With Ironman Oregon 70.3 THIS WEEKEND, we figured this would be a good time to review one of the top-of-the-line wetsuits that you can buy – the ROKA Maverick Pro.3 Wetsuit. It was just updated this year and touted as their premium wetsuit to enhance your ability and maximize your efficiency with each stroke.
There are a few updates on the 2024 suit which ROKA has highlighted below:
- Improved materials—using the most premium Yamamoto neoprene and liners for increased comfort and buoyancy.
- Updated liner creates even better shoulder flex and movement for less fatigue in the swim.
- Revised RS2™ center-panel construction adds more flex and opens up the chest for better breathing.
- New Aerodome material adds buoyancy and helps create a snappier rotation.
- New forearm catch material enhances tactile feedback to increase your feel for the water.
- Modified neck paneling hides internal seam lines to reduce chafing and create a better seal.
What this means is that in addition to the previous generation’s ARMS-UP technology, 1:3:5 buoyancy profile, and RS2 positioning panels, you’re getting a faster, more
responsive, AND more durable wetsuit.
ROKA designs their wetsuits with an “arms above the head” positioning to give you maximum flexibility in a freestyle swim position with more shoulder mobility and less restriction. The buoyancy profile of the wetsuit also focuses on the center of your body allowing quicker rotation from side to side giving you a more efficient stroke and minimizing fatigue.
That being said, if you’re an inexperienced or newer swimmer, you may not reap as many of the gains that this suit provides. I found that while the suit’s buoyancy puts you in a more efficient “head down position”, this may be a detriment depending on your ability and skill especially with the added flexibility.
Chances are that this will more than likely be an upgrade or replacement wetsuit for most. If you’re a newer swimmer or triathlete, the ROKA Maverick MX or Comp.3 may be better options.
My absolute favorite thing about the Pro.3 is the buoyancy profile. The centerline and positioning panels really help to keep you in a flatter and more efficient position. The added buoyancy in the legs and hips is exactly what you want in a wetsuit all while having increased flexibility in the arms.
The interior liner feels slightly different from the 2023 Maverick but not enough that you would notice without comparing them side-by-side. ROKA uses 2mm panels at the ankle to help get out of the suit faster at transition, this felt roughly the same as my Maverick suit, but I should note both of them use the same panels.
Ultimately, ROKA is known for their high quality gear and their wetsuits are no different. The Pro.3 should definitely be at the top of your list if you are looking for a new wetsuit. The one tested was a size M/L and the athlete was 180 lbs and 5’11”. ROKA has an excellent size guide for their wetsuits as well as a 30-day return policy to ensure you get the correct fit.
