Wetsuit
Open Water events in the UK will require you to wear a wetsuit. The classic advise given to all new triathletes is to try and borrow one - even if it's a surfing or diving suit. You might not like Open Water so it's pointless spending £200 on a single use item.
Tri-specific suits are easier to swim in but do start at £120. The following websites offer some excellent fitting advise:
www.tri247.com/article_1523_Triathlon+wetsuit+guide.html?category=aquathlon
www.headtothehills.co.uk/articles/256-fitting-wetsuits-for-triathlon-and-open-water-swimming-.html
Tri-specific suits are easier to swim in but do start at £120. The following websites offer some excellent fitting advise:
www.tri247.com/article_1523_Triathlon+wetsuit+guide.html?category=aquathlon
www.headtothehills.co.uk/articles/256-fitting-wetsuits-for-triathlon-and-open-water-swimming-.html