As essential as training is for a triathlon, so is having the appropriate gear. “It’s key to train wearing the pieces you plan to compete in,” says Andrew Kalley, NASM, an elite triathlete, Certified USA Level II Triathlon Coach, and coach for Full Throttle Endurance. “That way you become comfortable in them, and prevent things like blisters on race day.” And comfortable, functional pieces work best. Kalley says you want gear that will have you in and out of the transition stations as quick as possible. Not sure exactly where to start? Check out DailyBurn’s picks for a hassle free race day.
1. Lap Time
A snug fitting bathing suit makes for more efficient practice swims. The Aquasphere Ursula has medium stretch that may take a little effort to get into, but once it’s on, you don’t have to worry about the straps falling down or fabric riding up. The quick drying fabric is perfect for those training several days a week. ($65; aquasphere.com)
2. Clear View
Thanks to the oversized anti-fog lens in these Aquasphere Kayenne goggles, you’ll have 180-degrees of visibility in the water. The simple to use one-touch, Quick-Fit Buckle allows you to adjust them with little effort, even if they’re already on your face. ($28; aquasphere.com)
3. Bounce Free
Feel secure all race long in this C9 by Champion Women’s Reversible Compression Racer Bra. Choose the color you want to show, and then slip it on easily under your wet suit to start the swim. It wicks moisture and sweat, so you won’t be dripping wet by the time you’re done with the bike.
4. Thigh High
The versatile 2XU Comp Tri Short can be worn during all legs of the race — swim, bike and run. The SBR Skin X fabric is built for greater endurance with extra compression so it fits perfectly under a wetsuit. And don’t worry about your bottoms feeling too wet throughout the race — the moisture management system and mesh panels allow the garment to dry quickly. ($90; 2xu.com)
5. Suit Up 
2XU’s A:1S Active Sleeveless Wetsuit is great for a beginner who wants to feel a little more buoyancy during the swim portion of the tri. It’s made of 100 percent Japanese Yamamoto neoprene and a front chest panel coated with technology to help keep your body high in the water. Bonus: you’ll avoid feeling restricted in the garment because of its lack of sleeves. ($280; 2xu.com)
6. Top Notch 
Some triathletes like to wear their singlet in the water, while others like to throw it on after the swim. No matter your choice, the highly durable 2XU Comp Tri Singlet clings to your body like a second skin, so you won’t have to worry about it riding up during any activity. Its quick drying and breathable properties let you focus your attention just on the race. ($80; 2xu.com)
7. Eye Candy
Bike and run your best by shielding your eyes from the sun. These Oakley Unstoppable sunglasses are rimless on the bottom, making them super lightweight. The rubber grips behind the ears and on the nosepiece prevent them from slipping down your face once you start sweating. ($180; sunglasshut.com)
8. Heads Up 
Protect your noggin! While this Cannondale Teramo Helmet may skimp on weight (which isn’t a bad thing), it doesn’t on protection, meeting the industry safety standards. The outer shell and inner EPS foam are molded together to work as a one-piece integrated design, and the micro-dial in the back allows you to adjust the helmet to fit your head size. ($120; cannondale.com)
9. High Five
Give your hands a hand! The double layer of padding in the palm of these Liv/Giant Velocity Short Finger Gloves absorbs impact when ridding over rougher terrain on the course. The breathable, four-way stretch material is suitable for both recreational and competitive riding, rain or shine thanks to the silicon patches. ($25; giant-bicycles.com)
10. Fast Feet
Be sure to leave the straps and buckle on these Shimano WR82 cycling shoes open so they’re ready for you to slide into post-swim. The anti-slip heel lining and soft leather upper will prevent blisters so you can pedal sockless. Clipping into your bike wastes less energy on the push and pull so you move quicker. ($200; bike.shimano.com for local retailers)
11. Pro Ride
Available in size extra small to large, this 10-speed Liv/Giant Avail Composite 1 road bike pulls out all the bells and whistles. It’s equipped with giant’s OverDrive steerer tube technology so even a beginner can easily handle the bike, and its lightweight frame makes it a cinch to unrack and carry to the starting line. Plus it’s ride-tuned for longer Olympic distance races as well. ($2,650; giant-bicycles.com)
12. Last Leg
The Columbia Powerdrain Cool shoe makes it easy to transition from bike to run. It features a Omni-Freeze ZERO lining so you can run comfortably barefoot without the fear of getting blisters. And, if your feet are still a little damp, the drainage ports in the heel and forefoot provide breathability and help move moisture. Once you’re feet are in, simply yank the elastic laces until the shoes feel secure, and you’re ready to take off! ($90; columbia.com)