By "full" I mean long arms and legs, as opposed to a "long john", which has no sleeves. You will swim faster in a fullsuit.

Wetsuits aren't that hard to get off. Most have a long zipper leash to make unzipping fast. Basically, just turn the suit inside out as it comes off. You can set it right when the event is over.

Wear your tri suit under the wetsuit. You shouldn't need to change clothes in a tri. Just strip off your wetsuit, pull on your shoes & helmet, and hop on your bike. Your clothing will be wet, but will dry quickly in the breeze.

Hope this helps!

Susan