Sign up for an ironman and you commit to a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a marathon run of 262 miles. To complete this race you need the right equipment. While the basics remain consistent -- swim goggles, a bike and running shoes -- countless options exist for fulfilling these needs. Most of your choices will come down to personal preference and the gear that fits your body best.
Tri-Suit
You might opt for a tri-suit for your ironman race or a tri-top along with tri-shorts. These shorts and top combinations are usually tight-fitting and feature light padding in the seat. Most tri-suits are made from material that's designed to dry quickly so you don't need to change clothing between legs of the race.
Swim Gear
A good pair of swim goggles is a must for the ironman triathlon. In a non-wetsuit swim, the gear you wear must be made of a textile material like Lycra or nylon and cannot include any rubberized material like neoprene. Swimwear can have a zipper but it cannot extend past your knees or shoulders or cover your neck. Many ironman triathletes use speed suits, also known as skin suits, during non-wetsuit swims. These tight-fitting, one-piece garments decrease drag.
Wetsuit
You can wear wetsuits when the water temperature is 76.1 degrees F or less, but your wetsuit may not be more than 5 mm thick. Neoprene socks are allowed if the water temperature is 65 degrees F or colder. Wetsuits provide buoyancy and reduce drag, and triathlon wetsuits come in three main varieties: a full cut that covers you from neck to ankles, a sleeveless variety and a short cut, which is knee length.
Bike
The options for ironman cycling equipment are vast and add up quickly, but the most important thing is getting a bike that fits your body, since the most technologically advanced bike in the world will do you no good if the fit is poor, says Wes Hobson, lead author of "Swim, Bike, Run." Triathlon bike frames and materials are designed to improve aerodynamics and lighten the bike's weight. Bikes often feature a seat tube angle greater than 76 degrees to help you maintain an aerodynamic riding position and reduce hip flexion angle, which makes your run easier. Numerous options exist for drivetrain components, shifters, saddles, tires and wheels, such as more aerodynamic disk wheels or more lightweight spoked wheels. These choices come down to individual preference. Many triathlon-specific bikes have aerobars, specially designed handlebars known to reduce drag.
Cycling Gear
A helmet is mandatory and many are aerodynamically designed. Eyewear also is important for safety. Your shades should offer ultraviolet protection and you may opt for a pair that has high-impact resistance. You'll choose among a variety of lens colors such as light yellow-tinted lenses for cloudy days with low-light conditions. Clipless pedals and cycling shoes are another consideration, especially if you want to premount your shoes on your bike.
Running Shoes
As with the bike, fit is key for running shoes. If you are high arched and do not pronate, you need a neutral shoe. If you are a mild to moderate pronator, you need a stability shoe. This type of shoe comes in varying degrees of stability. If you have a flat foot structure and pronate, use a motion control shoe.
Member Comments