With so many choices out there for Triathlon gear, we put together this guide to cover some of our favorite gear for your swim, bike and run.
As a companion to our “What do I need for my first triathlon?” article, these solid gear selections have gotten us through many training miles and races.
Any questions? Let us know in the comments below!
TYR SPORT Special OPS 2.0 Polarized Goggles
This is a very traditional goggle with a gasket which will work for just about anyone. Good for both training and racing.
Speedo Swedish Two-Pack Swim Goggles
This is my 100% go-to goggle since I was very young. It’s lightweight, cheap and extremely customizable. This two pack makes sure you have a back up pair, which is always a good thing.
For those who want a fuller “mask-like” look and feel, this is a great option. It has a very wide field of view so you can get a good eye on the triathletes next to you.
Speedo Swim Goggles Vanquisher 2.0
The Vanquisher is a nice option as an all-around swim goggle. UV protected lenses block the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays making it a good choice if you train in outdoor water.
If you’re going to use a board short, you may as well go with a brand aimed specifically at swimming as opposed to simply leisure wear. Here’s a great one from Speedo.
TYR Women’s Durafast Diamondback Workout Bikini
TYR is not only a great brand but they do a great job of catering to the requests of their customers. This bikini from TYR is a great option for training and racing.
The OG Speedo but this one is built with Endurance+ material. I have a few of these and they last EASILY twice as long as a normal suit. Great for training and racing.
Speedo Men’s Swimsuit Jammer Endurance+
The same basic material and construction as in the briefs we showed you above only in a jammer style. This is for those of us who want a bit more coverage and comfort.
Two pieces, one suit. Not only do you get to be all matchy-matchy but you have a but more flexibility and ventilation (if you want it)
This tri suit from TYR is your all-day piece of triathlon apparel. You can swim, bike and run in it. If you like a one-piece kit, this is a must.
Being honest, I have only worn a neoprene swim cap one time. This is mostly because I’m not one to get super cold. However, I can absolutely attest to this being a VERY warm cap to hold in that heat when (and if) you need it.
If you think you’ll be spending alot of time in your wetsuit, you may find the moderately priced Orca S7 nice step up from other models. Also available for men.
If you’re more of a bike short wearing person (instead of bibs), Pearl Izumi also makes a full line up for both men and women. The Attack short for Women has a wide waistband design with elastic-free front panel so you don’t get that waistband “dig in” after hours on the bike.
In 99% of triathlons you won’t need a windbreaker. If you do though, why not just stick with the same brand as the shorts and top above?
These cycling shoes from Mavic are some of my favorites. Lightweight and sleek without being too narrow or confining. A fantastic, all-around cycling shoe.
I’ll be the first to admit that the sunglasses I wear on the bike (and run) and what I wear on a normal work day are very different. When I’m riding though, the Oakley Jawbreaker (Prizm) is one of my favorites. With field of vision and super clear lenses.
A step up from a bare-bones race belt, this one from Fitletic has a pouch to store your gels and other essentials.
Want to go fast AND look like a bullet? This is the Aerohead helmet from Giro. It can run a bit warmer than traditional road helmets but it’ll also get you there faster.
A great all around tire that will get you through miles of training and your first race. I’ve been using these and earlier versions for years and they’ve become my “standard”.
Not the exact bottle cages I use but they are almost identical. They are light and sleek – and expensive. For about $40 less per cage you can gain a couple of ounces and be fine.
The Time Xpro is another type of pedal I like to use. With all the variety, try what works best for you.
Bar tape is like a favorite color, everyone has their own! This is my go-to but if you like thicker or thinner, figure out which and go with it. It’ll save your hands.
Go ahead and grab these. If you like the “speed lace” concept, you’re set. If you just want to tie them like normal laces (as I do), you’re set.
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