Wetsuits for swimming: Everything you need to know

Swimming in open water is a great way to stay fit and healthy while enjoying nature. But to do that, most swimmers need one crucial item: a wetsuit!

What should you know about wetsuits before buying one and taking a dive? And how do you maintain such a wetsuit? These are common questions. But no worries, we will help you! In this blog, our experts answer the most frequently asked questions about wetsuits for swimming, so you know what to look for. 

1: What is the purpose of a wetsuit?

A wetsuit is a specialized suit designed to protect you against hypothermia while swimming. They are made of neoprene, a waterproof material that traps insulating layers of air. This helps retain heat and maintain your body temperature. This way, you avoid getting cold during your swim. 

But not only that, wetsuits also protect you from rocks, coral, and other external elements you may encounter during open water swimming.

2: What type of wetsuit do I need for swimming?

There are different types of wetsuits, made from various materials and thicknesses. For water temperatures between 10 and 17 degrees Celsius, we recommend a full neoprene wetsuit with 4/2 millimeter thickness. The 4/2 designation means the torso and legs of the suit are 4 millimeters thick, while the arms and shoulders are 2 millimeters. This allows you to enjoy both the warmth a wetsuit provides and sufficient freedom of movement for swimming. 

Additionally, we advise choosing a 2-millimeter wetsuit for water temperatures between 20 and 24 degrees, and a 5-millimeter wetsuit for temperatures below 10 degrees.

3: How do you put on a wetsuit?

Putting on a wetsuit can be challenging, especially if you haven't done it before. Below we explain step-by-step how to put on a wetsuit:

1. Open the zipper.
2. Hold the suit open and carefully slide your feet in.
3. Pull your feet through the openings one by one.
4. Once your feet are through, gradually pull the wetsuit up to your waist. This prevents damaging or tearing the neoprene.
5. Pull the wetsuit further up into position and close the zipper completely.

4: How do you know if a wetsuit fits well?

Finding a well-fitting wetsuit is often easier said than done. But generally, a wetsuit fits well if it is tight against your body without letting water in. The wetsuit should be snug when dry, but you must still be able to move freely. And there is only one way to check that: by testing it!

So are you looking for a wetsuit with a perfect fit for your body? Then come to one of our Wetsuit Testing Days and find your wetsuit match! 

For more explicit tips on how to find a perfectly fitting wetsuit, click here. 

5: Is a wetsuit mandatory?

That depends on the water temperature. At water temperatures below 16 degrees, a wetsuit is mandatory for all distances. At water temperatures between 16 and 18 degrees, you may swim without a wetsuit on short distances, but on long distances it is mandatory. Above 18 degrees, you may swim without a wetsuit at all distances.

6: How do you maintain a wetsuit?

If your wetsuit is dirty, wash it manually with mild soap and cold water. Do not put the wetsuit in the dryer or washing machine, as heat and spinning can damage the materials. 

After washing, hang the wetsuit inside out on a thick hanger with all zippers open in a place where it can drip dry properly. Do not leave the wetsuit crumpled in a bag or corner. Finally, ensure the wetsuit has no large folds or creases when hanging.

7: Can a wetsuit withstand chlorine?

No. Chlorine is harmful to your wetsuit if it remains in it for hours or even days. Rinse the chlorine out immediately after swimming with clean water. This is generally advisable after any open water swim session to remove bacteria and dirt. 

8: How do I store my wetsuit?

Proper storage of your wetsuit is important to preserve it and extend its lifespan. Our advice is to hang your wetsuit properly after use and once dry, store it in a fixed place. Preferably inside out on a thick hanger. Also keep all zippers open so all water and moisture can drain out.

9: How expensive is a wetsuit?

Wetsuits generally fall into three price categories: 

1. Entry level: ideal for a first wetsuit or recreational open water swimmers. Prices range from 180 to 350 euros. For example, the 2XU P:1 Propel.
2. Mid range: This is a step up, with more flexibility and better neoprene, suitable for longer swim sessions. Especially recommended for triathlons. Prices range between 350 and 650. Most of our wetsuits fall into this category, such as the Huub Aegis.
3. Top range: for elite athletes and very strong swimmers, wetsuits start above 650 euros, such as the Zone3 Vanquish.

If you want to purchase a wetsuit, the best time to do so is in spring (March, April, May). During this period, we have a wide range of models and sizes in stock.

So visit our store soon or one of the Wetsuit Testing Days and get professional advice to help you find your perfect wetsuit!

Prefer indoor swimming? Then check out this blog!

QUESTIONS?

AthleteSportsWorld is the triathlon store in Amsterdam for the serious endurance athlete. We offer a wide range of triathlon clothing, sports nutrition, trisuits, cycling apparel, and wetsuits for triathlon, open water swimming, cycling, running, and trail running.

Our team of experts is always ready to answer your questions and help you find the right products for your specific training needs. Visit our store in Amsterdam or contact us for advice at Size.