Want to know where to buy triathlon gear? You have landed at the right place!
In 2017, 4.08 million US citizens participated in triathlons.
When new triathletes enter the sport, the most common issue they face is finding the right gear. There’s no denying that triathlon gear is super expensive. First-year triathlons are expected to spend around $600, while second-year triathletes spend a whopping $5,500. However, it doesn’t mean that you need to spend hundreds and thousands of dollars on triathlon gear because it’s more likely that you already have most of the equipment you’ll need.
So, here are all the must-haves you need for your first triathlon:
The Essential Gear Needed for Triathlon
- Wet Suit
Not only are wet suits mandatory in some races, but they also keep you warm in most swimming conditions. To get used to the tightness of wet suits, make sure you wear them a day before the triathlon. You can also cut one or two inches off each bottom to ensure that you are able to quickly change it during the transition.
- Goggles
Goggles not only help you see better underwater but also reduce the glare if the sun is out and protect you against cloudy and smokey weather.
Not being able to see underwater can slow you down. So, make sure that you invest in a pair that fits you properly and doesn’t get filled with water.
- Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses is important for both bike and run stages to protect you from bugs, raindrops, and wind.
- Towel
Make sure you keep a towel with you to wipe off dirt and sand before jumping on the bike and diving into the water.
- Bike
Wouldn’t it be impossible to do a triathlon without a bike?
You can choose between mountain, triathlon-specific, and road bikes. You don’t necessarily have to invest in a new bike. If you already have a bike, just add a clip-on aero bar and take it for a test run.
- Running shoes
Buying a pair of comfortable and well-fitted running shoes is important. We recommend you avoid buying it online. Invest in a pair that fits your style of running. Make sure you buy a pair that offers easy on and off for quicker and faster transitions.
- Cycling Shoes
Cycling shoes are different from running shoes, so don’t make the mistake of using one for both purposes. Make sure that you invest in cycling shoes that have a stiff bottom to hold better to the pedal.
- Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an absolute triathlon essential. Whether the skies are sunny or gray, make sure you lather up sunscreen every two hours. Wearing sunscreen not only prevents sunburn and premature aging but also reduces the risk of skin cancer.
- Helmet
Planning to do a triathlon without wearing a helmet? Don’t even think about it!
Helmets are absolutely necessary to participate in triathlons and should always be worn during cycling. Before making the final purchase, make sure that the helmet fits properly over your shades.
- Elastic laces
If you want to speed your transition, invest in a pair of elastic laces. They allow you to slip your shoes on quicker, saving you a few precious seconds.
- Running hat
Wearing a hat while running is a matter of personal choice. Some people feel that the hat weighs them down, while for some, it’s a must-have to protect against sunlight.
- Transition bag
Investing in a transition bag will make transitioning less stressful for you. Make sure the bag you buy has various expandable compartments.
- Race number belt
Imagine how much time you will waste in transitioning if you pin your number to your tri-suit using a safety pin. By investing in a race belt, you can easily move your number from the back to the front during the transition.
- Flat repair kit
Make sure you invest in a good quality flat repair kit that includes a mini pump, tire levers, and a tube.
- Socks
Some triathletes don’t prefer wearing socks. However, wearing socks not only saves time during the transition but also decreases the risk of getting painful blisters. Make sure you invest in a pair that doesn’t snug against your feet and features an elastic double layer to ensure they don’t put a strain on your feet.
- Water Bottle
Staying hydrated during the triathlon is super important. Keep a water bottle with you to regular sip water and your favorite energy drink. Keep in mind that muscles are more prone to injury when the body is dehydrated.
Optional Equipment
- Cycling gloves
We recommend triathletes purchase cycling gloves to keep their hands dry so that they can maintain a safe grip on the handlebars.
- Outwear
If you want to be completely prepared, make sure you have your waterproof outwear to protect you against rain.
- Sports guard
Regardless of what sports you are participating in, wearing a sports guard is a must.
- Bug spray
It’s good to keep an insect-repellent spray to keep mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs away.
- Sandals
It’s always a good idea to wear sandals before the race so you can keep them in the transitioning area.
- Triathlon Shorts
Most people recommend buying triathlon shorts because they are made to wear during swimming, biking, and running.
So, Where to Buy Triathlon Gear?
Now, let’s talk about where to buy triathlon gear.
- You are literally one Google search away from finding the best sports equipment stores in your area. There is no harm in buying triathlon gear online. However, it is always best to buy the essentials in person to ensure that everything fits well.
- If you don’t have the time to visit nearby stores, there are many reliable websites that you can check. If that doesn’t work out, try Amazon. There’s nothing that’s not available there. However, you will have to make sure that you skim through the reviews.
- If you want to buy high-quality essentials at a good price, consider buying gear from fellow triathletes.
- There are quite a few trusted Facebook selling groups that specifically deal in triathlon gear. Give them a try if you are looking for affordable yet good-quality products.
Our Final Thoughts
We hope that you now know the must-have essentials triathletes need and where to buy triathlon gear.
Triathlon gear can be really expensive. But, expensive doesn’t necessarily mean good. If you are a first-timer, the aforementioned essentials will be more than enough to get your feet wet.
