Since triathlons encompass three widely different sports, racers can find that packing for a triathlon can be quite a challenge. Leaving a piece of gear at home can single-handedly ruin a person's race, and since swimming, cycling and running are sports that require varied sets of equipment, it can be easy to forget to pack an essential piece of gear. It pays to make a thorough list of gear to pack to ensure that nothing gets left behind on race day.
Swim Gear
For the swim portion of the event, you'll need your swimsuit and your wetsuit. Bring two pairs of goggles; you'll want a backup in case a strap breaks or a lens is cracked on your way to the race. Be sure to bring a swimming cap, as well as body lube to prevent your wetsuit from chafing.
Cycling Gear
Bring your bike, cycling shoes and cycling gloves. Your triathlon suit should do triple duty as your swimsuit, cycling shorts and running shorts, but if you'd like, bring along cycling shorts and a cycling jersey. Sunglasses will be useful for keeping the sun out of your eyes. A helmet is required in most races, but even if it's not required, it's still a good idea to wear one, and a water bottle is essential for staying hydrated during your ride. Bring along a spare tube, a bike pump and tools as well for a quick tire change in case of a puncture.
Run Gear
Pack your running shoes and socks if you're not comfortable running without socks. Sunglasses are key; usually, triathletes just keep their cycling glasses on when they transition to the run. Many runners also wear a visor or a hat to keep the sun off of their faces on a run as well. Don't forget your race belt, and a hydration belt is advisable for longer runs.
Other Gear
Bring towels and sunscreen, as well as body lube to keep blisters and chafing to a minimum. Bring your race information packet and a body marker to apply your race number. A sport watch will come in handy for keeping track of your pace, and a triathlon bag will hold all your gear and keep it organized in the transition area.
References
- Triathlon Magazine's Complete Triathlon Book, Matt Fitzgerald, 2003
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