Wetsuit Review Series: Dare2Tri Mach 4.1Fina

With the recent pandemic many of us have swapped the pool for the open water. No problem during the summer months, but as temperatures start to drop, now might be a good time to consider investing in a wetsuit. Look no further –  currently on sale for half the original price, the Mach 4.1Fina certainly doesn’t skimp on the technical features. As the name suggests, the suit is approved for open-water swim events, too.

A little tricky to get into (without the help of a friend) Dare2Tri’s Mach 4.1 wetsuit fits extremely well once in place and the four-way stretch works well with different body shapes without feeling too baggy or constricting. The unique neck closure also ensures that even if you don’t fasten it quite as intended, you won’t feel any scratching, as the Velcro has been reversed so only the soft outer material makes contact with the skin.

Despite how tight the wetsuit may be into get into, especially across the back and shoulders, it is surprisingly supple. Dare2Tri suits are known for their flexibility and ease of movement around the shoulder area, and the Mach 4.1 doesn’t disappoint in this regard. The super-thin 1.0mm superFlex neoprene is reinforced with an UltraFlex lining under the arms that reduces the resistance with each stroke, which increases rotation and reach. Over time (and distance) this helps maintain good technique and reduces the overall fatigue throughout the upper body. In addition, the chest panel is specifically shaped to offer some extra space and flexibility during the recovery phase of the stroke, which further improves technique and reduces the associated fatigue.

The Limestone neoprene used to make the Mach 4.1, has a high micro cell structure which boasts 94 per cent cell penetration, over 30 per cent more than oil-based neoprene. In short, this high density micro structure leads to greater impermeability, stretch, and durability, and it’s lighter and warmer too. Most notable however, are the incredibly buoyant Stability panels on each side of the wetsuit. Made from Airfloat neoprene, they encourage the body to roll between strokes and, together with the 3 mm thickness of the panel on the rear of the leg, help the body maintain an optimum position in the water.

Even though the sleeves are ultra-thin, the materials selected are tear proof, and so, drastically reduce the chance of popping through the legs and sleeves even if you are using the wetsuit far more frequently than you might have pre-covid. It is currently on sale from $375, a great price for a suit that can either serve as racing suit once we’re racing, or a comfortable training option for your open-water efforts.