In my coaching, I often encounter athletes that are looking to get into the sport of triathlon and they ask me what type of equipment is needed to compete in a triathlon. In this post, I’ll lay out the minimum requirements. There are many items that will be beneficial but not necessary that aren’t on this list. Some items become more important the longer your race will be.
In subsequent posts, I’ll dive deeper into other items that are beneficial. For all disciplines, a fitness tracker will be important. I have direct experience and fairly satisfied with the Garmin lineup of products: Fenix 5, 6, 8, and Forerunner 945, 965.
- Garmin Fenix 8: https://amzn.to/4pHzlYe (My current device)
- Garmin Forerunner 970: https://amzn.to/3XogkxK
- Garmin Forerunner 965: https://amzn.to/3XkIuK2
General Safety Items
- Headlight for bike
- https://amzn.to/4pcWUYU (I have the 1300 discontinued Model)
- Taillight
- https://amzn.to/4rqmWcJ Cheap, no frills light.
- Running Vest
Swim
- Goggles
- Speedo Vanquisher https://amzn.to/4p1pPis
- TYR Blackhawk https://amzn.to/44iS9Vt
- Swimsuit
- Swim cap
Bike
- Bike
- Helmet: (Recommend MIPS)
- Kask Protone – https://amzn.to/43Uz0ZC (I personally use this helmet for daily riding)
- Giro – https://amzn.to/48id3oB
- Shoes (Shoes must be compatible w/ Pedal type)
- Shimano SH-TR501 https://amzn.to/48C9CdP
- Pedals
- SPD-SL
- Speedplay
- SPD (mountain bike style)
- Bike Pump
- Tool kit (Bag, tire levers, tubes, multitool, etc)
- Cycling clothes
Run
- Shoes (Running shoes typically last 300-600 miles)
- Brooks, Nike, Hoka, Altra, New Balance, Saucony, etc
- Running clothes
Summary
These are the basics that will get you started. This is definitely not a complete list, but will get you started for training. Let me know if you think there are any basic necessities that I’ve missed!
I’ve used almost all iterations of the products above and am listing affiliate links if you purchase using any of the links above.
