Best Triathlon Wetsuits 2024: The Best Wetsuits for Open Water Swimming

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Best Wetsuits for Triathlon

As the swim leg kicks off any triathlon, the right wetsuit can often be the deciding factor between a strong start and a struggle. However, with an abundance of options on the market, each boasting unique features, fit, and flexibility, the hunt for the perfect wetsuit can feel as challenging as the triathlon itself.

To streamline this pursuit, we present the most comprehensive review of the best triathlon wetsuits of 2023, featuring a range of suits from $250 to $950, carefully vetted for their performance in real-world conditions.

Each wetsuit in our lineup has been meticulously tested, rated, and reviewed by experienced triathletes, providing an unbiased insight into the functionality and effectiveness of the top choices available in the market today. From the budget-friendly to the high-end, we consider factors like overall fit, flexibility, flotation, chafe prevention, structural support, ease of removal, warmth, and durability.

So whether you’re a first-time wetsuit user or a seasoned pro, our review aims to guide you towards the wetsuit that will best suit your needs, taking you from the first stroke in the water to the final sprint across the finish line with confidence and ease.

How to Choose Triathlon Wetsuit

Best triathlon wetsuit

Wetsuits for a triathlon or open water swimming are designed to enhance buoyancy, reduce surface friction, and maintain body heat while providing a high degree of flexibility and comfort.

Manufacturers accomplish this by using different types and thicknesses of neoprene rubbers strategically placed throughout the suit, and coating the external surface area with low friction coatings.

The two most common designs of swimming wetsuits are the Fullsleeve one-piece version (long sleeves and long legs) and the Sleeveless one-piece version (sleeveless and long legs).

Less common designs are Short Johns (short sleeves and short legs) and two-piece versions for which the top and bottom are separate pieces.

Age group participants in a USA Triathlon (USAT) sanctioned event may use wetsuits without penalty when the water temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees but less than 84 degrees, age group participants may wear a wetsuit but will not be eligible for prizes or awards.

Enhancing Buoyancy

The major benefit of a swimming wetsuit is its buoyancy properties. The majority of specialist triathlon wetsuit brands achieve the desired buoyancy through a combination of thickness and rubber types.

The maximum neoprene thickness allowed in most wetsuit legal sanctioned events is 5mm. In order to achieve the greatest balance between buoyancy, flexibility and comfort, triathlon wetsuits use thinner neoprene in the sleeves, underarms and shoulders while employing the thicker neoprene in the chest and thighs.

In other words, triathlon wetsuits help to keep your body out of the water, making the swimming stage more efficient as you expend less energy.

Reducing Surface Friction

Most triathlon wetsuits are made with outer skins designed to reduce surface resistance. Triathlon wetsuit outer skins have a silicon type surface which is slippery in the water and improves gliding once again helping you preserve energy for the latter stages of the race. The quality of this outer skin is another key differentiator between high end suits and economical ones.

Improves Swimming Technique

A triathlon wetsuit is also designed to improve swimming technique and form, especially useful for beginners. The wetsuit helps to support your body in a horizontal position.

Head position is imperative as it controls your body shape in the water; good head position will result in good body position thus improving swimming form.

Wearing a triathlon wetsuit eliminates your head from the equation meaning your body is kept at the optimal position.

Speeds up Transition

Best Triathlon Swim Goggles

A specifically designed open water swimming wetsuit will improve the speed of which you transition between stages compared to diving or surf-specific wetsuits.

This is because tri suits are designed to be easy to pull off once you’re out of the water. They enable greater flexibility for improved dexterity and speed of movement.

Maintaining Body Heat

Wetsuits keep swimmers warm by trapping a layer of water between the inner layer of the suit and the body.

Although the swimmer gets wet and feels cold upon entering the water, the body quickly heats up the trapped water to near body temperature.

The suit must fit properly in order to minimize the amount of warm water being displaced by the cold water outside.

A triathlon wetsuit will keep you warm in the cold water swimming. There are, however, certain rules you must adhere to if the water temperature isn’t cold enough some triathlon events will not allow wetsuits.

In conclusion, a great triathlon wetsuit will keep you from burning too much energy in the first leg of the race. It improves overall efficiency in the water allowing you to charge into the transition with plenty of power in the reserve tanks.

If you want to improve your overall triathlon times then purchasing a specialist triathlon wetsuit is good to start, your swimming times will improve and will have a positive effect on the two other stages.

Flexibility and Comfort

While maintaining body heat, enhancing buoyancy and reducing surface friction are critical, it is as important for triathlon wetsuits to be flexible and fit comfortably.

Performance will be compromised if a wetsuit is too restrictive, especially in the shoulders, torso or throat.

Restricting range of motion in the shoulders will cause an undesired stroke alteration and lower muscle output.
Restricting the torso or throat areas reduces breathing capacity also resulting in lower muscle output.

Flexibility and comfort is achieved by using thinner more flexible neoprene in strategically designated areas of the suit.

The quality and number of flexible panels used in areas where flexibility and comfort are of utmost importance is another major differentiator between high-end suits and entry-level suits.

Type

Triathlons have specific rules determining when a true wetsuit is allowed, and when you need a different type of suit.

Regardless, every type of water suit serves a fairly similar purpose: allow you to swim faster.

Best Triathlon Wetsuits Review

Wetsuit – This is the type of product you generally think of when you hear the term wetsuit-which makes sense.

This type of suit will generally be made of neoprene and feature numerous layers as well as features to provide the wearer with varying degrees of insulation from the water’s chill.

These suits are generally a bit thicker than the other type of water suit, but even these water suits come in varying thicknesses to better accommodate different water temperatures.

These also generally happen to be the most expensive type of water suit.

Swimskin (Speedsuit) – The second type of water suit is the swimskin which is actually fairly similar to a traditional wetsuit.

The main difference between the 2 types of water suits is that a swimskin is not really designed to provide much, if any insulation, that being the case, it should not altogether be surprising that the swimskin is primarily used in triathlons for races where the water is warmer than 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

While a swimskin may not have the insulation of a wetsuit, it should still feature all of the other qualities like body compression, a tight fit, water tightness, and excellent flexibility. It is also worth noting that a swimskin is generally less expensive than a wetsuit-though the highest-end models do not differ too much in terms of cost.

Best Beginner Triathlon Wetsuits

1. ROKA Maverick Wetsuit

Roka Maverick Triathlon Wetsuit Review

The Roka Maverick Wetsuit is a game-changer in the world of triathlon gear. Roka, an Austin-based company, has built a reputation for delivering top-notch wetsuits, goggles, and eyewear for nearly a decade.

Their products are known for their high quality, buoyancy technology, and impressive flexibility, but at a premium price. The Maverick Wetsuit fills the gap in their lineup, providing the same level of performance as their premium wetsuits but at a more accessible price point.

At the heart of the Maverick Wetsuit is Roka’s trademarked “arms up” design, which provides enhanced reach for athletes. The suit is made from eco-friendly and flexible Yamamoto #38 rubber and features a buoyant center panel for improved rotation. Additionally, Roka’s excellent neckline technology has been incorporated into the Maverick, providing a chafe-free seal that keeps water out.

In terms of flexibility, the Maverick Wetsuit offers good mobility, but it’s not much different from other wetsuits at the same price point. However, the “arms up” design more than makes up for it, eliminating the pulling sensation that many entry-level suits cause when extending strokes. Additionally, the wrist and leg seals are incredibly effective in preventing water entry, which is a common issue in sub-$300 suits. Durability is also impressive, especially for a suit at this price point.

The only minor drawback of the Maverick Wetsuit is the thickness of the neoprene. At 1mm/2mm/4mm, it may not provide enough buoyancy for beginner triathletes. However, experienced swimmers will appreciate the added flexibility in the shoulders.

Features

The wetsuit has these features:

  • Arms Up Construction: ROKA designs all its wetsuits with the model’s arms above their head to simulate swimmer’s position. This helps the designers create a suit with more arm movement than other brands.
  • Centerline Buoyancy: ROKA’s patented buoyancy pattern helps you stay in the best swimming position the entire time you’re in the water. They place their buoyant material in the center of the body. This helps you have a natural hip rotation.
  • Quick Release Panels: This added feature is especially beginner friendly! The openings at the ankles and wrists only have 2mm of neoprene to make transitioning to the bike easier.

The wetsuit should help you swim faster in the water with its high-end technology. What makes an entry level suit, is the price and some limited technologies.

In conclusion, the Roka Maverick Wetsuit is a top-performing entry-level wetsuit that offers premium features and durability at an affordable price. It’s a must-have for triathletes who want to take their swim game to the next level.

2. TYR Hurricane Category 1 Wetsuit

TYR Hurricane Wetsuit Category 1 Wetsuit Review

TYR designed its wetsuit to reduce drag and increase speed and its entry-level one is ideal if you’re trying to improve your stroke.

You can be sure that even if you buy the suit for your first season, it will last for years and even after you’ve upgraded. It’s made of the most durable materials and with slick skin neoprene, it will be comfortable to wear and swim in.

The TYR design team created this suit with speed wrap paneling to in the legs, chest, and abdomen so it’s super tight but comfortable on your skin.

To make transitions easier for newbies, the wetsuit has quick release ankle cuffs to help you get on the bike even faster.

Its final feature worth mentioning is its form-fitting wrist cuffs. These are designed to support your arm stroke and prevent water from seeping into your wetsuit.

I highly recommend this wetsuit to beginner triathletes who need a dependable suit to help get them through the first few triathlons seasons. Other entry-level brands might not last as long as TYR so you can even keep it after you upgrade as a back-up suit. Or, one to give to a new triathlete.

3. ORCA Athlex Float Wetsuit

orca athlex float review

ORCA made its Athlex Float wetsuit for beginners. To help new triathletes, it added more buoyancy to this wetsuit so they can swim in the proper position. However, the buoyancy doesn’t sacrifice the triathlete’s swim stroke.

When you order an ORCA wetsuit, even an entry-level one, you still get some features of a high-end one.

Features

This entry level suit has these high-end features:

  • Super Composite Skin (SCS), found on most high-end wetsuits, coats this entry level one. It helps repel water and lets you glide through it
  • The neck lining is made with non-chafing materials
  • The suit has 2mm Yamamoto panels on the arms, shoulders, and forearms to allow for the most arm movement

You can expect this wetsuit to perform just as a higher-end one would: it helps keep you in a horizontal position, glide through the water, and of course warm in colder waters.

What makes this an entry-level wetsuit is the extra buoyant materials. This might be helpful if you really struggle to keep yourself in a horizontal position. You can complete the swim without completely tiring yourself out from not only swimming but dodging other people and objects in the water.

I recommend this product to beginner triathletes. It gives you the most for your money and with the added buoyancy, you can learn to swim better. Most veteran triathletes say if you practice with this suit, you’ll learn the feel of a proper swim position.

4. ZOOT Wave 1 Wetsuit

ZOOT Wave 1 Wetsuit Review

The ZOOT Wave 1 wetsuit packs as many high-end features into its entry-level wetsuit and tries to help you learn how to swim better without it.

The wetsuit has GLIDEflex grooved panels to help you breathe easily during the swim. This might be helpful if you often start to panic in open water swims. You can be assured that the wetsuit won’t feel restrictive even when you begin to feel nervous or anxious.

ZOOT even gives its entry-level wetsuit a super composite finishing coat to help you glide through the water and repel any water that might cause drag.

This entry-level suit has extra buoyancy to its already buoyant AQUAlift technology for those who really struggle with the swim.

In a race, you should feel like your swim stroke, especially in your legs, has improved and that you’re going fast in the water. You can focus on moving your arms efficiently and save your leg muscles for the swim and run.

I recommend this wetsuit to any beginner triathlete who needs more swim practice. You can be sure that the wetsuit will put you in the correct swimming position so you won’t struggle through the first third of the triathlon.
Even if you’re a good swimmer, but panic in open water, this suit might be good for you. You won’t feel restricted in the chest area and can calm yourself down before the race.

5. XTERRA Volt Wetsuit

XTERRA Men's Volt Triathlon Wetsuit Review

XTERRA is certainly not the most popular or well-known brand on our list, but they are respected-even though they are also one of the youngest companies that we reviewed.

This is in a large part due to the fact that the company specializes in niche bodysuits for various endurance based competitions. On top of that, they make it a point to keep up technologically without driving up the cost.

Build

One thing that triathletes must constantly contend with in the swim leg of the race is whether they want the wetsuit to provide a greater range of motion or provide a tighter fit.

For the XTERRA Volt, the company sought to provide a better range of motion-though they did not have to unduly sacrifice the fit. With a sleeveless design and a low-profile collar, this wetsuit provides the greatest unrestricted range of motion in the men’s category. Even better, this wetsuit uses GBS seams to keep everything in place.

Layers

One of the notable differences between the XTERRA Volt and many of the other wetsuits we reviewed is the panel construction. Specifically, the XTERRA Volt does not feature nearly the same level of panel customization as many of the other products we saw. That said, the XTERRA Volt does offer numerous layers to provide similar results.

For instance, the X-SLICE coating acts much like a super composite skin would allowing the water to roll off of the XTERRA Volt. On top of that, the X-FLEX liner works to both prevent chafing and keep a tight fit.

Best Value for Money Triathlon Wetsuits

1. BlueSeventy Fusion Wetsuit

BlueSeventy Fusion Wetsuit Review

BlueSeventy Fusion updated its 2018 Fusion model for better comfort and arm reach in the water. The new Fusion model has more buoyancy than its predecessor to help prevent your legs from sinking.

The new suit helps you glide through the water with Super Composite Skin (SCS) coating.

You can expect the suit to fit the same and perform similarly to its older models.

Features

However, before you decide to keep your old model, consider these pivotal features on the new one:

  • 1.5mm neoprene on the upper chest and shoulder area of the wetsuit to give your arms more flexibility and comfort.
  • The design team created the whole wetsuit with high-end Yamamoto neoprene for the most movement and comfort. To finish the wetsuit, the design team coated it with Super Composite Skin (SCS) to improve durability and speed in the water.
  • Different neoprene thicknesses (3mm chest panels and 5mm core) help keep your body in a horizontal position.
  • Blue Seventy’s Quick Exit Legs feature thin leg panels to help you transition faster.
  • The legs have taped seams so you can cut the legs to a different length.
  • The neckline is lower and thinner than other models which make swimming more comfortable and reduces chafing.
  • The side panels are thin and help your hips rotate during the swim.
  • The arms have Blue Seventy’s Aqua-Seal Cuffs, which keeps the water out of your suit. And, it helps you take off your wetsuit.

The wetsuit should feel very snug on land and once you get in the water, it loosens up. If it’s a good fit, you might need someone to help you zip-up the suit.

In the water, you should feel like your stroke is nearly effortless. The suit puts you in a nearly perfect position so you can focus on your hip rotation and arm movement.

The wetsuit’s reverse zipper makes it easier when you emerge from the water. Just reach back for the cord and pull up!

I recommend this model to anyone who needs more help with their leg position in the water. Even if the training doesn’t help you in time for a race, the wetsuit will make up for it. The different neoprene thickness gives you support and flexibility where you need it the most.

The suit’s taped internal seams help the wetsuit fit any body length since you can easily cut off what you don’t need. And, if you’re trying to be quicker in T1 the quick-exit legs technology makes it easier to get on the bike faster.

2. Zone3 Aspire Wetsuit

Zone 3 Aspire Wetsuit Review

Zone3 has come back with its new Aspire wetsuit just in time for your upcoming triathlon season.

Overall, Zone3 made its new wetsuit with more flexibility, buoyancy, and even better comfort than before.

If you were a fan of the Zone3 and want to upgrade to a mid-level wetsuit, it might be worth budgeting for.

Features

The special features of the suit include:

  • Top-of-the-line Super Composite Skin Yamamoto fabrics to give you the best flexibility throughout the entire wetsuit.
  • Aqua dynamic Super Composite Skin Nano finish coating on the wetsuit reduces drag in the water.
  • Buoyant materials are limestone based rather than oil based which makes you stay on top of the water.
  • High water retention to help keep you warm in even the coldest temperatures you may train and race in.

Many people who have bought and liked this wetsuit have praised it for being flexible in the arm and shoulder area. And, that even though the wetsuit is more buoyant than other mid-level suits, it doesn’t inhibit movement and is still easy to take on and off.

I’d recommend this wetsuit if you’re looking to upgrade from your entry-level wetsuit to mid-level. You’ll get your money’s worth with all the added features your hold suit did not have.

If you’re still working on your swim stroke, this wetsuit might help you get through the swim faster and even make you a better swimmer.

3. XTERRA Vortex Wetsuit

Xterra Vortex Wetsuit Review

XTERRA came out with its newest addition to its wetsuit collection, and let’s say that it’s impressive and can easily be used in high-level competition.

The wetsuit is an all-around reliable suit you can use for training, racing, or just practicing your transitions. Made with more durable neoprene, the suit offers great speed, buoyancy and flexible movement in the water. And, it feels snug and comfortable to wear.

The wetsuit’s biggest features are its buoyancy and flexibility and durability.

Buoyancy Feature

XTERRA designed this wetsuit with a limestone based neoprene to maximize its thickness. The suit has 3mm of limestone on the back to give you more flexibility and 5mm on the front to keep you afloat.

The wetsuit has the least amount of neoprene (1.5mm) in the shoulder and arm area so you can swim naturally in the water.

Finally, XTERRA lined the inside of the suit with its X-FLEX LINER to help your T1 transition go smoother and faster.

Flexibility and Durability Feature

XTERRA made its wetsuit using only one type of neoprene to increase the lifespan of your wetsuit. You can rely on this wetsuit to get you through your first few seasons or more before you decide to upgrade.

XTERRA promises its flexibility and durability with its X-Max seal technology to make sure that the wetsuit retains its shape even after your thousandth swim. To ensure your wetsuit lasts for years the design team double stitches and triple glues its waterproof seams.

Triathletes who have used this wetsuit all rave that it really helps them in the water. It does enough to help them from sinking. And, the different neoprene thicknesses don’t interfere with the arm, hip, or back movement.

The legs are able to stay near the surface with little effort. And, kicking is easy since the wetsuit helps you propel farther.

I highly recommend this wetsuit if you’re looking for a higher-end mid-level wetsuit for your next triathlon season. It has high-quality materials and is constructed nicely and has a great price.

Since the suit is made with only one type of neoprene, the whole suit will last a long time. Instead of one part wearing out faster since it was made with a different quality of neoprene.

Although it might not have many features, this is a strong, “base” wetsuit to help you as you start to navigate and learn the ins and outs of the sport.

4. Zoot Wave 3 Wetsuit

Zoot Wave 3 Wetsuit Review

The Zoot design team created its wetsuit to work with your body’s natural swim so that you can glide through the water. The suit’s buoyancy keeps your legs afloat without putting your body in an unbalanced position.

On top of helping you keep an optimal body position and technique, the wetsuit was created with wrist and ankle cut off patterns to ensure an easy transition to the bike.

The Zoot team really tried to create the best connection between your body and the water with its improved technology.

Features

The Wave 3 Wetsuit has these features and special tech specs:

  • AEROdome neoprene is placed in strategic spots on the wetsuit to keep the body high on the water with the best swimming position.
  • The wetsuit is finished with a hydrodynamic coating called Super Composite Skin, which helps the suit to flow more efficiently through the water.
  • AQUAlift buoyancy panels are placed in the lower abdomen and back to help raise your legs and put you in a more horizontal position in the water.
  • Optimal Kick Design is Zoot’s special leg patterning that works with your legs’ natural curve and muscles. This helps increase efficiency, speed, and kick velocity. The pattern also prevents your legs from becoming tired during the swim.
  • FLEXback has 100% broken knit Nylon in its design. This material is patterned throughout the back and shoulders. This gives your back, shoulder, and arms more flexibility during the swim. The inside of this pattern is made with BGX in a broken knit structure lining to give you the most movement.
  • PROarm proprioception panel, made with ultra-thin hydrophobic stretch fabric to give you “stroke feedback” and helps correct your stroke while you practice in open water.
  • DORSALflex zipper

The wetsuit should help your legs become stronger and more efficient with its special design and extra buoyancy to keep your legs from sinking. It should feel nearly effortless having a “perfect” stroke if you struggle with the swim.

If you have a good stroke, this wetsuit will enhance it even more and help you glide in the water. The extra buoyancy will help you from getting tired during a long swim practice or race.

I’d recommend this suit if you’re regularly competing or training in temperate to warm waters. The suit will work wonders and help you become a better swimmer and get through T1 faster.

However, because some of the material is thinner and made from swimsuit material, it lets in more water. This is the compromise when you buy a mid-level suit that is easy to get off. You’ll have to decide if this will bother you on the swim.

If you like the company, even though the wetsuit lets water seep in, you might need a smaller size, or upgrade to a different wetsuit or change brands.

Best Performance Wetsuits for Triathlon

1. Zone3 Vanquish

Zone3 Vanquish Wetsuit Review

Though it may not necessarily sit at the head of the class, Zone3 is no slouch when it comes to triathlon wetsuits. In fact, this brand is just as highly regarded as many of the other top brands, and this is likely in part due to the value that it provides.

Specifically, Zone3 is fairly good about offering its consumers top-tier features at mid-tier products. As such, we ranked the Zone3 Vanquish our best all-around value men’s triathlon wetsuit.

Speed

Whereas some wetsuits make it a point to try and cover all bases and doing everything equally well-which is a fool’s errand-the Zone3 Vanquish knows exactly what it is about: speed. To this end, the Zone3 Vanquish has added numerous features all designed to help increase your speed.

For instance, the Pro Speed Cuffs at the openings of your arms and legs allow for a rapid transition from legs of the race. It also provides a Cool Spot catch panel, so you can get the most out of every stroke.

Panels

Speaking of panels, this wetsuit has a fair number of impressive ones as well. For instance, this is one of the few wetsuits that we saw which features a single shoulder panel. This is important because it provides the wearer a more stable fit as well as a greater range of motion considering it does not have seams.

This wetsuit also comes with two chest panels that each do something slightly different. First, the 5mm aerodome roll bar increases your buoyancy allowing you to maintain a proper swim posture. Then the 3mm chest panel increases flexibility to take deeper breaths and expand your chest.

2. ORCA APEX Flex

orca apex flex review

ORCA created its Apex wetsuit specifically for those triathletes, who come from a swimming background.

To start, the wetsuit has a reverse zipper system that doesn’t interfere with your stroke. This means you can concentrate on swimming and let the wetsuit take care of the rest.

Yamamoto is one of the main materials of the wetsuit, which makes it the most stretchable wetsuit available.

ORCA developed it 0.88 Free technology with Yamamoto to create one of the thinnest wetsuits. Even though the wetsuit might be the thinnest on the market, it still keeps you warm with its Titanium layer.

ORCA uses Yamamoto 44 with a 1.5mm thickness on its suit, which gives the suit its stretchiness and makes room for a smaller zipper system. A smaller zipper system gives your body more movement and improves the waterproofness.

To give you more speed, ORCA uses Nano Super Composite Skin (SCS) so the wetsuit won’t rub your skin while you swim. The legs are designed with Hydrolite Leg panels which let you have the full range of your legs during the swim. The FT1 technology is made of ribbed neoprene which helps your legs slide out of the wetsuit.

The new zipper system is reversed and is smaller. This feature prevents your wetsuit from opening. And, a smaller zipper doesn’t restrict your movement.

Finally, the buoyancy of ORCA’s Apex wetsuit helps keep you in the best swimming position without compromising your technique.

Overall, I’d recommend this wetsuit to veteran triathletes and those who need a lot of flexibility in their wetsuits. The wetsuit also has new buoyancy compared to its earlier models, which may help you in the swim.
If you’re already a strong swimmer, this suit would allow you to have the most natural stroke in the water as if you weren’t wearing a wetsuit. You’ll still get all the support and thermal insulation from this suit as you would from a thicker suit.

3. ROKA Maverick Pro II

ROKA Maverick Pro II Wetsuit Review

ROKA updated its older Maverick Pro model so that its new one gives you the most natural feeling in the water. It still gives you more buoyancy and helps correct your body alignment in the water.

ROKA uses the best neoprene in the market called Yamamoto, which is limestone based. This type of neoprene has more stretch, retains its original shape easily, and has the optimal insulation to weight ration.

ROKA uses different types of Yamamoto neoprene throughout the suit so you have the best core-temperature and comfort along with speed in the water.

Features

The other features of the wetsuit include:

  • Quick release ankle panels: ROKA uses 2mm neoprene around the ankles which makes it easier for you to slip out of your wetsuit in T1.
  • Super Composite Skin (SCS): Super Composite Skin is a Hydrophobic Nano Coating which reduces drag in the water and helps keep the suit durable for seasons to come.
  • Independent Neck Suspension: The neck panel doesn’t have any seams so you can have natural movement of your neck during the swim. Without seams, you also reduce chafing.
  • Flexible Liner Materials: Little known fact, ROKA makes their suits from the inside out. This means that the suit will work with your natural swim movement. You can expect the suit to stretch and support you for a comfortable swim. The liners also have a low absorption rate.
  • Graduated Buoyancy Profile: ROKA moves the extra buoyancy, found in the chest area in other brands, to the legs, where you most need it. This puts you in a nearly perfect horizontal position in the water since your legs won’t sink.
  • RS2 Centerline Buoyancy: ROKA’s patented Centerline Buoyancy concentrates all its buoyant material in the center of its suits. This means you’ll have more body rotation in the water.
  • Arms Up Construction: Arms Up Construction is another patented ROKA feature. ROKA designed its suit while the model’s arms were above the head instead of at the sides. This means you’ll have more arm movement during the swim.

The wetsuit performs up to its hype. Many triathletes, even the ones who are good swimmers, say that the wetsuit actually helps them in the water. They say that the wetsuit is working with them and helps them complete the swim faster.

The new ankle design makes transition easier since the material is less thick than other places. With the right practice, you’ll be able to slip out of the suit when you’re in T1.

If you can look past the cost of the wetsuit, I’d highly recommend this wetsuit to serious triathletes. The benefits of this suit far outweigh the financial cost of it.

ROKA did its job and created a wetsuit based on its past models and what triathletes need. If your wetsuit can save you a few seconds in T1, it’s worth it especially if you’re competing at a high level. A few seconds can be the difference between performing your best and breaking your personal record.

4. De Soto T1

De Soto T1 Wetsuit Review

De Soto created its T1 wetsuit as a two-piece instead of a one-piece wetsuit like other companies. A two-piece wetsuit helps you transition faster and makes shoulder fatigue and “torso-rubber stretch” disappear.

De Soto sells the top and bottoms separately so you’ll be sure to find the right fit no matter what.

The design team created the wetsuit so that it won’t limit your stroke with its lightweight zipper. This custom-made zipper is more flexible and makes it easy to transition to the bike.

Features

Wetsuit Top Features

  • The top is lined with 4-way stretch Nylon Lycra to reduce rubbing and chafing.
  • 2mm neoprene for the body and arm part of the top.
  • Lower neckline for a more comfortable swim.
  • Patented BIO STROKE to put your arms in the optimal swimming position for a more efficient swim.
  • YKK zipper that is small and lightweight to make T1 easier than before.

Wetsuit Bottom Features

  • The wetsuit bottoms have enough buoyancy to float your hips without compromising your natural hip rotation and stroke.
  • The bottoms main material is 5mm Green Goma #8 Rubber with Super Composite Skin to help keep you buoyant and speedy in the water.
  • De Soto glues its seam and blind stitches them to make the bottoms more durable than the rubber it’s made with.
  • The bottoms are cut about shin high to get the bottoms on and half more easily.
  • Drawstring to get the right fit.

De Soto’s two-piece wetsuit performs just as well if not better than a “traditional” one-piece. Since the top and bottoms are separate, you’re almost guaranteed to find the right fit between the two of them.

Since your shoulders aren’t connected to your crotch like a one-piece wetsuit, you have more movement in your arms. And, you won’t have to worry if your torso is too long or short like you would for a one-piece wetsuit.

The top has a flexible zipper that is by far smaller and more lightweight than what you’ll find on a one-piece suit. It won’t bother your skin and you can easily get your wetsuit top off.

The bottoms have the perfect amount of buoyancy to help keep your body in a horizontal position. And, they even let you have your natural hip rotation during swimming.

I recommend this wetsuit if you consider yourself “odd shaped” and have a hard time finding the right fit in a one-piece wetsuit.

Even if you have no problems fitting into a one-piece suit, you might like this wetsuit you struggle getting in and out of wetsuits.

Try it out, it might help you transition faster and fit your body better than any one-piece could.

5. TYR Hurricane Freak Nature

TYR Hurricane Freak Nature Wetsuit Review

Of all the brands on our list, none of them are as well-respected, well-represented, or storied as TYR. With a history that stretches back over 4 decades, the brand originated from an attempt to improve on early Olympic wetsuits.

The results have been fairly impressive, though it definitely means that the TYR company is not specialized in triathlon wetsuits. That is part of what makes it so surprising that it has captured our editor’s choice-and did so fairly easily.

Speed

When it comes to the swimming leg of a triathlon, there are few things a wetsuit can provide that are better than increasing your speed. Thankfully, the TYR Hurricane provides plenty of features just so you can shave minutes off of your personal best time. For one, this wetsuit has arguably the best catch panels as the V-GCP forearm panels drastically increase your stroke distance.

Finally, this wetsuit comes with special speed wrap paneling at the legs, chest, and core. It is the speed wrap panels that are in large part responsible for the incredibly low drag of the Finally, this wetsuit comes with special speed wrap paneling at the legs, chest, and core. This wetsuit is also coated in super composite skin that allows it to have a ridiculously low drag coefficient of only 0.026.

Panels

Beyond the speed factor, another primary aspect that determines a great wetsuit is what kinds of panels it provides. For instance, the TYR Hurricane is one of the only wetsuits we saw that came with the range of motion panels. Whereas most wetsuits constrict around the shoulder, the TYR Hurricane is able to offer a greater range of motion with special shoulder panels. Continuing on, the TYR Hurricane also offers some of the best buoyancy we saw and accomplishes this by providing aerodome panels in 360-degrees around the wetsuit to help you maintain a proper swimming position.

6. Blueseventy Thermal Reaction – Best Triathlon Wetsuit for Cold Water

BlueSeventy Thermal Reaction Wetsuit Review

For those close to the sport, it might actually seem a bit odd that we would include the Blueseventy Thermal Reaction wetsuit on our list of the best men’s wetsuits considering the company makes it a particular point to focus on providing women wetsuits that meet their specific needs. Of course, Blueseventy is an all-around great brand, so it should not come as that much of a surprise.

Insulation

Though there are actually a fair number of products that we saw and reviewed which are made to be worn during triathlons in warmer weather, this is arguably one of the best wetsuits you could buy for the opposite situation. This is because the Blueseventy Thermal comes with a number of features that increase its ability to insulate you. For instance, the Blueseventy Thermal has a thickness of 5/4 which makes it one of the thickest wetsuits we reviewed. On top of that, it has a zirconium thermal liner to further keep in your body heat.

Design

When it comes to the Blueseventy Thermal Reaction, this wetsuit follows the trend of the other product the company makes with excellent and intuitive design features. For example, this is one of the handful of wetsuits we reviewed which comes with aqua-seal cuffs that will prevent water from getting in but also allow you to easily remove the suit when you finish. It also provides ribbed knee panels for a smoother kicking motion and quick-exit leg openings for even faster removal.

7. Roka Maverick Pro Thermal – Best Thermal Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming

Roka Maverick Pro Thermal Review

The Roka Maverick Pro Thermal wetsuit has all the technologies of the Maverick Pro but specializes to the avid swimmers who love an invigorating early summer or late fall dip in open-water.

The wetsuit has, Arms Up and RS2 technologies to keep you buoyant in the water without disrupting your stroke’s natural body/hip rotation and arm stroke.

The wetsuit was made with 5mm thickness of neoprene which is the thickest it can be made in while still being legal for ITU, Ironman, and USAT races.

For the Arms Up technology, the wetsuit was made with the model’s arm up instead of their sides. This ensures that you can get the most mobility while you swim and the shoulder designed is supposed to help you save energy.

The RS2 Centerline Buoyancy concentrates the neoprene and buoyancy materials in the center to keep you more balanced in the water. And, it allows you to have a more natural hip rotation and helps you have an efficient stroke in every phase of it.

Roka moved all the buoyancy in the chest area to the leg area which is where it is most needed. This lets your lungs breathe more readily and keeps your legs afloat more effortlessly. 

The inside of the wetsuit was not overlooked during the design meeting. The wetsuit was made with liners that complement the outside technologies so that you won’t feel restricted while in it.

Triathletes who have bought the wetsuit like it because it was specialized for colder water swimming. They liked all the technologies of Roka along with its great customer service. Most people who have bought the wetsuit say that it really supports their natural stroke so they don’t have to work as hard in the water.

I recommend this wetsuit if you like Roka and want a wetsuit that specializes in cold water swimming. It has several sizes so that it can accommodate any-sized triathlete.

8. HUUB Varman – Best HUUB Ironman Wetsuit for Triathlon

HUUB created the Varman wetsuit with the most upper body flexibility and a lot of buoyancy for the lower body.

Huub Varman Wetsuit Review

Instead of using only neoprene, the design team used +43 Foam which is finer and more buoyant than neoprene. This means that you can easily walk around in your wetsuit before a race.

In the water, the material helps increase your speed without wasting too much energy all in addition to being 43% more buoyant.

The wetsuit is coated with a silicon skin finish which is the key to speedy swims and reduced drag in the water.

The patented Arms Neutral technology helps reduce the stretch cycle so swimming with is wetsuit feels like you’re swimming without one. It gives great arm rotational support.

The wetsuit was tested using the MAD system (Measurement of Active Drag) which tests how much drag the suit creates. And, the design team aimed for the wetsuit to have the smallest amount of drag possible.

Triathletes who have bought the wetsuit like it because it feels like they aren’t swimming with a wetsuit but has all the advantages of a wetsuit. The wetsuit is a little hard to put on since the wetsuit has rigid (yet supportive) panels on the legs and arms. However, in the water, the wetsuit did not constrict any leg movements and the wetsuit did keep triathlete’s legs more buoyant.

I recommend this wetsuit to those who want to try new material in the water without compromising performance in races.

9. Aquaman Cell Gold

Aquaman Cell Gold Wetsuit Review

The Aquaman Cell Gold wetsuit is well-known because it has nearly zero water retention and keeps the body warm.

This would be a great option for those who like to swim in open-water year-round. Of course, if you decide to do this please buy the other appropriate gear to keep yourself safe.

The wetsuit is made with Metal Cell technology which is unique to Aquaman Triathlon products. This means that the wetsuit was designed with neoprene on the inside and outside. And, to polish off the suit, it is treated with SCS  to make it feel and perform smoothly in the water and when it comes it touches your skin.

How it the wetsuit supposed to feel on your body?

The wetsuit is supposed to stay very close to your body and not allow any water into the suit. The wetsuit is not so close to the skin that it causes triathletes to feel constricted in their movement or breathing.

The wetsuit does a good job of keeping triathletes’ bodies warm in the water.

The wetsuit has two layers of GIGA #40 from Yamamoto; one layer on the inside to give a close fit and the other layer is on the outside. The shoulder area has GIGA #40 so triathletes will have the maximum amount of flexibility.

And, for those who don’t like collared wetsuits, this one has a low collar angle and its height is about 2cm shorter for more movement. And, the back of the collar has Flash System technology to reduce chafing and help get the zipper undone for transitions.

Triathletes who have bought the wetsuit like it because it has a lot of technology that doesn’t weigh down the wetsuit and has many benefits. Most report that they don’t have nearly has many chafing problems as they did in past years and that is mainly because very little water comes into the wetsuit. Those triathletes who swim in open-water year-round said that the wetsuit kept them very warm.

I highly recommend this wetsuit to those who can swim year-round or enjoy swimming in the early summer and late fall months. It will keep you warm without overheating you. And, provides great buoyancy without getting in the way of your stroke.

Best Women’s Triathlon Wetsuit

1. Blueseventy Helix – Best Wetsuit for Triathlon

Blueseventy Helix Wetsuit Review

While technically Blueseventy makes products for both genders, it makes a particular point to cater to female consumers. In fact, they have even developed their own Femme Fit designs to ensure that women will feel comfortable in their wetsuits. While that is great enough already, it almost feels a little like overkill when the Blueseventy Helix provides easily the best performing triathlon wetsuit for women that we reviewed. That said, you will definitely have to pay for what you get.

Panels

Though panels are a continued theme on this list, the Blueseventy Helix goes above and beyond, making sure to provide specialized panels for virtually every part of the wetsuit. For instance, this wetsuit comes with Yamamoto aerodome panels to increase your buoyancy and make sure that your swimming form remains proper for faster speed and to conserve energy. Keeping in line with the company’s philosophy, the Blueseventy Helix also comes with body-fit panels to make sure that the wetsuit is comfortable.

This triathlon wetsuit has a 1 mm arm, so it’s really flexible. And then it has 5 mm from neck to knee. It has your chest expansion panel.

Speed

The Blueseventy Helix provides a number of features to increase your speed both in and out of the water. For instance, this wetsuit comes with quick-exit legs that allow you slip out of the wetsuit quickly and easily. On top of that, the arms have aqua-feel catch panels that increase your stroke speed and provide a better feel for the water. And of course, the Blueseventy Helix comes with super composite skin to repel the water away from you. Finally, this wetsuit features ribbed knees panels to improve flexibility and eliminate bunching.

This is the very speed, and when you put this on it feels like the perfect second skin.

2. Synergy Endorphin Women’s – Best Triathlon Wetsuit for Beginners

Synergy Endorphin Women's Wetsuit Review

Not every woman has over $500 to spend on a triathlon wetsuit-especially if she is just beginning or simply training. That is where the Synergy Endorphin comes in handy since it is the lowest costing women’s triathlon wetsuit that we found. On top of that, this brand was actually in part started by a triathlete who wanted a custom wetsuit that would satisfy her particular needs. On top of that, the brand as a whole focuses almost exclusively on triathlon equipment.

Seams

When it comes to seams, few wetsuits-regardless type, style or brand-will truly be able to compete with the Synergy Endorphin when it comes to the quality and durability of the wetsuit’s seams. In fairness, this is largely because few wetsuits include as many types of seams in a single product. For instance, the seams are initially triple-stitched which makes this one of the few wetsuits to do so. On top of that, the seams are then chemically bonded and are reinforced with tape at pivotal junctures. Even the zipper is hidden within the seams to help reduce drag.

Panels

Once again, the various types of panels on a wetsuit are impressive. For starters, this wetsuit comes with both Yamamoto #39 and #40 neoprene. At the sides of the wetsuit, the Synergy Endorphin features AquaLift panels to help increase your buoyancy and keep your swimming form in the proper alignment. The HiFlex panels of the arms and legs allow for more flexibility on an already incredibly flexible wetsuit with a flexibility rating of 680 percent. Finally, the PowerMax forearm panels serve as excellent catch panels.

3. Zoot Women’s Wahine 1 – Best Women’s Sleeveless Triathlon Wetsuit

Zoot Women's Wahine 1 Sleeveless Wetsuit Review

Of all the companies on our list, few have the pedigree and storied history of Zoot-though it is not necessarily the most popular brand. Instead, this company was founded over 3 decades ago in Kona, Hawaii-the home of the original Ironman Triathlon World Championships. As a company founded by a woman, this brand pays special attention to a woman’s needs and ensures the fit is better than most.

Panels

While the Zoot Wahine 1 has a wide variety of different panel types for different purposes-like most of the more reputable wetsuits-it also features panels that do not necessarily enhance your performance during the race but instead are meant to provide a more comfortable and secure fit. Specifically, this is one of the few wetsuits we reviewed which actually includes panels that are ergonomically designed to allow the Zoot Wahine 1 to fit a woman the way it should without overly compressing the chest. That said, it also features AQUAlift panels to increase your buoyancy, so you will consistently remain at the proper level.

Speed

Another aspect of the Zoot Wahine 1 that is great is the various features added to increase your swimming speed. For instance, this wetsuit comes with GLIDEflex panels that are intended to increase your hydrodynamics. When you couple this with the super composite skin coating, you have a great combination. Of course, the Zoot Wahine 1 is not yet finished as it also provides optimal kick design legs that allow you to get more out of each kick as well as keep them in their proper position while kicking.

Best Shorty Wetsuits for Swimrun

1. Orca Core Swim-Run

Orca Core Swim-Run Wetsuit Review

Orca is a fairly well-respected brand on our list and also has the advantage of specializing in triathlon equipment, so you can trust that the brand knows what it is doing. This also provides Orca the luxury of appealing to a wide variety of consumers by providing more styles of wetsuits. In this instance, Orca made it a point to provide a shorty wetsuit for those racers who prefer to have some freedom with their arms and legs.

Purpose

Though ORca is ostensibly a brand built on the premise of providing the best triathlon equipment available, they still dabble in similar and related sporting equipment as well. In this case, the Orca Core is actually a swim-run wetsuit. This provides some benefits, but one of the more interesting features in that it has a built-in whistle. While this is a requirement for swim-run competitions, it actually still serves as an excellent safety device for triathletes-especially those who are new to the sport.

Design

Aside from being both a swim-run wetsuit and a shorty style wetsuit, the Orca Core also comes with a couple other features that distinguish it in the design department when compared to its competitors. For instance, this wetsuit comes with a side, outer pocket. This allows you to carry your GPS or other gear with you inside your suit rather than trailing behind and increasing your drag. As a bonus, the short sleeves of the Orca Core can be removed altogether if you like and further increase this wetsuit’s range of motion.

2. Orca RS1 Swim-Run

Orca RS1 Swim-Run Wetsuit Review

Orca is another brand on our list that may not necessarily have quite as storied a history as some of the other companies on our list, but they have still consistently put out excellent quality wetsuits. In fact, this brand specializes explicitly in wetsuits and other gear for triathlons rather than simply being a swimming gear company. As such, it should come as little surprise that this topped our list as the best women’s all-around value triathlon wetsuit.

Hydrophobic

One of the best qualities about this wetsuit is various features that Orca included in order to ensure that you have the lowest drag possible. One of the features is actually fairly common but is part of a larger whole that ultimately allows this wetsuit to reduce drag more than most. First, the super composite skin found on many wetsuits ensures that the drag coefficient is incredibly low. On top of that, the HydroLite panels provide additional hydrophobic qualities, improving your hydrodynamics.

Construction

Unlike the standard wetsuits, the Orca RS1 is actually a Swim-Run suit which technically requires different qualities. As such, one of the biggest differences between this wetsuit and its competitors is the material. Rather than the various types of neoprene used for a traditional wetsuit, the Orca RS1 is made of nylon and lycra. This allows the Orca to remain lighter weight than most of its competitors while still providing a tight fit that is both durable and flexible. This is further reinforced by the inclusion of anti-abrasion DuraSkin on the rear of the suit.

Best Swimskins (Swim Speedsuits)

Further Reading: Triathlon Swimskins – Buyer’s Guide

1. ROKA Viper Pro Swimskin – Best Performance Speedsuit

Roka Viper Pro Swimskin Review

ROKA might be one of the more recent companies that we reviewed and it definitely had inauspicious origins, but it is still one of the best triathlon swimsuit manufacturers that we saw. It is also worth noting that this brand has been worn by world title-winning competitors and was featured in the 2016 Olympics. This specific wetsuit is the best swimskin that we saw.

Purpose

The point of this particular wetsuit is not to compete with other traditional wetsuits but to instead fill a niche that they simply cannot. Specifically, this wetsuit was designed to be worn by triathletes who are competing in a race that features warmer water. Aside from the fact that this wetsuit does not feature the insulation of a traditional wetsuit, it also has a sleeveless design. On top of the sleeveless design, this wetsuit is not made out of neoprene or spandex like most of its competitors. Instead, this wetsuit features Italian woven fabrics that provide the perfect balance of compression and flexibility.

Construction

It is actually a bit surprising to find, but the ROKA has arguably the most durable seams out of any product that we reviewed this is especially surprising how reasonably priced it is. First, this wetsuit actually features two different types of seams to ensure that they are extra durable. First, this wetsuit uses blind stitches to provide a sleek design that helps reduce drag. Then the seams are bonded to make sure that they do not come undone. The leg exits are also bonded to prevent over-compression.

2. TYR Sport Torque Pro Swimskin

TYR Sport Mens Torque Pro Swimskin Review

The spectacular wetsuit company TYR makes another appearance on our list and sweeps the competition by not only providing the best performing men’s triathlon swimsuit that we saw but by also doing the same in a separate category and taking the best triathlon swimskin as well. Even better, this swimsuit is able to replicate a fair number of a traditional wetsuit’s qualities.

Performance

When it comes to swimskins, there are a number of qualities that differentiate it from traditional wetsuits, but one of the ultimate goals is to provide a faster swim speed-faster than even your standard wetsuits provide. Thankfully, the TYR Torque Pro accomplishes this task with flying colors and the TYR company once again provides impressive results. In terms of water absorption, the TYR Torque Pro boasts a great 0.5% absorption rate. In terms of drag, it has a 0.021 drag coefficient which is one of the lowest we saw.

Construction

Beyond the actual specs of the TYR Torque Pro, this wetsuit also comes with a solid build design. First, it is sleeveless providing a better range of motion than some of the other wetsuits we reviewed. On top of that, this wetsuit will provide excellent hydrophobic qualities as it is made of polyester and lycra and also features a super composite skin coating. This wetsuit is also incredibly durable as it features welded seams which also help reduce your drag. Finally, the coil zipper keeps a tight closure that is also easy to undo.

Conclusion

As we can see, there is no single product available that will be the best triathlon wetsuit for all competitors. Aside from the fact that the different triathletes have different personal preferences and areas that they need more assistance with than others, different triathlons may actually require you to use one type of wetsuit over another.

If money is no object and you simply need the best performing wetsuit that you can find we recommend the ROKA Maverick or Zone3 Vanquish for men and the Blueseventy Helix for women. Three of the wetsuits feature a large number of panels that are specially designed for their wearer, and both also provide an excellent drag coefficient to allow for faster, easier swimming.

For those who are going to be competing in warmer waters where triathlons do not allow true wetsuits, we recommend either the ROKA for women or the TYR Torque Pro for men. Aside from the fact that these two wetsuits are reasonably priced, they are not even true wetsuits. Instead, these two products are swimskins which is a rule regulated requirement for triathlons run in warmer waters.

Good luck buying a wetsuit for this triathlon season! Check out the brand’s return policy when buying online. Many, but not all, brands let you try on a suit at home and swim in it before you decide to keep it or not.

Photo of author

Ryan Jones

Ryan Jones is a USA Triathlon Level 1 Certified Coach, USA Cycling Level 3 Certified Coach. Since graduating college, Ryan has coached over sixty triathletes, runners, cyclists, and swimmers. He focuses on helping them select appropriate goals and guiding them towards achieving them.

39 thoughts on “Best Triathlon Wetsuits 2024: The Best Wetsuits for Open Water Swimming”

  1. Hello! I have a Question, which wetsuit it is better in quality? because are ver similar:
    Blueseventy Fusion vs Sailfish Vibrant

    My weight is 81kg
    Height 177cm
    Chest 103cm

    Thanks!

    Reply
  2. Hi!

    Thanks for the comprehensive review.
    I am researching the Blueseventy wetsuits. I noticed that by the Thermal Reaction review you have put pictures and video of Thermal Helix. If I am correct, Blueseventy has transitioned from manufacturing of Thermal Helix to Thermal Reaction.
    What’s your knowledge on that?

    Reply
    • Hi Ingus,

      Yes, the Thermal Reaction was very well balanced and was not much different from Thermal Helix.
      Therefore, Blueseventy decided to produce only the Thermal Reaction.
      Thanks, I will update review.

      Reply
    • Do not buy anything from Xterra.
      I returned my wetsuit in perfect conditions and packed the way they ask to do it and they would not return me my money back saying it was broken when they received it.

      Reply
      • Sorry to hear you got burned by them too! Their return policies and customer support are a well documented disaster. Before anyone buys an Xterra wetsuit, I would recommend checking out their page on the Better Business Bureau.

        Reply
  3. Hello, I just read this article. Do you know where Huub wetsuits stands, I was planning to buy the Huub Acara but this company never seems to be in top 10 rated suits.
    Thanks

    Reply
  4. Does a sleeveless suit make breathing easier? I’ve tried three different brands (Orca, Huub, ROKA) of full-sleeve suits and they just don’t work for me – feels like a vice around my chest. I finished a 70.3 in 65 degree water without a wetsuit and I don’t want to repeat that experience.

    Reply
    • Hi John,

      Have you tried to up a size to see the difference? I thought the same thing, but then I got a bigger size and felt wonderful. Also, don’t let the first one or two times get you- Because the more you practice and feel comfortable in it, you might see/Feel a difference in the breathing (Similar to when I started swimming, where I felt like I was having my chest cave in when swimming laps in the pool). Good luck!

      Reply
    • Depends on the wetsuit… Personally, I prefer my roka sleeveless to my sleeved suit… Not because of breathing, but because of a decreased rate of shoulder fatigue. Assuming your suit is fitted correctly, get some swim sessions with the suit in the 1-2 weeks leading up to a race. It’ll help you get used to the slightly increased work of breathing.

      Reply
    • Hi John – I have the same issue but because my lungs are damaged so any tight compression makes it difficult for me to breath. I have also tried Orca and Volare in Australia – ROKA told me as the material they use is compression it would not suit my condition. Orca said a size up would leak. I am swimming in a tatie old XTERRA but at the moment USA products are difficult to get in Australia. The HUUB looked as if it had a lot of chest panels that I thought would reduce the restriction.
      Any suggestion would be great – swimming 2 >3kms now in winter is getting cold.

      Ann

      Reply
      • Ann my name is Ann too. I also have damaged lungs & found the 2XU super lovely to wear. Did try the Orca but even the size up gave pressure on my chest. The issues with 2XU is that it chaffs my neck & it wore out quickly with the thin flexible material…4 years. Other reviews complained about the same issues. After reading the above reviews I thought Blueseventy Helix sounded very flexible and maybe good to try?

        Reply
  5. I have an old wetsuit that I got for $0 from a friend who upgraded. It works fine, I’m faster in it than with no wetsuit, I don’t get any neck chafing, and it keeps me warm in cold water. I’m a midpack swimmer, maybe 2:00 / 100 yds in a race. Is there any benefit for a swimmer like me to spending $300 on a new model? Any benefit to getting the $800+ top-of-the-line model?

    Reply
    • Hi Matt,
      I’ve seen a lot of wetsuits in my life. I have 4 myself. You usually get what you pay for. Higher end models have higher grade neoprene and construction. I like Zone3, Roka, Orca top end models. Often times Xterra wetsuits have poor construction and thicker neoprene in the calf area, I have seen cramping and severe challenges getting them off in t1. Just my experience.

      Reply
  6. Ryan,
    I’m an intermediate OW swimmer and triathlete. My first wetsuit (a Zone 3 Vision) has worn out after 3 seasons. Now I’m struggling to chose between a Roka Maverick Comp II, a Blueseventy Fusion and a TYR Cat 1. In that price range, would you prefer one over another? Many thanks!
    Bruce

    Reply
    • Hi Bruce,
      The best wetsuit in the world will be useless if it doesn’t fit you well. Wetsuits are all about to fit so it’s hard to say which one is better than another. It comes down to the construction, material, and what you think of the brand. I’ve found that Blue70 does do a good job with shorter torsos individuals as compared to some others. But the Roka has high-quality material and excellent customer support.
      I own the Roka Comp 2 and it really is incredible. Check them out. 30 days to try the wetsuit and if it doesn’t work, send it back. Probably you might need to try a few.

      Reply
  7. Hi Ryan
    Up until now I have been a swimmer for fitness but now looking to go OWS, one for freedom away from indoor pools and maybe to train for a triathlon ( knee issues depending), I dont like to feel restricted and will be swimming in UK water temps,
    I have been considering HUUB suits but you commented that they are not the best quality, so far it seems like a minefield and i only want to make one purchase if possible,
    what brand/model can you recommend for freedom of movement for around the £200 mark, 6′ tall, broad shoulders, long limbs, thanks in advance, Shanan

    Reply
    • Hi Shanan,
      For those looking to buy a wetsuit under £200 for OWS, I would recommend looking at the Orca S7, Zoot Wave 1, or Synergy wetsuits.

      Reply
  8. Hi Ryan,

    Thanks for this article – really useful! I’m an intermediate swimmer – more into the open water swims with a view of getting into triathlon. My question is which brand/wet-suit would you say is the most durable? I’m happy to invest a fair bit more in an advanced suit if it would last longer but if not (or if the reverse is true) I don’t think I’m at a level to reap the benefits. I’d ideally like one that would not disintegrate if used for the occasional body board holiday session with the kids outside of races…

    I’m in the 6ft 2in / 95kgs bracket and have used Zone 3 Aspire (borrowed) / Orca Swimrun (owned) fine in the past. Thanks in advance for any help/advice! Rob

    Reply
    • I should add that I saw an ex rental (single hire) for a Helix at a GREAT price so if it’ll last as long as the Blue Seventy Fusion or Reaction I might go for that unless you think the advanced suit would be detrimental for anyone not competing at a pretty high standard.

      Reply
      • Hi Rob,

        A few points to consider (1) No triathlon brand owns a wetsuit factory and many brands use the same factories, so to say workmanship of A is better than B doesn’t make a lot of sense (certainly spec will impact quality) (2) No tri brand mentioned makes neoprene, so it’s very easy to compare the quality of materials. (3) Design / patterns / specification will have a huge impact on feel / performance / longevity etc. Compare apples for apples, Yamamoto 39 vs 39 not Yamamoto vs a neoprene with a marketing name that makes it hard to compare etc (4) Buy a suit that fits and meets your purpose training, racing, buoyancy needs etc You can damage any suit from any brand made from smooth skin if you try hard enough, yes neoprene spec will make a big difference but take your time, it’s not a race to get your suit on. Smooth skin is designed/used for hydrodynamics, not because of its robust qualities – again take your time. A great fitting suit, won’t be restrictive and the flexibility of the neoprene will be used for the swim stroke, not just to get it on. (5) Front of the pack swimmers get free suits, every company claims to have the fastest suit on the market, go with what’s comfortable, easy to use and works for you as your needs will be in most cases very different to a pro who gets a new suit every year. If you can’t zip up your own suit in training, but the zip system saves you a few seconds if that in transition is that really a great feature? Just my thoughts.

        Yes, Helix is a great choice if it’s comfortable for you.

        Reply
  9. Hi Ryan
    Thanks for the very insightful article. So many options to consider. Do you know if the Roka Maverick mx is a good choice for cold water temperatures in S.England or should I consider the Roka thermal? Also can you recommend similar quality gloves and boots?
    Thank you
    Rayne

    Reply
    • Hi Rayne,

      Yes, the Roka Maverick MX can also be worn in cold water – the neoprene is thicker just like the Maverick Pro Thermal.
      For reference, the neoprene follows at 3/4/5 profile, 3 mm thick in the arms, 4mm in the chest, and 5mm in the legs. In comparison, other Roka’s suits (X2, Pro, Comp) follow a 1/3/5 profile.

      Blueseventy and Zone3 produce high-quality neoprene swim socks and gloves.

      Good luck!

      Reply
  10. I’ve done IM before but I’m not a great swimmer. Would you recommend the Orca 3.8 for added buoyancy or the Roka maverick mx? Or is there another wetsuit you’d recommend? Thanks so much!

    Reply
  11. Hi Guys,

    Please advise i buy HUUB archimdes 4 but i return it back after 2 swim, cuz it discomfort for me and too much buoyancy and wound my neck, now I am interesting in Orca RS1 two picese top and bottom to be more flexible, or Orca Alpha Wetsuit 2021. which one i should go for it.
    My Measurement:
    Weight: 83 Kg.
    Length: 175 Cm.
    Chest: 106 Cm.
    Waist: 91Cm.

    Please advise which one should i go for it? and second question really how to pee when wearing wetuit? and that is why I am interested in two pieces Suit.

    Appreciate your help so much indeed.

    Reply
  12. Its hard to take this article seriously if the test doesn’t include a review of 2XU wetsuits. Granted, they aren’t in a lot of stores in North America. However, they are readily available online, are used by many of the best triathletes, and in my experience make some of the best/fastest wetsuits out there.

    Reply
  13. When I see that Aquaman Gold is only 9 ; it’s not the reality ! The best swimmers Vincent Luis or Cassandre Baugrand, Tyler Spivey used it like all Poissy Triathlon ProTeam because it’s the best product. Huub is really a joke like 😀 Orca has a good product for beginners.

    Reply
  14. Hello Ryan,

    I’ve been doing OWS for a year now and don’t have much problem with buoyancy but mid section rotation. I would like to also improve in speed. I was looking at for Orca equip, Orca Openwater SW (visibility) or Roka Marverik CompII. Would u have knowledge about those suits for women? Thanks I’m advance
    Mai

    Reply
  15. Hi Ryan,
    I’m all new to this. I’m a intermediate swimmer and have just starting doing beach laps early mornings. I wanting to buy a great 1st swim comfy wetsuit. one for great shoulder flexibility, range of motion, not too thick but enough thickness for the cold winter mornings. is there any that you could recommend, less than $300. thanks Annette

    Reply
  16. Hi,
    I am looking for information on sleeveless long leg wet suits.
    I am 5’8 235lbs.

    I am the swimmer on a relay.
    I need a great suit.
    Not concerned about price. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
    Thanks

    Reply
  17. Hi Ryan
    Thanks a lot for your great article – very helpful. I’m about to upgrade my old Zone 3 Aspire wetsuit which restricts my arm movement a bit.
    I’m quite a strong swimmer and can’t decide between the Blueseventy Helix, the ROKA Maverick and the Orca Alpha. Which one do you think is the best buy?
    Thanks a lot and have a fab day,
    Heike

    Reply
  18. I’ve had a Huub Varman which lasted for one season only.
    Now I’ve received a new Varman in the same size and is apparently 2 sizes smaller.
    The Albacore I tried then fitted in my size but showed tears after only a month….
    So I’m a bit fed up with HUUB and now looking for a durable suit for daily use in waters of 12-15 degrees Celsius, speed is no issue because I’m not competing whereas comfort and durability counts a lot!
    Very grateful for any advice!
    Thanks
    Marco

    Reply
  19. I have recently bought a s7 orca which split at a seem when I put it on. I exchanged it for an athlex float from orca and noticed the stitches are visible on tone side of the chest. Am I just unlucky or do orca have issues which their stitching and gluing?

    Reply
  20. I live in Australia at a small coastal town where I ocean swim. I have damaged lungs and so need a wetsuit that is really flexible around the chest. Bought a secondhand 2XU Propel about 3 years ago in excellent condition and it has been fabulous – no pressure around the chest. The material is thinner than the Orcas I tried that were too tight around my chest. The 2XU no matter what I tired chaffed my neck and the fabric has come undone along the seems despite the special care I gave it. Only used 3 months of the year. Can you suggest the most flexible women’s suit around the chest…you say Blueseventy Helix is very flexible, then there is the current Orca Flex or Alpha plus 2XU get good reviews. Wondering if 2XU have fixed the chaffing issue and strengtened their seams. Thanks for you assistance, great reviews.

    Reply

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