Login required to started new threads
Login required to post replies
I'm contemplating an early season half and expect water to be cold, maybe about 60F. I'll be in the water for 35-45mins. (i'm working on it)
My lone DNF was a result of hypothermia from an Oly swim in water in low 60's a couple yrs ago. Was in sleeveless wetsuit and no cap. I am blessed/cursed very little natural insulation.
I've picked up a full suit, which will help but probably not enough imo.
thoughts, tips, recommendations?
The Ride of Truth - OWN your ride.
FWIW: I have raced Ralph's 1/2 the last two years. The water temp was around the upper 50's with a similar air temp at the start of the race.
In 2003 is used a QR neoprene cap which was quite cozy, but the chin strap left a bit of a raw spot on my neck. Body Glide may resolve this issue.
Last year I doubled up on the latex swim caps to gain a bit of additional insultation and didn't have any major issues in the swim, but I was cold for the first 30 minutes or so of the bike. (either the air temp was cooler last year or the heat loss during the swim translated into a low core temp during the bike, most likely the latter of the two)
This year I will make a game day decision depending on the weather and water temp race day.
i like my desoto one - i believe it to be effective.
---Politics = Poli (many) Ticks (blood sucking ectoparasites)
Go the double cap option.
I surf year round here and wear a neoprene number for that. Couldn't imagine swimming in it though.
Also, warm up before the off. That should help out.
"Language most shows a man: Speak, that I may see thee. It springs out of the most retired and inmost parts of us, and is the image of the parents of it, the mind. No glass so mirrors a man's form or likeness so true as his speech." - Ben Jonson, Timber, or Discoveries made upon Men and Matter.
I think I have a DeSoto (the one without non-adjustable chin strap). I swim in low 60's water in the Spring. I am a good swimmer. It works great; no discomfort nor balance issues.
2 swim caps just isn't enough warmth for me in the early outdoors season.
I have an Ironman wetsuits one and it works well. It fastens under the chin, and keeps the water out of your ears also. Fullsuit should definiteley help. I have done a couple Olympics in mid 50s and with fullsuit and hat and with about no natural insulation wasn't that bad. Swam a couple days prior just to get ready for the sudden shock.
Barefoot