Triathlon is a demanding sport that requires athletes to compete in three different disciplines: swimming, cycling, and running. As a result, triathletes need specialised gear that can help them perform at their best in each discipline. One of the key pieces of gear that every triathlete needs is a tri-suit.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the three main types of tri-suits: one-piece sleeved, one-piece non-sleeved, and two-piece tri-suits. We’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type and help you determine which one is right for you based on your experience level and goals.
Table of Contents
One-Piece Sleeved Tri-Suits
One-piece sleeved tri-suits are becoming increasingly popular among triathletes. These suits offer many of the same benefits as one-piece non-sleeved suits but with the added advantage of improved aerodynamics and sun protection.
Sleeved tri-suits provide additional coverage and can help to keep athletes cool in hot weather conditions. They are also great for athletes who want to reduce drag and improve their overall performance.
One-piece sleeved tri-suits are a good choice for intermediate and advanced triathletes who are looking for a suit that provides additional performance benefits.
Some of the key benefits of one-piece sleeved tri-suits include:
- Improved aerodynamics: The sleeves on these suits help to reduce drag and improve the athlete’s overall performance.
- Sun protection: The additional coverage provided by the sleeves can help to protect the athlete’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Additional cooling: The sleeves can help to keep the athlete cool in hot weather conditions.
- Improved fit: The sleeves can help to improve the fit of the suit and reduce the risk of chafing.
One-Piece Non-Sleeved Tri-Suits
One-piece non-sleeved tri suits are the most commonly used type of suit in triathlon. These suits are designed to be worn throughout the entire race, eliminating the need for changing clothes between disciplines.
One-piece non-sleeved tri suits offer a streamlined fit and are available in many different styles and designs. They are a good choice for novice and intermediate triathletes, as they provide a good balance of comfort, performance, and affordability.
Some of the key benefits of one-piece non-sleeved tri-suits include:
- Streamlined fit: These suits offer a tight, streamlined fit that can help to reduce drag and improve performance.
- Affordability: One-piece non-sleeved tri-suits are generally less expensive than other types of tri-suits.
- Lightweight: These suits are typically lightweight and breathable, which can help to keep the athlete cool during the race.
- Versatility: One-piece non-sleeved tri-suits can be worn for both short and long-distance races.
Two-Piece Tri-Suits
Two-piece tri suits are another option for triathletes who prefer the flexibility of separate tops and bottoms. Men’s sleeveless tops are called tanks. Women’s sleeveless tops are called singlets. Sleeved tops are called jerseys (like cycling jerseys).
Two-piece tri suits are often more comfortable than one-piece suits and allow for more customization in terms of fit. They are not always less expensive than one-piece suits, however.
Two-piece tri suits are a good choice for novice triathletes who are looking for a comfortable and affordable option, as well as advanced triathletes who prefer the flexibility of two-piece suits. These suits are also a popular choice among ladies who find it easier when stopping for “bathroom breaks.”
Some of the key benefits of two-piece tri-suits include:
- Flexibility: Two-piece tri-suits offer more flexibility and customization in terms of fit than one-piece suits.
- Comfort: Two-piece tri-suits can be more comfortable than one-piece suits, especially for athletes who have a larger upper body or lower body.
- Bathroom breaks: Two-piece tri-suits can make it easier for athletes to use the bathroom during the race.
- Versatility: Two-piece tri-suits can be worn for both short and long-distance races.
When to Recommend Each Type of Tri-Suit
When recommending a tri-suit to your customers, it’s important to consider their experience level and goals.
One-Piece Non-Sleeved Tri-Suits
One-piece non-sleeved tri-suits are a good choice for novice and intermediate triathletes who are looking for a comfortable and affordable option. These suits usually offer a balance of comfort, performance, and affordability. They are also a popular choice for short-distance events.
One-Piece Sleeved Tri-Suits
One-piece sleeved tri-suits are a good choice for intermediate and advanced triathletes who are looking for a suit that provides additional performance benefits. These suits are great for athletes who want to reduce drag and improve their overall performance. They also offer improved sun protection and additional coverage.
Two-Piece Tri-Suits
Two-piece tri-suits are a good choice for novice triathletes who are looking for a comfortable and affordable option, as well as advanced triathletes who prefer the flexibility of two-piece suits. These suits are also a popular choice among ladies who find it easier when stopping for “bathroom breaks.”
When recommending a tri-suit, it’s also important to consider the type of race the athlete will be competing in and whether wetsuits are allowed. For example, one-piece non-sleeved tri-suits are a popular choice for short-distance events where wetsuits are not permitted due to high water temperatures. Two-piece tri-suits are a good choice for athletes who want more flexibility and customization in terms of fit.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tri-suit is an essential decision for any triathlete. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each type of suit and considering your experience level and goals, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect tri-suit for your needs.
When choosing a suit, consider factors like comfort, affordability, performance, and your experience level. Additionally, consider the type of race you will be competing in and whether wetsuits are allowed. With this information, you will be able to choose a suit that matches your needs and helps you perform at your best.
We hope that this ultimate guide to tri-suits has been helpful in finding the perfect tri-suit for your needs. Happy training!