What Equipment Is Needed?Now you ask: what equipment is needed? The most important thing to remember is not to go overboard. What do I mean by overboard? I mean for example, don't go out and buy a $400 triathlon wetsuit just yet. You don't even know if you will like the sport, and you sure won't want to be stuck trying to sell what would now be a "used" triathlon wetsuit on Ebay for a substantial loss. So here are some tips for you below. Swim Gear- What you really need to start is a good quality swimsuit. For women, that means a 1 piece suit and for men I would suggest "jammers" which are basically bike shorts without the bike pad. You will also need a good pair swimm goggles. There are many styles available out there. If you can go to a shop that specializes in triathlon or swimming, the staff there can help you pick out the swim gear that's a good fit for you. Bike Gear- Before anything else the most important bike equipment you'll need is a bike helmet. No bike helmet, no ride period. Now to the bike. You dont need to have a special bike for your first race. You don't even need to have a road bike. If you have a mountain or hybrid bike, you can make a few low cost modifications that will have you ready to go. When I say you I mean your local bike shop. They can make sure your bike is ready to go for your training with a full tune up & in the case of using a mountain bike; tires that will get you through the race. You can use the shoes that you run in to ride. Run Gear- Go to a store that specializes in running & get a proper shoe fitting done. No more off the rack at DSW or Dick's. They will make sure that your time running in these shoes will be enjoyable. I would also suggest getting a pair of polarized sunglasses. They will help reduce sun glare. Triathlon Clothing- You are better off going with clothing that is made from what they call technical fabrics or material that is man-made. Cotton will absorb moisture and make you feel just miserable in poor conditions. That goes for your socks too!
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