This one surprised me, being that there a for profit company and sponsors tend to rule but apparently joining FINA to say 100% textile suits for non wetsuit eligible swims. Although the wetsuit rule of 76.1F is still very generous in my opinion. I don't know what United States Triathlon (UST) is doing plus many Tri's like open water events don't subscribe to a sanctioning body so can do there own thing.
triathlon.competitor.com/.../ironman-announces-changes-in-swimwearwetsuit-rules-for-2011-season_8244
Former Member
Another reason it's surprising is because triathletes are very comfortable with the mindset of using expensive equipment to get a little performance enhancement -- aero wheels, frames, helmets, etc.
But it won't make much of a difference, in practice. Very few IM swims are not wetsuit legal.
USAT is apparently not going to rule on tech suits until later in the year, if at all. Their water temperature cutoff is 78 degrees.
I have often wondered about whether a speed suit would really be of any benefit in a tri, even an IM distance. It would take me a good 45 seconds - 1 minute to get the thing off in transition, plus they are impossible to run in, bike as well. I think these factors would offset my time advantage of wearing one.
One thing you learn quickly in triathlons if you are racing (& not participating) is that a fast transition is essential. You'd be surprised how quick you can take off a suit. Even a full wetsuit only takes me 10 seconds. Having put time into my competitors in the swim heck if I am going to give it up changing clothes.
I have often wondered about whether a speed suit would really be of any benefit in a tri, even an IM distance. It would take me a good 45 seconds - 1 minute to get the thing off in transition, plus they are impossible to run in, bike as well. I think these factors would offset my time advantage of wearing one.
One thing you learn quickly in triathlons if you are racing (& not participating) is that a fast transition is essential. You'd be surprised how quick you can take off a suit. Even a full wetsuit only takes me 10 seconds. Having put time into my competitors in the swim heck if I am going to give it up changing clothes.
You are right about that which is why it would be a bad idea to wear a tech suit since taking those off requires some patience, persistence, and cursing.
