Triathlon suits are an important part of the triathlon race as they can affect the overall performance.
Making sure you pick a suit that is going to provide the comfortability you need means that you should be researching thoroughly.
However, with so many options available on the market at varying price points, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the scope of choice available.
Whether you’re embarking on your training for your first triathlon or have taken part in many races before, we’ve gathered the top five triathlon suits available on the market that you should consider.
These reviews are followed by an exclusive buyers guide and FAQ where you will find out everything there is to know when conducting your own research.
Don’t have time to read our full guide? Find out our top pick here: Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit
Our top pick is the Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit which is suitable for all abilities and is Ironman and USAT approved. It comes in a wide range of sizes to ensure a perfect fit.
The proven technology equates to a superior performance thanks to the hydrodynamic neoprene made from Yamamoto number 39 with SCS silicone coated Syprene.
This triathlon wetsuit also has a 5mm thick core buoyancy panel, 3mm lower legs and back as well as a 2mm arms and shoulders.
The exceptional functionality provides a full range of motion with unsurpassed flexibility.
The highest grade anti corrode internal wetsuit zipper from YKK greatly reduces any drag as you move through the water whilst the super soft low neck with smooth skin on both sides is so soft that it provides comfortability.
This wetsuit is guaranteed to elevate your overall performance thanks to the maximum buoyancy which is allowed in triathlon wetsuits.
Creating nearly double the buoyancy than 3mm suits, this is suitable for colder waters and allows you to float higher, move faster and save energy.
This wetsuit comes with a 30 day turn guarantee as well as two year warranty for extra peace of mind.
OUR TOP PICK
Our first recommendation is the Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit which boasts exceptional functionality thanks to the full range of motion and flexibility it provides.
The YKK zipper is made from the highest grade anti corrosion material and greatly reduces drag when swimming.
This suit has the maximum buoyancy allowance that is allowed in triathlons meaning that you can preserve your energy whilst floating higher and moving faster.
The super soft low neck has smooth skin on both sides which is comfortable and also means you have more freedom of movement.
This suit has been approved by various athletes and has won a slew of awards thanks to its high quality.
With a wide variety of sizes available, you are guaranteed to find the perfect fit for you.
Made from hydrodynamic neoprene with SCS silicone coated Syprene, this suit boasts advanced technology in the materials which provides a superior performance.
This suit comes with a two year warranty and a 30 day returns policy so you can have complete peace of mind when purchasing.
Pros
- The YKK zipper is made from the highest grade anti corrosion material and greatly reduces drag when swimming
- The super soft low neck has smooth skin on both sides which is comfortable and also means you have more freedom of movement
- Comes with a two year warranty and a 30 day returns policy so you can have complete peace of mind
Cons
- High price point
EDITORS CHOICE
Our second selection is the Sundried Women's Premium Padded Triathlon Tri Suit which has been designed with a second skin fit to give a full range of movement and allows you to perform at your best without feeling restricted.
The sleeveless design allows for total freedom of movement while swimming and you can move onto the race without feeling as though the kit is holding you back.
Used by professional triathletes, this suit is made from technical materials that are super fast drying to prevent chafing ater the swim with the long length zipper at the back for comfortable breathing and easy removal.
This suit features a subtle hypoallergenic pad that provides comfort on the ride but won’t become a distraction while you race.
The intelligently designed leg grippers mean that the legs won’t ride up while running or provide any irritation during the race.
If you are facing any issues with the suit, Sundried have an experienced customer service team who are more than happy to help you with any issues you may have.
Pros
- Has been designed with a second skin fit to give a full range of movement and allows you to perform at your best without feeling restricted
- Made from technical materials that are super fast drying to prevent chafing ater the swim with the long length zipper at the back for comfortable breathing and easy removal
- The intelligently designed leg grippers mean that the legs won’t ride up while running or provide any irritation during the race
Cons
- The zip can get a bit stuck at first
BEST VALUE
Our third choice is the Synergy Men's Triathlon Trisuit which has been made with proven technology to provide a superior performance as it has quick drying, perforate chamois pads that keep you comfortable whilst giving you the right support for your race.
With flatlock stitching throughout, this suit also has an adjustable zipper with zipper guard and large arm holes to prevent any chafing.
This short sleeve suit design means that you have more freedom of movement which is great if you are wanting to push yourself for a personal best.
This suit has exceptional functionality thanks to the soft and effective leg grippers which keep your shorts in place.
The modesty panel provides comfort and support while the two side leg pockets and zippered mesh pocket in the back mean you can keep your energy gels secure.
Made from advanced semi compression materials, the superior fabrics mean that you can perform at your peak and push yourself during training.
Pros
- With flatlock stitching throughout, this suit also has an adjustable zipper with zipper guard and large arm holes to prevent any chafing
- Has exceptional functionality thanks to the soft and effective leg grippers which keep your shorts in place
- Made from advanced semi compression materials, the superior fabrics mean that you can perform at your peak and push yourself during training
Cons
- Made from heavier fabric
RUNNER UP
Our penultimate selection is the Sparx X Triathlon Suit which has a zipper closure for complete comfortability and security whilst racing.
Made from top quality Italian technical fabric that has been specially engineered for triathlons, this suit can wick moisture away and dries very quickly so you can remain cool and comfortable.
The superior technical compression fabric reduces muscle vibration which helps to fight fatigue. The high visibility and reflective logos mean that you are also safe whilst racing.
The flat lock stitching increases comfort and reduces chafing and the rear air stream mesh inserts provide good breathability and ventilation.
This suit has been made with a high end Italian fabric that has four way stretch directions making this kit incredibly comfortable and feel like a second skin as it provides no chafing or soreness.
The 14 inch front zipper and soft flexible mesh keeps your body cool and allows great ventilation at all times.
The gel tight grippers and quick dry padding make this extremely comfortable to wear while the sleeveless design allows for total freedom of movement with a compression fit that moves with your body.
Pros
- The superior technical compression fabric reduces muscle vibration which helps to fight fatigue
- The flat lock stitching increases comfort and reduces chafing and the rear air stream mesh inserts provide good breathability and ventilation
- Made with a high end Italian fabric that has four way stretch directions making this kit incredibly comfortable and feel like a second skin as it provides no chafing or soreness
Cons
- Doesn’t have a modesty pad
RUNNER UP
Our final selection is the KONA Assault Triathlon Race Suit which is made from performance lycra fabric that helps you to stay as dry as possible and comfortable for the whole duration of the race.
The hi fil mesh assists with temperature and moisture management whilst also utilizing high filament technology.
The suit itself is lightweight and has quick dry padding to ensure that you are racing comfortably after the swimming segment.
The lightweight design means that you don’t have to use any extra energy to fight against the material whilst racing.
With UPF 50 and UV sun protection, you can wear this triathlon suit under any weather condition. For extra convenience, it also has two rear pockets for storage.
This suit is a one piece vest and short combination and perfect for triathletes of all abilities.
Providing value, comfort and performance, this suit has been designed with longevity in mind.
The suit has been engineered to preserve free range of motion in the shoulders with support through the core while the mesh panels provide temperature and moisture management during the ride and run.
The rear pockets allow you to keep your energy gels within reach.
Pros
- The hi fil mesh assists with temperature and moisture management whilst also utilizing high filament technology
- The lightweight design means that you don’t have to use any extra energy to fight against the material whilst racing
- Providing value, comfort and performance, this suit has been designed with longevity in mind
Cons
- Runs large to size
Best Triathlon Suit Buying Guide
When it comes to taking part in triathlons, the triathlon suit is one of the most important decisions as it will determine the comfortability of the racer which in turn can have an affect on the overall performance.
Making sure you pick one that is right for you is going to ensure that you have as much of an enjoyable experience as possible and will also prevent any disappointment and extra spending on a replacement.
When conducting your own research, always consider your ability, the material, the sizing options and your budget.
Once you’ve given these factors thorough consideration, you’ll be in a position where you can make a fully informed decision with confidence and be on your way to taking part in triathlons before you know it.
Ability
The first thing you should always think about is your ability which leads into how often you will be training and using the triathlon suit.
For those who are just beginning their triathlon journey, they may want to consider getting a cheaper suit to see how it fares and gauge whether it feels comfortable.
However, for those who have taken part in triathlons before, they probably know what kind of suit is going to be comfortable for them and will need a higher quality suit in order to withstand the amount of training involved.
Material
Next, you should always look into the material as you have to make sure that it is going to have the durability to withstand all of the sports and any weather conditions.
Another important aspect to consider with the material is the comfortability. For men, you may want your triathlon suit to have a modesty pad and women may want something that keeps everything supported correctly.
If the suit doesn’t provide the comfortability you need then you may find that you don’t race as well as it can prove a distraction.
Size
The sizing options are always important as they will ensure that the suit fits correctly.
The triathlon suits that don’t have many sizes may be too tight or too loose which can prove a distraction whilst you race and may make the whole experience uncomfortable for you as you won’t be able to perform as well.
Making sure that you have a suit that has a snug fit will not only feel comfortable but also give you the flexibility you need for all three sports.
Budget
Lastly, you should always think about your budget. Triathlon suits can cost a lot of money but there are plenty of options at cheaper price points as well to suit all budgets.
The range of prices in our recommendations in this article vary greatly depending on the quality of the material and the comfortability so always think about what you want to get from the suit and how often you’ll be using it before determining how much you wish to spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a triathlon suit?
Triathlon suits are a piece of apparel that has been designed with the three sports in mind. They are usually one piece but some triathletes wear a vest and tri shorts if they are racing in a hotter climate.
Are triathlon suits worth it?
They are worth it if you are looking to take part in lots of triathlons. They boast the benefits of being suitable for all three sports in the triathlon and have been designed to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.
They are expensive so some people opt to wear a vest and triathlon shorts instead.