To dry a triathlon wetsuit effectively and preserve its lifespan, the key is to ensure it is thoroughly rinsed, turned inside out, and dried completely away from direct sunlight.
Properly drying your triathlon wetsuit is essential for maintaining its flexibility, preventing odor, and extending its life. The process involves a few simple, yet crucial, steps that ensure your wetsuit remains in top condition for many swims to come.
Essential Steps for Drying Your Wetsuit
Based on best practices, including the provided reference, follow these steps to dry your triathlon wetsuit:
- Rinse Thoroughly: After each use, rinse your wetsuit in clean fresh water (warm or cold is perfectly fine!). This step is vital for removing chlorine, salt, sand, and sweat, all of which can degrade the neoprene and cause unpleasant odors over time. You can rinse it while wearing it in the shower or after taking it off.
- Turn Inside Out First: Immediately after rinsing, turn your wetsuit inside out. The inner lining of the wetsuit often absorbs the most water and sweat, so drying this side first is crucial. This also prevents the outer surfaces from sticking together while damp.
- Hang Properly: Use a wide-shouldered hanger specifically designed for wetsuits or a sturdy, broad plastic hanger. Avoid wire hangers, as they can crease and damage the neoprene over time, especially at the shoulders.
- Dry Away from Direct Sunlight: Allow it to completely dry away from direct sunlight. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can be very damaging to neoprene, causing it to break down, become brittle, and lose its flexibility. Excessive heat can also warp or damage the material. Choose a well-ventilated, shaded area indoors or outdoors.
- Ensure Complete Dryness: Be patient and allow it to completely dry on the inside before proceeding. A damp wetsuit is a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria, leading to persistent odors and potentially damaging the material.
- Turn Right Side Out for Final Drying: Once the inside is fully dry, turn it back right side out to allow the exterior to dry completely. This ensures both sides are aired out and free of any residual moisture.
Why Proper Drying Matters
Understanding the "why" behind each step reinforces the importance of correct wetsuit care:
- Longevity: UV exposure and improper drying can significantly shorten your wetsuit's lifespan by damaging the neoprene.
- Odor Prevention: Thorough drying eliminates the moisture where bacteria and mildew thrive, preventing unpleasant smells.
- Hygiene: A completely dry wetsuit is a cleaner, more hygienic piece of equipment.
- Performance: Maintaining the neoprene's integrity ensures the wetsuit retains its flexibility and buoyancy, crucial for optimal performance.
Quick Drying Checklist & Tips
Here's a summary table for quick reference and additional tips for optimal drying:
| Step | Action | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Rinse | Use clean, fresh water (warm/cold). | Removes damaging chemicals (chlorine, salt), sweat, and debris. |
| 2. Turn Inside Out | Flip immediately after rinsing. | Dries the inner lining first, which retains most moisture; prevents outer surfaces from sticking. |
| 3. Hang Appropriately | Use a wide, sturdy hanger (avoid wire). | Maintains wetsuit shape; prevents shoulder creases and material stretching. |
| 4. Dry in Shade | Place in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. | Protects neoprene from UV damage and excessive heat, preserving flexibility and durability. |
| 5. Ensure Full Dryness (Inside) | Allow ample time for the inside to become completely dry. | Prevents mold, mildew, and persistent odors; ensures hygienic use. |
| 6. Turn Right Side Out | Once inside is dry, flip to dry the exterior. | Guarantees both sides are thoroughly dry before storage. |
Additional Tips:
- Air Circulation: Ensure good airflow around the wetsuit. If drying indoors, a fan can help speed up the process.
- Avoid Excessive Heat: Never use a tumble dryer, hairdryer, or any direct heat source on your wetsuit, as this will severely damage the neoprene.
- Storage: Once completely dry, store your wetsuit either flat or on a wide wetsuit-specific hanger in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid folding it for extended periods, as this can create permanent creases.
By following these guidelines, you'll significantly extend the life and maintain the performance of your triathlon wetsuit.
