BEST SLEEVED TRI-SUIT - 220 TRIATHLON

Need a new tri suit? Here is a comprehensive guide to the best tri suits on the market for men and women – sleeved, sleeveless and Ironman – all independently reviewed by our experts.

As the only piece on apparel that’s with you for every step of your race, the tri-suit is a fundamental piece of triathlon gear. Here’s our guide to the best tri suits on the market, whether you’re racing sprint or Ironman, on a budget or looking for aerodynamic gains.

What is a tri suit?

A tri suit is a garment specifically designed for racing all three disciplines of triathlon. Made of a similar quick-drying fabric to swimwear, it’s flexible, hydrodynamic and aerodynamic so it can cater for the demands of swimming, cycling and running. It includes a pad/chamois for comfort on the bike leg, but this pad shouldn’t obstruct your final run leg.

What tri suit should I buy?

As the only piece of triathlon gear that’ll be with you from the starting horn until the finishing chute, the right tri-suit is a key purchase: too tight, baggy, poorly made or slow to dry and you’ll be flirting with a DNF instead of reaching for a personal best.

It also depends on what distance you’re planning to race and whether comfort or speed is your priority, and race conditions. The main options are vested, short-sleeved and those designed especially for Ironman, and there are advantages and disadvantages of each. See below for more information on choosing the best tri suit for you.

How are the tri suits tested and reviewed?

The tri suits here were all given multiple tests on the swim, bike and run to find the best tri suit. Key factors included breathability, how fast they dried, chafing (or lack of), pocket sizing and accessibility, and the effectiveness of the leg grippers and zippers. The pad was assessed for how quickly it dried after the swim, its ability to provide comfort on the bike leg and whether the size impacted on the run. The price, aesthetics, durability and aerodynamics were also considered, as was the versatility of each suit. Many of the Ironman tri suits were also tested for their aerodynamic abilities at the Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub’s wind tunnel.

Best tri and Ironman tri suits to buy in 2020

The best short-sleeved tri suits

Elbow-length suits are equipped for the needs of the modern-day triathlete: shoulders and sleeves help to protect your skin; improved pads aid comfort; and fabrics are designed to be both hydro- and aerodynamic. On top of all that, manufacturers have thought about the practicalities of getting them on and off and have started getting creative with their designs, producing tri-suits that can suit a variety of distances. Time then to take a look at some of the best multi-distance short-sleeved tri-suits on the market.

Tri-fit Evo

£179

The Evo is an outstanding package from Aussie brand Tri-Fit. The suit proves to be very comfortable, especially across the chest where it uses premium Italian fabric. The pad is great even for longer sessions and races, while the fit felt perfect for us. A focus on aerodynamics (Tri-Fit have wind-tunnel-tested the latest version of the Evo) across the shoulders, back and arms didn’t inhibit flexibility and is of high quality, with the sleeves held in place. Pocket space is among the best on test here, with a decent rear pocket complemented by one on either leg for energy gels, while the full-length zipper and middle vent make it easy to get on and off. The design is far from bland but isn’t the most striking compared to the Zoot and Raceskin tri-suits tested here, and we would’ve welcomed more effective leg grippers. 

Verdict: Comfort, aerodynamics and features… a standout tri-suit for all race distances

Score: 93%

Short-sleeved tri suits: which is best?

The test underlined that fit is king and highlighted the need to try on kit, return it and give something else a go if it isn’t for you. Given the multitude of fits, designs and benefits on offer, depending on needs (such as how long you’ll be racing for and your aerodynamic demands), there’s something for everyone here. Race exhibitions are a great place to find new kit, just don’t use your race to test it! Looks can be very subjective too, but, if you feel good, chances are you’ll also look good.

There wasn’t a men’s tri suit that would’ve disappointed as a purchase, but the Tri-Fit Evo was a clear winner. There’s a lot to like about the others, but the Evo pipped Zone3 and 2XU by virtue of design as well as comfort.

 

Read the full breakdown of suits here

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