Triathlons are more popular than ever, according to USA Triathlon, the governing body for the sport in the U.S. The organization registered as few as 21,000 members in 2000, but by mid-2010, the organization counted 125,000 members. With more than 2,000 officially sanctioned races a year, you'll find triathlons catered to age groups and ability---all you need to bring is your gear.
Speedsuit
Speedsuits are one-piece swimsuits designed to help propel you through the water with buoyant fabric and an aerodynamic shape. Never underestimate the power of a quick swim time. Normann Stadler's win at the 2006 Kona Triathlon came largely because he had a blistering swim time. It was the first year he'd worn a blue seventy pointzero 3 suit. After that win, other pro athletes---including Kona's 2006 third-place finisher Faris Al-Sultan---jumped on the blue seventy bandwagon in an effort to improve their swim times, too.
Tri Bike
Many beginning triathlon athletes compete using their road bikes, while more experienced athletes often upgrade to a specialized "tri bike." The difference is all in the aerodynamics, says Aaron Hersh, the tech editor of Triathlon Magazine. Road bikes are built for comfort, not for speed. They don't automatically put you into an aerodynamic position, crouched and leaning forward over the handlebars. Tri bikes automatically position you for less wind drag, with lowered shoulders and a more horizontal torso. A tri bike, Hersh says, is the biggest upgrade a triathlete can make to her equipment.
Bike Shoes
A bike shoe's job is to offer stability, giving you the power to push and pull the pedal without worrying about slippage. This makes them a bit heavier than triathlon running shoes. Bike shoes also need to be easy-on and easy-off for fast transitions, as well as comfortable, breathable and adjustable. Liz Hichens, Web editor for Triathlon Magazine, found all these traits in the Scott Pro line of bike shoes, specifically the Scott Pro Lady bike shoes. The shoes offer an adjustable buckle and dual Velcro strap fasteners, satisfying the comfort, adjustability and easy-off factors. She also praises the shoe's breathable mesh upper, extending from heel to toe for proper ventilation.
Running Shoes
Professional triathlete Alex McDonald, member of the Timex Multisport team and eighth-place finisher in the Ironman USA race, wears the Brooks "Ravenna" running shoe. He credits the shoes with a "quick toe off" and good spring in the step. He's worn the shoes in the Ironman St. George and the Ironman California 70.3. On the women's side, Brooks is also the choice for Ironman World Champion Chrissie Wellington of Great Britain---she wears the T6 racers.
FuelBelt
FuelBelt is a special brand of belt designed to carry bottles of water or sports drinks. The belt fits close to the body to keep your stride free and your arm motion loose. These belts can carry anywhere from two to eight bottles, and athletes wear them for training and during competition. Professional triathletes who wear a FuelBelt include Alex McDonald, Chrissie Wellington, Ironman world champion Craig Alexander and nine-time Ironman New Zealand champion Cameron Brown.
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