Worth it Part 2!

[kacie tri-ing]

Ok--my HIM is in April, and they have said that it will be wetsuit legal. I do not have a wetsuit, but I was thinking about renting one at wetsuitrentals.com.

Is it worth it?

[HillSlugger]

I would think that the extra buoyancy from the wetsuit would be a big benefit for a HIM swim. Go for a rental and make sure to get it early enough that you have the chance to practice swimming in it and putting it on and off.

[eclectic]

Before my first sprint tri (in the northern Missouri river in early June - even for a short 500 yds you need a wetsuit) I did a lot of research. I ended up buying one but I did find 1 company that puts the rental price towards purchase if you decide to buy one from them. But I am not much help because now I can't remember the company - out of CA like that helps alot.

So, not much help but to let you know that is an option.

And, yes, wetsuits do make a difference in swim speed and fatigue I discovered
Also for a long distance swim in cold water your body won't be wasting energy keeping you warm

[Wahine]

You definitely want a wetsuit for a swim that long if it's wetsuit legal. I know other people who have rented and were happy. But I'm sort of in the corner of I'd rather have my own. I bought one in 1996 and have used it for 12 seasons!!!! I think I got my money's worth.

[kacie tri-ing]

Hmmmmm.....lots to think about! Price, urine, and comfort! Yikes!

Ok, I will start researching more ideas. Please let me know if you have suggestions about specific brands or styles!

[HillSlugger]

What size are you? I've got a used wetsuit I want to sell.

[rocknrollgirl]

I ALWAYS use a wetsuit if it is legal. We bought mine on ebay. Check there.

[kacie tri-ing]

Hmmmm....I don't know what size I would be...I am about 5'8'' and typically a dress size 10-12....probably a large...

I started watching ebay too!

[HillSlugger]

Hmmmm....I don't know what size I would be...I am about 5'8'' and typically a dress size 10-12....probably a large...

I started watching ebay too!

I'm about 5'5", 150 pounds, and this wetsuit always seemed a bit too large for me. I think it would be best for someone a little bigger than me. I bought it used here on TE. I'd like to sell it for $60. If you want more info, let me know.

[kacie tri-ing]

Sure, send me some more info about it! Thanks!

[eclectic]

when I was researching wetsuits i found the different brands to be very different in how they fit for the same size.

I ended up getting a 2XU and the guy on the phone was so cute. He says "Uh well I have to ask you kind of a delicate question, are you more pear shape or more up and down, and are you large chested"

I told him unfortunately I was pear shaped and not large chested. He said that is perfect because that is the shape the 2XU's fit better.
I'm 5'6" and 152 and that was the middle of the range on the sizing for the
2XU's, on all the others it was the very top or the very bottom of the range.

Mine is the sleeveless and it works really well.

I hope MDHillslug's works well for you - it is a deal!