Dear Coach: Should I Wear a Wetsuit?
Dear Coach: Should I Wear a Wetsuit?
The debate over whether to wear a wetsuit or not in triathlons has been ongoing for years. While preferences may vary, the consensus from experienced coaches and athletes alike points to the clear advantages of wearing one whenever it’s allowed. Here’s why, based on insights from our Team USA Captain of Multisport World Championships Torremolinos:
1. Speed Boost
One of the most compelling reasons to wear a wetsuit is the time advantage it can offer. It’s estimated that wearing a wetsuit can make you 6-8 seconds faster per 100 meters. Even in shorter distances, like a 300-meter swim, this can translate to significant time savings. For a long course triathlon, the cumulative effect is even more pronounced. The added buoyancy provided by the wetsuit helps keep you higher on the water, allowing for a more streamlined position and less drag, ultimately making you faster.
2. Keeping Up with the Competition
If you’re racing against athletes who are wearing wetsuits, the likelihood is that they will have a speed advantage. Even if you’re an experienced swimmer, the time gained by wearing a wetsuit could give your competitors the upper hand in the water. The small amount of time it takes to remove a wetsuit—especially if you strip it to your waist before transitioning—pales in comparison to the time lost swimming without one. In fact, experienced athletes can take off their wetsuit in 15 seconds or less, a small trade-off for the time saved during the swim.
3. Buoyancy for Better Efficiency
Wetsuits are designed to increase buoyancy, which helps you stay higher on the water. The benefit of this added buoyancy goes beyond just speed—it also reduces the energy you need to expend. By staying on top of the water and minimizing drag, you conserve energy that can be better utilized in the bike and run portions of the race.
4. Fewer Risks at High-Stakes Races
Testing out the theory of "wetsuit versus no wetsuit" during a high-stakes event, such as a World Championship, is risky. As our Captain pointed out, the advantage of wearing a wetsuit has been proven in nearly all situations. Avoid giving away time to your competitors when wearing a wetsuit is allowed and could make a crucial difference in your performance.
5. Common Misconceptions
One argument against wearing a wetsuit is the time it takes to remove it during transition. However, this time is often exaggerated. With practice, taking off a wetsuit becomes a quick process that shouldn't cost you much time at all. For most athletes, the time saved in the water far outweighs the minimal delay during transition.
Conclusion: The Choice is Clear
The ultimate decision is yours, but the advantages of wearing a wetsuit—speed, buoyancy, and energy efficiency—are well-documented and proven. Whether you're competing at a world championship or a local event, wearing a wetsuit can give you a valuable edge in the water. If the option is available, don't miss out on these benefits! As coaches and athletes, we aim to maximize performance in every part of the race, and wearing a wetsuit whenever it's permitted is a smart, time-tested strategy.
Have you thought about hiring a coach for your next race? Click the purple button below, fill out the short form, and I will set up a free 15-minute call with you to talk about your race goals!
Mary Timoney
Ironman University Certified Coach
USA Triathlon Certified Coach
ACSM Trainer
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