Looking at getting a new wetsuit and thinking Xterra (sorry ROKA too expensive). Volt $119 or Vortex $149? Dark horse the higher end Vector for $199. But that’s getting closer to ROKA prices and at that point would probably just sigh and spend the extra money. I’ve only ever used bottom end entry level wetsuits from Orcs and Tyr. Am I gaining anything from upgrading to mid levels? By the way I struggle in transition.
I’m definitely not an expert on wetsuits but I have a Vortex and it’s held up pretty well for 5 years. Starting to show signs of age now with some small tears here and there. My biggest complaint is that the shoulder mobility isn’t great. My next suit will likely be a Roka, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with them so far (sunglasses, goggles, and cycling apparel).
I opted for the Vector and like it a lot. Definitely would not do the Volt since it is only 3mm neoprene, the 5mm seems to make a large buoyancy difference IMO
I have a volt sleeveless and vortex full.
Have had them 5+ years and no issues.
Personally I don’t see the reason to spend more than $150 on a wetsuit to gain maybe a minute in a full IM??
Maybe if you are going for #1 in AG, Kona, etc.
Spend the difference on a swim stroke analysis.
Xterra seem very cheap and always seem to fall apart. They also are always on sale so don’t EVER pay full retail. Since you’re looking at lower price, please consider the Orca s7. It’s a really awesome suit at a very low price. The store I help out in has had them and both customers and those of us working there were truly impressed.
I’m definitely not an expert on wetsuits but I have a Vortex and it’s held up pretty well for 5 years. Starting to show signs of age now with some small tears here and there. My biggest complaint is that the shoulder mobility isn’t great. My next suit will likely be a Roka, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with them so far (sunglasses, goggles, and cycling apparel).
Better mobility in the volt cause it’s thinner. I also have 5+ year suit (vortex) and agree on mobility
They also are always on sale so don’t EVER pay full retail.
This x2!
I have a volt sleeveless and vortex full.
Have had them 5+ years and no issues.
I have Vortex sleeveless and Volt full. I love them both. Best bang for the bucks for sure.
I bought a Vortex sleeveless in 2008 and it lasted about 8 years before really showing signs of wear. As already mentioned, don’t pay full retail. I need to replace it before it just disintegrates on me, and will likely be getting another Xterra.
I also got a sleeved ROKA Maverick Comp to do a cold water race (IM Wales) and despite it being their bottom-end suit and never having swum in it until race weekend, was very impressed with how flexible it is.