Triathlon Prep: Essential Gear & Clothing Basics

athletes that are swimming, biking, and running in a collage

When preparing for triathlon training, a great starting point is choosing the right gear. Since a triathlon includes three separate events, your clothing needs to be versatile enough to handle each one, or easy to layer without requiring a full outfit change. However, some people prefer a full outfit change for each phase. Prioritizing efficiency can significantly impact your overall time, so planning your gear in advance will help you transition smoothly and make the most of your race experience.

What to Wear for Each Stage

A triathlon typically follows the order of swim, bike, and run. For your first race, there's no need to invest in all the high-tech gear right away. Experienced triathletes often wear a trisuit because it performs well across all three stages, but it's not a requirement. There are various gear options and accessories to consider, along with key fit factors to keep in mind when shopping for triathlon equipment!

Swim

If you’re not wearing a trisuit, make sure your clothing stays comfortable even when wet. Many athletes choose an athletic one-piece swimsuit or a jammer for men, which works well as a base layer and can be worn throughout the entire race. Some also opt for a wetsuit, but keep in mind that you’ll need to remove it before transitioning to the biking phase. Ultimately, choose gear that fits snugly while allowing a full range of motion for smooth, unrestricted movements.

Extra gear to pack along:

Goggles
Earplugs and nose plugs
Swim cap
Towel
Body Glide (this will help you transition from wet to dry!)

Biking

During the biking transition in a triathlon, many athletes opt to wear a trisuit under their wetsuit to minimize chafing and avoid feeling waterlogged. Another option is to quickly slip on a pair of cycling shorts over a swimsuit for an efficient change. For those who prioritize maximum comfort, you can do a full outfit change into cycling shorts and a cycling jersey. The fit of your jersey should be adjusted based on the weather—snug for cooler conditions to retain warmth and looser for warmer temperatures to promote airflow.

Extra gear to pack along:

Cycling shoes
Helmet
Sunglasses / cycling glasses
Thin socks
Cycling gloves

Running

For the running portion, you can stick with your cycling shorts and swimsuit for a seamless transition or change into running shorts and a moisture-wicking tech tee. Prioritize breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics to stay comfortable and avoid feeling restricted. Consider compression gear for maximum support!

Extra gear to pack along:

Fanny pack / belt bag
Sunglasses
Sun protection
Running shoes
Extra padded socks
Hat
Fitness watch / monitor

No matter what you choose to wear, comfort and functionality should be your top priorities. Test your gear during training to ensure everything fits well and performs how you want it to. The right clothing can make a big difference in your endurance and overall race experience, so find what works best for you to achieve a good time for your first race. If you have more questions about triathlons, stop by your local SCHEELS and speak with a Fitness Expert!