You can wear a wetsuit if the water temp is below 78 degrees. Every tri I have done has listed what they expect the temp to be on their web site.

I bought my suit, pretty much at random, from REI because I could return it with no hassles. Fortunately, it seems okay. It always seems a little weird how high it comes up when I first put it on, but I get over that. Trisports also has what sounds like a reasonable return policy. I didn't want to rent after reading about people urinating in their suit. Yeah, I know sometimes you have to go... I'm wussy about some things.

I grew up swimming outside in lakes and rivers, so the OWS hasn't bothered me, other than I have a hard time staying in a straight line. I never swam regularly in a pool until I joined my college swim team.

I would definitely swim outside in your suit before your event, especially if you have any trepidation about the swim.

V.