SWIMSUITS & JAMMERS

Nothing cheers up a 6am pool call like some new swim apparel. We tested the latest in chlorine-resistant Lycra for male and female triathletes

We’ve got your winter pool training kit nailed! This month we’ve clocked up hundreds of pool hours to review five swimsuits and four jammers

When it comes to revamping your tri wardrobe for the new year, a new swimsuit or set of jammers may not be the most exciting priority against, say, the latest in technical wetsuits or carbon wheels. That said, though, a good choice of swimwear will see you through hundreds of off-season pool hours and, given the right fit and technical fabric, can even help you shave seconds off against your tri club team-mates. Plus (and let’s be honest) it’s all you’ll be wearing in the pool, so it’s nice to have one that makes you look good, too...

So what to look for among the thousands of choices on the market? For men, we’ve focussed on jammers in this test (over the page). You’re looking for a style that fits snugly without being eye-wateringly tight, with a waistband that’s tight enough to hold them securely in place. For women, your swimsuit needs to be long enough in the body to allow you to fully stretch out and the straps need to be comfortable and not hamper your stroke. Female triathletes with a larger bust size may also want to think about additional support or compression for comfort and modesty.

For both sexes, fabric is important. Look for something that offers a good level of chlorine-resistance, such as Zoggs’ ‘Aqualast’, and also a good SPF if you plan to use your suit outside in the summer months. Quality swimsuits will also offer technical fabric that’s hydrodynamic, meaning your suit helps you zip faster through the water rather than creating resistance.

Finally, consider price point and design. With so many on the market, there should be one that won’t break the bank but still makes you smile when you pull it on.