What Triathlon Gear is Best for Beginners?

Getting Started is HARD

Getting started in the triathlon world can be really challenging. There's a lot of brand new information that you need to learn, and adding gear on top of that can be really overwhelming. Not to mention, the gear can quickly add up in price, so you want to get it right the first time! So, I have put together all of my knowledge here to help you choose the best gear to support you in your first triathlon and get you across the finish line.

Wetsuits

When it comes to buying your first wetsuit, one of the main things you need to consider is buoyancy. Buoyancy, in terms of a wetsuit, lifts your legs and hips up in the in the water. Often, men require more buoyancy than women, due to women naturally floating more and therefore not needing the additional support. This isn't to say women can't have a buoyant wetsuit, just that it's not as common.

One important thing to know is that if you are swimming breaststroke for your race, then do not get a buoyant wetsuit. When doing breaststroke, you need to keep your legs under the water meaning that the buoyancy will actually hinder your speed and may result in injuries to your back. 

Before purchasing your first wetsuit, it is always adviced that you should try swimming first before you decide whether or not to get a buoyant wetsuit. This way, you can find your swim style and decide if you would like the additonal support. 

So, here are my entry level recommendations for different swim styles! 

Athlex Float - Buoyant 

A fantastic wetsuit, often in the top 10 wetsuits from 220 Triathlon. The neoprene is super soft and the buoyancy is well spread out. We often compare this wetsuit to higher priced suits! If you have the slightly higher budget, then you can't go wrong with this high-buoyant wetsuits. 

Orca Hi-Vis - Neutral

The Orca Vitalius Hi-Vis is an evolution of the Openwater Core Hi-Vis and is designed specifically for safety whilst training and comfort over longer adventures! With bright orange panels, meaning you can be very easily spotted by boats, lifeguards and fellow swimmers, giving you peace of mind in any condition.

ZONE3 Active Flex - Neutral

The ZONE3 Active Flex is very different from other wetsuits, since it offers wide versatility in one performance-driven package. Designed for swimmers, surfers, kayakers and beyond! If you have an incling to try out other water sports, then perhaps this is perfect for you! 

ZONE3 Advance - Buoyant

Kick your open-water triathlon experience to the next level with one of the most recognised entry-level wetsuits on the market. Whether it's your first race or your improving your swim efficiency, experience pro-level features at an accessible price point. 

Trisuits

There are two main things that vary between trisuits; sleeve lentgh and chamois quality. The sleeve length is basically personal preference and doesn't really affect much, so that's down to you! With the chamois, there are different thicknesses, different sizes, different shapes, all of whihc need to be considered!

The biggest advice I have for you though? Double check all your measurements. Some brands simply fit people better than others and sizing varies in comparrison to your average Primark, so make sure you always double check!

Orca Athlex Lite Trisuit

If you're lookling for a trisuit that aims to support you throughout every part of the race, as a beginner, then the Athlex Lite is perfect for you! Blending hydrodynamic efficiency, breathability and muscle support, this trisuit helps you race faster and stay comfortable throughout your triathlon.

ZONE3 Activate Trisuit

Coming with sleeved or sleeveless options, the Activate trisuit has become a staple in the triathlon community, and has been used by thousands of athletes around the world since it was launched. Designed with the purpose of increasing participation in the sport, the manufacturer wanted to address the issue that 'entry level' used to be taken to mean 'sub-par'.

2XU Core Trisuit

Stay cool and powerful with 2XU, the running experts that feature all the tech you need to get to that finish line. This wetsuit is perfect for mild weather and hot weather with it's specific cooling technology for maximum comfort throughout the entire race.

Good News!

That is technically everything you need in terms of. clothing! Bar shoes, but you don't need the top of the range shoes to run, you just need legs! One major one, don't forget the bike! 

There are some other accessories that obviously make it easier, sunglasses, transition bags, nutrition, race belts and more but not having one of them is not going to ruin the race as a whole! 

If you need any more guidance with your first triathlon, or have any more questions about gear, then please feel free to contact us here and our team of experts will be able to assist you over email, phone or our live chat!