Maximizing Comfort: What to Wear Under a Triathlon Wetsuit
You bought a triathlon wetsuit recently and want to test it out for the first time.
But you have no idea what to wear under a triathlon wetsuit?
There are a few options that are more suitable and some that are less useful to wear under a wetsuit. We will now look at the pros and cons of each of these options and determine which one is the best for our needs.
What to Wear Under a Triathlon Wetsuit
Choosing the right triathlon wetsuit is very important for your open water swim. But almost as important is what we wear under our wetsuit for maximum comfort and performance.
Let’s dive in and see what options we have:
Tri Suit
The first and maybe the most obvious answer is the tri suit.
A tri suit, short for “triathlon suit,” is a one-piece or two-piece garment designed specifically for use in triathlon races.
It is a multi-functional piece of clothing that combines elements of swimwear, cycling shorts, and running shorts into a single outfit. This makes it convenient for triathletes to transition between the swim, bike, and run legs of the race without changing clothes.
Because it’s not very common to change clothes during a triathlon, this is the most frequently chosen outfit that triathletes wear at races.
Let’s have a look at the different options.
One-Piece
Sleek and efficient, a one-piece tri suit is all about aerodynamics. It’s a favorite among athletes who crave a seamless fit with no risk of the top riding up during the race. The catch? Bathroom breaks can be… tricky.
Two-Piece
Offering more versatility, a two-piece suit allows for different sizing for the top and bottom, which can be a game-changer for comfort. It’s also bathroom-break friendly. The downside? It’s slightly less aerodynamic and the top might play peekaboo and ride up during vigorous activity.
Material Matters
Trisuits are made from materials that dry quickly, provide good compression and muscle support, and are designed to minimize chafing and discomfort during the race.
Regardless of the style, a good tri suit should be made of moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric. It should hug your body without restricting movement, allowing you to transition from swimming to cycling to running without a hitch.
And make sure it does not chafe and cause you any kind of discomfort!
Pro Tip: Always trial-run your suit in training. The last thing you want is a suit that feels like a straightjacket or, worse, a parachute!
In our next section, we’ll explore alternatives for those not ready to commit to a tri suit.
But, if you already have one, wear a trisuit under your wetsuit during the race and maybe also for training to get used to it.
Diving into Alternatives: Options Beyond the Tri Suit
Not ready to invest in a tri suit just yet? No problem! While a tri suit is a standard answer to what to wear under a triathlon wetsuit, there are plenty of other options that can work well for both training sessions and your first few races.
Swim Wear
If you are a beginner triathlete and are not yet sure if the world of triathlon is really for you, then start your first triathlon by wearing a swimsuit.
EVEN a lot of professional triathletes compete in a swimsuit.
A simple one-piece swimsuit for women or swim briefs for men can serve as a good starting point. They’re comfortable, designed for swimming, and don’t break the bank.
Remember, though, that you’ll need to change into cycling gear after the swim, which can add precious seconds to your transition time!!!
AND, in almost without exception every transition area, nudity is forbidden!
So changing your attire (especially in t1) will not make your race day smoother (more so the opposite).
And another downside that I see here, is the higher chance of chaffing.
Athletic Wear
Compression garments and form-fitting athletic tops and bottoms can also do the trick. They’re snug, reduce drag in the water, and transition well into the cycling and running stages.
Just make sure they’re quick-drying and comfortable!
Triathlon Shorts and Tops: The Middle Ground
If you’re inching closer to a tri suit but aren’t quite there yet, consider a tri top and a pair of tri shorts (these are triathlon-specific shorts and a top).
These are designed with triathlons in mind, offering better comfort and quicker drying times than regular athletic wear. Plus, they give you a taste of what a tri suit can offer without the full commitment.
The Sports Bra Factor
For female athletes, a supportive sports bra is crucial. Look for ones that are quick-drying and provide adequate support without chafing. Comfort is key here, especially in a sport that requires constant movement.
Many triathlon suits for women include a built-in bra (but let’s be real…the amount of support is about as useful as a chocolate teapot).
I wear a sports bra under my tri-suit because it’s more “comfortable” for me.
Remember: Whatever you choose to wear, practice in it! Training in the same gear you plan to race in helps avoid any surprises on the big day.
Other Factors to Consider
Weather and Water Temperature
Considering the water temperature and air temperature is vital. In colder temperatures, adding an extra layer like thermal base layers under your wetsuit-legal races attire or opting for a tri suit with long sleeves can help maintain body temperature.
Choosing a wetsuit with thicker neoprene could also help when you know that you’ll be swimming in cold water primarily.
Depending on water temperatures and race conditions, you might need different types of wetsuits. Discover the best options in this Best Triathlon Wetsuits article, where I review top choices for various triathlon scenarios.
Non-Wetsuit Swims
When the water temperature gets above 24.5º Celsius (76.1º Fahrenheit), then it’s mostly not allowed to wear a wetsuit.
The wetsuit rules may vary depending on the organization, but that’s a good benchmark.
Obviously not wearing a wetsuit is a disadvantage for you. Because of the increased buoyancy, you’ll get into a more streamlined position -> this means, you’re faster wearing one.
But even for a non-wetsuit swim, there is an alternative that you can resort to… the swimskin.
But the time you’ll save will be marginal at best and probably won’t make up for the time you will lose in the first transition due to taking it off again.
Practical Tips and Tricks
Knowing What to Wear Under a Triathlon Wetsuit is just the beginning. It’s also important to consider how these choices affect your comfort and performance during each segment of the race.
A test run with your gear, from your bike helmet to your triathlon shoes, is a great idea before your first race or training sessions.
This includes checking your tri suit or swimming costume for comfort, ensuring your chamois pad or built-in bra provides extra support, and assessing freedom of movement.
From personal experience, it’s a good idea to apply body glide to sensitive areas to prevent chafing (and with test runs, you’ll know where you’re prone to chafing).
Remember, the only thing more important than your race number on race day is being comfortable in your gear.
What I Wore to my First Triathlon
I bought a tri suit for my first triathlon.
It was during the summer and I expected crazy hot temperatures during the race.
But in the week leading up to the event the weather changed drastically. It was really cold, rainy, and stormy (so perfect conditions for a triathlon debut).
Nevertheless, I competed.
The water of the lake also dropped in temperature, as a consequence, almost everyone at the starting line wore a wetsuit…but I didn’t have one yet.
So I had to swim solely in my trisuit (I was freezing). And the swim turned out to be rather little fun for me.
But even with a wetsuit, I would always wear a tri suit under the wetsuit because it’s the most efficient in transition.
What I also didn’t know, you’ll still get wet even though you’re wearing a wetsuit. So choose your tri kit wisely so you’re not spending you’re time on the bike still soaking wet from the swim.
Wrapping Up
As we cross the finish line of the guide, remember this: Understanding what to wear under a triathlon wetsuit can make a world of difference in your triathlon experience. Whether you opt for a high-tech tri suit, a simple swimming costume, or a triathlon-specific shorts and top, the key is comfort, functionality, and a bit of personal style.
Last-Minute Tips for Success
- Practice Makes Perfect: Train in what you plan to wear on race day. This can’t be overstressed!
- Material Matters: Choose materials that are quick-drying, comfortable, and suitable for all stages of the triathlon.
- Transition Time: Remember, quicker transitions can lead to better race times, so consider how fast you can switch from swimming to cycling gear. Look at these Transition Tips to improve your Triathlon Transition Time!
- Listen to Your Body: Comfort is crucial. If something doesn’t feel right during training, it won’t feel any better on race day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear regular swimwear under my wetsuit?
Yes, you can wear regular swimwear like a one-piece swimsuit or swim briefs under your wetsuit. They are comfortable for swimming but remember that you’ll need to change for the cycling portion, which can cost time changing in transitions!
Do I need to wear anything under a tri suit?
Generally, you don’t need to wear underwear under a one-piece tri suit, as they are designed to provide support and comfort on their own. Women may opt to wear a sports bra underneath for extra support.
How do I choose the right fit for a triathlon wetsuit?
A tri suit should fit snugly without restricting your movement. It’s essential to try it on and ideally test it in training to ensure comfort and functionality.
Is it worth investing in a tri suit for my first triathlon?
While a tri suit is a good investment for convenience and performance, it’s not mandatory for your first triathlon.
For your first triathlon, basic swimwear like a swimming costume or swim briefs is a great option. As you progress, consider investing in a tri suit or triathlon-specific clothing for improved performance.
How do I care for my triathlon gear to ensure it lasts longer?
Rinse your tri gear in fresh water after each use to remove chlorine, salt, and sweat. Avoid wringing out the suits as it can damage the material. Let them air dry away from direct sunlight and store them in a cool, dry place.
