220 Triathlon Kit Zone Review - May 2018
Posted by Toby Dickson on 24th Apr 2018
The 220 Triathlon Kit Zone is a fantastic way of reviewing new kit before purchasing. In this post we will be going through which items they have reviewed in the May 2018 Edition.
WETSUITS:
Zone3 Advance - Best On Test
"We tested these suits in ascending price order and however much the Lomo impressed, the latest Advance from Zone3 blew it out of the water. Visually and in terms of ingredients, it's an instant step-up, with Zone3's 'Pro-Speed' cuffs for easy removal and 'Speedflo' fabric that reduced drag in the water. Despite a low-ish cut neckline, there was minimal water ingress throughout and, thanks to the neck guard, there was no neck chafing. Unlike Lomo, the well-crafted blend of 3mm and 4mm neoprene on the torso - plus 4mm on the legs - provided a decent amount of buoyancy, while the 2mm underarm thickness ensured a range of arm movements. Quite how they've done it for £159 we're not sure, but the Advance punches above releases twice it's price."
BlueSeventy Thermal Reaction - Best On Test
"BlueSeventy became cold-water wetsuit pioneers when the launched the Helix Thermal to great acclaim in 2016. And for 2018 they've launched the slightly cheaper Thermal Reaction. The Thermal Reaction boasts the same zirconium liner used in the helix, providing a plush a fluffy feel on the body that's proven durable after a couple of seasons' use. We used it in temps of 6.5C and 8C, but BlueSeventy pitch it for a minimum of 8.5C. And yet the suit still performed admirably in the bracing water, limiting water ingress around the neck and through the zip. How much comes down to a psychological boost is open to question, but we really felt the warmth benefits of that zirconium liner. The 5/5/4mm neoprene thickness is only marginally different to the 4/5/4mm of the conventional Reaction and produces a buoyant suit, but not one compromised flexibility and the upper body is especially lithe. It's quick to remove, and we'll be using it at the Slateman in May. We'd now like to see if the zirconium tech can e applied to their Fusion suit, opening up the thermal benefits to a wider audience of swimmers."
TRISUITS:
2XU Compression Trisuit - Best On Test
"2XU's Comp was a clear winner in our two-piece test in issue 349 and the all-in-one version continues this winning form. Compared to the two-piece, you lose a couple of pockets, with the remaining two being fairly small, and the legs sit a little longer. Like the Zone3 it's thicker material than many here, but the mesh panels on the shoulders and sides ensure good breathability. We love the evident compressive properties in the legs and the pad is a winning fleece-lined and multi-density chamois hybrid for hour-upon-hour comfort. The full length zip means toilet stops are free from hassle and the internal front pouch is also handy for keeping the gut tucked in!"
GOGGLES:
Aqua Sphere Kayenne Polarised - Best On Test
"Years after their release, Aqua Sphere's Kayenne remain one of the most popular open-water goggles on the market, and with good reason. They're simply outstanding for the money and we're yet to hear from a swimmer who finds fault with them. The polarised versions do a great job of reducing glare, and they provide excellent clarity in low light conditions. The triangular shape of the lenses are unique, and they offer a really good field of vision while still maintaining a low, hydrodynamic profile to please speedier swimmers. The reinforced nose bridge is tough and durable, and the strap system is one-touch with a buckle for quick and simple adjustments. We've enjoyed countless hours of swimming in them over the years so, for us, they're still number one."
Are you interested in the new 2018 Ranges from the main triathlon brands? Follow the links below to discover more: