Shop wetsuits for swimming, triathlon, open water, surfing, and diving — neoprene suits engineered to retain body heat, reduce drag, and add buoyancy in cold water. Our swim wetsuits and neoprene suits from Cressi, Body Glove, O'Neill, TYR, Blueseventy, HUUB, Zone3, and 2XU range from lightweight 1.5mm warm-water suits to insulated 5mm cold-water full suits, with sleeveless, short-arm, and full-length options for every condition.
Choosing a Wetsuit by Activity
For triathlon and open water swimming, look for a flexible suit with thinner neoprene in the shoulders (1.5–2mm) for unrestricted stroke movement and thicker buoyant panels (3–5mm) on the chest and legs to add lift. For pool swimming in cool water, lighter 1–2mm suits or sleeveless tops add warmth without restricting your stroke. For surfing and recreational ocean use, durable 3/2mm or 4/3mm suits handle wave impact and longer cold-water sessions. Full suits cover the full body; spring suits (short arms and legs) are for warmer water.
Wetsuit Thickness & Water Temperature
Wetsuit thickness is rated in millimeters (mm) — usually shown as two numbers like "3/2" (3mm body, 2mm arms for flexibility). For warm water (75°F+), a 1–2mm sleeveless or short-arm suit is enough. For cool water (60–75°F), a 2/2 or 3/2mm full suit is standard for swimming and triathlon. For cold water (below 60°F), choose a 4/3mm or thicker suit, often with sealed seams for additional warmth. Triathlon-specific wetsuits prioritize flexibility and buoyancy over maximum insulation.
Wetsuit Brands & Pricing
Triathlon and open water specialists like Blueseventy, HUUB, Zone3, Roka, and 2XU make purpose-built swim wetsuits from $200–$850 with race-day flexibility and buoyancy. Cressi and Body Glove dominate our recreational and snorkeling collection at lower price points. O'Neill and Level Six cover surf and watersports use. For women's wetsuits, see our women's wetsuit collection with female-specific cuts.
Wetsuit FAQ
Do I need a special wetsuit for swimming?
Yes — swimming wetsuits are different from surf wetsuits. Swim wetsuits prioritize flexibility in the shoulders for unrestricted stroke movement and add extra buoyancy on the chest and legs to lift your hips into a faster body position. Surf wetsuits are thicker and more durable for wave impact but restrict the freestyle stroke. If you're swimming laps, doing open water training, or racing triathlon, a swim-specific or triathlon wetsuit is the right choice.
What kind of wetsuit is best for swimming?
For most open water swimmers and triathletes, a 3/2mm full suit with thin shoulder panels (1.5–2mm) is the best all-around choice — it provides warmth in cool water (60–75°F) with the flexibility needed for a full stroke. Beginners often start with entry-level swim wetsuits ($150–$250) that offer good buoyancy and basic flexibility. Experienced racers invest in premium suits ($400–$850) with advanced neoprene technology that maximizes glide and minimizes seam friction.
What thickness wetsuit do I need?
Match the thickness to the water temperature. Above 78°F: no wetsuit needed (and most triathlons don't allow them). 70–78°F: a 1–2mm sleeveless suit or wetsuit top. 60–70°F: a 2/2 or 3/2mm full suit. 50–60°F: a 4/3mm full suit, often with sealed seams. Below 50°F: a 5/4mm suit with hood, gloves, and booties for safety. Triathlon races have specific wetsuit-legal water temperature thresholds — check the race rules before competing.
How should a wetsuit fit?
A wetsuit should fit like a second skin — snug everywhere with no gaps or loose folds, but not so tight it restricts breathing or arm movement. Loose suits flush water through the neoprene, defeating the insulation. Too-tight suits restrict your stroke and chest expansion. The neck seal should sit flat without pinching. Most wetsuits are sized by height and weight rather than waist measurement — always check the brand's specific size chart. New wetsuits feel tighter than they should — they loosen slightly with the first 2–3 wears.
How long does a swimming wetsuit last?
With proper care, a triathlon or open water wetsuit lasts 5–8 years of regular seasonal use. Recreational suits used a few times a year can last 10+ years. Care matters — rinse in fresh cold water after every swim, hang on a wide hanger (never folded), and store away from direct sunlight which degrades neoprene. Avoid chlorinated pools when possible — chlorine breaks down neoprene faster than salt or fresh water. Small tears and seam separations can be repaired with neoprene cement to extend the life.