20 Best Triathlon Gear That Everyone Needs, Recommended By An Expert – 2024
Get your hands on the perfect sports gear for better performance and comfort.
Stephen Holt is one of the most acclaimed and respected figures in the fitness industry. Cultivating an experience of over 20 years since 1997, he has provided more than 50,000 personal training sessions to clients, making him an experienced and sought-after trainer.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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One of the training prerequisites for a triathlon is to have the best triathlon gear set. There are several accessories you will need, including gears for swimming, cycling, and racing, etc. If you think it is costly, then you are wrong. The entry-level gears are affordable and don’t punch a hole in your pocket, so you can start your personal transformation journey with these and gradually move to pro level gears. While choosing the gear set, have a double check on the quality, durability, and usability. Well, here is a list of the most durable and inexpensive gears with the best reviews that will help you complete your triathlon like a pro.
In This Article
The Best Triathlon Gear Everyone Needs
1. Best Overall:Pearl Izumi W Escape Quest Cycling Shorts
The Pearl Izumi W Escape Quest Cycling Shorts are among the best budget cycling shorts on the market. These cycling shorts are made from 88% nylon and 12% lycra elastane. They are equipped with 1:1 chamois for added comfort. The center bib clip in the shorts allows for a customizable front strap position. The non-constricting silicone leg grippers hold the shorts in place while you move. The shorts also have bioviz reflective elements that ensure low-light visibility during dawn, dusk, and night-time rides.
- 1:1 chamois ensures comfort
- BioViz reflective element for low-light visibility
- Center bib clip for customizable front strap position
- Silicone leg grippers to hold shorts in place
- Not long-lasting
"I found these Pearl Izumi bike shorts, albeit a tad snug, to be adequate for my cycling needs. They're better suited for shorter rides. They're durable, offer a true-to-size fit and are pretty good for the price. All in all, they're good, basic cycling shorts."
2. Best Sun Protection:TYR Women’s Sport Competitor Tank Top
The TYR Women’s Sport Tank Top is designed with a graduated compression for excellent fit and circulation. The body material of the tank top is made from 80% polyester and 20% spandex. The insert of the top is made from 80% nylon and 20% spandex. The tank top has a pocket storage to store your personal belongings. It offers a sun protection of UPF50+. Reviewers have mentioned that the product is durable and sustains significant wear and tear.
- Designed with graduated compression for better fit
- Pocket storage for personal belongings
- Sun protection of UPF50+
None
"The fit stays snug during activity, hardly shifting due to the grippy fabric. The quality appears to hold up, as my matching TYR tri shorts still perform brilliantly after countless uses."
3. Best Comfortable Fit:Run Breeze Women’s Triathlon Suit
The Run Breeze Women’s Triathlon Suit is designed for offering additional comfort and performance to triathletes. The suit is constructed with high-grade Italian technical fabric. It is chlorine-proof and can be used in swimming pools without any reduction in performance or quality. The suit also gives excellent UV protection with UPF 50+. It can dry quickly and is lightweight. The technical fabric combined with the sleeveless design and its ¾ length zip improve your temperature regulation. It is ergonomically designed to fit your body without any issues. The suit has a hypoallergenic padding in the crotch area that keeps you protected on the bike but does not interfere with the swim or run. Reviewers love that it also includes two mesh pockets on the rear to hold your personal belongings.
- Quick drying
- Lightweight
- Chlorine-proof for swimming
- Hypoallergenic padding protects crotch while using bike
- ¾ length zip improves temperature regulation
- UV protection with UPF 50+
- Made of high-grade Italian technical fabric
- 2 mesh pockets in the rear for personal belongings
- Weak zipper
"Wore this for my first triathlon and was pleased. Perfect fit, though I did need a sports bra underneath. Material dried fast offering comfort. Used in an indoor pool and still looks new despite no built-in bra. It's durable, sustaining many lake swims and bike rides. This a dependable pick for triathlons."
Quick TipPearl Izumi W Escape Quest Cycling Shorts Best Overall | TYR Women's Sport Competitor Tank Top Best Sun Protection | Run Breeze Women's Triathlon Suit Best Comfortable Fit | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 349 | 26 | 382 |
| Price | $55 | $71.99 | $49.95 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Lightweight Material:ROKA Women’s Viper Elite Swimskin
The ROKA Women’s Viper Elite Swimskin is a great swimsuit for swimming and triathlon. It is made from premium Italian knit fabric. The fabric is lightweight and has hydrophobic teflon coating. The swimskin has high performance bonded seam construction and a hidden stitch reinforcement. This reduces drag, weight, and chaffing when compared to traditional sewing methods. Check out the reviews online to make an informed decision about this product.
- Made from premium Italian fabric
- Lightweight
- Hydrophobic teflon coating
- Bonded seam construction for better performance
- Hidden stitch reinforcement for comfort
None
"I've found this to be a reliable companion in my swimming workouts. Its comfort and fit have aided my swimming confidence, especially in open water. It has improved my aquatic adventures and I can't wait to use more like this."
5. Best Arch Support:Salomon Women’s Speedcross Trail Running Shoes
The Salomon Women’s Speedcross Trail Running Shoes are made from 100% synthetic material. The shoes have an aggressive grip and a precise foothold. They come with a precise combination of Sensifit with Quicklace and a performance-lasting shape. The shoes are ideal for wet or dirty terrain trails. They have an EVA-shaped footbed and are ortholite. They feature a mid-feather upper construction.
- Good arch support
- Lightweight
- Ideal for wet or dirty terrain trails
- Mid feather upper construction
- Expensive
"I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortably the shoes hugged my wide feet. They've been reliably grippy on various terrains, though a bit slippery in packed mud. The replaceable laces system has proven durable over years of heavy wear. I like their appealing look and perfect fit, making me a repeated buyer over the years."
Quick Tip6. Best Bike For Beginners:Savadeck Carbon Road Bike
The Savadeck Carbon Road Bike is an ideal bike for cycling beginners and enthusiasts. It is a lightweight and stiff carbon road bike. The aerobar extensions of the bike enable you to start and operate your ride effectively. The seat post and seat tube of the bike are aerodynamically contoured. Their fully internal cable routing ensures clean airflow over the entire bike. The tapered head tube of the bike strengthens the torsion rigidity and gives the rider better handling. The bike includes free pedals. The tires of this bike are hard-wearing and have low rolling resistance.
- Tapered head tube strengthens the torsion rigidity
- Internal cable routing ensures clean airflow over the bike
- Lightweight
- Tires have a low rolling resistance
None
"I stumbled upon this carbon fibre road bike after many searches. Assembly was surprisingly easy. The bike is lightweight, fast, smooth, and impeccably crafted. I must admit, I'm impressed by the quality delivered for the value. Highly recommended, especially for beginners exploring quality bikes."
7. Best Flexible:Vibram Women’s KSO EVO-W Trek Shoes
The Vibram Women’s KSO EVO-W Trek Shoes are ideal for trail running and indoor activities. They have a light, airy, and simple adjustable upper design. The shoes give you good flexibility and wet traction. They are made from polyester mesh material and have a film protection. The shoes are ideal for machine wash and easy to air dry. Reviews claim that they can be easily laced and are responsive on unpredictable terrain.
- Lightweight
- Adjustable upper design
- Five-finger design
- Good flexibility
- Easy machine wash
None
"The shoes are a boon in terms of its zero-drop design and their effectiveness in strengthening foot muscles. They're a good fit for indoor workouts. Once you get the right fit, they're extremely comfortable, whether worn around the house or during a training session. It's been a relief to my foot pain."
8. Best Anti-Fog:Aegend Swim Goggles
The Aegend Swim Goggles have a flexible silicone frame and improved nose piece that provide extreme comfort. These goggles will not hurt your nose or leave a mark on your face. The inner surfaces of the lenses are anti-fog coated, thanks to the latest environmental treatment technology. The goggles are ergonomic and ensure a snug fit for different face shapes. They allow no water leak. The lenses of these goggles are colorful and look stylish. These lenses have UV protection coating that reflects the harmful UV rays to protect your eyes. The lenses are made from polycarbonate, allowing them to stay strong for a long time. The well-designed clasp allows you to wear and remove the goggles without pulling hair.
- Improved nosepiece does not hurt your nose
- Inner lenses are anti-fog coated
- Ergonomic size to fit different facial forms
- UV protection for eyes
- Durable, polycarbonate lenses
- Well-designed clasp to wear and remove goggles with ease
- Leak-proof
- May be blurry underwater.
"I found my Aegend goggles impressively clear and snug fitting. Using them several times a week for laps, they've remained fog and leak-free. The overall quality and the after-service impressed me. Highly recommend for lake swimming or intense light conditions thanks to brilliant polarization."
9. Best Secure Fit:Lock Laces – Elastic No Tie Shoelaces
The Lock Laces are the original patented elastic no-tie shoelaces. The shoelaces have elastic 6-strand fibers that provide firm but flexible support and comfort to your feet. The lock laces are of one size and fit a wide variety of shoes. The flexible elastic laces hug your foot for added comfort and support. The lock laces are easy to install and take less than 5 minutes to set up. They are water-resistant as well. The package includes two 48 inch elastic shoelaces, two patented double eyelet lock devices, and two cord clip end pieces. The lock laces are ideal for runners, triathletes, adults, and kids.
- Elastic 6-strand fibers provide firm but flexible support
- One size fits all
- Easy installation
- Water-resistant
- Take just 5 minutes to set up
- Not long-lasting
"I find Lock Laces a wonderful solution, especially when it comes to avoiding muddy hands or nerve-damaged ones. They fit perfectly on most of my boots, securing firmly after a brief break-in period. They've certainly made my life easier and I look forward to continue using them."
10. Best For Easy Transport:TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack
The TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack is perfect for hauling your swim and workout gear. The transition bag has a spacious compartment for storage. The backpack is made from a mesh that is good for ventilation. It has over-the-shoulder straps that allow for easy transport. The backpack also has barrel-lock closures that provide quick and easy access to your gear.
- Spacious compartment
- Mesh fabric for ventilation
- Shoulder straps for easy transport
- Barrel lock provides easy access to gear
- Not long-lasting
"It accommodates all the sand toys perfectly and I appreciate the ease of rinsing them right in the bag. As a swim gear bag, it's a hit, offering convenient pockets and clear visibility of the contents. Its quick-drying, mold-free nature impressed me. Additionally, storage for necessities like goggles, earplugs, and a water bottle is thoughtfully provided. It also worked well for my camper, holding a wet suit, towel, and change of clothes. All in all, a satisfying purchase."
11. Fizik R5 Road Cycling Shoe
The Fizik R5 Road Cycling Shoe is designed to deliver a timeless look and versatile performance. This shoe has a smart form-fitting construction and features a composite nylon outsole that provides ultimate comfort and pedaling efficiency. The shoe has a foot-wrapping velcro closure design that gives an enveloping fit. The shoe is designed and engineered to perform on paved roads.
- Versatile performance
- Form-fitting construction
- Nylon outsole for comfort and pedaling efficiency
- Foot wrapping design for enveloping fit
None
"In my experience, the Fizik Tempo R5 Powerstrap shoes have been a solid investment; with a sleek look and comfort that stands out. They suit when you pair them with thicker merino socks. I highly recommend them for their superior quality."
12. Rockay Accelerate Anti-Blister Running Socks
The Rockay Accelerate Anti-Blister Running Socks are meant for extreme conditions like ultra-marathons and obstacle course races. The socks are made from 100% recycled ocean waste and landfill fabrics. They have a polygiene coating that allows you to wear them more and wash them less. The compression socks have ventilation zones that wick away sweat and keep blisters at bay. The socks are breathable and have padding in the toes and heel areas. They have a powerful compression in the arch and a tight elastic at the top that keeps dirt from entering.
- Made from recycled ocean waste and landfill fabrics
- Polygiene coating keeps them clean
- Ventilation zone to prevent sweat and blisters
- Padding in the toes and heel areas for comfort
- Tight elastic at the top keeps dirt from entering
None
13. ZEEPORTE Mask Fin Snorkel Set
The Zeeporte Mask Fin Snorkel Set is ideal for any recreational snorkeler. It is equipped with snorkeling fins with a lightweight and compact short blade. The adjustable dry snorkel is made from soft hypoallergenic transparent silicone. The snorkel set is suitable for snorkeling, swimming, body surfing, and other related activities. The dive mask, in the shape of swim goggles, are made from a four-window design for a panoramic view. The diving mask’s skirt is designed with soft and flexible silicone and the food-grade silicone mouthpiece creates a watertight seal while underwater. The trek fins are longer, lightweight, and responsive and can kick the fluid effortlessly and powerfully. The training fins are designed as an open-heel style and have adjustable straps. The snorkel set includes a Zeeporte long snorkel set with adjustable fins, two window tempered glass lens masks, dry top silicone snorkel, and a travel gear bag.
- Lightweight
- Dry snorkel made from hypoallergenic transparent silicone
- Ergonomic size for a panoramic view
- Watertight seal keeps water from getting in while diving
- Gets foggy
"This snorkeling gear surpassed my expectations. Reliable plastic construction for the palms and snorkel. The mask fogged a bit, yet it's fitting and seal are impressive. Snorkel's a different style than I'm accustomed to, but ensures no water passage. Overall, would recommend."
14. Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
The Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm works as an invisible, dry, and protective barrier. It repels water and moisture while letting skin breathe and sweat escape. The balm is made from clean and plant-derived ingredients. This balm is cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, skin-safe, and kid-safe. The balm does not contain any petroleum, lanolin, and mineral oils. The balm is effective and long-lasting. It can be used daily in humid and dry conditions for a pain-free and active life. The balm keeps the pores clog-free and lets skin breathe.
- Creates a protective barrier
- Water-resistant
- Does not clog pores
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Unpleasant smell
"Running daily, I've faced the discomfort of chafing. Using this stick is really easy. No more thigh chafing for me in dresses and skirts. An exceptional investment for comfort."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 32,678 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
15. TYR Wrinkle-Free Silicone Swimming Cap
The TYR Wrinkle-Free Silicone Swimming Cap is engineered to provide protection from chlorine water and increase speed while swimming. The cap is made from silicone. It is designed with a wrinkle-free fit to reduce drag. The cap is also tear-resistant. It is made to slide on easily and stay on. It is perfect for both adults and children. The swimming cap is available in an array of colors.
- Tear-resistant
- Easy to put on
- Provides protection from chlorine
- Wrinkle-free fit to reduce drag
- Not long-lasting
"The cap is made of durable material and fits securely. It's less stretchy yet thick, ensuring warmth in cold water and visibility during open swims. Overall, a satisfactory choice for swimmers."
16. New Wave Swim Bubble
The New Wave Swim Bubble is an ultralight swim buoy. It provides a safe way to float and rest during your swims. The swim bubble is a larger and lighter buoy. The bubble provides reassurance for safe swimmers by adding extra visibility and floatation. The buoy is lightweight and inflatable, making it easier to carry everywhere. It is brightly colored and is visible even from a long distance. The buoy comes in four bright colors – neon green, yellow, pink, and orange.
- Lightweight
- Inflatable
- Brightly colored to provide visibility
None
"My purchase of this buoy has definitely heightened my comfort while swimming in the open lake. This tool provides adjustable waistband and leaves no tug. It's a valuable tool to enhance visibility and safety. As a bonus, it lends itself as an emergency floating device."
17. Fitletic Hydra 16 Hydration Belt
The Fitletic Hydra 16 Hydration Belt has a patented dura-comfort technology that guarantees no bouncing, riding up, or chafing while running. The hydration pack is phone-friendly and can store your mobile to play music, check maps, or make calls while on the go. The belt can be used as a running belt, race belt, triathlon belt, trail running belt, marathon belt, or iron man belt. It has an innovative design that allows water bottles to be quickly accessed. It is water-resistant and keeps your phone and other essentials safe and dry.
- Water-resistant
- Innovative design allows easy access to water bottles
- Dura comfort technology guarantees no bouncing, riding up, or chafing
None
"My experience with the hydration belt has been largely positive. It's comfortable and doesn’t shift during my runs. The belt fits perfectly, even with room to tighten, making it suitable for a variety of sizes. The ergonomics are perfect, while the angled bottles and large-entrance allow easy drinking and refilling."
18. Hulislem S1 Sport Polarized Sunglasses
The Hulislem S1 Sport Sunglasses are made from the latest innovations. The frames of the sunglasses are designed in Italy, and the material was formulated in Switzerland. The frames are made from polycarbonate frames that are lightweight. The glasses are great for both men and women. The lenses are mirror flash coated and the frames are stress-resistant. The sunglasses have an accutint lens coloring system that enhances your vision. These polarized glasses are FDA-approved.
- Lightweight
- Sun-protected
- Accutint lens do not wrap your vision
- FDA-approved
- Could be uncomfortable.
"Used these sunglasses during numerous outdoor activities like biking and mountain climbing. They're lightweight and scratch-resistant with proficient polarization. Overall, a satisfactory buy that's honestly robust, considering their low-priced range."
19. Garmin Forerunner 735XT Multisport GPS Running Watch
The Garmin GPS Running watch comes with multi sport features. It has a wrist-based heart rate that allows you to check your heart beat while running. It also provides advanced dynamics for running, cycling, and swimming. The GPS watch includes ground contact time balance, stride length, and vertical ratio. Other added features of this watch are smart notifications, a timing chip, live tracking, and automatic uploads to Garmin connect. The watch has Connect IQ to customize watch faces and apps.
- Heart rate tracker
- Easy to use
- Water-resistant
- Good battery life
- Customizable watch faces
- Not long-lasting
20. Giro Savant Road Bike Helmet
The Giro Savant Road Bike Helmet is an amazing gear for riders who enjoy great routes at a swift pace. The cycling helmet is a comfortable fit that cradles your head. The in-mold construction and polycarbonate outer shell make sure the helmet does not weigh you down. The helmet also comes with an impact-absorbing foam liner. The helmet is stylish yet compact. It has 25 vents with internal channeling that keeps your head nice and cool while biking.
- Impact absorbing foam liner
- 25 vents with internal channeling
- Lightweight
- Comfortable fit
- Not for large heads.
"I found the helmet light, adjustable, and notably comfortable. For its style and comfort, I will gladly keep it as a reliable backup. It's a product I would consider repurchasing."
The Bottom Line
Triathlon is one of the best forms of exercise that you can perform. It boosts heart health, builds strengths, develops balance, and aids in healthy weight management. But to reap the benefits of triathlon, you need to be equipped with the best gears so that you can enjoy the journey safely. Be it the right swimwear, the fitting shoes, the safest helmets, the comfortable socks, or the lightweight snorkels, you need the best of it all to have a pleasant experience. The list above has some of the best gear for triathlons. The Pearl Izumi W Escape Quest Cycling Shorts offers a comfortable fit with silicone leg grippers to hold them in place, the Salomon Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoes provide reliable performance on challenging terrains, while the Garmin Forerunner 735XT Multisport GPS Running Watch offers advanced tracking and monitoring for various activities. They are all sturdy and long-lasting. You may consult a certified personal trainer to get expert perspective on what type of gears would work best for you. Get yourself a set of the perfect triathlon gears and ace your race.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Aditi Naskar, holds a diploma in health and wellness and is passionate about writing comprehensive fitness content for her readers. She relies on the best triathlon gear to get the most out of her workout without compromising comfort. She has carefully studied the user feedback of the most popular options on the market to create this list of the best ones. Gear sets like these are budget-friendly and make your workout more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you wear the same outfit in a triathlon?
Yes, you can compete in a triathlon while wearing the same outfit. Athletes wear the same outfit and only change their shoes throughout the race. Reducing the number of changes required during the transition is a tried-and-tested way to save time during the race.
Can you swim in a tri suit?
Yes, you can swim in a tri suit because it reduces drag while allowing a full range of motion in your shoulders to optimize your stroke.
How tight should a tri suit fit?
A tri suit should have a tight, smooth fit and some compression, but not too tight that it restricts movement.
Are triathlon suits warm?
Yes, triathlon suits keep you warm. However, they can also keep you cool enough to keep you from overheating.
How long does a tri suit last?
A tri suit usually lasts 4 to 10 years.
How thick is a triathlon wetsuit?
A triathlon’s thickness ranges from 1mm to 5mm.
Best Triathlon Helmets – Reviews And Buying GuideBest Triathlon Cycling ShoesBest Triathlon Sunglasses And Buying TipsBest Hydration Packs For Running Long DistancesBest Dip Stations For At-Home Workouts
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