You can swim, bike and run in a single set of clothes, as long as you opt for clothing specially designed for all three activities. That clothing can consist of a single, one-piece unit or a pair of shorts and a top that also suit your needs. The garments' fit and materials are key.
Garments
You have several options when it comes to one set of clothes that can work for swimming, biking and running. The simplest option is to go with a trisuit, which is a one-piece unit that resembles a tank top attached to bicycle shorts. As the name implies, trisuits are meant for triahlons, where all three activities are part of the event. They feature a front zipper or other closure and can come with padding in the crotch area to prevent chafing while you run and bike. Other options include a pair of tri shorts with a tri top, which is basically the trisuit in two separate units. Women's tops can have a built-in bra for support without the need for an additional undergarment.
Fit
Clothing that works for all three activities needs to be sleek and fit snugly. The shirts, shorts and suits achieve this with stretchy materials and streamlined details. Seams are flat, rather than raised, and closures include zippers rather than bulky and cumbersome buttons and snaps. Seams on the shorts generally run between 6 and 8 inches, while the shirt lengths usually hit at -- or just below -- the waist. Elastic waistbands and arm holes keep the fit close, so you don't end up with excess drag in the water or wind resistance on land.
Materials
A wide range of specialized materials are available for clothing that works for a swim, bike ride and run. Since a squishy suit is uncomfortable and can weigh you down on the bike or run, one of the top material features is its ability to dry quickly. Many of the garments use stretchy synthetic blends of nylon and polyester, although soft, quick-drying cotton chamois is another option. Synthetic and cotton blends have also hit the market. Other choice material features include an ability to wick away moisture and sweat, ultraviolet protection and antimicrobial qualities that stop bacteria from forming and the odor at a minimum. Compression fabrics are one more option, with a compressed fit that increases your blood flow beneath the garment.
Buying
Specialized clothing that works for swimming, biking and running is not excessively expensive when compared to other active wear. Trisuit prices for the higher-cut suits started at $78 in February 2011 and ranged to $300 or more for those that cover more skin. Triathlon tops and bottoms started around $30 to $40 in February 2011 and ranged to $100 or more. You can buy triathlon clothing at specialty sports retailers.
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