsuit is a top of the line triathlon suit that is designed to meet the demands of good quality cold water triathlon events. It’s made from top quality materials that will give you maximum performance, without taking a toll on your wallet.
Second, the suit features a new 4.0mm neoprene design that is lighter, more flexible and more comfortable than previous versions. Third, is the suit’s unique women’s specific fit. From the shorter torso to the tailored upper arm, fit is everything. If the suit isn’t comfortable, it won’t get used.
Finally, ORCA provides a 1 year warranty. It’s designed to be worn for all triathlon events from sprint to ironman distances. It’s also available in a kid’s version.
6. blueseventy 2019 Women's Helix Triathlon Wetsuit
Pros:
- The upper part of the suit is knitted, so it gives you a high flexibility at the extremities
- The pants have an elastic band that will make your warm-up easier
- The latex lines are placed on the important places of the suit. The flatlocked seams will make you faster in the water
- The suit reacts very well to different body temperatures, so you can use it even if the weather remains cold
Cons:
- It has some "cold spots" where the protection is too low (palms and sides of the legs are the most critical areas)
- The design might be too tight for someone's preferences
Intro: Women's triathlon and marathon swimming wetsuit for open water swimming. This 2019 Helix triathlon wetsuit is designed for female triathletes and long distance swimmers. It is designed for women like you who want to swim longer distances and to make your performance better. The suit is made of 70% neoprene and 30% Lycra.
Features:
7. 2XU Mens Propel Pro Wetsuit
The Calf Length Propel Pro Wetsuit from 2XU will not disappoint. It is one of the most popular times of the year to buy a new wetsuit. You need to plan your purchase ahead as this kind of suits is not only pricey but you also can’t say that they last long. But all of this is worth it if you choose 2XU.
The Masculinity of the Propel Pro Wetsuit from 2XU is something that cannot be ignored. You will find both comfort and durability in these. You can get both quality and customization with this suit, which is is rare, to say the least. For some people, they are looking for a wetsuit to last them for a few months while for others the wetsuit should be able to last for a couple of years.
Depending on your body structure you should go for one size smaller than your normal body size. According to the customer reviews, most of the customers have complained about their suits have not being the right size. So, you best off consulting the size chart and ordering the suit according to it.
8. 2XU Mens Propel Pro Wetsuit
The Calf Length Propel Pro Wetsuit from 2XU will not disappoint. It is one of the most popular times of the year to buy a new wetsuit. You need to plan your purchase ahead as this kind of suits is not only pricey but you also can’t say that they last long. But all of this is worth it if you choose 2XU.
The Masculinity of the Propel Pro Wetsuit from 2XU is something that cannot be ignored. You will find both comfort and durability in these. You can get both quality and customization with this suit, which is is rare, to say the least. For some people, they are looking for a wetsuit to last them for a few months while for others the wetsuit should be able to last for a couple of years.
Depending on your body structure you should go for one size smaller than your normal body size. According to the customer reviews, most of the customers have complained about their suits have not being the right size. So, you best off consulting the size chart and ordering the suit according to it.
9. Aqua Sphere Men's Phantom Triathlon Wetsuit
Pros:
- Great wetsuit for colder places
- Keeps you cool during long distances
- Breathable
Swim, run, bike, repeat. It's a simple solution to a simple equation. You will look and feel great while you're doing it with the Aqua Sphere Men's Phantom Triathlon Wetsuit (in XXL). The suit is designed to accommodate shorter bodies.
Aqua Sphere is one of the most popular wetsuit manufacturers for triathletes. They also happen to make one of the best triathlon wetsuits available to you.
It has a five-panel design and is part of a 4-piece system (with gloves and bike shoes). The suit has a two-way zipper on the back of the neck that allows for easier on and off. You will also have a two-way zipper on the chest, and one for your arm that is also connected to your suit. It comes with an open heel that will help you get the suit on easier, and an extra long zipper with a high-quality pull-tab that you will find incredibly easy to manipulate with your hands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best wetsuits for swimming?
So what does that mean in terms of specific products? The vast majority of the wetsuits that are designed primarily for use in the water are lightweight and offer minimal insulation. The thinner the wetsuit, the less insulation is required to maintain the desired water temperature. The reason that you submerge your body in water is to lower your body temperature, so insulation is ultimately counterproductive.
For the most part, the wetsuits that are used by triathletes and serious swimmers are made out of Lycra because it’s lightweight, and it’s also easy and inexpensive to manufacture a large variety of shapes for a wide range of bodies. On the other hand, some triathletes still prefer to swim in blue jeans because they feel that it will add a bit of thermal protection from the water. This is, however, a completely unfounded assumption.
What do you wear to swim in a triathlon pool?
Just like running or biking, you need to wear a wetsuit for your swim leg. Generally, triathlon rules require you to wear something that is 6 millimeters thick, but this will vary depending on the distance. Wetsuits that are anywhere between 8 millimeters and 9 millimeters are usually what you want to look for.
If you are going to be doing a sprint or Olympic-distance triathlon, you will need to stay in the 6-millimeter-suit range. However, anything over that and you will need to start bumping up because, the further you go, the more resistance you have to swim against and the longer the pool. The resistance is created in water by the drag created by your clothing, and the fastest swimmers spend a lot of time working on techniques to reduce this drag. By wearing a thicker suit, you can help yourself reduce the drag in the water and swim the fastest you can.
Can you swim a triathlon in a surf wetsuit?
Swimming a long distance whilst maintaining a pace for the whole event, without hitting an iceberg of exhaustion just hours in, is one of the toughest challenge of any triathlon.
However, there are a couple of key aids when it comes to making this easier.
First of all, you must have a wetsuit to take the chill off the water and allow you to focus on the swim rather than shivering. Secondly, a time-trial suit can boost your performance; we have researched all the best wetsuits for all triathlon distances.
A time-trial suit or a triathlon wetsuit will give you a competitive edge. The flat profile means that the water is more still, meaning less resistance and less drag. In addition, they have been designed to reduce drag as much as possible.
Not only will you swim faster, you will enjoy lower energy usage and increased comfort.
Can you swim in a triathlon suit?
While it is possible to swim in a triathlon suit, they were designed for the other disciplines of the triathlon. The idea of the suit is to work with the swimmer on the bike and on the run, covering the body from wind and other distractions. While other swimming suits are super light, they give absolutely no support, which is useful when you’re swimming but even more important when you’re running.
If you want to swim a half a mile or less, a triathlon suit may work fine. But if you venture to swim one lap in a pool, you should ditch the suit.
Conclusion
Some triathlon wetsuits are more expensive than others, while some are of a better modern design. The main idea is to find a wetsuit that fits your body well and helps you get the most out of your swimming session while competing and training in it.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| ORCA 1.5 Alpha Mens Triathlon Wetsuit | Best Overall | |
| Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm | Budget Pick | |
| 2XU Mens Propel Pro Wetsuit | Upgrade Pick | |