TRI SUITS
THE SEARCH FOR the latest edge has led many in the pro ranks to hit windtunnels and aero test labs to find the sleekest apparel. Tests are showing that you can get dramatic improvements in your swim and bike times with just the right suit – a fast aero suit has become a “must-have” for those at the top of the sport right now.
But just because one suit works for one athlete doesn’t mean it’ll be the best option for another. And then there’s the comfort factor – even a “short” triathlon is going to have you in your suit for at least a half hour and you can be in it for a good portion of a day if you’re doing a full-distance event. (Although many choose to change into different clothes for the run, but even then you’re in your suit for six to 10 hours.)
Part of that aero performance has been seen with sleeved suits, which have become considerably more popular of late. (You also get the benefit of more protection from the sun, too.) With all that in mind we had a look at some of the new suits on tap for 2018 from a variety of different manufacturers.
Huub DS Long Course Triathlon Suit
Huub DS Long Course Triathlon Suit
$350 The DS stands for Dave Scott, who’s six Kona titles give him just a bit of long-distance knowledge on the triathlon front. Huub has used that knowledge to develop an incredibly breathable suit that reflects the sun’s rays and offers some impressive aero characteristics, too. It all starts with mesh panels along the back of the suit to help keep you cool, while the Coldblack technology in the fabric helps deal with the beating sun. There’s a long zip at the front that makes it both comfortable and easy for nature breaks. The short sleeves help with aerodynamics on the bike and use compression to provide support around the bicep muscles both while swimming and on the bike. A newly designed chamois offers just the right amount of padding on the bike and free movement for the run and has been moved slightly forward to take advantage of the shorter saddles that are becoming popular on triathlon bikes. Aero performance is enhanced thanks to the seam free arm and leg opening and the covered rear pockets.
Jackroo Elite Triathlon Top/Comp Pro Triathlon Short Pearl Izumi Select Pursuit Trisuit
2XU Compression Sleeved Trisuit
Elite Triathlon Top/ Comp Pro Triathlon Short
FROM $68, TOP; FROM $93, SHORT You can create your own custom suit at Jackroo and don’t have to compromise at all in terms of performance and comfort. We chose to look at the Elite Triathlon Top and Comp Pro Triathlon Short, which are a great combo for the triathlete looking for a suit that is both good looking and performs well, too. The Elite Tri Top uses Jackroo’s AirStream Italian fabric that helps keep you cool while providing an extremely comfortable and aero fit. There’s a ¾ zipper so you can customize your own ventilation and two rear pockets for storage. The Comp Pro short uses compressive Italian fabrics that dry quickly after the swim, flatlock-stitched seams and Swiss-made grippers on the legs for a comfortable, performance-oriented fit. The drawstring at the waist allows you to dial in a comfortable fit while the Super-Tri Chamois provides just the right amount of support for the bike and ease of movement for the run.
Pearl Izumi Select Pursuit Trisuit
$130 Whether you’re going long or flying through a sprint, the Select Pursuit Trisuit is a viable option thanks to Pearl Izumi’s Select transfer dry fabric which offers excellent compression and cooling properties. The flatlock seams keep you comfortable while doing all three sports and there’s a 10" zipper for easy access and some additional venting on super-hot days. There’s a new quick-dry chamois so you won’t have to worry about being wet all the way through the bike. The silicone leg grippers at the end of the 8.5" inseam are both comfortable and ensure the leg material won’t bunch up on you during training and racing. There’s an easyaccess rear pocket for storage
2XU Compression Sleeved Trisuit
$275 As the name suggests, there’s lots of muscle support and stabilization built into the material of the 2XU Compression Sleeved Trisuit, so you’re sure to get the most out of your muscles over the long haul. The sleeves and dimpled airflow technology in the fabric help with aerodynamics, as do the specially designed Kinetic Speed panels which offer additional compression. The specially constructed material help keep you cool while the Elite LD Chamois offers excellent ventilation, comfort and support.—KM