Wilda Dart wetsuit

Wilda has brought to the market a triathlon wetsuit in which you can feel and look like a mermaid. Not something we often see here at 220 Triathlon, but that’s only because – well – they’ve created something completely unique.

First up, the suit doesn’t come from a big, global brand. It’s the brainchild of Bristol-based couple Caitlin and Mike Paton, who developed the design out of their own passion for open-water swimming.

A few months ago, they reached out to 220’s Editor – and qualified open-water swim coach – Helen Webster for feedback on the suit’s fit and feel.

That Wilda is a British brand and a real grassroots passion project is genuinely refreshing – and that’s even before you get to that striking, ocean-inspired aesthetic.

Features and fit

The suit itself has an almost shimmery shine to it. The arms, shoulders, and legs feature a vivid ocean print that immediately stands out, designed to reflect movement, colour, and individuality in the water.

It’s a far cry from the typical all-black wetsuits we usually see lining up on the start line. Even the name, ‘Wilda,’ was carefully chosen – it comes from the Old English for ‘untamed,’ which speaks to both the suit’s personality and the open-water experience it was created for.

Despite being designed with creative, wild expression in mind, the suit delivers technically where it matters.

I found the size large to be plenty long enough in the body – no pulling or bunching – and there was ample flexibility through the arms and shoulders to allow for a natural, flowing stroke.

It’s a suit that moves with you rather than against you. The neckline sits high and wide at the back, but this didn’t lead to any chafing or excessive flushing during testing. That’s worth noting, especially for those who often struggle with discomfort around the collar.

At the moment, the Dart wetsuit is only available for women, but Wilda have clearly put effort into making the range as inclusive as possible.

Sizes run from XS all the way through to 3XL, which is a wider size offering than many other brands provide for women.

It’s a positive step for representation and accessibility in the sport – particularly for beginner triathletes who may be looking for their first suit and don’t fit a standard template.

The technical materials used in the suit are equally well considered. The Dart features 4mm Yamamoto #39 neoprene through the body to provide warmth and help support your position in the water.

In the legs, there’s 3mm of the same material, providing enough buoyancy for both front crawlers and breaststrokers without being overly aggressive in lift. This means you stay supported but still maintain control and connection with your stroke.

In the upper body, Wilda have used ultra-flexible 2.5mm Yamamoto #40 neoprene in the shoulders – a smart choice to maximise mobility where it’s needed most.

That extra stretch helps avoid fatigue in the arms and allows for a more relaxed, comfortable swim, especially over longer distances.

Around the ankles, 2mm Yamamoto #39 has been used, paired with shaped panels, to make the suit easier to take off. That design detail will definitely appeal to triathletes who want smoother, faster transitions on race day.

Another nice touch is the suit’s lining: a soft, plant-based nylon blend that gives a luxurious feel against the skin while adding durability to the inside of the suit.

Fit and performance

It’s noticeably smoother than most budget wetsuits and helps make getting the suit off post-swim that bit easier – even when you’re tired and wet.

The outer print panels – those standout ocean swirls – are made from recycled polyester jersey. Wilda have clearly made sustainability a core part of the brand.

The company donates 5% of annual sales to charities that align with their values and are also members of 1% for the Planet, committing part of their income toward environmental causes.

It’s a small brand with an ethos, and it’s evident in how the product is both designed and presented.

Speaking of presentation, the suit arrives wrapped in tissue paper in a sturdy, branded box – complete with stickers – which makes the unboxing feel like something special. It’s a small touch but adds to the sense that this is a wetsuit made with care and creativity.

In terms of feel in the water, it’s neutral in buoyancy and flexible enough that you could happily breaststroke in it.

That versatility makes it a great option for first-time triathletes or recreational swimmers who want to enjoy the swim and express a bit of personality while they do it.

It’s supportive without being overly restrictive and, importantly, doesn’t force your body into a position that might feel unnatural.

Overall, the Dart wetsuit from Wilda is a fun, thoughtful, and functional option that offers something genuinely different to the standard black neoprene suit.

It’s ideal for anyone who wants to stand out a bit more in the swim, while still having the comfort, warmth, and performance you’d expect from a well-designed triathlon wetsuit.

Price	$373 / £265
Buoyancy	2mm / 2.5mm / 3mm / 4mm
Features	High neckline, quick transition cuffs, recycled polyester jersey outer lining, Yamamoto Greenwave plant-based nylon blend lining
Tech	SCS coating, 39-cell and 40-cell Yamamoto neoprene
Sizes	Women: XS-3XL