Triathlon Equipment – Buyer’s Guide

One of the most demanding competitive races is the triathlon. When you cross the finish line there is an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. You will suddenly feel that all the time and preparation you put into this event was worth it.

Once you have made the decision to participate in a triathlon, you will need to spend some money so you can have the appropriate triathlon equipment and gear. Purchasing the equipment can also be a great motivator.

Once you have spent the money on what you need for the race, you will want to use it. It is a factor of commitment when you make your equipment purchases.

Common swimming equipment includes a cap, goggles, a nose clip and a swimming or wetsuit. In most competitions it is required for each participant to wear a swimming cap supplied by the event organizers.

Normally they have bright colors for safety purposes. Depending on the category that you are participating in, you may have a different color than another participating category.

If you plan on purchasing a wetsuit, you will want one specifically made for triathlons. They are made with a softer rubber so that you can move easier.

There are some other features of triathlon wetsuits that provide better usage: longer zippers, wrist and ankle zippers, and smooth surfaces.

The triathlon equipment you will need for the cycling leg includes a triathlon bike. Regular road bikes don’t have the needed tri-bars or aero-bars.

Triathlon bikes are important to have because they don’t have regular road bike features. Some things that they have that normal bikes don’t are oval frame tubes, fewer spokes, and aerodynamic features.

Tri-bars, or aero-bars, are important handlebars used to reduce the wind drag. Cyclists can lean forward on these bars to make themselves more aerodynamic. You will also need cycling shoes that clip into the pedals.

For the running leg, you will need appropriate running clothing and running shoes.

It is important that you have good triathlon equipment that fits your needs and fulfills the race requirements. Hopefully, these general guidelines gave you some ideas on what to expect and what you will need to plan on purchasing.