A damaged triathlon wetsuit can be problematic for athletes who rely on their equipment to boost performance and provide water protection. In this article, we will present the steps to repair your neoprene wetsuit and extend its lifespan, so you can continue enjoying your favorite sport without frustration or unnecessary costs.
Identify common issues
There are several types of damage that can affect a triathlon wetsuit:
- Holes or tears: caused by sharp objects or friction with rough surfaces
- Delamination: when neoprene layers separate due to excessive wear or improper chemical treatment
- Broken zipper: caused by overly rough use or lack of maintenance
Carefully inspect your wetsuit to identify the location and severity of issues before proceeding with repairs.
The tools and materials needed
To repair a triathlon wetsuit, you will need:
- Neoprene glue: specific for this type of material and water-resistant
- Neoprene patches: to reinforce repaired areas
- Polyethylene adhesive tape: to hold pieces together during the repair process
- Sticks or toothpicks: to apply the glue precisely
- Sandpaper: to prepare the surface before applying the patches
- Scissors: to cut the patches to the desired size
- Template: to facilitate cutting the patches and ensure a clean finish
- Clean cloths: to clean the area before repairing
Repairing holes and tears
Here’s how to repair holes and tears in a triathlon wetsuit:
1. Clean the damaged area
Use a damp cloth to clean the area around the hole or tear, then leave to dry completely.
2. Preparing the surface
Using abrasive paper, lightly sand the surface of the suit around where you are going to stick the patch to improve the adhesion of the glue.
3. Cut out the patch
Use a template to cut the neoprene patch to the appropriate size. It should be large enough to completely cover the hole or tear, with a margin of about 1cm around the edges to ensure optimum adhesion.
4. Apply the glue
Apply a thin layer of neoprene glue to both sides of the hole or tear, using a pin or toothpick for precision. Leave to dry for about 5 minutes, until the glue becomes tacky.
5. Stick the patch
Carefully align the cut patch over the damaged area, then press firmly to adhere. To further secure the repair, use polyethylene tape to hold the patch in place while the glue dries.
6. Leave to dry and check
Allow the adhesive to dry for at least 24 hours before using your triathlon suit. Then check the condition of the repair regularly to make sure it can withstand the stresses of your sport.
Repairing a broken zip
To repair a damaged zip, follow these steps:
1. Identify the cause of the problem
Examine the zip carefully to determine whether the slider, teeth or fastening straps are the cause of the problem.
2. Repair or replace defective components
Depending on the cause of the problem, you may need to repair or replace parts of the zip. If the slider is worn, use tweezers to tighten both sides and give it a better shape. If any teeth are bent or broken, try putting them back in place with pliers or plan to change the zip completely.
3. Lubricate the zip
Finally, remember to lubricate your zip regularly with a suitable product to prevent it from jamming or damaging other components.
Keeping your suit in good condition
In addition to occasional repairs, it is essential to maintain your triathlon wetsuit properly to prevent problems and prolong its life:
- Clean regularly: rinse your wetsuit in fresh water after each use to remove salt, chlorine and residues.
- Avoid excessive exposure to the sun: store your suit in a cool, dry place away from UV rays.
- Handle with care: avoid contact with sharp objects or rough surfaces that could damage the neoprene.
With a little effort and care, your triathlon wetsuit can serve you for many years and support your sporting performance. Don’t hesitate to consult our other guides to find out more about looking after sports equipment!
