Neoprene Advice: Fit

1. The right size

First of all, it is important to find out the right size. Neoprene manufacturers mostly work with the S/M/L/XL principle, whereby there is no uniform size scheme. Each manufacturer has its own size chart, with additional intermediate sizes (e.g. SL or MT) in order to be able to guarantee an optimal fit outside of the "standard sizes". However, these intermediate sizes are not equally represented by every manufacturer or have a uniform designation. Therefore important: Do not compare neoprene sizes between different brands, but always use the manufacturer-specific size chart.

Weight matters, not height.

These size tables indicate the required neoprene size depending on weight and height. There are weight and length corridors for all size classifications. The decisive factor here is not the specified length, but the volume, since the Neo is not a rigid textile, but consists of neoprene - which can be stretched in all directions. Therefore, a suit forgives one or two kilos if the competition weight is not quite right in spring. According to the respective size/weight table you can make a very reliable size determination. 

2. Dressing properly

Getting the size right is only half the battle though, as putting on the neos is the most challenging part. Important here: schedule a few minutes, work neatly from bottom to top and don't pull with force!

As described, the fit of a neos is deliberately tight and slightly compressive. This means that the suit has to be pulled on all parts of the body with great care. If it doesn't, you'll feel uncomfortable even if you're the right size or you won't even be able to close the zip properly. Below are step-by-step instructions on how to put them on. We recommend turning the wetsuit inside out to avoid tearing the outer layer of material, especially with fingernails.

• • spread the neoprene inside out in front of you so that the zipper is on the underside
  • first alternately step into the leg sections, pushing the foot completely through in each case
  • roll the neo up the legs to the hips
  • pull the material from below carefully and piece by piece (pull small creases successively upwards)

• • IMPORTANT: pull the leg sections up so far that it sits flush with the crotch - if it hangs too far down, it must be tightened!
  • the leg ends are usually well above the ankles and do not play a decisive role in terms of fit and buoyancy
  • carefully pull the hip area upwards (caution: do not grip the material too tightly with your fingernails)

• • get into the arm parts alternately, push your hand through here as well
  • now pull the sleeves up carefully and piece by piece (pull small creases up one by one)
  • IMPORTANT: pull the sleeves up so that the neo fits under the armpits and is not under tension with your arms outstretched
  • the fit of the cuffs over the wrists is also of secondary importance here, since mobility in the shoulders is the decisive criterion for the sleeves

• • now use the line to pull the zipper up over your shoulder
  • keep the zipper taut so that no material folds get caught when closing and prevent it from being pulled upwards (if necessary, have a second person help you with this)
  • close the Velcro strap and check the fit of the neos again, if necessary, tighten again where you notice tension in the material

Would you like personal advice? We're happy to help!

Telephone: +49 (0)89-95760842 or by email to: shop@triathlon.de

Find the right neo here in the shop: