Sigma Sports Guide
The must-have triathlon products for 2018
The triathlon season is upon us and with races coming thick and fast many triathletes are looking for that next innovation to ensure their 2018 season is the best yet. Yes, training is important but when it comes to optimising your performance, whether it be in the water, on the bike or out pounding the pavements, making sure your equipment is not going to slow you down is key. We've taken a look at some of our favourite products for 2018 that are guaranteed to enhance your training and racing.
Optimise your swim
When ultimate efficiency in the water is a high priority 2XU's Propel Pro Wetsuit comes into its own. Made from a mixture of 39 and 45 cell Yamamoto neoprene, this combination offers excellent buoyancy and super flexibility. Flexibility is further enhanced with the 520 degree stretch lining, which promotes lateral movement. A suit optimised for racing, the SCS (Super Composite Skin) hydrophobic technology repels water, making you faster on the swim. 2XU designers have worked alongside some of the sport's leading athletes to develop IZS (Intermediate Zone Stretch) Panels, that have been added strategically to the suit to allow for a fluid stroke motion. Lower leg propulsion panels add the finishing touches to this market leading wetsuit.
For the adventure
Get out of the pool and head off road with Orca's Core Swimrun Wetsuit. For those that revel in open water swimming and do not want to be constrained by paths and tarmac, swimrun is taking the triathlon world by storm. Orca have designed their Core suit to be able to cope with varied climates and a wide range of conditions. The sleeves can be either left attached to the wetsuit, aiding buoyancy, or taken off for when things heat up. A versatile offering, the addition of outer pockets enables you to carry essential items such as maps, GPS and nutrition. Easy access and increased ventilation is guaranteed with an easy to use long front zip.
Drag2Zero developed
With roots in the world of Formula One, Drag2Zero have transferred their expert knowledge of aerodynamics into the world of triathlon. Working alongside Endura, the QDC Trisuit pairs the Scottish company's patented DisperseFoam repellent chamois with Coldblack technology to keep you cool, dry and performing at your best whether that be cycling or running. Windtunnel tested and optimised with the help of leading triathletes, Joe Skipper and Tim Don, no detail has been overlooked on this suit. Selectively bonded seams ensure uncompromised comfort, however long the race or training session.
Step up your cycling
Making transitions and bike splits faster than ever, Lake's TX322 Triathlon Shoe incorporates a NuFoam breathable mesh layer, which allows water and sweat to be wicked away, with a Trek-Dry antimicrobial liner, to ensure your shoes remain fresh and odour free, however long the ride. Eliminating shoe slip and keeping your feet in the optimum position within the shoes, a Boa system has been added to the front of the TX322 to allow for micro-adjustment on the move. The large opening strap keeps transition times down, reducing the time you spend pulling the shoes on and off.
Use your head
Experts when it comes to eyewear, Oakley have moved into the world of helmets for 2018, with the Aro 7 MIPS TT becoming their aero offering. Using Prizm Road lens technology, the visor optimises clarity and reduces eye fatigue, ensuring you can concentrate on the task in hand. When conditions deteriorate the magnetic attachment allows you to simply remove the visor. A patented Boa FS1-1 retention system provides a comfortable and secure fit while the aerodynamic profile of the helmet takes styling cues from the world of motorsport.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated on the bike does not mean you need to compromise aerodynamics or your position. XLab's range of hydration devices proves this, with their Hydroblade Bottle sitting between the aerobars, meaning you do not have to change position when out training or racing. Offering a wide range of fit options, the bottle is compatible with a range of handlebars. The Hydroblade is also proven against the clock, with a CFD engineered design that reduces drag.
A race proven trisuit
Developed in conjunction with Orca's leading athletes, including Sebastian Kienle, Andrew Starykowicz and Asa Lundstrom, the RS1 Dream Kona Short Sleeve Trisuit features some of the most advanced materials available. The 'Stream' cloth is exclusive to Orca and is 30% lighter than the polyamide cloth which was used for previous incarnations of the suit. This cloth also improves buoyancy and the hydrophobic structure is designed to absorb 50% less water than Nylon based fabrics. Moving through the water with ease, the trisuit's design can be compared to that of a wetsuit. The Dream version also boasts compression aiding technology as well as a three dimensional structure to aid aerodynamic efficiency on the bike.
Want to take a look at our latest triathlon products from some of the sport's biggest brands?
