A triathlon wetsuit should feel tighter than you expect on dry land. It loosens a little in the water, and a loose suit lets water flush through, which makes you cold and slow. The goal is snug everywhere, without restricting your breathing or your shoulders.
Measure first
Wetsuit sizes are based on height, weight and chest. Measure yourself, then check the numbers against Orca's size chart. If you're between sizes, height and chest usually matter most.
Put it on properly
Most "it doesn't fit" problems are really "it isn't on properly".
- Take off watches and rings, and trim sharp fingernails. Neoprene tears easily.
- Put a plastic bag over each foot to slide them through the legs.
- Pull the legs up a little at a time with the pads of your fingers, until the crotch sits right up against you.
- Work the suit up your body, then do the same with the arms, easing material up towards your shoulders.
- Get someone to zip you up.
How to tell it fits
- Neck: snug enough that water won't pour in, but you can breathe and swallow normally.
- Shoulders: you can swing your arms in a full circle without fighting the suit. If you can't, the suit may not be pulled up far enough.
- Crotch and armpits: no gaps or folds of loose neoprene.
- Chest: it feels tight, but you can take a deep breath.
Signs it's the wrong size
- Too big: baggy folds at the lower back, armpits or crotch, and water rushing in when you swim.
- Too small: you can't breathe deeply, your shoulders ache quickly, or the zip strains to close.
Why buoyancy matters
The Orca Athlex Float V2 we hire uses buoyant neoprene that lifts your legs into a better swimming position. It's a good choice if you're newer to open water, or if your swim is your weaker leg.
Hiring is a good way to find out what suits you before you buy. Hires run from 7 to 60 days, so you can train in the suit before race day. Next, read our guide to your first open-water swim.
