What you NEED to know about your first wetsuit

Cam Mitchell July 25, 2019

Wetsuits are great, but they are a bit tricky to get on and off. They also take some time to get comfortable in. So here are a few things you need to know before you wiggle into your first wetsuit.

1. It’s a tight squeeze.

2. Body glide. This can make all the difference – the glide reduces friction around the neck and makes getting the suit on and off easier.

3. Wear gloves. Clip your nails and use gloves. The last thing you need is ripping a hole in a suit before a race, especially if it is a fancy new suit. Usually, gloves are provided with the wetsuit.

4. Keep those plastic bags. Put a bag on each foot – they make sliding into the wetsuit much easier.

5. Find a good (helpful) friend. It helps to have a friend to put on your wetsuit.

6. Practice putting on and taking off.

Related: REVIEW: HUUB Varman wetsuit

7. Pee in it… we all do it, right?

8. Swim in it (a lot) before a race – get comfortable.

9. Find a strong looking wetsuit stripper. At most triathlons, race organizers will have volunteers at the swim exit to help you get off your wetsuit.

10. Hose down your wetsuit. After a race, get all the sand or debris you make pick up off the suit.