When it comes to choosing between a tri suit and a swimskin for triathlon swimming, several factors come into play, including comfort, speed, buoyancy, and specific race conditions.

Tri Suit

Overview: A tri suit is a one-piece garment designed for all three segments of a triathlon: swimming, cycling, and running. They are typically made from stretchy, water-resistant materials that offer comfort and flexibility.

Benefits:

• Versatility: Designed for all three sports, allowing for quick transitions.
• Comfort: Usually features built-in padding for cycling without being too bulky for swimming or running.
• Breathability: Made from materials that wick moisture and provide breathability during the race.

Drawbacks:

• Hydrodynamics: While effective for swimming, they may not be as streamlined as dedicated swimskins.
• Drying Time: Can retain more water than swimskins, potentially leading to extra weight during the bike and run segments.

Swimskin

Overview: A swimskin is a specialized garment designed specifically for the swim portion of a triathlon. It is typically made of hydrophobic materials that reduce drag in the water.

Benefits:

• Speed: Swimskins are designed to be ultra-slick and hydrodynamic, providing less resistance in the water, which can enhance swim performance.
• Buoyancy: Many swimskins offer added buoyancy, helping to keep the swimmer's body position optimal for swimming.
• Lightweight: Usually lighter than tri suits, leading to less drag.

Drawbacks:

• Limited Use: Primarily designed for swimming, so additional gear is needed for the cycling and running segments.
• Transition Time: Swimmers may need extra time in transitions to put on a tri suit or other gear after the swim.

Conclusion

Choosing between a tri suit and a swimskin largely depends on your priorities and race conditions. If you are competing in a race where every second counts in the water, a swimskin might be the better option. However, if you value versatility and comfort across all three segments, a tri suit may be more suitable.