Advertisement
If you have a new account but are having problems posting or verifying your account, please email us on hello@boards.ie for help. Thanks :)
Hello all! Please ensure that you are posting a new thread or question in the appropriate forum. The Feedback forum is overwhelmed with questions that are having to be moved elsewhere. If you need help to verify your account contact hello@boards.ie
Hi there,
There is an issue with role permissions that is being worked on at the moment.
If you are having trouble with access or permissions on regional forums please post here to get access: https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058365403/you-do-not-have-permission-for-that#latest

Need a new wetsuit

  • 30-03-2021 9:28am
    #1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭


    I posted this in swimming but got no response. Sorry for duplicating. Maybe somebody could come back to me here


    I've had a zone3 wetsuit for 7 years. Still fits me perfect. Used to do triathlons, not any more.

    It's starting to come apart at the seams. Little holes everywhere.

    Been going for dips all winter in it and only really started to swim and cover distance.

    I'll be doing a lot of lake swimming this summer, maybe a bit of open sea if we are allowed to roam free across this island.

    I've picked out 2 suits initially that look good


    https://www.wetsuitout...e-ombre-p-32176.html

    Or

    https://www.orca.com/i...-trn-core-openwater/


    If anybody has ideas or opinions let me know.


Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 137 ✭✭themighty


    Neither of those links seem to be working.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    themighty wrote: »
    Neither of those links seem to be working.

    You're right.

    One is an Orca Trn core
    https://jellyfishsurfshop.com/swim-wetsuits/1557-orca-openwater-core-trn-mens.html

    The other a 2xu p1 propel

    https://www.wiggle.co.uk/2xu-p1-propel-wetsuit-1


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    All wetsuits are compromises between insulation and flexibility. Generally speaking they will have thicker neoprene around the core, and thinner around the limbs (and sometimes shoulders). Thicker means you stay warmer, and also means greater buoyancy.

    Its hard to suggest one suit over another without knowing much about the wearer. Lakes in Ireland are usually colder than the sea, and since they are fresh water you won't float as well. So if you have a lot of body fat you might need a different suit than someone who is skinny and prone to the cold.

    You can also over-analyse these things- the most important thing is getting the fit right, everything after that is a bonus. Both the suits you linked are up to the job.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,468 ✭✭✭sconhome


    bridest wrote: »

    Either of those is suitable as a knocking around swim wetsuit.

    The old version of the Orca TRN was uncoated neoprene and could withstand knocks and bumps. Neither is as bouyant or as 'balanced' as a true tri swimming wetsuit and will be slightly less flexible but unless you have perfect stroke technique you are very unlikely to notice any difference.

    Where finances allowed, would always recommend a good suit for competition and one of these for training and general swim use.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 166 ✭✭Bertje14


    I couldn't agree more with Kurt. Fitting is everything.


  • Advertisement
  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    sconhome wrote: »
    Either of those is suitable as a knocking around swim wetsuit.

    The old version of the Orca TRN was uncoated neoprene and could withstand knocks and bumps. Neither is as bouyant or as 'balanced' as a true tri swimming wetsuit and will be slightly less flexible but unless you have perfect stroke technique you are very unlikely to notice any difference.

    Where finances allowed, would always recommend a good suit for competition and one of these for training and general swim use.

    Maybe I'll order both. And whatever one suits best I'll keep. Send the other one back!
    I'll be swimming mostly in lakes, unless I get moving to closer to the coast


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 137 ✭✭themighty


    I'd echo the others on fit being most important. Maybe look at the Orca S7 as well, I think it's a closer equivalent to the Propel than the TRN.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    themighty wrote: »
    I'd echo the others on fit being most important. Maybe look at the Orca S7 as well, I think it's a closer equivalent to the Propel than the TRN.

    Good call on the s7. I'll order both, and whatever one fits me best ill keep


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,468 ✭✭✭sconhome


    bridest wrote: »
    Good call on the s7. I'll order both, and whatever one fits me best ill keep

    Double check the returns on wetsuit policy and be super careful if fitting. Any marks or nail damage and you could be in trouble for a return.

    Use your zone 3 as a guide to size when ordering. Good luck with it either way.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,359 ✭✭✭peter kern


    bridest wrote: »
    I posted this in swimming but got no response. Sorry for duplicating. Maybe somebody could come back to me here


    I've had a zone3 wetsuit for 7 years. Still fits me perfect. Used to do triathlons, not any more.

    It's starting to come apart at the seams. Little holes everywhere.

    Been going for dips all winter in it and only really started to swim and cover distance.



    I'll be doing a lot of lake swimming this summer, maybe a bit of open sea if we are allowed to roam free across this island.

    I've picked out 2 suits initially that look good


    https://www.wetsuitout...e-ombre-p-32176.html

    Or

    https://www.orca.com/i...-trn-core-openwater/


    If anybody has ideas or opinions let me know.

    Why would you not buy the same suit if you liked it and fit perfectly?which one was it .
    . Somebody mentioned the s7 which is a Good suit but it depends on your body type if it will fit as well as zone 3 they are not massively different cut but there is differences.


  • Advertisement
  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    peter kern wrote: »
    Why would you not buy the same suit if you liked it and fit perfectly?which one was it .
    . Somebody mentioned the s7 which is a Good suit but it depends on your body type if it will fit as well as zone 3 they are not massively different cut but there is differences.

    I'd like to try something different. My zone 3 was good, but a friend got one last year and under the arms started to blister and open up. Also happened to another person. Maybe zone 3 quality has dropped since I got mine


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10 Bartybull


    Orca s7. The fit should be tight it should be difficult to get on. I bought matching scull cap gloves and booties. Grear for when the water is cooler. I bought mine in the edge but have lost weight since and water comes in the neck back area


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,359 ✭✭✭peter kern


    bridest wrote: »
    I'd like to try something different. My zone 3 was good, but a friend got one last year and under the arms started to blister and open up. Also happened to another person. Maybe zone 3 quality has dropped since I got mine
    fair enough
    would you now which zone 3 it is for most triathletes the s7 and 3.8 are the best orca suits. in the bmc team which is sponsored by orca 2019 every athlete chose the orca 3.8 which is not the most expensive suit in their range after testing it
    the thing with orca is upper body is shorter than zone 3 so if you have a longer uper body than it is not that great.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    peter kern wrote: »
    fair enough
    would you now which zone 3 it is for most triathletes the s7 and 3.8 are the best orca suits. in the bmc team which is sponsored by orca 2019 every athlete chose the orca 3.8 which is not the most expensive suit in their range after testing it
    the thing with orca is upper body is shorter than zone 3 so if you have a longer uper body than it is not that great.

    Good to know, I do have a long upper body


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    peter kern wrote: »
    fair enough
    would you now which zone 3 it is for most triathletes the s7 and 3.8 are the best orca suits. in the bmc team which is sponsored by orca 2019 every athlete chose the orca 3.8 which is not the most expensive suit in their range after testing it
    the thing with orca is upper body is shorter than zone 3 so if you have a longer uper body than it is not that great.

    You were right, got the Orca S7 today. Far too short on the body, have to send it back. Weird sizing. Also, for something that is more expensive than my old Zone 3, the materials do not seem as high quality


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,359 ✭✭✭peter kern


    you dont tell me much but based on what i can see, have a look at a blue seventy sprint Mt .


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 767 ✭✭✭wrstan


    I have just taken delivery of the S7 today - looks like a nice suit, I can't wait to try it out.

    A quick question for any experts, along the above theme: does the suit stretch with use? I fit right in the middle of the size I ordered so was feeling pretty confident that I wouldn't have any issues, I know it should be fairly snug, but this feels tight, like seriously body hugging tight :eek:

    I'm not sure whether to go and test it out or whether to change it up a size.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    wrstan wrote: »
    this feels tight, like seriously body hugging tight

    Yeah they should feel tight out of the water (and tight too when first out of the box). Tight enough that it takes effort to put it on, but not so tight you can't breath. The suit will feel less constrictive when you get in the water.

    Also, search for videos on how to put on a wetsuit (specific to your brand if possible). If you slowly pinch it to move an inch up from the forearm to the shoulder, you'll have a better fit and less constrictive. I spend about 5-10minutes putting on a suit and adjusting it.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    wrstan wrote: »
    I have just taken delivery of the S7 today - looks like a nice suit, I can't wait to try it out.

    A quick question for any experts, along the above theme: does the suit stretch with use? I fit right in the middle of the size I ordered so was feeling pretty confident that I wouldn't have any issues, I know it should be fairly snug, but this feels tight, like seriously body hugging tight :eek:

    I'm not sure whether to go and test it out or whether to change it up a size.

    Sent mine back, size was weird. Fit perfect on legs and about 3 inches too short on torso. Cost me 40 euro to send it back and their support have no responded in a week. Good luck with it, make sure it's fitting snug under your arms otherwise you won't be getting proper rotation in the water


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,359 ✭✭✭peter kern


    wrstan wrote: »
    I have just taken delivery of the S7 today - looks like a nice suit, I can't wait to try it out.

    A quick question for any experts, along the above theme: does the suit stretch with use? I fit right in the middle of the size I ordered so was feeling pretty confident that I wouldn't have any issues, I know it should be fairly snug, but this feels tight, like seriously body hugging tight :eek:

    I'm not sure whether to go and test it out or whether to change it up a size.

    tight is relative if you can close it yourself its usally not too tight. my race suit i can not close myelf unless iam total race weight and it would still be a seruous struggle to do.
    chances are high if you can close your wetsuit yourself than it will let water in when you swim.

    at the same time is also depends how nervous you are . if you are nervous aobut the sea than you want less restrictive as less chance to hyperventilate.

    i think a good rule of thumb is really tight is when it takes about 7to 10 min to get it on . to lose is if it takes less than 3 min to get it on. take those numbers with a grain of salt but its and indication. in my race suit that fits really well i really struggle to get in its a fight.
    so it should be some work to put a wetsuit on but they will stretch when in the water . so unless your feel really restricted around the chest and you are worried of open water swiming i would say chances are very high it is ok.

    and as kurt also says its important to put suit on proper its not brand specific though the princicples are the same. what is important is that once the wetduit is zipped up the reall fit process starts .

    https://www.google.com/search?q=putting+on+a+wetsuit&oq=putting+on+a++wetsuit++&aqs=chrome..69i57j0i19l2j0i19i22i30l7.5152j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#kpvalbx=_0Zh0YJT1G5W91fAPnLaS2A012
    i did not watch this but it had the 2 things i wanted to see so its at least decent.
    the only thing to notice is this is the expensive suit ie a more flexilbe material than yours.


  • Advertisement
  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    peter kern wrote: »
    what is important is that once the wetduit is zipped up the reall fit process starts .

    Thats a great way of putting it. Should be stamped in big letters on every wetsuit box.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 767 ✭✭✭wrstan


    Thanks all for that, Peter and Kurt, it's really helpful. I've tried the suit on again having watched a couple of those videos and I'm confident it is right. It was important for me to get the cuffs high enough above the ankle as a starting point. Once I got that right the rest seemed to follow. Can't wait to get out in it.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 767 ✭✭✭wrstan


    Just a follow up to the post above, I took the S7 out for its maiden voyage on Friday (then again on Saturday, then again on Sunday).

    It fits great, thanks to the good advice on putting it on. I really like it, it's comfortable, warm, the only thing I'm getting used to is that I feel like my legs are very high in the water. Looking forward to another quick dip after work this evening!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    Anybody tried the cskins swim research wetsuit ?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,359 ✭✭✭peter kern


    did not try it at the same time the neoprene is on the thin side which is good for warmer swims and proper swimmers generally speaking
    or in other words if you look for and s7 than i fail to see why you would look at this suit.
    while the cut of front neck and side looks very good for many people the back of the neck will be a neck chafer as it is very high.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    peter kern wrote: »
    did not try it at the same time the neoprene is on the thin side which is good for warmer swims and proper swimmers generally speaking
    or in other words if you look for and s7 than i fail to see why you would look at this suit.
    while the cut of front neck and side looks very good for many people the back of the neck will be a neck chafer as it is very high.

    Hello , good to know

    I've already tried the s7 in a size 7 and it didn't fit me. Had to send it back.

    Maybe I'll just go back to zone3. My old zone3 advance in a size large fit me perfect.
    Very difficult to know what to get


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    I've decided to go up a level, after having tried 2 entry level suits

    either the Zone 3 Aspire
    https://www.wiggle.co.uk/zone3-mens-aspire-wetsuit-1

    or the

    Blueseventy Reaction

    https://www.wiggle.co.uk/blueseventy-reaction-wetsuit-2


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    What makes you believe those suits are going up a level?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    What makes you believe those suits are going up a level?

    Exactly how would I know ahha sure can't go to see or try anything


  • Advertisement
  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    bridest wrote: »
    Exactly how would I know ahha sure can't go to see or try anything

    The biggest problem with buying online is the fit- people often don't have much info to go on and end up deciding on a wetsuit by price (or by discount- I've done this myself).

    I don't know where you live, but Base2Race in Dublin are open and will let you try on wetsuits in store. They sell the ZeroD range which have a variety of sizes, and the staff there know their stuff. I bought one there a few years back, expected to be size XL but the staff member sized me by sight as a Medium Tall. The suit felt way too tight in the store, but I was assured it was the correct size, and indeed it was once I started swimming in the water. They aren't the cheapest suits around but its worth paying whatever it takes for the advice you'll get.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,359 ✭✭✭peter kern


    well if he had a zone 3 m or mt than he can be fairly sure that both suits will be an upgrade for him in the same sizing he had before.
    a needed upgrade thats another question but in terms of fit they will be good . the blue seventy is a bit longer in the upper body but otherwise they are a fairly similar cut


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    peter kern wrote: »
    well if he had a zone 3 m or mt than he can be fairly sure that both suits will be an upgrade for him in the same sizing he had before.
    a needed upgrade thats another question but in terms of fit they will be good . the blue seventy is a bit longer in the upper body but otherwise they are a fairly similar cut

    Good to know about the Blueseventy, because I've a tall torso. That's they the orca fit me until the hips but fell short about 2 inches on the torso


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    The biggest problem with buying online is the fit- people often don't have much info to go on and end up deciding on a wetsuit by price (or by discount- I've done this myself).

    I don't know where you live, but Base2Race in Dublin are open and will let you try on wetsuits in store. They sell the ZeroD range which have a variety of sizes, and the staff there know their stuff. I bought one there a few years back, expected to be size XL but the staff member sized me by sight as a Medium Tall. The suit felt way too tight in the store, but I was assured it was the correct size, and indeed it was once I started swimming in the water. They aren't the cheapest suits around but its worth paying whatever it takes for the advice you'll get.

    Hmm never hears or zeroD wetsuits before


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    bridest wrote: »
    Hmm never hears or zeroD wetsuits before

    They're very good suits. I've had 5 of them over the past few years. The "entry level" Atlante will keep you warm and buoyant for lake swims. Possibly overkill for what you are looking for, but the main thing is you would have someone experienced helping you with size, and there is a wide variety of sizes available for all body shapes. Sometimes people get a bargain wetsuit online that is an ideal size, but TBH you can't beat an experienced fitter assisting with the correct size.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    They're very good suits. I've had 5 of them over the past few years. The "entry level" Atlante will keep you warm and buoyant for lake swims. Possibly overkill for what you are looking for, but the main thing is you would have someone experienced helping you with size, and there is a wide variety of sizes available for all body shapes. Sometimes people get a bargain wetsuit online that is an ideal size, but TBH you can't beat an experienced fitter assisting with the correct size.

    5, you must do a lot of swimming? I've had 1 zone3 for 7 years , swam every summer in it and it only started coming apart last year


  • Advertisement
  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    bridest wrote: »
    5, you must do a lot of swimming? I've had 1 zone3 for 7 years , swam every summer in it and it only started coming apart last year

    Yes a lot of swimming (sea rather than lake which is harsher)- actually it is 4 ZeroD (2 still in use), and a further 2 HUUB (1 starting to tear, 1 new).

    And lots of Blackwitch over the years too ;)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 819 ✭✭✭cuculainn


    Yes a lot of swimming (sea rather than lake which is harsher)- actually it is 4 ZeroD (2 still in use), and a further 2 HUUB (1 starting to tear, 1 new).

    And lots of Blackwitch over the years too ;)

    No hijacking the tread but I bought a huub wetsuit from sportspursuit.... impulse buy based on another wetsuit thread. It arrived I tried it on, was really careful putting it on and still put two bloody Knicks in it.
    As for the fit it is a bit tight in the crotch and shoulders but think it will be perfect once i get into the water


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    cuculainn wrote: »
    No hijacking the tread but I bought a huub wetsuit from sportspursuit.... impulse buy based on another wetsuit thread. It arrived I tried it on, was really careful putting it on and still put two bloody Knicks in it.
    As for the fit it is a bit tight in the crotch and shoulders but think it will be perfect once i get into the water

    That's mad, I can be rough with my old zone3 and it only split on the seems, shoulders and crotch, and I never put a nick in it in 7 years. These suits must all be made from different grades of materials.
    Having said that, I've no nails, bite them to the stubs haha


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    Yes a lot of swimming (sea rather than lake which is harsher)- actually it is 4 ZeroD (2 still in use), and a further 2 HUUB (1 starting to tear, 1 new).

    And lots of Blackwitch over the years too ;)

    So which brand do you prefer Kurt ?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    Would love to have about 20 different wetsuits to try on


  • Advertisement
  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,724 ✭✭✭Dilbert75


    They're very good suits. I've had 5 of them over the past few years. The "entry level" Atlante will keep you warm and buoyant for lake swims. Possibly overkill for what you are looking for, but the main thing is you would have someone experienced helping you with size, and there is a wide variety of sizes available for all body shapes. Sometimes people get a bargain wetsuit online that is an ideal size, but TBH you can't beat an experienced fitter assisting with the correct size.

    I've the Atlante, purchased in B2R and it (used to) fit me really well....I've expanded a little since....anyhoo, the only thing I really dislike about it is that the zip closes from top down rather than bottom up. It opens easily but I often need help to close it...and not everybody gives neoprene the handling it requires.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 376 ✭✭Kurt_Godel.


    bridest wrote: »
    So which brand do you prefer Kurt ?

    It all depends on conditions. The ZeroD Proflex is the "best" suit- great shoulder flexibility and best for racing in. The material around the arms is very thin and requires a lot of care. As Dilbert says, ZeroD suits can be difficult to zip down without assistance- fine at the Start of a Tri race, but not so good training on your own. I did manage to zip down the Atlante and Vangard ZeroD suits myself with a lot of practice, but the Proflex needs help. Definitely something to consider if most of your swimming will be solo.

    I like the HUUB suits for general training (fine for racing in too), although they do have that reputation for being fragile and prone to nicks. They are easier to put on yourself. Mine has seen plenty of Blackwitch over 3 years. Both times I've bought around 50% discount from Sportspursuit, and would consider them poor value at full price- albeit very good suits if you are prepared to repair nicks.

    The first suit I bought was a discount Speedo nearly 10 years ago online for less than €100. I still have it (seldom wear it these days though), but mention it because its relatively bulletproof compared to more expensive suits. I don't know if this is a general truth (I suspect so), but its been my experience that cheaper suits withstand more dings and knocks that might damage more expensive ones. Obviously there's a trade-off in terms of flexibility, but something to consider if you are essentially buying a suit that will just be used for training.

    The "best" suit will be one that allows you to swim as though it wasn't there. That means thinner neoprene, which negates one of the main reasons for a wetsuit in the first place (heat retention). The tailors in the "Emperors New Clothes" could make a fortune from the Triathlon market!:D After that, its all about fit- no point in swimming in a €800 suit that causes you shoulder pain. From the sound of things, your Zone3 Advance has served you well and seems like the obvious choice to repurchase.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,359 ✭✭✭peter kern


    They're very good suits. I've had 5 of them over the past few years. The "entry level" Atlante will keep you warm and buoyant for lake swims. Possibly overkill for what you are looking for, but the main thing is you would have someone experienced helping you with size, and there is a wide variety of sizes available for all body shapes. Sometimes people get a bargain wetsuit online that is an ideal size, but TBH you can't beat an experienced fitter assisting with the correct size.

    the atlante is a very good suit but then generally speaking if you were really happy with a zone 3 fit than the tendency is that zerod is unlikely to be as good as a fit , given that he did not like the orca the tendency is even higher unless your zone 3 was a tinny bit tight around the chest and upper arm

    to the question which brand one prefers... i think that aquaman is the best wetsuit brand yet it dosnt work for me so to ask someobdy about what brand one prefers is not worth it without considering morphiology and swim style, of that person


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    It all depends on conditions. The ZeroD Proflex is the "best" suit- great shoulder flexibility and best for racing in. The material around the arms is very thin and requires a lot of care. As Dilbert says, ZeroD suits can be difficult to zip down without assistance- fine at the Start of a Tri race, but not so good training on your own. I did manage to zip down the Atlante and Vangard ZeroD suits myself with a lot of practice, but the Proflex needs help. Definitely something to consider if most of your swimming will be solo.

    I like the HUUB suits for general training (fine for racing in too), although they do have that reputation for being fragile and prone to nicks. They are easier to put on yourself. Mine has seen plenty of Blackwitch over 3 years. Both times I've bought around 50% discount from Sportspursuit, and would consider them poor value at full price- albeit very good suits if you are prepared to repair nicks.

    The first suit I bought was a discount Speedo nearly 10 years ago online for less than €100. I still have it (seldom wear it these days though), but mention it because its relatively bulletproof compared to more expensive suits. I don't know if this is a general truth (I suspect so), but its been my experience that cheaper suits withstand more dings and knocks that might damage more expensive ones. Obviously there's a trade-off in terms of flexibility, but something to consider if you are essentially buying a suit that will just be used for training.

    The "best" suit will be one that allows you to swim as though it wasn't there. That means thinner neoprene, which negates one of the main reasons for a wetsuit in the first place (heat retention). The tailors in the "Emperors New Clothes" could make a fortune from the Triathlon market!:D After that, its all about fit- no point in swimming in a €800 suit that causes you shoulder pain. From the sound of things, your Zone3 Advance has served you well and seems like the obvious choice to repurchase.

    Have had a couple of friends who purchased zone 3 recently and all of them opened up under the arms. They seem to be making them out of substandard material now. See they are using limestone eco friendly neoprene and maybe that's the problem


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    It all depends on conditions. The ZeroD Proflex is the "best" suit- great shoulder flexibility and best for racing in. The material around the arms is very thin and requires a lot of care. As Dilbert says, ZeroD suits can be difficult to zip down without assistance- fine at the Start of a Tri race, but not so good training on your own. I did manage to zip down the Atlante and Vangard ZeroD suits myself with a lot of practice, but the Proflex needs help. Definitely something to consider if most of your swimming will be solo.

    I like the HUUB suits for general training (fine for racing in too), although they do have that reputation for being fragile and prone to nicks. They are easier to put on yourself. Mine has seen plenty of Blackwitch over 3 years. Both times I've bought around 50% discount from Sportspursuit, and would consider them poor value at full price- albeit very good suits if you are prepared to repair nicks.

    The first suit I bought was a discount Speedo nearly 10 years ago online for less than €100. I still have it (seldom wear it these days though), but mention it because its relatively bulletproof compared to more expensive suits. I don't know if this is a general truth (I suspect so), but its been my experience that cheaper suits withstand more dings and knocks that might damage more expensive ones. Obviously there's a trade-off in terms of flexibility, but something to consider if you are essentially buying a suit that will just be used for training.

    The "best" suit will be one that allows you to swim as though it wasn't there. That means thinner neoprene, which negates one of the main reasons for a wetsuit in the first place (heat retention). The tailors in the "Emperors New Clothes" could make a fortune from the Triathlon market!:D After that, its all about fit- no point in swimming in a €800 suit that causes you shoulder pain. From the sound of things, your Zone3 Advance has served you well and seems like the obvious choice to repurchase.

    Somebody would make a fortune tailor making wetsuits for triathletes. Seeing some amateurs spend 10 to 15k on bikes!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    I went into a internet hunt for information about the different neoprenes these companies use. Most use Yamamoto and there are different grades of it, 38,39 and 40. Read 38 is the most durable and least flexible. Some other brands develop their own neoprene or maybe they are just rebranding the yamamoto neoprene. Interesting stuff


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    Does anybody know any shops that sell Blueseventy wetsuits?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 247 ✭✭bridest


    peter kern wrote: »
    the atlante is a very good suit but then generally speaking if you were really happy with a zone 3 fit than the tendency is that zerod is unlikely to be as good as a fit , given that he did not like the orca the tendency is even higher unless your zone 3 was a tinny bit tight around the chest and upper arm

    to the question which brand one prefers... i think that aquaman is the best wetsuit brand yet it dosnt work for me so to ask someobdy about what brand one prefers is not worth it without considering morphiology and swim style, of that person

    Got a 2xu P2 , wore today for the first time. It's brilliant. Expensive wetsuit but love it ...that's me sorted


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 53 ✭✭Cona44


    I had a zone3 advance for the last 2 years. This is the entry level suit, which after about a year came apart at the seems under the armpit. I wasnt rough with it, it just seemed to be very poorly made. After some googling, found out that this was a hugely common issue on that model (z3 Advance).
    So, off I went and decided to buy an Orca S7. Never fitted me anywhere like the Zone3. Nice and buoyant but it was too loose in certain areas and let water in etc. Sold that and went back to Zone3 Aspire.
    The Aspire seems to be significantly better built and feels excellent in the water. Just thought that I would add that...If your used to and happy with a certain brand of wetsuit, be cautious buying a new suit from other brands as they all can vary...


Advertisement