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I am planning on doing a sprint tri in June here in Michigan and was wondering if I really need a wetsuit? I know it helps with floatation and obviously warmth, but the swim isn't very far and honestly, it sounds like the most complicated part of the transition! And because I'm only planning on this triathlon for the season, I'm think I'll pass on the suit. Does that sound unreasonable? Lake temps for June are usually hovering close to 68'ish.
What lake are you swimming in? The triathlon organizers can tell you if they recommend a wetsuit. If you decide to use one, you can rent one from a sports shop. I have used a sleeveless, short-legged wetsuit for most of the tris I've done. I use it mainly because I must wear a bra, and the wet suit allows me to swim in the shorts and bra I'll wear for the rest of the event. I change out of the wetsuit and pull on a shirt to go to the ride/run.
I did a sprint tri last May in a pool, wetsuits not allowed. I was flummoxed about what to wear, and got some good advice from this board. I ended up buying a Sugoi trisuit from TE, and wearing my sports bra under it. I just wore that combo, plus a shirt out of the pool, for the whole race.
I bought a full-body wetsuit on sale this winter, as I plan to do some tris in colder water this year. If this will be your only tri season, it doesn't make sense to buy tri-specific clothes, IMHO.
Lise
I don't do tri's, but as you can tell from my avitar, I spend a lot of time in the water. 68 is cold. The biggest problem you will have is the cold zapping all your strength. You will be much happier if you keep your core warm. You will lose too much energy (even though you will feel warm because of the exercise). I spend hours at a time in the water, and believe me, even in 80+ water, I wear a wetsuit to keep my energy up.
They have neoprene vests and suits with zippers. If you don't want to mess with peeling off the legs, look for a "shortie" or a vest. Consider a hood to keep your head warm--it's where you lose the most heat from your body. Check out some scuba websites for wetsuits, you might see something you like better.
Just my .02 cents!