What is the difference between a wetsuit and a swimskin?
A swimskin is thinner than a triathlon wetsuit and will only offer a little added buoyancy or warmth. It will often be sleeveless or will have short sleeves on the arms, and will reach down to the knees on the legs. The zipper will be located on the rear to further reduce frontal drag. Designed for speed, not warmth or buoyancy, swimskins reduce drag and help you glide through the water with less resistance. Swimskins are built from tightly woven, water-repellent fabrics that sit flush against the body, minimising drag caused by loose or absorbent materials like a trisuit.
Is a swimskin better than a wetsuit for a triathlon?
Although it won’t provide you the buoyancy of a wetsuit, the swimskin will provide compression and hydrodynamic features that propel you through the water at a pace faster than swimming in a trisuit alone. Many iron-distance pros at Kona or Nice are known for sporting this option. If your wetsuit is decent and comfortable, you don’t have to wear anything under it. Wetsuits are designed to trap a thin layer of water between you and your suit, your body then heats that water to help keep you warm.When wet, the suit will loosen a little from the weight of the water, pulling the suit slightly away from the body, so it’s vital the suit fits tight to begin with. A snug swimsuit will also help to sculpt and shape your figure, extra bonus!Normally no underwear is worn under the triathlon suit. It is important that trisuits are close to the body and have a good fit to ensure optimal performance and support.