Best triathlon equipment ranking for 2022

Triathlon is an expensive and elite sport in which they compete in three directions at once - swimming (cross-country skiing), cyclocross, running. Promotes comprehensive and active development. Getting to the professional level requires considerable financial investments.

Next, we will take a closer look at what equipment a triathlete needs in 2022. We will also tell you about the history of the emergence and main distances of triathlon.

History of appearance

From the Greek tri - three, athlon - competition, struggle. Appeared in France (1920), where the "Race of the Resourceful" was held - athletes rode 12 km without a break on a bicycle, ran 3 km, swam across the Marne Canal. The competition is similar to a modern triathlon.

But the thirst for extreme sports has no boundaries, for example, conquer the Arctic Circle, swim across the Atlantic Ocean and many other challenges that a person throws himself. Thus, IronMan (1977) appeared as a confirmation of the endurance of athletes in amateur races in Hawaii.

Winning such competitions is a prestigious achievement. The first IronMan was won by runner Gordon Haller. The next 2 are swimmers, despite the fact that most of the distance is cycling. That is, it was confirmed that only an athlete prepared in all respects can win, and not in one particular sport.

Triathlon and its distances

It differs depending on the venue, time of year and the organizers of the competition.

summer

Summer competitions are divided into several main distances:

Distance	Swimming, km	Bicycle race, km	Running, km
"Supersprint"	0.3	8	2
"Sprint"	0.75	20	5
"Olympic"	1.5	40	10
"Half ironman"	1.9	90	21.1
"Ironman"	3.86	180.25	42.195

• "Supersprint" - The shortest distance. Designed for the younger age category.
• "Sprint" - Twice as long as a super sprint. Differs in preparation, pace, speed of passage.
• Olimpiyka - The most spectacular distance. It is also called international - it has been included in the program of the Olympic Games since 2000. It is this distance that is most common around the world.
• "Half ironman" - It is also called a half, "triathlon 113", "triathlon 70.3". 113 (70.3) is the number of kilometers (miles) to be covered. Thanks to its accessibility, it attracts mass character. It has been held since 2005. Is a preparation for Ironman.
• "Ironman" - "Iron" is one of the most difficult tests around the world. However, athletes register annually to receive the Iron Man title. The strongest athletes compete in Hawaii. The tracks have a different configuration, degree of intensity. The test is difficult, but people also came up with an "ultra-ironman".
• "Ultraironman" is an enlarged "Ironman", for example, a double, triple or decatriathlon.

The start of the summer competition is the swimming stage, the finish is the running segment.

Winter

An exciting, quite popular competition around the world.

There are no clear criteria for distances - it has its own characteristics based on terrain conditions. The International Federation regulates: cross-country - 7-9 km, cycling - 12-14 km, skiing - 10-12 km.

The change of stages of the competition is carried out in the transit zone, where each athlete has a place for storing the necessary accessories.

Equipment: selection criteria

You need to seriously prepare for the triathlon, discarding previous sports experience.

To successfully finish, you also need to pick up equipment that will help you not to leave the race, to avoid health problems.

Required equipment:

• Swimming suit. You can swim 1.5 km even in swimming trunks, and to swim 4 km, you need a wetsuit to reduce drag, increase buoyancy, and save energy. When choosing, the temperature of the water is taken into account. The main disadvantage is that it is difficult to get out of it. Wetsuits are made from a stretchable material that takes the size of a person over time - this is neoprene. If at the first dressing it is somewhat uncomfortable, then later this inconvenience may disappear. Wetsuits are made in different patterns, so it is likely that other sizes will suit you.
• Starter suit. Recommended for use under a wetsuit. It can not be changed during the race, which will save time.
• Swimming caps. At big competitions, they are issued, as a rule, by the organizers. For cold water, latex caps are often used - the cheapest, coolest and least durable, silicone - a little more expensive, stronger, warmer. The most expensive and durable are Lycra spandex. But they don't protect the hair from water, and they don't reduce drag as well.
• Towel. When you get out of the water, you need to dry off as quickly as possible. A noticeable large towel will help here.
• Bicycle, appropriate helmet, goggles. You can use a mountain bike or a bike with thin tires.On long distances, any bike will be much more efficient if you take it with a direct aerodynamic handlebar, aerobar, and pedals that are attached directly to the shoes (clipless pedals). If you are serious about cycling, it is better to use a combination - a pedal + hard-soled shoes. Good cycling shoes are Velcro, not laces. A set of clipless cycling shoes would be perfect.
• Cross-country running shoes. Equipment for running is no different from a regular marathon. For quick transit, you can pay attention to speed laces - these are elastic laces that you can not tie.
• Cap, glasses. It is recommended to use in hot weather to protect against UV radiation, dust, wind.

Triathlon is not cheap, but it's worth it. After all, the most important thing is to overcome yourself, to reveal new facets of character.

Next, we will try to streamline and systematize the existing equipment based on price categories.

The cheapest triathlon suits for 2022

Starter suit Garneau Comp Suit (2017) with a diaper, female

Garneau is a world leader in the production of helmets, bicycles, clothing, footwear and other sports accessories.

Comp Suit is suitable for beginner athletes. The material of manufacture provides support to the muscles, makes them more resilient, and protects against injuries caused by fatigue. The stitches improve the aerodynamic properties of the suit. That is, the design provides the freedom of movement needed in the water or when running.

The product also includes a Mini Dry Fleece Light Chamois diaper pad, a 38 cm hidden zipper with an internal flap for quick removal.

• compression properties of tissues;
• chlorine resistant material;
• diaper keeps comfort;
• mesh Power Mash;
• UV protection UPF / SPF 50;
• pockets are pressed to the body tightly;
• reflective elements;
• fast drying fabrics.

• To go to the toilet you need to completely remove the top;
• diaper is too thin.

Trisuit HUUB Essentials Trisuit

British brand for the production of wetsuits and other sports equipment. Strives to create quality products based on scientific research and the real needs of athletes.

The product of the Essentials series fits snugly to the body. They have the necessary characteristics for effective sports activities. The model is made of light and elastic fabric, which consists of 77% polyamide and 23% elastane.

Fleece lining guarantees comfort at all stages of the competition, especially in the cycling race. Mesh panels on the back allow you to control the temperature to create a comfortable environment in the heat or cold.

Zip closure - easy to put on, if necessary, quickly remove. There are pockets to store sports nutrition or personal items.

Perfect for triathletes to participate in competitions or prepare for them.

• famous brand;
• hydrodynamics;
• landing is comfortable;
• reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis;
• improvement of blood circulation.

• forms folds during storage;
• small range of colors.

Aquasphere Aquaskin Shorty 1mm Wetsuit

The Italian "Aqua Sphere" is a well-known global brand for the production of equipment and equipment for water sports. It was formed in the 90s of the last century.

The products are of high quality, due to the introduction of new technologies, as well as due to constant research of consumer demand.

The Aquaskin Shorty Wetsuit by Aquashere is well suited for short and long distance training and competition. Made from 1mm stretch Glide Skin neoprene. It has a smooth surface, which reduces water resistance, increases swimming speed.

The suit is resistant to chlorine, protected from exposure to UV rays. Removes moisture. Provides support, comfort over long distances. Promotes muscle recovery, reduces swelling and pain.

• a pocket for storing, for example, a player or a cell phone;
• mesh fabric on the back improves breathability;
• price-quality ratio;
• solar ultraviolet protection;
• the material of manufacture removes moisture from the surface of the skin.

• in the absence of the sun, discomfort is felt;
• problematic to put on;
• only suitable for warm temperatures.

Specialized Triathlon Pro Skinsuit, diaper / Black

Made from Revolutional Energy Sport Lycra, thanks to which the muscles warm up faster, and fatigue and the risk of injury are reduced. The fabric fits perfectly, which allows you to merge with it together and not feel discomfort even on the longest distance of the triathlon. Mesh sides allow breathability and moisture wicking.

For quick donning, there is a front zipper, two back pockets for small items, electronics.

Pro Skinsuit with short sleeves will help you feel fresh when the sun is not in sight. During the summer heat, you can easily get sunburned.

• removes moisture;
• quick-drying diaper;
• front zipper;
• lack of sleeves, quickly removed;

• designed for shorter distances;
• not very comfortable in the sun.

HUUB Essentials Trisuit, black

Ideal for morning workouts when the sun has not yet risen high. The fabric sits tightly on the figure, providing excellent hydro-, aerodynamics. Thanks to the shoulder straps, the product does not press, does not hinder movement.

Fleece lining for a comfortable ride. Fastened with a zipper. Has two back pockets for small items. The material of manufacture is neoprene, which allows the use of brighter colors, unlike rubber counterparts.

• elasticity;
• fleece lining;
• landing aerodynamic;
• production material - 77% polyamide;
• mesh inserts at the back;
• wide shoulder straps.

• the zipper on the back does not protect well from water;
• the sleeves are short, you can get burned or get sunburned in the sun;
• to go to the toilet, you have to remove the top.

The Best Mid-Range Triathlon Suits

Men's Pursuit SL Wetsuit

Optimum balance of elasticity, softness, durability. The SCS Nanoskin and 4mm Aqua Drive coating minimizes friction, reduces water resistance while providing freedom of movement.

Full fit to the body (without squeezing) due to the unique Aqua-Grip collar and Aqua-Flex cuff.

The lower part of the product has a diaper (bicycle lining), which will ensure a long stay in the bicycle saddle.

• quick-drying;
• part of the product has different buoyancy;
• UV protection;
• increase swimming speed;
• mobility due to Thermo-Guard technology;
• Power-Zone - less energy consumption per stroke;
• specialized inserts.

• short sleeves - you can get burned;
• rinse after use;
• zipper on the back;
• not recommended to dry in the sun.

Sleeveless wetsuit Mormali Triatlhon S301 3/2

The Brazilian company Mormali has been specializing in the manufacture of sportswear since 1975. It was founded by a young surfer. He was one of the first to propose swimwear that would protect the body from hypothermia to ensure comfort during diving to great depths or staying in water for a long time.

Today the company is the largest manufacturer of wetsuits and products for active sports.

S301 3/2 - sleeveless wetsuit. Made from SCS neoprene. It is characterized by a low coefficient of friction, a high degree of extensibility. At the same time, the movement does not constrain, facilitates sliding.

The production uses patented Mormali technology, for example, internal hidden seams Seal Tape-Blindstitch, which completely block the ingress of water. A great option if the air is warm and the water is cool.

• knees are protected;
• triple neoprene - on arms, armpits, shoulders, knees;
• covers the whole body, the arms remain open.

• forearms are open, easy to get burned;
• you might get the impression that you just spared the money for a wetsuit with sleeves.

Scott Plasma LD Starter Suit (2020) / Black/Yellow

The American company is known for the production of ski poles. It was created by E. Scott in 1958.

Today it is one of the largest manufacturers of accessories for winter sports, as well as motorized and cycling sports. The equipment of the company has a high level of safety.

Scott Plasma LD has all the necessary features for comfortable use. Equipped with Scott Tri padding.

Stretchy 4-way fabric with an ergonomic fit, 3D mesh on the back allows you to manage moisture while providing breathability to prevent overheating.

The product also has 2 pockets on the back and 2 integrated pockets on the front, designed to store essentials.

• designed for long distances
• rear mesh panels;
• 2 aero-optimized back pockets;
• additional inside pockets on the front;
• the most flat seams.

• semi-automatic front zipper;
• difficult to put on - you have to use a special gel.

Challenger 2016 4mm Men's Wetsuit

Differs in elasticity. Protects from the sun, wind and all kinds of injuries, retains the heat generated by the human body as much as possible.

The product helps you swim by reducing drag thanks to Aqua Drive technology. Thickness - 4 mm, which allows you not to experience discomfort.

The SCS coating protects and prolongs the life of the product. Perfect for triathlon competitions. It is relatively inexpensive. Permissible water temperature: +10 - +20 C.

• seamless knitting;
• fits snugly to the body, without rubbing;
• Hermo-Guard technology allows you to keep warm;
• fast drying;

• hard to remove - zipper at the back;
• movement is a little constraining;
• water seeps under the shell;
• cannot boast sufficient wear resistance.

Garneau Women’s Pro Carbon Suit (2017), diaper / Black-Green

Designed for maximum performance in competition. Special fabric with the addition of carbon fibers Carbon-X Mesh increases compression properties, promotes muscle performance, recovery.

The addition of carbon fiber during production improves blood circulation, eliminates antistatic properties.

The product is also equipped with Tri Air Chamois antibacterial diaper for maximum comfort during competitions. The zipper with internal flap is designed for quick removal.

• improves aerodynamics;
• quick-drying fabric;
• diaper Tri Air Chamois;
• compression support for muscles;
• 2 back pockets with flap;
• UV protection technology;
• elastic bottom edge;
• seams are flat, reduce the risk of chafing.

• not too resistant to mechanical damage;
• service life is short.

The best premium triathlon suits

Mad Wave Men Wetsuit Rapid

In the manufacture of Mad Wave, we used the material of the world famous corporation, which occupies a leading position in the production of neoprene with a multi-level structure. It is characterized by lightness and strength, which will provide thermoregulation, will allow you to maintain buoyancy.

In Mad Wave models, the top layer does not absorb water, thanks to Glideskin technology. Made from 100% neoprene.The product is great for training and triathlon competitions.

• made of wear-resistant material;
• protected from getting wet;
• the zipper unzips quickly;
• glued seams provide hydrodynamics;
• antimicrobial pad;

• hard to remove, time is wasted;
• only suitable for short distances, up to 3 km.

Wetsuit for men HUUB Varman Wetsuit, 3/5 mm

It has incredible features, some of which are exclusive to HUUB and not found on any other wetsuit.

Tested, tested and perfected by the fastest triathlon swimmers. This product will provide 43% more buoyancy than standard neoprene, with complete freedom of movement.

Special inner material, Breakaway Zipper with Velcro closure make it easy to put on. The flexible, low-cut neckline prevents chafing. And soldered seam technology has been used to ensure maximum comfort. Suitable for performances and performance improvement. Composition: neoprene - 80%.

• low resistance;
• warmer with long sleeves
• convenience, optimal compression;
• aligns the body;
• additional glide on water;
• improves swimming performance.

• there is no variety in color, design, pattern;
• high price.

Wetsuit for men 2XU GHST Wetsuit (light), 3/2/1 mm, black

Full suit with long sleeves and legs, designed for cold or cool water. Lightweight, flexible, providing warmth and maximum freedom of movement.

Made using modern technologies using Yamamoto neoprene - extremely comfortable, but less durable, more prone to compression at depth. Seamless edges add elasticity and reduce chafing. Smooth outer coating reduced water resistance.

Velocity Strakes technology provided balance by guiding the water currents. Thanks to this, it became easier to maintain the body on long swims.

• light weight;
• additional inserts, enhance movement;
• increased buoyancy;
• seamless design;
• effective protection.

• creases form during careless storage;
• high price;
• no choice in color, pattern.

Men's Phantom 2.0 Wetsuit

The most advanced triathlon suit from Aqua Sphere. Made from 8 types of Yamamoto stretch neoprene in various thicknesses (1-5mm). Helps to retain heat, reduces the load on the muscles, allows the athlete to make less effort.

The soft collar is tightly fixed on the neck, does not interfere with the movement of the head. SCS coating minimizes drag. The internal Core Power lumbar support system helps to stabilize the body position in the water, as well as reduce body twisting. In the area of ​​the popliteal and armpits, Bio-Stretch Zone inserts with a thickness of 1 mm protect the skin from chafing.

Recommended for high performance athletes.

• Thermo-Guard allows you to better keep warm;
• reliable protection against hypothermia;
• long time in water;
• reverse zipper.

• high price;
• after swimming requires rinsing.

Mad Wave Women Wetsuit Rapid

This is an effective option for training and triathlon competitions at distances up to 3 km. Differs in durability and elasticity. Provides thermoregulation during the swim. Allows you to maintain buoyancy.

The technologies used keep the body position in the water, do not hinder movement, and also increase buoyancy throughout the swim.
The zipper is unfastened with one hand, you can quickly take off the suit so as not to lose time in the transit area.

• reliability and comfort;
• maneuverability;
• skin protection;
• strong seams - hydrodynamics;
• FINA certificate for international competitions.

• high price;
• problematic to put on;
• requires some maintenance to increase the service life.

conclusions

Triathlon includes three stages of competition - swimming, cycling, running. The suit must protect against overheating, hypothermia, maintain muscle functionality at all stages.

It is difficult for a beginner and even a professional to choose a suitable product - there are many options, it is not easy to appreciate the differences.

We've looked at the key differences and some of the features of starter suits, as well as a ranking of the best triathlon suits at various price points to make your choice easier.