Remember this? It only highlighted to me the importance of good kit when it comes to racing. Especially over longer distances and in extreme conditions.
Having the right kit on race day can make the difference with quick and smooth transitions or a personal best time. And minimising the chafing of course! Three things I couldn’t be without on race day:
1. Performance Tri Suit
- Why it’s essential: For triathlon having one outfit for all three disciplines will significantly improve your overall time. No need for changing. An easy win.
- Key features to look for:
- Women-specific fit for better support and mobility. Personally I don’t like an in built bra because they NEVER provide enough support.
- Quick-drying and breathable materials.
- Sleeved for extra sun protection and aero benefit.
- Personal favourite – When I’m not wearing my team suit from Core Nutrition I like to minimise transition times and maximise comfort with my favourite suit from Tri-Fit Athletic.
2. Sports Bra Designed for High Impact
- Why it’s essential: Essential for comfort, support, and reducing the chance of chafing! Essential during longer events. There’s nothing worse than the anxiety of worrying if people are looking and thinking are my boobs moving too much?
- Key considerations:
- Proper sizing for support and avoiding chafing.
- Moisture-wicking fabric for comfort during long events. And so it can cope with swim, bike AND run.
- Adjustable straps with multiple options for a customisable fit.
- Tips for finding the right one:
- Try before you buy! Getting the right fit for a sports bra is important, it’s highly likely you have the wrong size right now.
- Brands that claim to be high impact but only sell in small, medium and large are NOT going to cut it.
- Personal favourite – Maaree sports bras are the gold standard. I use the Solidarity for running/triathlons and the Empower for cycling/gym. After realising there was “a real gap in the market for someone to come in and really enhance/improve the offering of sports bras” – Mari set out to support women so that they are empowered to achieve their potential. They even offer free virtual fittings via Zoom to check your sizing. I cannot recommend more highly – even better its a UK based, female owned brand!
3. GPS Watch
- Why it’s indispensable: I’m not a data freak but when it comes to racing I like to know I’ve not gone out at an unattainable pace. It also helps me to time my nutrition.
- Key features to look for: It can be a bit overwhelming when looking for a watch, so look for something that does all the features you need and less of the ones you don’t. That will help keep the costs down. It’s likely someone in your local tri club has an old one they are willing to sell.
- Personal experience: I’ve always used Garmin watches and Wahoo bike computers.
If you want more information regarding Maaree sports bras, I’ll be happy to help.
Sophie Kirk - Triathlon Coaching 