allright guys, i need some reviews/recommendations for a wetsuit. i’m looking for a full-sleeve wetsuit, b/c i do several late and early season races where the water is pretty damn cold (low sixties, which is way cold considering i think the 78 degree pool could be warmer). i’m looking for something that’s not too constricting (i know this has more to do w/ fit, but i’ve struggled in the past w/ wetsuits and getting full chest expansion when breathing, and i dont have what you could call a large chest, as my pecs almost look sunken in, lol) also i dont want to break the bank, i’m looking for something around 300$ but less would definetly not be a bad idea.
I second the recommendation for the Desoto T1. LOVE mine. It takes some practice getting the top off if you don’t have the zipper in the back, but I think all of their new ones have the zipper. I am a strong swimmer and felt really restricted in the Orca Speedsuit that I had. The T1 has produced some really fast swims!!
Here are some links to my posts about the same topic a couple weeks ago. Definately would look into purchasing from Trisports.com as they have the best wetsuit policy I found anywhere. I ended up going with the Ironman after testing it in the water compared to an Orca. Most important thing is keep an open mind until you try it IN THE WATER and let fit decide.
I don’t recommend my QR wetsuit. Don’t remember which model; it is the one with black and blue from 2 years ago. I find it restrictive, and when I really stretch on of my front arms, for that Total Immersion style glide, I can feel the rubber pushing my testicles back to their pre-gender embryonic position. It might that it just not the right fit, but it was the one that matches my sizes according to all the QR charts and recommended by the tri shop.
I’ve used Ironman, QR (albeit one of the lower end models), and Orca wetsuits. While they’re not for everyone, I’ve enjoyed having my DeSoto T1 more than any other wetsuit. All my other wetsuits felt as if they restricted my shoulders and the T1 doesn’t. Go to www.bikesportmichigan.com if you want to read Tom’s review. You can get them cheap on clearance…which is nice. I “stole” mine from www.sportsbasement.com last winter at about 45% off.
I didn’t care for the fit of the Orca Speedsuit either. Seems to be pressing down on my shoulders all the time.
Now using the QR Superfull, and its much much better. You definitelyget what you pay for in wetsuits…more cash = more flexibility. Not a place I would skimp.