2023-07-20 10:30:11
–
By Miguel Marne
Orca has been dedicated to the design and production of wetsuits for open water swimming for more than 25 years. Since then, the New Zealand brand has accompanied many professional swimmers and triathletes, learning from them and incorporating their experience into each evolution of the models it offers for the different disciplines.
Within triathlon, the offer is wide with two ranges, Apex and Athlex, and within each of them three models: Flow, Flex and Float, which differ in the most marked characteristic that we look for in our suit: performance, flexibility or buoyancy.
The neoprene object of this article is the Orca Apex Float, which has evolved directly from one of the models with the most tradition and visibility of the brand, the Orca 3.8. This one owed its name to the distance of the swimming sector that has to be completed when one faces an “Ironman” distance triathlon (3.8-180-42), and therefore it was a long-distance-oriented neoprene and with the function of providing sufficient buoyancy without neglecting flexibility.
Orca he introduces Apex Float as the “(R)evolution” of 3.8. A suit with the highest buoyancy in the Orca range, which incorporates specific technologies for maximum buoyancy and technique correction, helping those swimmers who need support to maintain a hydrodynamic posture in open water. In addition, it incorporates highly elastic materials in the upper trunk, favoring an unrestricted stroke.
–
–
–
FLEXIBILITY
He Apex Float uses Orca’s most advanced technologies to offer maximum elasticity. Elasticity, maximum flexibility and a total sensation of freedom come together thanks to the addition of Yamamoto 39 neoprene, the Infinity Skin 2 lining and the Smoothskin surface finish. With this combination, the triathlete will need 35% less force in fast movements and short strokes, while in slower and more extensive movements they will require 45% less than with any other conventional neoprene. It has materials such as the High Elbow Panel on the shoulders, arms and dorsals, which provide great elasticity to the upper body.
In addition, the YKK 8 zipper has a smaller width than the usual zippers. The reduced width allows for increased flexibility of the back panel and further limits water ingress.
–
–
–
BUOYANCY
The specific buoyancy technologies included in this wetsuit make it have maximum buoyancy. Exo-lift is a sandwich construction, which combines an outer neoprene layer with Nano Ice SCS hydrodynamic treatment, Aerodome technology and a third inner neoprene layer with specific treatment. This combination achieves maximum buoyancy and 0% water absorption. A little help to maintain a hydrodynamic position at all times, even when you’re tired.
Aerodome is a technology applied to the lower trunk that provides 30% more buoyancy to the swimmer than a conventional neoprene. The secret lies in its composition: hundreds of cavities located between two layers of neoprene, previously treated. The inner layer of this material is composed of a high-quality lining with low water absorption, which gives the neoprene greater elasticity. On the outside, the SCS surface treatment is applied, which helps to increase hydrodynamics.
–
–
–
HYDRODYNAMICS
The surface treatments and the perfect fit thanks to the pattern and use of Apex Float materials enhance the hydrodynamic properties of this neoprene.
Yamamoto 40 neoprene is combined with the highly elastic Infinity Skin 2 lining and the SCS surface treatment. The smooth surface resulting from the SCS treatment helps to reduce resistance and friction with the water, improving hydrodynamics and increasing speed.
The compressive Power-fit liner is combined with Orca’s high-end Yamamoto 40 technology and Nano Ice SCS surface treatment. The result is a perfect fit in the torso and back area, ensuring that there is no flow of water through the neoprene, improving hydrodynamics. The Nano Ice SCS treatment reduces friction with water by 68% compared to a conventional neoprene.
The Yamamoto 39 neoprene is also combined with the highly elastic Infinity Skin 2 lining and the SCS surface treatment. The smooth surface resulting from the SCS treatment helps to reduce resistance and friction with the water, improving hydrodynamics and increasing speed.
–
–
–
IN SUMMARY
He Orca Apex Float It is the neoprene that every triathlete can get the most out of. Better and not so good swimmers can take advantage of some qualities that combine the best of the models that preceded it, achieving an exceptional neoprene for swimming and competition in open water.
As proof, we have been able to do the Ironman Vitoria-Gasteiz wearing the Apex Float, and the sensations have been unbeatable. We have not noticed a loss of flexibility compared to the old Orca Predator, and an exceptional gain in buoyancy. All in all, top marks for this long distance open water wetsuit.
–
???? More information at:
#KING #OPEN #WATERS #Technical #magazine #sport #Sport #Training