When considering purchasing triathlon wear, you can break your purchases up into three logical categories: swimwear, cycling wear, and running wear. It is important to choose triathlon wear that is easy to get on and off, and clothing that is going to be comfortable and moisture wicking — that is, clothing that takes moisture away from the body to help regulate body temperature. All clothing should be well-fitting and resistant to wear; this criteria is especially important when choosing footwear, which can be the difference between a successful triathlon and a painful and frustrating one.
Aside from shoes, the two most important pieces of triathlon wear you will purchase are the wetsuit and the cycling shorts. Cycling shorts are padded for comfort, but some shorts are more comfortable than others. Cycling shorts made from several panels of material generally fit more snugly and comfortably than shorts with fewer panels, and thick padding in the seat of the shorts can help alleviate the pressure from sitting on the bike saddle. You will also need to choose between regular cycling shorts and bib shorts, which are shorts with shoulder straps that help keep the shorts in place. Some companies now make triathlon-specific shorts that are resistant to chlorine and have added features specifically for a triathlete.
Your choice of wetsuit will be based on the weight and buoyancy of the suit. Generally speaking, a wetsuit is one of the more expensive pieces of triathlon wear, and the more buoyant and lightweight a suit is, the more expensive it will be. If you are a beginner, you can get away with buying a less expensive suit that may be a bit bulkier, but more serious triathletes will want to research which wetsuits are lightweight and buoyant, regardless of price.
By far, the most important two pieces of triathlon wear you will purchase are the cycling helmet and the running shoes. The cycling helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment, and it should fit snugly on the head and be fairly aerodynamic. Most helmets now come with adjustable fit systems that accommodate a wider range of head sizes. Be sure to choose one that fits you well and is comfortable enough for the long cycling leg of the triathlon.
When choosing running shoes, it is important to consider weight, comfort, and durability. A lightweight shoe will feel less bulky during the long run, and one with a sufficient amount of padding in the heel and ball of the foot will help prevent shin splints and other injuries. The shoe should fit snugly to prevent blisters and hot spots, and the uppers should be breathable to allow sweat from the foot to escape the shoe.
