How a Wetsuit Can Make You a Faster Swimmer in a Triathlon

If you're a triathlete looking to improve your swim times, wearing a wetsuit can be a game-changer. When allowed by event rules, a wetsuit offers a significant speed advantage due to its buoyancy, hydrodynamics, and ability to enhance your body position. Let’s dive into the specifics of how a wetsuit can make you faster in the water.

1. Buoyancy and Speed Increase

The primary way a wetsuit makes you faster is through increased buoyancy. The neoprene material of a wetsuit contains tiny air pockets that help lift your body higher in the water. This higher position reduces drag, allowing you to swim more efficiently. On average, swimmers can expect a speed increase of about 4-6 seconds per 100 meters when wearing a wetsuit. This translates to roughly 1 minute per kilometer. Thanks to​ Evan Morrison​ for conducting a field test.

2. Hydrodynamics

Wetsuits are designed to be hydrodynamic, meaning they help you move through the water with less resistance. The sleek surface of the neoprene reduces drag, and the snug fit of the wetsuit helps streamline your body. This reduction in drag can lead to a speed improvement of up to 7-10%​ (Evan Morrison)​. For instance, a study showed that regional-level swimmers and national-level triathletes experienced speed improvements of 7.1% and 11.3%, respectively, when using a full-sleeve wetsuit​ (Evan Morrison)​.

3. Improved Body Position

Maintaining a horizontal body position is crucial for efficient swimming. A wetsuit helps by lifting your hips and legs, keeping your body aligned and reducing the energy required to stay afloat. This improved body position not only reduces drag but also allows for more effective strokes and kicks, further enhancing your swimming speed.

4. Thermal Protection

Another benefit of wearing a wetsuit is the warmth it provides. Open-water swims can be cold, and a wetsuit offers insulation that helps maintain your body temperature. This thermal protection ensures that your muscles function optimally, preventing cramps and maintaining your performance throughout the swim portion of the triathlon.

Conclusion

Wearing a wetsuit can provide a significant speed advantage during the swim portion of a triathlon. With increased buoyancy, improved hydrodynamics, better body position, and added warmth, a wetsuit helps you swim faster and more efficiently. On average, you can expect to save around 4-6 seconds per 100 meters, which can translate into a substantial time saving over the course of a race. It is very important that you have a wetsuit fitted for you personally. There are many great brands in the market but not all brands will suit all triathletes. Ideally see if you can test different brands at various events. Often wetsuit companies will have booths set up at events that allow you to try the suits and with expert staff on hand to make sure you are putting the suit on properly.

For more tips and personalized coaching to enhance your triathlon performance, visit B78 Coaching and let us help you reach your goals.