{"title":"Triathlon \u0026 Swimming Wetsuits","description":"\u003ch2\u003eTriathlon \u0026amp; Swimming Wetsuits NZ\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwimming in open water feels very different to swimming in a pool. Without a lane rope, a black line to follow or a wall to push off, your body position and efficiency in the water matters more than ever. A well-designed triathlon or open water wetsuit addresses this directly, adding buoyancy where you need it, freeing your shoulders for an unrestricted stroke, and keeping you warm enough to swim comfortably in NZ's coastal and freshwater conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Swim Safe, we stock triathlon and open water wetsuits from leading brands including \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/arena\"\u003eArena\u003c\/a\u003e. Each suit in our range is built around the specific demands of open water swimming and triathlon, and is approved for use in FINA, World Triathlon, Ironman and USAT sanctioned events.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Makes a Triathlon Wetsuit Different?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTriathlon and open water wetsuits are engineered differently to surf wetsuits or general-purpose wetsuits. Where a surf wetsuit prioritises warmth and durability above all else, a triathlon wetsuit is optimised for performance in the water. The priorities are buoyancy, flexibility and hydrodynamics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuoyancy is strategically distributed throughout the suit using panels of varying neoprene thickness. Denser neoprene in the core and legs lifts the lower body into a higher, more streamlined position in the water. This reduces drag and makes your stroke more efficient, particularly for swimmers whose legs tend to sink.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlexibility in the shoulders and arms is essential for an unrestricted freestyle stroke. Triathlon wetsuits use thinner, more elastic neoprene in these areas specifically so your catch and pull are not compromised by the suit. A wetsuit that restricts shoulder movement will slow you down and tire your arms quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThermal protection keeps you swimming comfortably in cooler water. NZ water temperatures vary significantly by region and season, from around 12 degrees in southern waters to over 22 degrees in the north during summer. A wetsuit extends the range of conditions in which you can swim comfortably and safely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEntry-Level and Performance Wetsuits\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur range covers two distinct levels: entry-level suits designed for beginner and recreational open water swimmers, and performance suits built for those racing at a higher level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEntry-level wetsuits focus on the core essentials: buoyancy, flexibility, thermal protection and comfort, in a package that is accessible for those new to open water swimming or triathlon. They are a great starting point for anyone doing their first open water swim or triathlon event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerformance wetsuits add more advanced construction features including carbon fibre technology, enhanced hydrodynamic panels and double-layer forearm construction for a more powerful catch phase. They suit experienced athletes who are optimising for race performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSizing guides are available on each individual product page to help you find the right fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Fit Matters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wetsuit that does not fit correctly will not perform as intended. Too loose and water will flood in, reducing the thermal and buoyancy benefits. Too tight and it will restrict your breathing and shoulder movement. Taking the time to find the right size before you buy is the most important step in the process. Each product page includes a detailed sizing guide. If you are between sizes or unsure, \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/contact\"\u003econtact our team\u003c\/a\u003e and we will help you work it out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eWhat is the difference between a triathlon wetsuit and a regular wetsuit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTriathlon and open water wetsuits are designed specifically for swimming performance. They use strategically varied neoprene thickness to add buoyancy where it is needed, thinner and more flexible neoprene around the shoulders to allow an unrestricted stroke, and a smooth outer skin to reduce drag through the water. Surf wetsuits prioritise warmth and durability but restrict shoulder movement and are not suitable for competitive swimming or triathlon. General-purpose wetsuits fall somewhere in between but are not optimised for either purpose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eHow should a triathlon wetsuit fit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA triathlon wetsuit should feel snug across the whole body with no excess material bunching at the shoulders, hips or knees. It will feel noticeably tighter when dry than when wet. This is normal. The neck should sit high and close to the skin without causing discomfort. Your arms should be able to rotate freely overhead without the suit pulling across the shoulders. There should be no significant air pockets, particularly in the torso, as these will fill with water and reduce the suit's effectiveness. If the suit causes restricted breathing or significant shoulder tightness, it may be too small.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eHow do you put a triathlon wetsuit on?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow at least ten minutes to put on a triathlon wetsuit properly. Start by placing a plastic bag over each foot to help slide your foot through the ankle opening without catching on the neoprene. Pull the suit up gradually in small increments from the ankles, working your way up to the hips before pulling the torso and shoulders into place. Never pull the wetsuit up by gripping the neck or seams as this can cause tearing. Apply a small amount of wetsuit-safe lubricant to the neck, wrists and ankles before closing the zip to prevent chafing. Take your time to smooth out any material bunching as you go, particularly around the knees, hips and underarms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eHow should I clean and take care of my wetsuit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRinse your wetsuit thoroughly in cold fresh water immediately after every use to remove salt, chlorine and other residue. Do not use hot water as this degrades neoprene over time. Turn the suit inside out and hang to dry in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. UV exposure breaks down neoprene and shortens the life of the suit significantly. Do not tumble dry, machine wash or iron. Store the suit flat or hanging and avoid folding or compressing it for extended periods as this can crease the neoprene permanently. Use only wetsuit-specific lubricants on zip mechanisms and skin contact points, not petroleum-based products.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eHow long should a triathlon wetsuit last?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith proper care, a quality triathlon wetsuit should last three to five years of regular use. The main factors that shorten a wetsuit's life are UV exposure, improper storage, using petroleum-based products on the neoprene, and pulling the suit on and off roughly. Signs that your wetsuit needs replacing include seams that are separating, neoprene that has lost its elasticity and stretch, and tears or holes that compromise the suit's seal. A well-maintained suit that is rinsed and stored correctly after every use will comfortably reach the upper end of that lifespan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eAre triathlon wetsuits allowed in races in NZ?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. All wetsuits in our range are approved for use in events sanctioned by World Aquatics (formerly FINA), World Triathlon, Ironman and USAT. In triathlon racing, wetsuit use is typically governed by water temperature. Most race organisations permit wetsuits in water temperatures below 20 degrees Celsius and mandate them below 14 degrees. Above 22 degrees, wetsuits are generally prohibited. Individual race rules vary, so always check the specific race guidelines before your event. NZ events typically follow Triathlon NZ guidelines, which align with World Triathlon standards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eDo I need a wetsuit for open water swimming in NZ?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor most open water swimming in NZ, a wetsuit is strongly recommended. NZ water temperatures vary considerably by region and season, and even in summer many coastal and freshwater swimming locations are cold enough to cause discomfort or increase the risk of cold water shock on longer swims. Beyond warmth, a wetsuit improves your buoyancy and body position in the water, which is particularly beneficial for beginner open water swimmers. For short swims in warm northern waters during summer, an experienced swimmer may choose to swim without one. But for most conditions and most swimmers, a wetsuit adds both safety and performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"h4\"\u003eWhat thickness of wetsuit do I need for open water swimming in NZ?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTriathlon and open water wetsuits typically range from 3 to 5mm in thickness, with varying thickness across different panels of the suit. Most suits in our range use 2mm neoprene around the shoulders and arms for flexibility, 3mm across the upper chest and legs for thermal protection, and 4mm in the core for buoyancy and support. This balanced construction suits the majority of NZ open water conditions throughout the year. For extremely cold southern waters or winter swimming, additional thermal layers worn underneath the wetsuit may be worth considering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRead our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/resources\/open-water-swimming-nz-beginners-guide\"\u003eopen water swimming in NZ\u003c\/a\u003e for tips on getting started, staying safe and what gear to bring. Browse our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/arena\"\u003eswimwear\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/adults-swimming-goggles\"\u003eadults swimming goggles\u003c\/a\u003e at Swim Safe.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"arena-mens-powerskin-storm-wetsuit","title":"Arena Men's Powerskin Storm Wetsuit","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Arena Powerskin Storm is Arena's most advanced men's triathlon wetsuit, built around Yamamoto limestone neoprene, a material produced without oil for reduced environmental impact. The three-layer Airlock construction, positioned strategically at the core and upper thighs, traps air during lamination to provide 30% more buoyancy than standard 4mm neoprene, actively lifting your body position in the water and helping you hold a more efficient, hydrodynamic stroke from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYamamoto's highest elasticity #39 and #40 neoprenes are used throughout the shoulders, arms and legs to deliver a full, unrestricted range of motion through every stroke, while a double-lined ultra-thin forearm panel heightens your feel and awareness through the catch and pull phase. Nano SCS coating across the outer surface repels water for enhanced glide and reduced drag, and ultra-thin wrist and ankle cuffs make getting in and out of the suit fast during race transitions. All seams are bonded with 100% waterproof glue and double blind stitched for a completely waterproof, durable finish, and a low-profile collar with soft internal lining sits comfortably against the skin without chafing. Approved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThree-layer Airlock neoprene at the core and upper thighs for 30% more buoyancy than standard 4mm neoprene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYamamoto limestone neoprene construction, produced without oil for reduced environmental impact\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMix of Yamamoto #39 and #40 neoprenes for unrestricted range of motion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVarying neoprene thickness: 1.5mm at shoulders and arms, 3.0mm across the body, 4.0mm at core and upper thighs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNano SCS coating for enhanced glide and zero water absorption\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDouble-lined ultra-thin forearm panels for heightened catch and feel of water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUltra-thin wrist and ankle cuffs for fast race transitions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100% waterproof glued and double blind stitched seams\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLow-profile zero chafe collar with soft internal lining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApproved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e95% Neoprene \/ 5% Polyester\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Arena","offers":[{"title":"Coral Blue \/ S","offer_id":45394601115757,"sku":"004970.515.S","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Coral Blue \/ M","offer_id":45394601148525,"sku":"004970.516.M","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Coral Blue \/ L","offer_id":45394601181293,"sku":"004970.517.L","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Coral Blue \/ XL","offer_id":45394601214061,"sku":"004970.518.XL","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0632\/8650\/9677\/files\/004970_Arena-Men_s-Powerskin-Storm-Wetsuit-Coral-Blue_1.jpg?v=1782899892"},{"product_id":"arena-womens-powerskin-storm-wetsuit","title":"Arena Women's Powerskin Storm Wetsuit","description":"\u003cp\u003eOpen water racing demands a wetsuit that keeps you in an ideal body position and moving freely from the first stroke to the final metres. The Arena Powerskin Storm Women's Wetsuit is built around Yamamoto limestone neoprene, a material produced without oil for reduced environmental impact, delivering exceptional flexibility and buoyancy throughout the race. The three-layer Airlock construction, positioned at the core and upper thighs, traps air during lamination to provide 30% more buoyancy than standard 4mm neoprene, lifting your hips into position and helping you maintain a smooth, efficient stroke.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYamamoto's highest elasticity #39 and #40 neoprenes are used throughout the shoulders, arms and legs to allow a full range of motion with every stroke, while a double-lined ultra-thin forearm panel sharpens your feel through the catch and pull phase. Nano SCS coating across the outer surface actively repels water to reduce drag and enhance glide, and ultra-thin wrist and ankle cuffs make getting the suit on and off straightforward during race transitions. All seams are bonded with 100% waterproof glue and double blind stitched for a secure, completely waterproof finish, and the low-profile collar with soft internal lining sits comfortably against the skin without chafing. Approved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThree-layer Airlock neoprene at the core and upper thighs for 30% more buoyancy than standard 4mm neoprene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYamamoto limestone neoprene construction, produced without oil for reduced environmental impact\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMix of Yamamoto #39 and #40 neoprenes for unrestricted range of motion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVarying neoprene thickness: 1.5mm at shoulders and arms, 3.0mm across the body, 4.0mm at core and upper thighs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNano SCS coating for enhanced glide and zero water absorption\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDouble-lined ultra-thin forearm panels for heightened catch and feel of water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUltra-thin wrist and ankle cuffs for fast race transitions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100% waterproof glued and double blind stitched seams\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLow-profile zero chafe collar with soft internal lining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApproved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e80% Neoprene \/ 20% Polyamide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Arena","offers":[{"title":"Coral Blue \/ XS","offer_id":45394608226413,"sku":"004971.515.XS","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Coral Blue \/ S","offer_id":45394608259181,"sku":"004971.515.S","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Coral Blue \/ M","offer_id":45394608291949,"sku":"004971.515.M","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Coral Blue \/ L","offer_id":45394608324717,"sku":"004971.515.L","price":999.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0632\/8650\/9677\/files\/004971_Arena-Women_s-Powerskin-Storm-Wetsuit-Coral-Blue_1.jpg?v=1782980760"},{"product_id":"arena-womens-powerskin-thunder-wetsuit","title":"Arena Women's Powerskin Thunder Wetsuit","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Arena Powerskin Thunder Women's Wetsuit is built around four priorities that matter most to novice open water swimmers and triathletes: buoyancy, flexibility, thermal protection and comfort throughout the full race distance. The result is a suit that lets you focus on your race rather than your gear, making it a strong choice for swimmers making the move from the pool to open water or triathlon for the first time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMade entirely from Yamamoto #38 neoprene, the Thunder distributes thickness strategically to get the right balance where it counts. A 4mm core provides locked-in buoyancy and support, 3mm coverage across the upper chest and legs adds meaningful thermal protection, and 2mm neoprene at the shoulders and arms keeps your stroke free and unrestricted throughout. A zero chafe collar with a soft internal lining sits comfortably against the skin during longer swims, and a bottom-up zipper makes the suit easy to get in and out of during transitions. All seams are bonded with waterproof glue and double blind stitched for a completely waterproof, durable finish. Approved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYamamoto #38 neoprene construction for flexibility and buoyancy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrategic neoprene thickness distribution: 2mm at shoulders and arms, 3mm across upper chest and legs, 4mm at core\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZero chafe collar with flattened edges and soft internal lining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBottom-up zipper for easy wear and removal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100% waterproof glued and double blind stitched seams\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApproved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e95% Neoprene \/ 5% Polyester\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Arena","offers":[{"title":"Black \/ XS","offer_id":45394608357485,"sku":"005630.510.XS","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black \/ S","offer_id":45394608390253,"sku":"005630.510.S","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black \/ M","offer_id":45394608423021,"sku":"005630.510.M","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black \/ L","offer_id":45394608455789,"sku":"005630.510.L","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0632\/8650\/9677\/files\/005630_Arena-Women_s-Powerskin-Thunder-Wetsuit_1.jpg?v=1782981439"},{"product_id":"arena-mens-powerskin-thunder-wetsuit","title":"Arena Men's Powerskin Thunder Wetsuit","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Arena Powerskin Thunder Men's Wetsuit is designed around what novice open water swimmers and triathletes actually need: a reliable balance of buoyancy, flexibility, thermal protection and comfort that lets you focus on the race rather than your equipment. It covers all the essentials of a high-performing wetsuit without unnecessary complexity, making it a strong starting point for swimmers making their move into open water racing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMade entirely from Yamamoto #38 neoprene, the Thunder distributes thickness strategically across the suit. A 4mm core provides buoyancy and support where it counts most, 3mm coverage across the upper chest and legs delivers meaningful thermal protection in cooler open water conditions, and 2mm neoprene at the shoulders and arms allows a full, unrestricted range of motion through every stroke. A zero chafe collar with flattened edges and a soft internal lining sits comfortably against the skin for the full race distance, and an improved zipper closure provides a secure, reliable seal. All seams are bonded with waterproof glue and double blind stitched for a completely waterproof, durable finish. Approved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYamamoto #38 neoprene construction for flexibility and buoyancy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrategic neoprene thickness distribution: 2mm at shoulders and arms, 3mm across upper chest and legs, 4mm at core\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZero chafe collar with flattened edges and soft internal lining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImproved zipper closure for a secure, reliable seal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100% waterproof glued and double blind stitched seams\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApproved for competition by FINA, World Triathlon (ITU), Ironman and USAT\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e95% Neoprene \/ 5% Polyester\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Arena","offers":[{"title":"Black \/ S","offer_id":45394609995885,"sku":"005631.510.S","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black \/ M","offer_id":45394610028653,"sku":"005631.510.M","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black \/ L","offer_id":45394610061421,"sku":"005631.510.L","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black \/ XL","offer_id":45394610094189,"sku":"005631.510.XL","price":699.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0632\/8650\/9677\/files\/005631_Arena-Men_s-Powerskin-Thunder-Wetsuit_1.jpg?v=1782982248"}],"url":"https:\/\/swimsafe.co.nz\/collections\/triathlon-swimming-wetsuits.oembed","provider":"Swim Safe NZ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}