MID-RANGE WETSUITS

We included entry-level wetsuits in last month’s mag, but what do you get if'you move up a tier..? We tried 10 suits in the mid-range to find out.

- MATT BAIRD, HELEN WEBSTER

Last month's magazine saw us testing wetsuits under £400 and with plenty of variety in that price point, we saw everything from do-it-all watersports wetsuits that can be used for shorter swims as well as SUP and kayaking, as well as simple suits designed purely for open-water swimming.

Once you move into mid-range (around £300-£500), you start to find a bit more choice and suits that are designed with more performance features in mind, as opposed to a simple focus on added warmth and buoyancy. Here, we would expect to see suits constructed with a bit more thought given to body position, higher quality and more flexible neoprenes. There should also be some more race-specific features, such as stretchier cuffs and ankle panels to make getting the wetsuit off quickly easier.

Once you're ready to upgrade your wetsuit to something that'll really support your swimming, though, what should you think about? Here are some tips to get you started:

1. What type of swimmer are you? Do you find that your legs sink and create drag? This will affect how much additional buoyancy you need in your wetsuit.

2. How important is it that your arms feel unrestricted? Some swimmers will get frustrated by thicker neoprene on the arms and might want thinner (usually more expensive) neoprene on the arms/shoulders.

3. Are you looking for a fast transition? Then choose a suit with a smooth lining, stretchy cuffs and a zip that's easy for you to undo quickly (different brands use different solutions for this).

Over the next few pages we have a selection of new wetsuits tried and tested... Time to dive in!

ORCA ATHLEX FLOW £379

orca.com