Beginner Triathlon Gear Shopping List

Must Have Beginner Triathlon Gear

These are the essential items you will need to get you from the start to finish of your first triathlon.

Bike

Any Bike. It can be anything from your uncle’s old bike that has been in the garage or the mountain bike you take out riding with your kids. Now, be sure that the bike is in good repair by taking it to a local shop. Sometimes if the bike is really old or in disrepair, you may spend just as much on fixing it up as you will a beginner bike. A second note is that a road bike and bike with gears will make your triathlon journey a lot more comfortable. You will be able to go further with less effort and will have more “in the tank” when you head out for a run.

Helmet

Helmets should be replaced every 5-8 years and definitely after any crash– no matter how small. Helmets are the same safety level at any price tag so there is no need to open up the wallet for the cool $300 ones. These higher end helmets will be equipped with more ventilation and more aerodynamics. Some helmets do come is sized so make sure and check when you purchase. A loose fitting helmet is not safe.

Bike or Tri Shorts

Really you can wear what you want, just remember that transition is open and there is nowhere to change in private. If you want to be comfortable while training and racing, You will want a nice pair of athletic shorts. First, these can really be anything but cotton, as cotton will not wick away water and can lead to chaffing, ouch! A basic tri short with a little bit of padding will make your bike-riding experience much more enjoyable. The best part is that these shorts will last long after your triathlon debut. They are perfect for cross training, cycle classes, and even going for runs.

Goggles

Most importantly, there is no perfect goggle since everyone’s face is shaped a little differently. Visit a local swim shop and try on a few models to find what works for you. Leaky goggles will derail your swim and can make swimming a lot more difficult if you are having to stop and constantly adjust for goggles, therefore don’t skimp and just buy the cheapest ones at the store. Once you have tested them out a few times, we suggest buying a second pair in a different tint so that you have something for all conditions.

Running Shoes

If they are comfortable, they are good to go. Even if they are just the shoes you got because you liked the way they looked. Have some shoes that aren’t comfortable? Well, you can still run in those — you will just be, well uncomfortable at the end of your run. 🙂

Sports Bra

Ladies, even if you decide to use your swimsuit for your first triathlon you are going to want to wear a good sports bra (like one from https://www.rankandstyle.com/top-10-list/best-sport-bras) underneath. You will want something you are comfortable running in. If you have some areas that rub, like under the armpits you can put some Vaseline or Body Glide on in the morning to help with chaffing.