James Setton 
Wearing the right clothing under a wetsuit is essential for comfort, warmth, and mobility, especially if you’re into open-water swimming, triathlons, or even casual ocean dips. What to wear largely depends on the type of activity, water temperature, and personal preferences. In this article, we’ll explore different options and what works best for different water sports or conditions.
Wetsuits are designed to provide insulation and protection while you swim or dive in cold water. However, the material of a wetsuit alone isn’t always enough to keep you comfortable in every scenario. What you wear underneath matters because it can either enhance or hinder your swimming experience. Factors like preventing skin irritation, retaining warmth, and maintaining flexibility all come into play when choosing the right clothing.
If you’re participating in open-water swimming, the most common option is a swimsuit or a pair of swimming shorts. These items are simple, comfortable, and they minimize friction against the skin. For both men and women, these basic options work well for short durations.
During triathlons, athletes often prefer wearing a tri-suit under their wetsuit. A tri-suit is a specially designed outfit that can be used for all segments of the race—swimming, cycling, and running. It dries quickly, has a bit of padding for the cycling stage, and offers comfort throughout the event. Because of its multifunctionality, a tri-suit is a go-to choice for professional athletes.
For casual swimmers, lightweight swimsuits or swimming trunks are more than sufficient. The key is to choose something that doesn’t add extra bulk under the wetsuit and allows for easy movement.
When water temperatures drop, additional measures should be taken to retain body heat. In colder water (below 20°C), extra layers or accessories can make a significant difference in your overall comfort.
Cold water drains body heat quickly, so wearing neoprene socks and gloves helps maintain warmth in your extremities. These items are crucial when swimming in temperatures lower than 15°C. Without them, you may feel discomfort, and in extreme cases, prolonged exposure to cold water can lead to hypothermia.
If you’re submerging your head, wearing a neoprene hood or hat can keep your head warm, an essential precaution in colder waters. The head is one of the most heat-sensitive areas of the body, and losing heat here can quickly cause discomfort.
Thermal base layers or rash vests are additional options for those who need extra insulation. These layers are thin but provide extra warmth without adding much bulk under the wetsuit.
Chafing is a common problem for those who spend extended periods in wetsuits, especially in salt water. The friction between the skin and the wetsuit can lead to irritation, commonly on the neck, underarms, wrists, and ankles. To prevent this, you may want to invest in wetsuit lube or apply anti-chafing cream to the areas most susceptible to rubbing.
For long-distance swimming, it’s important to be strategic about what you wear. The wrong choice could lead to discomfort during your swim, bike, or run. Here are a few tips for staying comfortable:
While it’s important to wear the right layers, it’s equally crucial to avoid bulky or inappropriate clothing. Avoid the following:
What you wear after swimming can be just as important, especially in colder climates. After you get out of the water, your body will still lose heat rapidly. Changing into dry clothes quickly is essential to avoid afterdrop, where your core body temperature continues to drop even after exiting the water. A good insulated jacket, warm clothing, and a snack with sugar content will help you recover.
| Water Temperature | Recommended Gear | Additional Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Above 20°C | Swimsuit, swimming trunks, or jammers | Apply lubricant to prevent chafing. |
| 15°C to 20°C | Tri-suit or base layer with swimsuit | Consider neoprene socks and gloves. |
| Below 15°C | Tri-suit, thermal base layer, neoprene accessories | Add a neoprene hood for head warmth. |
1. Can I wear underwear under a wetsuit?
It’s generally not recommended, as regular underwear can bunch up, cause discomfort, and won’t dry quickly. Swimsuits, tri-suits, or sportswear designed for water are better options.
2. How tight should my wetsuit be?
Your wetsuit should fit snugly to prevent water from getting in, but it shouldn’t be so tight that it restricts your movement or breathing.
3. Is it necessary to wear anything under a wetsuit?
While it’s not mandatory, wearing something under your wetsuit can help with comfort, warmth, and prevent chafing.
4. Can I wear a bra under a wetsuit?
For women, a sports bra designed for swimming is a good option. Regular bras are not recommended as they can become waterlogged and uncomfortable.
5. How do I prevent chafing from my wetsuit?
Applying wetsuit lube or anti-chafing cream to areas prone to rubbing, like the neck, underarms, and wrists, can help prevent chafing during long swims.
By choosing the right gear for your needs and understanding how to layer effectively under your wetsuit, you can make your swimming experience more enjoyable and safe.
Guest article.
The above may not coincide with the methodology and opinion of the SwimRight Academy Team.
James Setton 
