Orca Athlex Float V2 Wetsuit Review: Maximum Buoyancy for Triathletes

The Orca Athlex Float V2 is a buoyancy-focused triathlon wetsuit built for swimmers who need extra lift to maintain a horizontal position in the water. With 4.5mm neoprene in the legs and Yamamoto 38 rubber throughout, it is one of the most buoyant race wetsuits available under £300. Here is our full review.

Who Needs a High-Buoyancy Wetsuit?

Swimmers who tend to swim with sinking legs — a common problem for cyclists and runners new to triathlon — benefit enormously from a high-buoyancy suit. Extra lift in the legs reduces drag, improves body position and can shave meaningful time off your open water splits without any change in technique. The Athlex Float is specifically engineered for this purpose.

Key Features

• 4.5mm neoprene legs — the thick leg panels maximise buoyancy and keep your lower body elevated throughout the swim
• Yamamoto 38 neoprene — provides extra compression for a better fit and greater comfort in open water
• High-stretch upper body panels — Yamamoto material with built-in elasticity through the shoulders, arms and back delivers excellent range of motion for the freestyle stroke
• SCS coating — the hydrodynamic coating reduces water resistance and increases speed through the water
• Laser-cut neck with Hydrolite lining — seals to the body to prevent water ingress and eliminate chafing at the collar

Performance in the Water

The leg lift from the Float V2 is immediately noticeable on the first swim. Athletes who typically struggle with sinking hips find their body position corrects almost automatically, reducing the effort required to maintain a flat profile. The upper body flexibility is comparable to more expensive models — arm rotation is unrestricted and the shoulder panels move naturally through the catch and pull phases of the stroke.

Best Buoyancy Pick: Orca Athlex Float V2 Wetsuit

At its price point, the Athlex Float V2 is the best buoyancy-focused wetsuit on the market for UK triathletes. It is significantly more buoyant than the Athlex Flow, with comparable upper-body flexibility. Ideal for beginner to intermediate triathletes who prioritise body position correction over maximum speed.

Check price on Amazon — Orca Athlex Float V2

Float vs Flow: Which Orca Athlex Should You Choose?

• Choose the Float if you swim with sinking legs, are new to open water, or want maximum buoyancy assistance
• Choose the Flow if you have a strong swim background and prioritise flexibility and speed over lift
• Upgrade to the Apex Flow if you are racing at a high level and want the most performance-focused suit in the Orca range

Care and Maintenance

Rinse the Float V2 thoroughly in cold fresh water after each use. Hang inside-out in the shade to dry — never expose neoprene to direct sunlight or tumble dry. Apply neoprene wetsuit shampoo monthly to preserve the rubber’s elasticity and extend the suit’s lifespan.

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