What's the difference between a Fullsuit and a Long John?

Are Fullsuits Faster Than Sleeveless Suits?

There is an easy answer to this question. Fullsuits are more buoyant, and a more buoyant suit is a faster suit.

Traditionally, Fullsuits were only used for extreme cold, as they were renowned for reducing stroke efficiency and causing muscle fatigue in the arms. That all changed when Ironman Wetsuits introduced freedom panels in 1991 to create the first restriction free Fullsuit.

Fullsuits quickly became the benchmark. How many of the Pro athletes lining up at an Ironman Event, World Cup race, National Championships, etc do you see wearing a LJ? Pros don't give up any advantage they can get, and Fullsuits are a definite advantage.

So what are the major differences between Fullsuits and Long Johns?

• Fullsuits are more Buoyant. There's more rubber in a Fullsuit, which makes it float more. If you're balanced and higher in the water you'll go faster (there's less water to swim through). Another reason Fullsuits are more Buoyant, is that they let in less water. Its virtually impossible to get a completely water proof seal around the shoulders of a LJ. But as with the new 2003 Stealth suit, a wrist cuff can do the job easily. LJ's let in more water. This increases weight, which in turn reduces buoyancy.
• Fullsuits have less drag. Regardless of how good your LJ is, it will still leave areas around the shoulders in particular that are open for greater water entry. This creates a parachute effect, and more drag equals less speed.
• Fullsuits are Warmer. Perhaps the greatest area of use for LJ Wetsuits is in warmer climates. For high water Temperatures over Long Distances, some athletes can over heat in a Fullsuit. This is probably the best instance where a LJ is Appropriate.
• It's easier to get out of a LJ. There are no sleeves involved in the removal of your Long John, which can make transitions a little bit quicker. If you practice though, you'll find that you can get out of the top half of your suit while running to your bike, whether it's a Fullsuit or a Long John.

So there are some pretty persuasive reasons to buying a Fullsuit. It is important to note however, that regardless of what type of wetsuit you get, fitting and sizing can be the difference between a suit that works and one that doesn't. When it comes to buying a triathlon wetsuit, get the best fit and the one you feel most comfortable in.


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