Last Updated on October 17, 2023 by Joan

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what to wear for a triathlon, taking into account various scenarios, gender-specific options, and the specific needs of beginners.

Triathlons are thrilling endurance events that push participants to their limits. Whether you’re joining a triathlon for beginners or a seasoned athlete seeking a refresher, one crucial aspect to consider is what to wear. 

What to wear for a sprint triathlon?

Sprint triathlon is a beginner’s usual entry point to triathlons, and starting out in a new sport doesn’t have to be grand. Below, we’ll show you different options for what to wear during a triathlon, especially for your first.

What to wear for a triathlon (male)?

For male triathletes, the essential clothing items for a triathlon are a pair of triathlon shorts and a triathlon top or singlet. These specialized garments are designed to provide comfort and functionality throughout each leg of the race.

Triathlon shorts

Triathlon shorts are designed with padded chamois to provide comfort during the bike leg while remaining suitable for swimming and running. They are typically made from quick-drying materials to ensure you stay comfortable throughout the entire race.

Triathlon top

 A triathlon top is usually made from lightweight and moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool and dry during the race. It also has a snug fit to reduce drag in the water and on the bike.

Triathlon suit

Some male triathletes prefer the convenience of a one-piece triathlon suit, which combines the features of both shorts and a top. This streamlined option can help save valuable seconds in the triathlon transition.

What to wear for a triathlon (female)?

Female triathletes have a range of clothing options tailored to their needs as well.

Triathlon shorts or tri suits

Like their male counterparts, female triathletes can opt for triathlon shorts with a padded chamois or a one-piece tri suit. These options provide the same advantages of comfort, quick-drying properties, and reduced drag in the water.

Sports bra

A supportive and moisture-wicking sports bra is a must for female triathletes. Look for one that provides adequate support without causing discomfort during any leg of the race.

Triathlon top or singlet

To complement your choice of shorts or a tri suit, a triathlon-specific top or singlet will keep you cool and aerodynamic throughout the race.

What to wear to a triathlon if you don’t have a suit?

Not having a triathlon suit shouldn’t deter you from participating in this exciting sport. While a triathlon suit offers the convenience of an all-in-one solution, you can still assemble a suitable outfit from individual pieces.

For male triathletes

If you don’t have a triathlon suit, consider the following alternatives:

Swim briefs or jammers

Start with swim briefs or jammers for the swim leg. These snug-fitting swimwear options reduce drag in the water.

Cycling shorts

For the bike leg, choose padded cycling shorts. Wearing cycling shorts is not ideal for swimming. You can just put them on top of swim briefs during the transition (T1). Padded cycling shorts provide the necessary comfort on the saddle.

Running shorts

For the run, you can switch to lightweight and breathable running shorts. If changing the bottom again seems like a hassle. You can run in your cycling shorts instead.

Triathlon top or singlet

Pair your cycling or running shorts with a triathlon-specific top or singlet to stay aerodynamic.

For female triathletes

Female triathletes can also create a suitable race outfit without a triathlon suit:

Swimsuit

Begin with a swimsuit for the swim leg. Opt for a one-piece or a two-piece that provides a secure fit.

Cycling shorts or leggings

For cycling, choose padded cycling shorts or leggings. Similar to men, it is advisable to wear cycling shorts or leggings after the swim. When worn during the swim, pads of cycling shorts absorb water and can increase drag.

Running shorts or leggings

Females can also choose to run in their cycling shorts or leggings. If you want to lower your transition time, running in cycling shorts is your alternative to changing to running shorts. 

Triathlon top or singlet

Complement your chosen bottoms with a triathlon-specific top or singlet for added performance.

Can I wear running shorts for a triathlon?

Wearing running shorts for a triathlon is possible. However, it may not be the most comfortable or efficient option, especially for longer or more demanding races. Here’s what you need to know about using running shorts in a triathlon:

Chafing

Running shorts may not have the same level of padding and moisture-wicking properties as triathlon shorts. This could lead to chafing and discomfort, especially during the bike leg.

Swimming

Running shorts tend to retain water, which can be a drawback during the swim. They may become heavy and slow you down in the water.

Efficiency

While running shorts are fine for the run leg, they are not optimized for cycling, and their lack of padding may lead to discomfort on the bike.

In summary, while running shorts can be used in a pinch for sprint triathlon distances, they may not provide the same level of comfort and performance as specialized triathlon gear. For longer or more competitive races, it’s advisable to invest in triathlon-specific clothing.

Do you wear anything under a triathlon suit?

Whether or not you should wear anything under a triathlon suit depends on personal preference and comfort. Triathlon suits are designed to be worn without anything underneath. They are made to provide necessary support and reduce the risk of chafing. However, some athletes prefer additional layers for various reasons.

Here are a few options when it comes to wearing something under a triathlon suit:

Compression shorts

Some athletes opt to wear compression shorts under their triathlon suit for added support and muscle compression. This can help reduce fatigue during the race.

Triathlon shorts

If you prefer additional padding for the bike leg, you can wear triathlon shorts under your triathlon suit. This combination provides extra comfort on the saddle.

Sports Bra

Women wear a sports bra underneath their triathlon suits for breast support. Just ensure that the sports bra is moisture-wicking and provides adequate support.

Ultimately, the decision to wear something under your triathlon suit should be based on your comfort and needs. It’s essential to practice in your chosen outfit during training sessions to ensure it feels right on race day.

Do wetsuits keep you dry inside?

Wetsuits are a common sight in triathlons, especially in races where the water temperature is on the colder side. While wetsuits are designed to keep you warm, they don’t necessarily keep you dry inside.

How do wetsuits work?

Wetsuits are made from neoprene, a material that traps a thin layer of water between the suit and your skin. Your body then warms this layer of water, creating a thermal barrier that helps insulate you from the cold. This is why wetsuits are so effective at keeping you warm in chilly waters.

However, wetsuits are not designed to keep you completely dry. Water will still seep into the suit, and this is intentional. The thin layer of water inside the suit is what provides the insulation. If a wetsuit were entirely dry inside, it would lose its insulating properties.

How to choose the right wetsuit?

When selecting a wetsuit for a triathlon, consider the water temperature and the length of the race. For sprint triathlon distances, where the swim leg is relatively short, you may opt for a thinner wetsuit that allows for greater mobility. In colder water or longer races, a thicker wetsuit provides more insulation but may be less flexible.

It’s crucial to ensure a snug fit when wearing a wetsuit to minimize the amount of water that enters. Many triathletes use lubricants or body glide products on areas like the neck, wrists, and ankles to create a better seal and reduce chafing.

In summary, wetsuits are designed to keep you warm by allowing a thin layer of water inside the suit. They do not keep you entirely dry but are an essential piece of gear for triathletes facing cold water conditions.

Do I need a tri suit and a wetsuit?

While you can compete in a triathlon with both a tri suit and a wetsuit, whether you need both depends on various factors. Here are different instances when to wear a tri suit only, wet suit only, or both.

Tri suit only

Many male triathletes prefer the simplicity and versatility of a tri suit, which combines the features of shorts and a top. In a sprint triathlon or warm-water race, a tri suit alone may suffice.

Tri suit and wetsuit

In cold-water races or when additional buoyancy is needed, you can wear a wetsuit over your tri suit during the swim leg. After exiting the water, you can remove the wetsuit for the bike and run legs.

Wetsuit only

For very cold-water races, some male triathletes may choose to wear a wetsuit alone throughout the entire race, combining its buoyancy benefits with thermal insulation.

The choice between a tri suit and a wetsuit or a combination of both depends on the specific race conditions, your personal preferences, and your level of experience. Again, it’s essential to practice transitioning between the two garments to ensure a smooth and efficient race day experience.

Final Thoughts from Your Multisport Buddy

In conclusion, what to wear for a triathlon can vary depending on your gender, experience level, race conditions, and personal preferences. Whether you choose a tri suit, wetsuit, or a combination of both, tri shorts, tri top, or running shorts the key is to select gear that provides comfort, efficiency, and the necessary performance attributes for each leg of the race. With the right clothing choices, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the swim, bike, and run courses.