Best Triathlon Wetsuits 2025: Editor's Picks
The triathlon wetsuit market in 2025 offers something for every budget and experience level. After checking in with experienced triathletes, analysing lab-tested performance data, and reviewing the latest releases, here are our top picks.
Premium Performance Wetsuits (over €600)
- Blueseventy Helix – A long-standing favourite for elite triathletes, this suit features unparalleled upper body flexibility, seamless shoulder panels, and precise buoyancy distribution. It's fast in colder waters, making it ideal in full-distance races and open-water competitions.
Above: Blues 70 Helix triathlon wetsuit without seams on the shoulder panels.
- Zone3 Vanquish-X – Praised for its hybrid construction and ultra-flexible chest and shoulder panels, the Vanquish-X men's suit is built for performance. It includes BRS MARK 0.3mm sleeves—one of the thinnest available—for an unmatched feel in the water.
Best Triathlon Wetsuits for Beginners (under €300)
- Orca S7 – Designed specifically as an entry-level suit, the S7 men's suit supports swimmers' lower hips and legs. It offers comfort, buoyancy and ease of entry—perfect for those nervous about their first swim.
Above: The Orca S7 is ideal for beginner triathletes, offering good support for hips and legs.
- Synergy Endorphin – With balanced thickness across the body and legs, this men's suit provides warmth and lift, making it particularly helpful and comforting for those new to open-water swimming.
Above: The Synergy Endorphin wetsuit for beginner triathletes.
Best Value for Money
- DHb Hydron 2.0 – At under €130, this suit punches above its weight. It offers good flexibility around the upper body and durable neoprene that suits all seasons—a solid pick for Olympic and Sprint triathlons.
Above: DHb Hydron 2.0 triathlete wetsuit for the best value for money.
Top Wetsuits for Women
- ROKA Maverick X2 (Women's Cut) – With an anatomically adjusted fit, softer neckline, and thinner shoulder material, this suit adapts to the female form beautifully. Ladies, in particular, appreciated its supple feel and the range of movement in the upper torso.
Above: The ROKA Maverick X2 for female triathletes with an anatomically adjusted fit
- Zone3 Aspire (Women's Version) – An all-time favourite, with fantastic flexibility and buoyancy. It comes in sizes from XS to XL and is cut with seams specifically to suit women's bodies.
Above: The Zone3 Aspire wetsuit for female athletes with good flexibility and buoyancy.
Budget Triathlon Wetsuits That Punch Above Their Price
- Decathlon Nabaiji OWS 500 – A wetsuit that is thicker for cooler water, the Nabaiji range never disappoints. €150 for a great intro suit with 4mm neoprene in the hips and thighs for buoyancy.
Above: The Decathlon Nabaiji OWS 500 for best budget and intro wetsuit.
Best Wetsuits for Different Race Distances
Triathlon distances vary widely—from a 750m sprint swim to a 3.8km IRONMAN swim leg—and your wetsuit should suit the demands of the race.
Sprint Triathlon: Sleeveless suits, such as the Zone3 Agile, or shorts with cut-off legs, can be ideal if the water temperature is good. Prioritise ease of removal and comfort over top-end tech.
Olympic Distance: Opt for mid-range suits with decent buoyancy and solid thermal insulation. You'll want a suit like the Orca Equip or dhb Aeron that won't leave your shoulders fried after 1.5km.
Half-Ironman (70.3): Choose a wetsuit with upgraded materials and a smart buoyancy profile. Flexibility is key to minimising fatigue. The ROKA Maverick Comp is a dependable mid-tier choice.
Full Ironman: Go for maximum comfort and performance. A suit like the blueseventy Helix or Sailfish Ultimate IPS 3 offers elite-level tech for speed, glide, and energy conservation over long distances.
How to Get the Right Fit: Size Charts and Fit Tips
Finding the right triathlon wetsuit isn't just about brand or price – it's also about fit. A suit that's too tight will restrict breathing and arm flexibility, and one that's too loose will let water in and cause drag and heat loss.
Always refer to the manufacturer's size charts for accurate measurements. Every brand fits differently, especially men's and women's triathlon wetsuits. You won't be the same size in your gear as you are in your clothes. Most triathletes wear a size that is a tiny bit smaller than their regular clothes.
Above: Put your triathlon wetsuit on carefully using gloves.
When trying on your suit:
- Put it on carefully – use gloves to avoid scratching or nicking the neoprene.
- Ensure the material is pulled up over your thighs and hips before adjusting the torso to ensure a good fit.
- Check there's no excess material at the underarms, wrists or lower back.
- Do arm rotations to check for tightness across the shoulders.
- It should feel snug but not restrict movement. Some tightness is expected on land, but it will loosen up in the water.
Common mistakes include choosing a suit that is too large or not properly aligning the neckline, which can cause chafing. Suits with a reverse zipper and internal neck seals reduce this risk.
Care and Maintenance: Make Your Triathlon Wetsuit Last
A good, durable wetsuit is an investment. If properly cared for, even budget-friendly suits can last many seasons.
After every swim, rinse your wetsuit in fresh, cool water—especially after use in salt or chlorinated pools. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents. Hang the suit inside out to dry in the shade, avoiding direct sunlight, as this can cause degradation of the neoprene.
Never fold or crumple your wetsuit; store it on a wide-shouldered hanger to prevent creases from forming. Neoprene is prone to compression damage if not stored properly.
What damages wetsuits the most?
Chlorine, sun exposure, nail tears, and incorrect drying. Minor tears can often be patched with neoprene glue. But a well-maintained wetsuit will keep its glide, buoyancy and warmth intact for years.
Final Checklist: How to Choose the Best Triathlon Wetsuit for You
To find your ideal wetsuit, consider your race distance, experience level, and budget. Here's a simplified decision guide:
Beginner Triathlete + Sprint or Olympic Distance + Budget → Orca S7 or Synergy Endorphin
Intermediate Triathlete+ Olympic or 70.3 + Mid-range Budget → dhb Aeron, ROKA Maverick Comp
Experienced + Ironman + No Budget Limit → blueseventy Helix, Zone3 Vanquish-X
Women Triathletes → Zone3 Aspire (Women's), ROKA Maverick X2 Women's
Cold Water Swimming → Look for triathlon wetsuits with 4–5mm panels and thermal linings.
Warm Water or Wetsuit-Legal Sprint Races → Sleeveless suits like the Zone3 Agile
When to Upgrade
You'll know it's time to upgrade your wetsuit when:
- Your suit feels baggy, or you're getting colder in the water
- The neoprene has lost its flexibility.
- You've outgrown your beginner gear and need more race-day performance.
- You're chasing PRs or stepping up to IRONMAN-level distances.
Choosing the best triathlon wetsuit in 2025 doesn't need to be overwhelming. With smart shopping, a little patience, and attention to fit and race demands, you'll find a wetsuit that supports your swim and helps you power confidently into T1.
