Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?

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2006-08-01 10:46 AM

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South Beach, FL
Subject: Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?
I'm registered for my first 1/2 Iron Distance Race in November in Miami Florida. I live and train down here so the heat is never an issue. I don't own a wetsuit and have never raced in one, however for this race they allow them if the water temp is below 78 on race day. You won't know until race day if you can even wear it. Should I have one and practice with it just in case I can wear it? Also, if the temp is borderline, say in the mid 70's will I overheat with a wetsuit or Bib style suit because they seem to all be 5mm? I like the idea of bouyancy for the swim, but am cautious about the suit.

Thanks

Edited by Capt. Dave 2006-08-01 10:47 AM

2006-08-01 10:53 AM
in reply to: #499371

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Expert
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Lake Forest, Illinois
Subject: RE: Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?

I'm a fan of the wetsuit.  If a race allows me to wear one I'll be in one.  I open water swim almost exclusively in my suit.  I haven't had problems with overheating once I'm swimming but you do have to be careful not to suit up to early.  In some races where you're going to be spending some time waiting to go at the chute this can be an issue.

 The wetsuit helps quite a bit in the swim time department and it also gives some protection against the flailing in an OWS.  My last tri the right sleeve took a nice skitter slice from a girl's nail (I assume it was a nail) that, by looking at the seam she left, would have probably cut me pretty decently when she ran into me.

Also nice to know if you ever do run out of energy you can just float there.  Handy for really long swims.

Just my opinion 8)

2006-08-01 10:55 AM
in reply to: #499371

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Subject: RE: Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?
I'd wear a wetsuit if it is temp legal. However, since you don't have one already and it seems you can make the distance (in training), you can save some bucks.

If the temp is borderline, i'd go with sleeveless top but full length bottom.
2006-08-01 11:09 AM
in reply to: #499371

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2006-08-01 11:14 AM
in reply to: #499415

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Subject: RE: Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?
JeepFleeb - 2006-08-01 10:09 AM

Since it's a HIM, I'll say go with the wetsuit if it's legal.

I wouldn't bother if it was a shorter distance.

Once again, the Fleeb hit it right on the head!  I wouldn't bother in a sprint, but you're doing HIM.  Use the suit if it's legal! 

2006-08-01 12:13 PM
in reply to: #499422

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Subject: RE: Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?
Drewwhite - 2006-08-01 11:14 AM
JeepFleeb - 2006-08-01 10:09 AM

Since it's a HIM, I'll say go with the wetsuit if it's legal.

I wouldn't bother if it was a shorter distance.

Once again, the Fleeb hit it right on the head!  I wouldn't bother in a sprint, but you're doing HIM.  Use the suit if it's legal! 

I'll add, especially if you have any desire to continue doing triathlon's, even just a couple a year or so.  It's a tool you should have available.

2006-08-01 2:49 PM
in reply to: #499371

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Subject: RE: Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?
as a former swimmer the wetsuit is great to use, even in sprits. it really helps with bouancy and it feels a lot better imo. i havent come close to overheating in my bib suit even in warmer temps. i really recommend it expecially if its an ocean swim. the salt plus the suit is an excellent advantage.
2006-08-01 3:38 PM
in reply to: #499371

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Subject: RE: Wetsuit optional race: Wear it or not?
WETSUIT LEGAL! GO!
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