Interested in racing a triathlon, but anxious that you'll need the latest expensive gear for three different sports: swimming, biking and running? Don't worry—if you're a beginning triathlete, you likely won't need to break the bank. If you’re an active person, chances are you already have much of what you need. To fill in the gaps, check sports resale shops and online auctions for great deals on barely used gear.
Swimming Gear
You'll need a swimsuit, of course. Women should look for a slim-fitting one- or two-piece suit made for action, not fashion. Many female triathletes buy a suit with a built-in bra, and wear it for the entire race. For men, triathlete and author Eric Harr recommends a Speedo-style swimming brief, over which you can don bike shorts or running shorts later in the event. Goggles and a swim cap are recommended. If you're training in a pool, get a latex swim cap, which will hold up against chlorine.
Biking Gear
You don't need to spend a fortune on a new bicycle: any old road or mountain bike will work fine. If you haven't ridden it in a while, take it to a bike shop for a fitting and tuneup. For shoes, either wear the shoes you'll be running in, or try clipless cycling shoes that snap into your bike pedals. Padded cycling shorts will make your ride much more comfortable. And remember to always wear an ANSI- or Snell-certified helmet.
Running Gear
Keep your stylish sneakers for running errands: it’s best to run in shoes made specifically for running. Find a specialty athletic shoe shop that can analyze your gait and recommend a pair of shoes specifically for your feet. Remember, running shoes don’t last forever; after time, the soles begin to wear down and become less supportive. Dr. Perry Julien, an Atlanta podiatrist, recommends switching to new shoes every 250 to 500 miles.
Additional Gear
Use anti-fog spray or drops in your swimming goggles to keep your vision crystal-clear. To stay hydrated during your run, wear a close-fitting hydration belt with snap-on flasks. Find a good sunscreen lotion with an SPF of at least 30, and put it on whenever you train outside. And you'll want a slim, light pair of sports sunglasses for biking and running. Look for a pair that grips well and won't slip down your nose when you sweat.
Gear for Race Day
Come race day, you’ll need a few extra pieces of gear to help your triathlon run smoothly. Bring a warm-up suit or old sweatsuit to wear before the race, to keep your muscles warm. If the swim portion of your triathlon is at a beach, put a shallow plastic tray filled with water in your transition area, to wash any sand off your feet before you put on your socks.
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