What type of wetsuit should I buy?

What kind of wetsuit should i buy?

• i live in florida and i need to buy a wetsuit to swim in the winter months...just swimming in a pool, not surfing or anything. but i can't afford a pool heater so my only option is a wetsuit. i'm confused about what kind to get though. can you please guide me to a place with reasonable prices for a wetsuit? also, i need to know what specific kind i need! there are so many! lol. thanks!

• Answer:

  I suggest you go to a shop that caters to runners and triathletes (NOT a sports super-store). Triathlon wetsuits are made with swimming in mind -- not surfing or water skiing. Fit is important, so you really need to try one on. The salespeople at the specialty shops are usually very knowledgeable, and will steer you toward the right suit for you -- not just make a sale. Even if you spend a few more dollars at a specialty shop, it will be money well spent. I have an X2U Comp 2 full sleeve suit that I use for open water swimming. (They've since renamed all the products in their line, so I'm not sure what it is comparable to now.) I bought mine at a tiny shop. I got wonderful, personalized service, and a bring-it-back-if-it-isn't-perfect guarantee. I have no regrets. You probably won't need a full-sleeve suit, so you can save some money there. Go to the experts and they will take care of you.