Thin is in, especially for many tri-athletes. After all that swimming, cycling and running you’re sure to burn some calories. But come 2013 another type of thin will be in, as in the rules. Beginning in 2013 the thickness of wet suits will be the name of the game. The USA Triathlon announced that beginning on “January 1, 2013 swimmers wearing a wetsuit with a thickness measured in any part greater than five millimeters shall be disqualified.”
Thus those greater than the thickness will not be permitted at USAT-sanctioned events. According to the press release:
“Our board has been considering this issue and the impact it might have with our athletes for some time,” said USA Triathlon CEO Skip Gilbert. “The overall feeling is that it makes perfect sense to align with the guidelines set by our international federation and multisport enthusiasts around the world. This is a standard that is good for the athlete community and our sport overall.”
So what does this mean? Well, nothing more than the USAT will be in line with the international standard of five millimeters, which is already recognized by the International Triathlon Union (ITU) and other National Governing Bodies. Fortunately as many suits are currently greater in thickness, there will be a grace period as these suits are phased out.
[Via Competitor.com: USA Triathlon Adopts New Wetsuit Regulation Starting In 2013]