Best Triathlon Wetsuits For 2024 [Expert Tested]

In my opinion, the right wetsuit can make a massive difference in swim enjoyment and time splits during an open-water swim.

Even in training, your wetsuit can determine if you are fighting the water or slicing through it. Your wetsuit and other open-water gear are critical pieces of your success.

We’ve pieced together expert opinions and experience with Ironman athletes, both novice and experienced, to give you the best options currently on the market.

Triathlon Wetsuit Buying Guide

When choosing a wetsuit, consider factors such as neoprene thickness, fit, and the type of wetsuit you prefer – full or sleeveless. The optimal thickness for a triathlon wetsuit depends on the athlete and the type of water they are swimming in. The maximum allowed thickness of 5mm is recommended to maximize buoyancy and swim speed.

Also, the wetsuit thickness should vary throughout the suit. It should be much thinner in the shoulder areas to avoid additional resistance for each stroke. Many wetsuits add thickness to the lumbar and spine regions, so to help with rotation and buoyancy.

Grasping the regulations and temperature guidelines is equally important in the process of selecting a wetsuit. For USAT-sanctioned events, adherence to wetsuit rules is mandatory. USAT has set the maximum wetsuit-legal water temperature for elite athletes racing as 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celcius) for swim distances less than 3000 meters. For distances of 3000 meters or greater, water temperature should not exceed 71.6 degrees F (22 C).

Your budget and skill level are important when investing in a triathlon wetsuit. There are options available for entry-level, mid-budget, and high-end budgets, with each offering different features and levels of performance. Also, consider the warranty and return policy offered by the wetsuit manufacturer.

Finally, choose a wetsuit that aligns with your specific needs, be it flexibility, core support, or range of motion.

Overview of the Best Triathlon Wetsuits

Triathlon wetsuits, also known as swimming wetsuits or tri wetsuits, are designed to help you stay warm and maintain an optimal body position in the water. They should ensure you glide efficiently through your swim leg.

Crafted from hydrophobic materials like Yamamoto neoprene, these suits offer the following benefits:

• Repel water, thereby increasing overall speed
• Reduce fatigue
• Feature super composite skin coating
• Retain warmth

Our detailed analysis of several suits, including women’s triathlon wetsuits, using a comprehensive nine-point system, will aid you in finding the best triathlon wetsuit.

We have considered factors like fit, warranty, and return policies to bring you the top-rated wetsuits for 2024. These wetsuits cater to various needs and budgets, making it easier for you to choose the perfect one for your triathlon journey.

This guide features the best wetsuits catering to different needs like:

• flexibility
• value for money
• core support
• durability
• thermal insulation

Let’s get into the specifics of each wetsuit to facilitate your selection process.

Zone3 Aspire

Best Wetsuit for Flexibility

Zone3 Aspire is a fantastic choice for swimmers who prioritize a range of motion, as it offers excellent flexibility. Crafted from high-quality Yamamoto neoprene, this wetsuit features a 1mm thickness across the shoulders, 2mm in the arms, and 3mm in the core and legs. This buoyancy profile helps maintain an optimal body position in the water, ensuring a smooth and efficient swim.

The Aspire’s eco-friendly neoprene construction and Heat-Tech fleece lining ensure body heat is retained around essential muscles and organs. This feature, combined with its superior flexibility, makes Zone3 Aspire a top choice for those seeking a comfortable and efficient swimming experience. The only downside is its slightly higher price compared to entry-level wetsuits, but its exceptional performance and quality make it worth the investment.

Price

$795

Specifications

• Thinner neoprene thickness: 1mm (shoulders), 2mm (arms), 3mm (core and legs)

Warranty

1-year warranty

Pros

• Excellent flexibility
• Optimal buoyancy profile
• Suitable for both cold and warm water

Cons

• higher price than entry-level wetsuits

What Users Say

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deboer Fjord 3.0

Best For Free Speed

The deboer Fjord 3.0 wetsuit is the pinnacle of wetsuit development for the company. It’s based on the data derived from the test wetsuits worn by Kristian Blummenfelt and Nicola Spirig.

Kristian Blummenfelt won the Ironman 70.3 World Championship wearing this exact wetsuit. This is for the competitor that wants to get every advantage possible in the swim. It’s designed for the podium contenders as well as the athletes who simply need to finish the swim faster.

Experienced triathletes love the maximum flexibility and great fit.

Deboer completely redesigned the sleeves on the Fjord wetsuit. Flexibility is amazing thanks to the 0.3mm neoprene used. The forearm is comprised of 5mm silicone coated double laminated neoprene that gives the athlete even more catch on each stroke.

Of course, the downside is the cost. The “free speed” you get with this wetsuit is anything but free. It ranks among the most expensive wetsuits available.

Price

$1,499.95

Specifications

• 5mm X-Skin neoprene maximizes buoyancy and flexibility while reducing drag.
• Designed for temperatures down to 61 degrees Fahrenheit

Warranty

1-year warranty

Pros

• Excellent flexibility
• Super fast
• Optimal buoyancy profile
• 10 sizes to get the perfect fit

Cons

• Cost

What Users Say

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Orca Athlex Float

Best Value For Money

Orca Athlex Float is an excellent choice for those seeking great value for money, as it offers a balance of performance and affordability. This wetsuit stands out among other swimming wetsuits, thanks to its:

• Elevated elasticity across the upper body
• Extra buoyancy for the legs
• Increased stroke efficiency
• Improved positioning in the water

These features make it suitable for more experienced swimmers with some technical flaws who require additional lift.

The Orca Athlex Float features a thick 5mm neoprene chest panel and an arm seal to prevent water penetration. However, its higher cost compared to other options, including sleeveless wetsuits, might be a drawback for some. Nevertheless, with a 3-year warranty and a 14-day return policy for unused suits, this wetsuit is worth considering for its excellent value.

Price

$349

Specifications

• 5mm neoprene chest panel
• Arm seal to prevent water penetration

Warranty

3-year warranty

Pros

• Great value for money
• Enhanced elasticity in the upper body
• Extra buoyancy for legs

Cons

• Lacking certain features seen in higher-end wetsuits

What Users Say

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Huub Pinnacle

Best For Core Support

Huub Pinnacle is perfect for those who need additional core support during their swim. Designed to address sinking legs and snaking, this wetsuit enables swimmers to remain stable and move in a straight line through the water. The structure provided by the Huub Pinnacle to the wearer’s core is its distinguishing feature, ensuring a comfortable and efficient swim experience.

In addition to its excellent core support, the Huub Pinnacle provides an unrestrictive feeling in the arms and shoulders, allowing for fluid motion and reduced fatigue during long-distance swimming. The only significant downside is its higher price point, but the quality and performance of this suit make it worth considering for those in need of core support.

Price

$785

Specifications

• 14-day try-on period for unused suits

Warranty

1-year warranty

Pros

• Designed to address sinky legs and snaking
• Enhanced core support
• Unrestrictive feeling in arms and shoulders

Cons

• Higher price point

What Users Say

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2XU Propel: Pro

Best For Strong Swimmers

The 2XU Propel: Pro is designed for strong swimmers, enhancing their performance with advanced technology.

Made from high-quality Yamamoto neoprene, this wetsuit offers a snug fit to ensure maximum efficiency and minimal water resistance. The smooth lining ensures easy on and off, while the comfortable neckline prevents chafing during your swim.

The Propel: Pro is a high-end wetsuit with unique features and design, making it the ideal choice for serious triathletes who want to invest in their performance.

The higher price tag might be a deterrent for some. Nevertheless, the exceptional quality, performance, and advanced technology make this wetsuit a worthy investment for those looking to improve their swim times.

Price

$799.99 currently deeply discounted to $320

Specifications

• Made from Yamamoto neoprene
• Snug fit for maximum efficiency

Warranty

1-year warranty

Pros

• Designed for strong swimmers
• Enhances performance with advanced technology
• Comfortable neckline

Cons

• Expensive

What Users Say

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Quintana Roo Hydrofive2

Most Versatile Sizing Options

Quintana Roo Hydrofive2 is a unisex wetsuit that offers versatile sizing options, catering to a wide range of body types. Made with high-end Yamamoto neoprene, this wetsuit features:

• Fewer seams for increased flexibility, ensuring a comfortable and efficient swim
• Lightweight and simple design for easy on and off
• Solid fit and performance suitable for various triathlon events

The genderless sizing system is a unique approach that aims to cater to individual body shapes rather than traditional gender categories. However, the Hydrofive2 might lack some advanced features found in higher-end wetsuits. Nevertheless, its versatility in sizing and solid performance make it an excellent option for those seeking a wetsuit that caters to a wide range of body types.

Price

$479

Specifications

• Unisex sizing with 14 options
• High-end Yamamoto neoprene construction

Warranty

2-year, no-fault warranty

Pros

• Versatile sizing for various body types
• Lightweight and simple design
• Good fit and performance

Cons

• Limited advanced features

What Users Say

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Huub Aegis X

Best For Comfort and Performance Balance

Huub Aegis X strikes a balance between comfort and performance, making it suitable for various skill levels. Incorporating tried and tested technologies, this wetsuit provides great upper-body flexibility and added lower-leg buoyancy, ensuring the perfect balance of comfort and performance.

Its delightful combination of features maximizes your potential in the water, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable yet efficient swimming experience. Some thoughts:

• The Aegis X has received acclaim for its exceptional performance and flexibility.
• Its slightly higher price compared to other entry-level wetsuits might be a drawback for some.
• Despite this, the unique combination of comfort and performance that the Huub Aegis X offers makes it a worthy investment for swimmers of all abilities.

Price

$499.99 currently discounted to $260

Specifications

Neoprene 80%, Polyamide (Nylon) 15%, Metalised Fibre 3%, Cotton 2%

Warranty

1-year warranty

Pros

• Tried and tested technologies
• Great upper body flexibility
• Additional lower leg buoyancy
• Breakaway zipper for faster transitions

Cons

• Price is between beginner and mid-tier wetsuit

What Users Say

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Roka Maverick X2

Best High-End Wetsuit

Roka Maverick X2 is a high-end wetsuit with unique features and design, making it ideal for serious triathletes who want the best in performance and quality in the open water. It offers:

• Incredibly lightweight and flexible material for a comfortable and efficient swim
• Unique “arms up” cut for excellent range of motion
• Extended “X” taping and lateral panels of thicker neoprene for added structure and floatation
• Flotation puts the swimmer in an ideal body position in the water

The Maverick X2 has a comfortable fit that works well for most body types, and its impressive neck closure system prevents water entry. However, its steep price tag might deter some from investing in this high-end wetsuit.

Despite the price, the Roka Maverick X2 offers unique features and design, setting it apart from other wetsuits on the market and making it a worthy investment for serious triathletes (or anyone wanting to post faster swim times). If you desire to be the best, and you have the money to spend on a good thing like free speed, this might be the one for you.

Price

$975

Specifications

• 7% more buoyancy than previous models
• Faster ankle release panels for quicker removal

Warranty

2-year warranty

Pros

• Very fast. Maybe the fastest. You’re buying free speed here.
• High-end wetsuit with unique features and design, unlike a standard wetsuit
• Lightweight and flexible
• Comfortable fit for most body types

Cons

• Expensive

What Users Say

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Blueseventy Helix

Best Range-Of-Motion Features

Features

• The Helix offers superb rotation and balance, ensuring a smooth and even stroke.
• Its neck suspension feature reduces seams and enhances neck comfort.
• However, the wetsuit’s expensive price tag might deter some from investing in this high-performance option.
• Despite its cost, the range-of-motion features and comfort offered by the Blueseventy Helix make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize flexibility and efficiency in the water.

Thoughts

• Blueseventy Helix boasts impressive range-of-motion features, ensuring a comfortable and efficient swim.
• This high-performance wetsuit is crafted from premium Yamamoto neoprene and features a soft feel and thin neoprene in the appropriate places.
• Its LIFT technology and reverse zipper provide an exceptional swimming experience.
• Its buoyancy profile is near perfect, making sighting effortless.

Price

$920.00

Specifications

• Neoprene thickness: 5mm(torso, abs, upper legs, glutes), 4mm (shins), 3mm (obliques, spine, hips, crotch, calves), 2mm (lower back, hamstrings), 1.5mm (arms, shoulders)
• Exceptional flexibility

Warranty

1-year warranty

Pros

• Impressive range-of-motion features
• Comfortable and efficient swim
• Soft feel and thin neoprene in appropriate places

Cons

• Expensive

What Users Say

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Blueseventy Reaction

Best For Mid-Budget Buyers

Blueseventy Reaction is a mid-budget option that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank. It features:

• 5mm neoprene chest panel
• 4mm neoprene in the core, hips, and lower torso for high float and low drag sensation
• 4mm neoprene legs with 3mm on the lateral portions of the thighs for easy movement and a steady kick.

The Reaction’s buoyancy profile is near perfect, making sighting effortless in the water. It also offers superb rotation and balance, ensuring a smooth and even stroke. However, high-elbow swimmers might find this wetsuit less flexible in comparison to other options.

Overall, the Blueseventy Reaction is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance wetsuit at a mid-budget price point.

Price

$600

Specifications

• Neoprene thickness: 5mm(torso, abs, upper legs), 4mm (lower back, hamstrings, shins), 3mm (obliques, spine, hips, calves), 2mm (upper back), 1.5mm (arms, shoulders)
• Near perfect buoyancy profile with thick buoyancy panels

Warranty

1-year warranty

Pros

• Excellent mid-budget option
• High float and low drag sensation
• Easy movement and steady kick

Cons

• Higher price than others

What Users Say

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Aquasphere Phantom V3

Best For Moderate Swimmers

Features

• Designed for moderate swimmers
• Offers a balance of buoyancy and flexibility
• Made from 5/5/4mm neoprene
• Suitable for water temperatures between 10-18°C
• Provides an excellent swimming experience
• Good buoyancy, flexibility, and comfortable fit

While the Aquasphere Phantom V3 is slightly more expensive than entry-level wetsuits, its exceptional performance and quality make it a worthwhile investment for intermediate swimmers. The unique core power system in the wetsuit helps facilitate the connection between the core and the remainder of the stroke, ensuring a smooth and efficient swim.

Price

$749.99

Specifications

• Made from 5/5/4mm neoprene
• Appropriate for water temperatures between 10-18°C

Warranty

2-year warranty

Pros

• Designed for moderate swimmers who are already efficient in the water
• Optimal buoyancy and flexibility without being overly buoyant
• Comfortable fit

Cons

• Higher price for mid-level wetsuit

What Users Say

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Summary

In conclusion, choosing the right triathlon wetsuit is crucial for enhancing your performance and comfort during the swim leg of a triathlon. This comprehensive guide to the best triathlon wetsuits of 2023 offers various options catering to different needs, budgets, and skill levels. By considering factors such as neoprene thickness, fit, type of wetsuit, and your specific requirements, you can select the perfect wetsuit to help you excel in your triathlon journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

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