Must-Have Essential Triathlon Gear for Women!

No, females are not just small men.

We can’t just use whatever’s working for men.

Men are men, and we are WOMEN.

Finding the right gear is much harder for us women as the market has been skewed towards men for the longest time.

Completely understandable that it’s often hard to find the right triathlon gear for women…

From sports bras to road bikes, I’ll tell you what’s important to look for when shopping for new tri equipment! So let’s dive in.

Understanding the Unique Needs of Female Triathletes

Female triathletes face specific challenges and requirements when selecting their gear, from anatomical differences to the need for apparel that offers both functionality and comfort.

The evolution of triathlon gear for women is not just about size or color but about recognizing these unique needs and addressing them through innovative design and technology.

A bit of History of Women in Sports

Thank goodness sport is now almost taken for granted for us women too, but that really hasn’t been the case for all too long!

Where men have been encouraged to take on sports after the war, for women it was the rule to stay at home and take care of everything.

Of course, this is also reflected in studies. Women were seen as “little men”.

BUT THAT IS ABSOLUTELY NOT THE CASE!!!

Women are fundamentally different from men.

Apart from these physiological differences:

Body Fat levels
Muscle mass and strength
Hormones
Lactate Threshold
Thermoregulation
V02max
Fat Oxidation

The most fundamental difference for us is definitely the cycle, the whole mix of hormones that extends over an average cycle length of 28 days (which can also vary widely!!!).

Our cycles are sadly not talked about enough yet and many women have no clue as to why they are feeling like they’re feeling across their cycle.

I think that’s very sad.

For example, we’re more prone to injury in certain parts of our monthly cycles and our training can’t just be the same….always….

We simply don’t have 24-hour hormonal cycles like men.

What works for them does not work for us.

Recognizing this is the first step to get better outcomes!

The Must-Have Triathlon Gear for Women

Mastering the Swim

Wetsuits and Swimskins Tailored for Women

The first leg of a triathlon sets the tone for the day, and having a wetsuit or swim skin that’s tailored for the female body can make a significant difference.

By default, women usually have a better position in the water than men and often need less buoyancy support in their legs.

However, this is highly individual and the best thing to do is to try out a few wetsuits at a neoprene test swim and choose the one that supports you best.

Women-specific wetsuits and swim skins are designed with narrower shoulders, a more pronounced waist, and room for hips, aligning with the typical female body shape for enhanced comfort and performance.

Take these factors into consideration:

Flexibility: Look for neoprene that offers stretch in the shoulders and underarms, allowing for a natural and efficient stroke.
Buoyancy: Aim for wetsuits with targeted buoyancy that helps maintain a streamlined position in the water, reducing drag and conserving energy.
Fit: A snug fit is crucial to prevent water ingress, which can weigh you down. However, it shouldn’t restrict breathing or movement.

Check out this guide on how to choose a triathlon wetsuit if you want to know more!

Swim Accessories Tailored for Women

Goggles

Look for designs that are made for smaller faces. So you have a watertight seal and a clear vision during your swims.

Also, tinted or photochromatic goggles are perfect for open water swims whereas clear ones are better for pool swims.

Swim Caps

Make sure that your swim cap sits tight on your face.

Not so tight that you get a headache but tight enough that it doesn’t slide off your head (because that’s super annoying).

Swim Training Equipment

For my swimming training, I actually use unisex equipment. I think in that case it doesn’t make a big difference and honestly there are not so many gender-specific options available.

Bike: Women-Specific Bikes and Apparel

Transitioning to cycling, the bike itself is perhaps the most critical piece of gear.

Women-specific bikes address differences in torso length, arm length, and weight distribution, offering a more comfortable and efficient ride.

Key aspects to consider include:

Frame Geometry: Designed to accommodate shorter torsos and arm lengths, ensuring a comfortable reach to the handlebars and efficient power transfer.
Saddle Design: Saddles tailored for the female anatomy can significantly reduce discomfort on long rides.

I think the saddle can really make a big difference here.

We spend a LOT of our time on bikes during our triathlon race prep. And extreme saddle soreness and discomforts can go as far as influencing other aspects of life…(If you know what I mean).

Cycling Apparel: Blending Functionality and Femininity

Cycling Shorts

Look for shorts with a women-specific chamois pad that offers protection and comfort without bulkiness. It should be thick enough to reduce your saddle pain but also not too thick so you don’t feel like wearing a really big diaper😂.

Jerseys

Choose jerseys with a fit that accommodates the bust and narrows at the waist, with pockets positioned for easy access.

There are some really cool ones out there that will make you feel even faster on the bike;)

Run: Shoes and Apparel That Go the Distance

The final leg of the triathlon is where the right gear can make or break your race.

Shoes that address the unique biomechanics of female runners can prevent injuries and improve performance. Combine this with high-performance running apparel designed for the female body, and you’re set to cross the finish line in comfort and style.

Women’s shoes often feature softer cushioning to accommodate lower body mass.

Furthermore, look for a snug fit at the heel and a roomier toe box to allow for foot expansion during long-distance runs.

I usually buy my running shoes 2 to 3 sizes larger than my usual size to make sure that I have enough room.

Running Apparel: Designed for the Female Athlete

Tops, Shorts and Tights

Moisture-wicking fabrics and a fit that ensures freedom of movement are key.

Shorts and Tights with a wide waistband can provide comfort and support, while integrated pockets for gels or keys are a plus.

I like to wear running shorts that are a bit longer, like cycling shorts actually so my legs don’t chafe when I run.

I’ve heard from others that they just use anti-chafe cream to solve this problem.

I never tried this, but definitely have to!

Race Gear

Tri Suit

The right tri suit will not only make you feel faster. It will give you an aerodynamic edge.

A well-fitting women’s triathlon suit is designed to reduce drag in water and air.

One-piece suits offer streamlined performance, while two-piece suits may provide more versatility and comfort, especially for bathroom breaks.

General Training Equipment

Sports Bras

Many women choose sports bras that fit too tight.

But there’s actually a new study that has found that a too-tight fitting underband of a sports bra impedes breathing and thus impairs running economy.

When you decrease the underband pressure, it’s easier to breathe, thus improving your running economy!

So try to breathe more heavily to simulate the conditions during your run or even test out the sports bra if that’s possible.

This makes it easier to see if the band is too tight or not.

Even better would be to get a sports bra for triathlon that fits perfectly during all disciplines!

Accessories: The Finishing Touches

Hydration Systems

Choosing hydration gear that fits comfortably over your torso and doesn’t chafe or bounce is crucial.

Many brands offer vests and belts designed for women’s bodies. Because staying hydrated should not impair your performance.

Even some triathlon race belts have some space for nutrition and hydration and then you would get more bang for your buck.

Sunglasses and Hats

Opt for lightweight triathlon sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and temples to fit narrower faces.

Caps should offer a secure fit without being too tight, providing the necessary protection from the sun.

Choose whatever you prefer to do your workouts with.

Wrapping Up

Having the right gear can make all the difference.

And for us women it’s especially important to look for equipment that is tailored to our bodies. This can make us feel way more confident in our training and racing!

I hope this list of triathlon gear for women was helpful to you! If you’re still unsure about all the equipment you need, check out this more detailed gear list of triathlon essentials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a men’s bike for triathlon training and competition?

While it’s possible, women-specific bikes are recommended because they’re designed for the typical female body’s proportions, offering a better fit, more comfort, and improved performance. Women’s bikes account for differences in torso length, arm length, leg length, and weight distribution.

What should I look for in transition gear to speed up my transitions?

Choose gear that’s easy to put on and take off. Shoes with elastic laces, tri suits with front zippers, and helmets with quick-adjust straps can save valuable seconds. Practicing your transitions during training can also help streamline the process on race day.