FAIRMONT TRIATHLON
Using a Triathlon Wetsuit for First Time Wetsuit Users
The swim portion of the Fairmont Triathlon takes place in Budd Lake, on the southern edge of Fairmont. Given the early June race date, water temps in Budd Lake can still be recovering from spring at that time of year. Water temps of under 70 degrees often justify a wetsuit, and temps between 70-78 are definitely wetsuit optional. Because Budd Lake is usually around 70 degrees on race day, triathlon wetsuits are allowed for the race. Using a wetsuit might be a new experience for some, so here is some background as you prepare for the race.
There are three ways to get a wetsuit: Buy, Rent, or Borrow. Buying a wetsuit could be a considerable investment but likely worth it if you plan to do many races or open water swims. Renting can be a good option if you want to use a high quality suit without making the upfront investment, and if you aren’t sure if racing will become a regular hobby. Borrowing is the cheapest way to get by, but wetsuits need to fit you perfectly, so don’t settle for one that is a little big or small. There are several different brands and price levels of wetsuits – do your research, read up on triathlon wetsuit reviews, and find one that fits your skill level and specific needs.
In the weeks leading up to a race, try your wetsuit on at home – remember, “nothing new on race day.” It will be tight, but this is completely normal. Wetsuits are supposed to be tight. When you go for a practice swim prior to race day, you may get the illusion of moving more slowly in the water, but that's false as there'll be an improvement to the swim split in your first race using a wetsuit. When you practice in a pool, there's no need to don your wetsuit as that will only wear it out faster. In addition to keeping you warmer, a wetsuit will also assist your buoyancy. This flotation assistance commonly helps first timers feel more secure in the water, and can be worth it if you are nervous about the swim.
Getting a wetsuit on is not always a simple task. Go slowly as you slip into the suit -- the new formfitting and super-slim models can tear if you stab the material with your finger or toenail. Pull the wetsuit on with your finger pads and don't use your fingertips and nails. Some home remedies for making this easeier are to put two plastic bags over your feet, or simply leave your socks on, and slip the suit right on.
Always put a wetsuit on while you are dry, as putting a wetsuit on moist skin is more difficult This is like putting on tight-fitting rubber gloves on your hands when you are cleaning the house. Remember to go to the bathroom before you put your suit on because in an emergency, it can take a couple of minutes to get the suit off.
You will see many experienced triathletes lubricating around the neck, armholes and legholes of the wetsuit. A lubricant like Bodyglide, will prevent chafing and make the suit easier to put on and off. Another option is to use something like PAM or other substitutes, but they can sometimes have ingredients that are not good for the wetsuit – we recommend sticking with something made for athletes.
Getting out of the suit quickly after your swim leg during Transition One is something is important if you are going for time. Exit the water while grabbing your zipper tab, then being careful not to get tangled, pull out your arms as you run to the bicycle area. When you arrive, you can finish the removal. This does take practice and you can always do this yourself before the race to hone up on your method.
After the race, wash the suit in clean water on both the inside as well as the outside. You can either perform this task outdoors with a hose, or in the shower. Hang the suit to dry over a quilt rack, old-fashioned clothesline, or towel bar if it's big enough and heavy duty. Once your season is over, use a shampoo made to clean neoprene, such as one by McNett, and give the entire suit a thorough washing. They are gentle products and will keep your investment in a good quality wetsuit paying off for many years to come.