Neoprene versus Thermoplastic Elastomer: A Comparison of Biomechanical and Physiological Variables in Simulated Surfboard Paddling

Background: Since the 1950’s wetsuits have become an integral piece of equipment for many water sports, specifically surfing. Standard neoprene wetsuits provide adequate insulation and some forms of performance enhancement, however the process of creating these products and their poor environmental impact are costly. Wetsuits made from Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) may alleviate these current issues. The hypothesis of this study is that there will be no significant differences in oxygen consumption, heart rate, muscle activation, arm kinematics, or force output while paddling between a TPE wetsuit or neoprene wetsuit. Methods: Subjects paddled for 7 minutes on a modified swim bench ergometer at a submaximal pace of 40 strokes per minute with a power output of 20 Watts. Subject questionnaire responses along with multiple physiological and biomechanical variables were compared between the boardshort, standard neoprene wetsuit, and thermoplastic elastomer wetsuit trials. Results: No significant differences were found for any variables (p>0.05). Discussion: The data suggests that the TPE wetsuit does not elicit any changes during paddling at a submaximal pace out of water, and subjects have near equal preference between the two wetsuits. If future studies determine that a TPE wetsuit assists in thermoregulation similarly to neoprene, a transition into this material may be beneficial for companies and the environment. Conclusion: The findings of this study support the conclusion that there are no significant differences for the tested variables during paddling between trials, and TPE wetsuits may be equivalent to neoprene wetsuits of comparable thickness.