As a novice triathlete, getting familiar with your first triathlon wetsuit is crucial. The right fitting steps not only help you determine the appropriate size but also ensure that the wetsuit performs effectively during your race. Let’s go through how to put on your triathlon wetsuit properly, along with some key tips for preparation.
Preparation Before Putting on Your Wetsuits
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Keep Your Skin Dry: Ensuring your skin is dry makes it easier to put on and remove the wetsuit.
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Start with Your Feet: While many triathlon wetsuits recommend using plastic bags on your feet for easier entry, all Sumarpo wetsuits are designed to slip on smoothly without any additional aids. Our suits are made from advanced fabrics that are both easy to wear and remove. Plus, they feature super elastic V-shaped neoprene cuts for an effortless fit.
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Avoid Scratching: When putting on or taking off your wetsuit, be careful not to scratch it with your nails. Use the pads of your fingers instead to help slide it on and off.
Ensuring You Put on Your Triathlon Wetsuits Correctly
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Check the Crotch and Armpit Fit: The crotch and armpits should fit snugly against your body with no gaps. As you put on the sleeves, do so slowly, and once they are fully on, raise your arms. You should feel a slight upward pull under your armpits.
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Zipping Up: When pulling the zipper at the back, lean forward to start zipping it up, then bend down slightly to adjust as needed. Proper initial placement is key to avoid discomfort and potential damage to the suit, so pay special attention during this step.
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Collar Tightness: To ensure the collar fits correctly, position the front collar below your Adam's apple. For the back collar, you should be able to fit about one and a half fingers inside; it should feel snug but not restrict your breathing.
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Chest Space: Your wetsuit should fit closely around the chest, providing slight pressure without interfering with your ability to breathe. You can lightly tug on the front neoprene to adjust as needed.
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Shoulder Position: A slight feeling of sinking in the shoulders is normal, but if it feels overly restrictive, it may indicate that the suit is too short for you.
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Back Waist Space: It's normal for there to be a little space at the back waist. You should be able to pull out a fist-sized amount of material between the wetsuit and your skin. If there’s no space, your suit may be too small.
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Thigh Tightness: You should feel no pressure when lifting your legs, and there should be no significant stretching force. This indicates that the fit is appropriate.
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Trouser Leg Position: The trouser leg should sit about 2-3 fingers above your ankle joint.
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Wrist Fit: Ideally, the wetsuit should cover your wrist joint or sit just above or below it. The sleeves shouldn't be excessively short.
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Water-Repellent Paddles: Ensure that the GSP (Groove-shaped paddle) system is positioned directly in front of your arm when paddling.
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Zipper Cord Adjustment: Once you’ve put on the wetsuit, stick the end of the zipper cord to the collar. This makes it easier to quickly take off or put on, saving you time during your race and reducing the risk of it accidentally coming undone.
Wearing a triathlon wetsuit correctly can significantly impact your comfort and performance during the race. By following these steps and ensuring a proper fit, you'll be better prepared to tackle your triathlon confidently. Remember, practice makes perfect, so take the time to familiarize yourself with your wetsuit before race day. Happy racing!
