Review on 🏊 Men's Synergy Endorphin Full Sleeve Smoothskin Neoprene: The Perfect Triathlon Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming and Ironman Competitions by Ronnie Polk

Wanted to give some info/advice to other newbies who are unsure of their form. I'm 6'1", 205 pounds and in good physical condition. I have broader shoulders and a bigger chest than most, but even so, it turned out that according to the sizing chart in the photos next to the suit, I definitely fit the L1 range.However, when I received the L1 suit I found that it was very difficult to put on and most importantly almost impossible to close.(It didn't seem like it was even remotely possible.) Even after reading the instructions actually read (and yes, make sure you pull your legs up to your crotch as high as possible, your arms tight and your lower chest tucked into your chest.) Upper chest - I needed all sorts of weird centipede curves to zip the zipper to get it to move evenly.Finally, after considerable effort, I lifted it all the way up (and worried about tearing the neoprene) but then found that my neck was uncomfortable right That didn't seem sensible to me in view of the size specifications, so I ordered a very large size (L2) for comparison (I usually wear extra large or XXL clothes anyway, they sit better on the shoulders etc.). generally comfortable.) I tried it on and found it more comfortable, although zipping it up was still difficult. However, it was also a bit weaker in places and felt very loose and wet in the water (too much water). got into the suit). After calling the company and discussing the fit with an entative rep (who said it would loosen up over time and in the water and that the L1 really should fit me), I decided to try the L1 in the water. (After putting it back on and stretching it a bit as recommended.) When I actually swam in the suit, I noticed that it stretched and loosened up a bit. And the second time I went swimming, I felt a lot easier and buttoned up a lot easier. I don't feel too tight in the neck, which was my main concern. PS: I also found that if I left the zipper closed 4-6 inches, in addition to following the other instructions, the zipper would be a lot easier. It also helps if you take the two sides of the suit where the zipper is and pull them closer together as you close. Both steps, in addition to initially holding the zipper itself (and pushing up while pulling) with your free hand, will help. also an issue but could probably be added by us.) So my advice is to go with the size chart and add up to 7lbs if you have wider shoulders in your chest. If it's still too tight despite your size, try tightening it and stretching it a little. If possible, have someone else close it the first time. Otherwise, just don't leave the zipper fully open if you have trouble with it. Leave it closed 4-6 inches and it will climb much easier the rest of the way. In terms of performance, the only other wetsuit I've owned is the Leisure Shorty, 3/2. Not only was this warmer in cold water, it was *much* more flexible for swimming. (It was almost impossible to swim properly in shorty.) Doesn't affect my kicks too much and I do a lot of weird moves/punches. It also makes you a lot livelier - I felt like I was floating in the Dead Sea or something. What's good about solo open water swimming is that if you ever get too tired, you can just float on your back (or in a seated position in the water) for a while. Eventually it moves you a little faster - partly because you're higher in the water, and partly because the suit is so slick/slippery on the water. How it keeps the cold out - You can cool water to a certain extent, especially if it seeps into the suit. However, your body heat helps keep you warm, especially when you start moving. I took the suit off and got back in the water afterwards and a key difference is that in the suit you know your body temperature doesn't drop below a certain point, but without the suit you feel like your body temperature just keeps going sinks when stay in the water. Overall, the suit keeps me warm and swims relatively well, and it has enabled me to swim a half mile in cold Lake Michigan, which I probably could never have done without a suit. I hope this will add a full month to my open water swimming. (Spring 15 days earlier, Fall 15 days later.) Might as well try a triathlon next summer (and might help me complete the Olympic distance after already doing a sprint). remove on land, but much easier to remove if you're still doing it in the water. May reduce risk of rupture.