WOMEN’S TRI - SUIT TEST
Following our men’s grouptest in issue 364, it’s time for women’s sleeved tri-suits to be put through their paces. Helen Webster tests eight
More women are now choosing sleeved tri-suits across all distances. Previously aimed mainly at long-course racing due to the added sun protection and aerodynamics, triathletes quickly realised that these benefits were useful in shorter distances, too – plus, there’s no ignoring the fact that a sleeved suit (in our humble opinion!) looks more flattering and a bit more ‘pro’ come race day.
The result of this popularity? An explosion in sleeved suits across the market and a load more choice at price points from – in this test – a very reasonable £95. So what should you look for when choosing a sleeved suit?
For us, fit and comfort are key. You might pick the fanciest-looking suit in the world, but if it doesn’t fit well or chafes then you’re in for a slow and uncomfortable race day. Ideally your suit will fit closely to avoid drag, but with enough stretch to allow you to fully extend in the swim and drop down on the bike. The fabric should be both breathable, wicking and dry quickly after the swim so you’re not cycling in a cold and soggy suit.
Other features to look for are good leg grippers that keep the suit comfortably in place, a chammy that offers enough padding without being annoying on the run and enough pockets for your race nutrition (think about your strategy and what aid stations there are). Finally, some womenspecific suits will have an integral bra (such as the Zone3 and Huub in this test) but we would always prefer to add our own, to ensure the right level of support.
Missed our men’s sleeved tri-suit test? Call 03330 162 139 and order back issue 364.
How we tested
As it’s the only piece of tri apparel that’s with you for the entire duration of the race, the tri-suits here were all given multiple tests on the swim, bike and run. Key factors included breathability, how fast they dried, chafing (or lack of), pocket sizing and accessibility, and the effectiveness of the leg grippers and zippers. The price, aesthetics, durability and aerodynamics were also considered, as was the versatility of each suit.