Competing in a triathlon is one of the most exhilarating and challenging contests you can put your body through. To take on the rigors of a triathlon, you also need the right gear to maximize your performance and comfort throughout the competition. If you’re new to the sport, we’ll show you how to build your first triathlon gear kit below!
What is a Triathlon Gear Kit?
A triathlon gear kit is a collection of essential items that support you throughout the three disciplines of a triathlon—swimming, cycling, and running. It includes special triathlon gear, like a tri-suit, which is a versatile piece of clothing that you can wear through all parts of the race, reducing transition time and keeping you comfortable.
A triathlon kit will include everything a competitor needs to get to the finish line as fast as possible. Before your first triathlon, you’ll need to verify that you’ve got all the proper gear you need.
Swim Gear Essentials
The first leg of your triathlon journey begins in the water. To make a splash, you’ll need some specific swim gear to help you glide through the course.
Goggles
Every swimmer needs a quality pair of goggles. You must protect your eyes and see where you're going, as many triathlons conduct the swimming stage in open water, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers. These bodies of water are not clear like the chlorine swimming pools you’ll train in, so you need swim goggles to protect your eyes and see where you’re going and to see other competitors swimming alongside you.
The most important factor is fit. Your goggles should create a secure seal around your eyes without being too tight. Try a few pairs to find what feels best for you.
Swim Cap
Most races will provide you with a swim cap, but you’ll still need your own for training, and it’s good sense to have a backup anyway. Swim caps come in two main materials: silicone and latex.
Silicone caps are thicker, more durable, and generally more comfortable. They don't pull on your hair as much as latex caps. Latex caps are thinner and less expensive, but they can be less comfortable and are not as long-lasting.
Wetsuit
Depending on the water temperature where you’re competing, you might need a wetsuit. Race rules often mandate wetsuits in colder water for safety.
A triathlon-specific wetsuit offers buoyancy, which helps lift your legs and puts you in a more efficient swimming position. This can help you conserve energy for the bike and run. It also provides warmth, which is crucial in chilly conditions.
Bike Gear Essentials
After the swim, you'll head to the transition area to grab your bike. The cycling portion is the longest part of a triathlon, so preparation with the right equipment is a necessity.
Bike
Your bike is your biggest investment. For your first triathlon, a standard road bike is typically a suitable option. It’s versatile and you can use it for general cycling as well as racing.
As you become more serious about the sport, you might consider a triathlon-specific bike. These bikes are much more aerodynamic by placing you in a position that is faster and conserves your running muscles. Consider a used triathlon bike to find one that’s an ideal fit before springing for a brand-new, expensive one.
Helmet
A helmet is mandatory for every triathlon. When choosing a helmet, make sure it meets current safety standards and fits comfortably. The helmet should sit level on your head and feel snug but not restrictive. There should be no wobble when you move your head.
Cycling Shoes & Pedals
Your choice of shoes and pedals can make a big difference in your cycling efficiency. Many cyclists use clipless pedals, which attach to special cycling shoes. This setup allows you to generate power through the entire pedal stroke, not just on the down push. Alternatively, you can use flat pedals with regular athletic shoes, which is a fine starting point for beginners.
Cycling Apparel
If you're not wearing a tri-suit, you'll want specific cycling apparel. A cycling jersey with back pockets is great for carrying nutrition. Padded cycling shorts provide comfort on the saddle for long rides, helping to prevent chafing and soreness.
Water Bottles & Cages
Hydration is crucial during a triathlon, especially on warmer days. Your bike should have at least one water bottle cage, and it's a good idea to have two for longer races. Make sure your bottles are easy to access while you ride so you can drink without losing momentum.
Run Gear Essentials
The final leg of the race is the run. To build your first triathlon gear kit, you’ll need to include comfortable and durable endurance running shoes, comfortable socks, and quality running apparel.
Running Shoes
The right running shoes are your most important piece of gear. Your shoe choice depends on your foot type and running style. Visit a specialty running store to get a proper fitting. They can analyze your gait and recommend shoes that offer ideal support and cushioning for your feet.
Socks
Don't overlook the importance of good socks. Look for moisture-wicking materials that pull sweat away from your skin. This helps prevent blisters, which can quickly derail your race. Avoid cotton socks, as they retain moisture.
Running Apparel
When running for so many miles, you want to do everything you can to make your body as comfortable as possible. If you're not in a tri-suit, lightweight running shorts and a singlet or tech shirt will work well. Choose materials that are breathable and won't cause chafing.
Transition Gear Essentials
The "fourth discipline" of triathlon is the transition. New triathletes should practice their transition, as a smooth change from swimming to cycling to running can shave minutes off their time.
Triathlon Watch
A GPS watch with multi-sport tracking is a fantastic tool. It allows you to track your swim, bike, and run segments with the press of a button. It provides real-time data on your pace, distance, and heart rate, helping you manage your effort throughout the race.
Transition Bag
A transition bag will help you organize all your gear when it’s time to change stages. These bags have compartments to make it easy to find what you need quickly. On race day, you'll lay your gear out in the transition area, but a good bag helps you get everything there in an orderly fashion.
Towel
A small, quick-drying towel is useful for drying your feet after the swim or if you’re switching socks and shoes between cycling and running. It’s a small consideration, but the details are where you can make up time and protect your feet.
Your Triathlon Adventure Awaits
Getting your gear together is a huge step toward becoming a triathlete. With the right swimming, cycling, and running apparel and equipment, you can tackle the greatest endurance challenge of your life!
As a triathlon shop in Orem, Utah, we can help you find everything you need to succeed in one place! Whether you need swimming, cycling, or running gear, T3 Endurance Sports can help. Browse our inventory online or stop by our physical store to find the triathlon gear you need today.