Triathlon what do i wear

We have known many very competitive triathletes whose top of choice for racing is the same moisture-wicking athletic shirt they would wear on a treadmill or a long run, often by makers like Sugui. Another option might be a cycling shirt, although they can tend to chafe during the run, especially when damp. One thing to think about when choosing a tri top: Because you will be a little wet when putting the top on, making it a little more difficult for everything to easily slide, and because time is of the essence in Transition 1, we like a top with a zip that helps open up the neckline and opening for your head.

A regular old t-shirt might be a little tight to put on, when factoring in wet skin. Having something with a zipper makes the top much easier to put on, and allow helps you allow for airflow if it is a warm day. That brings us to tri-tops.

As for support bras, we hear great things about the TYR Tri bra, a good value. In addition to keeping you warm in the water, a good wetsuit will make you more buoyant and balanced as you swim, as well as assist you as you glide through the water. Most racers who use wetsuits find that their swim times decrease, more than making up for the additional time required during the first transition to remove the wetsuit.

Wetsuits can be a substantial investment, and other than the bike purchase, likely the largest one you will make for triathlon. If you only plan to do one triathlon, you might want to rent one from a local tri shop, or borrow from a friend. If you borrow, just be sure that you get one that fits well. A poorly-fitting wetsuit can actually make matters worse when you are in the water. Triathlon wetsuits can be sleeved or sleeveless.

Triathlon shoes can range, based on your goals and overall triathlon plans. Racers who want to turn in the fastest times always use different shoes for the bike and the run.

Most racers have a favorite pair of cycling shoes with clips that they use during the bike leg, and then put on running shoes for the run at Transition 2. Unless your goal is just to do one triathlon as a leisurely pace which is just fine! Not only will you be faster, but you will get more value from your cycling workouts. Socks or no socks?

That is the question. Many racers will choose to go sockless, making the transitions faster and reducing the risk of running in wet socks i. Still, most beginners tend to use socks. You should never attempt to go sockless without practicing that way several times and building up the ability to do it.

Also, remember that not all socks are meant to be worn inside a running shoe during a demanding race. Of everything on the market, we like the Thorlo Experia running socks — a great sock for any active endeavor — but find one that works for you. There are a couple other items that should not be overlooked for your training and racing. Perhaps the most important one is a bike helmet. A two-piece is therefore a great choice if you are a different size on top and bottom and it is perfect for racing and training.

Not to mention, two-pieces are a bit easier when a long race or race day nerves lead to frequent toilet stops! The top stays where it is supposed to, the shorts are higher in the back waistband never too low while cycling! Most races provide these in colours that coordinate, no, not with your trisuit, but rather with your start wave.

You may even want to wear it under the cap provided for warmth in the case of very cold water. The good news is that there are many wetsuit hire companies which allow you to hire a suit at a reasonable price. They may even apply the hire fee to the cost of purchase if you choose to buy the suit later. Make sure that you get the wetsuit in time to try it at least once. Wetsuits take some getting used to and fit is paramount! Choosing a comfortable helmet is key. These have purpose-built features to aid speedy transitions and comfort ahead of the run.

Like other road cycling shoes, they are compatible with cleats and have a stiff outsole. While triathlon shoes may give you an advantage in the transition, road bike shoes, mountain bike shoes and even trainers are all acceptable and you will not be penalised for deviating from the norm. Putting socks on wet feet is no small feat, and takes up valuable time during the transition.

That being said, socks offer increased comfort and help prevent blisters- something you will come to appreciate on the run. Some triathletes choose to run in more lightweight trainers for race day, finding them a preferable choice than their heavier training shoes.

Elastic shoe laces are a small investment but offer a sizable advantage during transition. Another worthy, and relatively inexpensive, purchase for a triathlon race is a tri-belt. The main benefit of a tri-belt is that it can be visible throughout the bike and run leg, with the race number positioned on your back for the cycle, and then swivelled round to the front for the run.

This helps save time during the transition. Many triathletes also wear sunglasses when racing. For the bike and run leg this can be particularly useful in protecting your eyes from the elements- whether that be blazing sunlight or blustering wind.

They also prevent things from flicking up into your eye from the road surface or rogue bugs flying into your face. The necessity of eyewear will likely be influenced by the location, time of year and distance of your race. Need some more triathlon kit inspiration? Check out our gear page for the latest reviews and advice for all of your swim , bike , run needs.