There are a lot of triathletes that buy every cool piece of gear they see in the magazines. I’m not suggesting you do that. However, there are a few pieces of gear that I think everyone should own, regardless of whether or not they are a serious competitor or a weekend warrior.
Triathlon Shoes – You might not know this, but there is a reason that they sell specific triathlon shoes. In terms of training, it doesn’t really matter so much, but when it comes time to work on speedy transitions, having a pair of race ready triathlon shoes can make all the difference. Triathlon shoes go on much more easily than cycling shoes and even have a loop in the heel to help you pull them on quickly. This is essential if you want to try the “flying mount,” which is the process of putting on your shoes (already attached to the bike) while you ride out of T1.Aero Drink – You don’t have to buy the Profile Design Model, but finding an efficient way to drink on the go can help you stay hydrated on the bike without having to leave the aero position or slowing down to grab a bottle. Some deliver water from the lower frame to your position in the form of a tube, while others fit right in between your aerobars. Click the Trisports logo above to get them cheaper than your local LBS.Tire Repair Kit – Most triathletes have one of these, but if you don’t you need to buy one today. A good kit will contain a spare tube, a tire lever/wrench, a patch kit, and a CO2 cartridge with adapter. With these tools, you can change a tube in just a minute or so, which is much quicker than trying to pump with a hand pump or trying to patch a big hole with a small patch kit.
You might think that some of these items are basic, but think of this as a gentle reminder to make sure you have everything you need to train harder and be prepared for emergencies. Down the road, we’ll talk about some more sophisticated gear that can take you to the next level.
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