A swimming wetsuit should fit like a second skin, snug and form-fitting across your entire body with no excess neoprene, especially in the lower back, to maximize warmth and performance in the water.
Achieving the right fit is paramount for a swimming wetsuit, as it directly impacts your warmth, comfort, and efficiency in the water. Unlike surfing wetsuits that can have a slightly looser fit, a swimming or triathlon wetsuit needs to be incredibly close to the body to minimize water ingress and improve hydrodynamics.
The Critical Lower Back Fit
One of the most vital areas for assessing wetsuit fit is the lower back. As per expert advice, an excellent way to tell if your wetsuit fits well is to ensure there is little or no excess neoprene on the lower back. This area is crucial because the body of your suit must fit well to your body, with the lower back protecting and keeping your kidneys warm. If your kidneys stay warm, then you will continue to pump warm blood around your body, which is essential for maintaining core temperature during colder swims.
Key Fit Zones and What to Look For
Beyond the lower back, a proper swimming wetsuit fit involves a full-body assessment.
- Neck Seal: The neck should be snug enough to prevent significant water flushing, but not so tight that it restricts breathing or causes chafing. You should be able to comfortably swallow and turn your head.
- Shoulders and Arms: This is critical for stroke efficiency. You should have a full, unrestricted range of motion when mimicking swimming strokes. Any tightness across the shoulders or armpits indicates a poor fit that will hinder your swim.
- Torso and Chest: The wetsuit should lie flat against your chest and stomach with no significant air pockets or wrinkles. Excess material here will trap too much water, making you less streamlined and colder.
- Crotch: The wetsuit should fit snugly without riding up or causing discomfort. There should be no baggy material.
- Legs: The suit should be snug around your calves and ankles, preventing water from rushing in and out. Most swimming wetsuits will end just above the ankle bone.
Assessing the Fit: Good vs. Bad Indicators
When trying on a wetsuit, it's essential to look for specific signs that indicate a proper or improper fit.
| Feature | Good Fit | Bad Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Snugness | Feels like a "second skin"; difficult to put on. | Baggy areas, wrinkles, or loose fabric. |
| Lower Back | Little to no excess neoprene; flat against skin. | Noticeable excess neoprene, folds, or gaps. |
| Shoulder Mobility | Full, unrestricted arm rotation for swimming. | Pulling or tightness across shoulders, restricted movement. |
| Neck Comfort | Snug but allows easy breathing and head turning. | Chokes, gags, or feels extremely restrictive. |
| Wrinkles | Minimal to no horizontal wrinkles. | Significant horizontal wrinkles, especially on torso/limbs. |
| Entry Difficulty | Requires effort to pull up; feels tight initially. | Slips on easily like regular clothing. |
Practical Tips for Trying On a Wetsuit
- Patience is Key: Wetsuits can be challenging to put on, especially when dry. Take your time.
- Plastic Bags: Use plastic bags over your hands and feet to help them slide through the narrow openings.
- Work it Up: Don't pull from the top. Gradually work the material up your legs and body, ensuring the crotch is fully seated before attempting to pull it over your torso.
- Check Mobility: Once on, perform arm circles and mimic swimming motions to ensure full range of motion.
- Wet Test (if possible): The ultimate test is in water. A properly fitting wetsuit will feel even better when wet, conforming perfectly to your body. It should trap a thin layer of water that warms up to your body temperature. If large amounts of water flush in and out, the suit is too big.
Why Proper Fit Matters
- Warmth: A snug fit minimizes water flushing, allowing the thin layer of trapped water to warm up and insulate your body effectively, particularly keeping your kidneys warm for continuous warm blood circulation.
- Performance: A streamlined, close-fitting wetsuit reduces drag in the water, making you more efficient and faster.
- Comfort: While it feels very tight initially, a well-fitting wetsuit should be comfortable once you're in the water, allowing unrestricted movement without chafing.
Getting the fit right is crucial for an optimal swimming experience, ensuring warmth, speed, and comfort.
