A triathlon suit or tri-suit is a multi-purpose piece of kit specifically designed for multi-sports. It has a material ideal for swimming, a small fitted chamois for cycling (wear it like cycling shorts without underwear) and is comfortable and versatile enough to run in. You can get tri-suits in short or longer sleeve versions, or even opt for two piece kits if the all in one look isn’t for you. These can often be pricey investments so I highly recommend doing some bargain hunting (see my money saving tips for tri here) and remember, you don’t NEED to have a tri-suit to take part. Yes it can make things a lot easier and more comfortable during a triathlon, but i’ve seen people using swimsuits then popping shorts over for the run at aquathlons and running in cycle shorts/ cycling in running shorts at duathlons.
So if you’re looking at investing in your first tri-suit or want some inspiration for your next purchase, i’ve rounded up my favourite tri-suits below.
Zoot
Zoot tri suits are a huge favourite of mine. They’re comfortable, high quality and the striking designs are so in your face. My favourite is the Cali 2019, which I have in the short sleeved version. The print of this is exceptionally LOUD, but I love that because I think it is super flattering and makes you feel AMAZING. The grippers are good, the zips are high quality and the fabric has 50+ sun protection. There is an inbuilt crop top, which I don’t find that supportive so I’d recommend wearing your own sports bra (zoot suggest this too). I’ve used this for aquathlons and duathlons and find that it is both comfy in the water and on the bike and dries quickly.
I also have other designs from Zoot and find the standard pretty high (my boyfriend wears zoot too).
You can grab this at a bargain price on SportPursuit Here.
Zone3 Women’s Activate Plus Short Sleeve Tri-suit
This is designed with a little more coverage than its sleeveless equivalents making it ideal for winter duathlons (it’s my go to in winter). The mostly black design isn’t as striking as other suits, but offers a more toned down look with subtle detailing via the graphical side panels which also help make the tri-suit a little more flattering. The high tech waffle fabric helps keep the tri-suit dry and the The rubber grippers on the legs help prevent any riding up without being uncomfortable. The zip is high quality and the built in bra is comfortable.
You can also buy this in a short sleeved or two piece and it is currently on sale on the Zone3 website.
You can buy on their website here. I’m a Zone 3 swim ambassador, but purchased this myself before I was linked to the brand (all opinions are my own).
2XU Performance Front Zip
2XU was the very first brand of trisuit I wore and my choice for both London Triathlon and Dorney Lake Olympic Distance triathlon last year. The suits I have are similar to these on their website and I find them comfy under a wetsuit and on the bike. The panelling on the sides is also extremely flattering. I find the fabric supportive, especially when your body begins to tire and it does feel like it has a compression element to it. My only slight negative is I don’t feel the sun protection is as good as the Zoot suits as I came home from Dorney Lake with a slightly burnt back.
Runderwear
The Runderwear tri suit is the softest of all the tri-suits I own and in keeping with their award winning line is as Chafe free as it brags to be. It is chlorine resistant with excellent UV protection and high quality zips and grippers. In terms of my personal preference, I’m not keen on the all black design, I prefer my tri-suits to be bright from a safety so I can be easily visible when training. The sizing of this one is pretty much spot on with ‘regular’ clothing sizes, no need to size up and you can get it on sale on the Runderwear website.
Liv Signature Tri-suit
This is a tri-suit I haven’t quite gotten on with, but still think is high quality and would be a great suit for the right person. The fabric feels great, it boasts SPF protection, race fit and an attractive design. But I found the dimensions a little odd. The top fitted perfectly and was really comfortable with a nice racerback cut but the compression leg bands were far too tight. This would be an ideal fit for someone who perhaps has slimmer legs and a slightly larger upper body, or prefers a tight fit around the legs. You can shop here.
Club tri-suits
Not a brand, and perhaps something that isn’t an option for everyone, but I love wearing my tri-club’s suit. I belong to a really inclusive and supportive club and I’m proud to wear my tritons tri-suit at events. Its also nice to have the boost of club camaraderie and support.
Thanks for reading, Becca xo
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Nice article about triathlon suits
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