In the dynamic world of triathlon, the quest for the perfect gear is almost as intense as the races themselves. The year 2024 has been a showcase of technological advancements and personal triumphs, with athletes pushing the limits of what's possible with the help of some truly innovative equipment. Let's dive into the gear that has not only set records but also raised the bar for what we can expect in the future.
Wetsuits: The Unsung Heroes of the Swim Segment
At the heart of every great swim split is a wetsuit designed for speed, flexibility, and buoyancy. Take, for example, Spain's Sara Perez Sala, a former Olympic swimmer, who consistently leads the pack. At the 70.3 World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand, her Orca Apex Flex wetsuit was her secret weapon, helping her slice through the water with a stunning 24:20 split. Meanwhile, young Leo Ouabdesselam from France outpaced even the pros, clocking a jaw-dropping 21:25 in his Mako Ultimate Torrent—proof that the right gear can make waves.
Bikes: Engineering for Excellence
The bike segment often tells the story of a race, and this year's top performers rode machines that are nothing short of engineering marvels. The Canyon Speedmax, for instance, has become synonymous with speed and precision. Hayden Wilde, Sam Laidlow, and Laura Philipp all posted some of the fastest bike splits at the Ironman and 70.3 World Championships on their Speedmax bikes, showcasing its unmatched capability to dominate the course. Not to be outdone, Taylor Knibb's loyalty to her Trek Speed Concept has seen her leading the pack in numerous races, proving that sometimes, the classic choices remain the best.
Running Shoes: The Final Sprint
When it comes to the run, every second counts, and choosing the right shoes can make or break a race. This year's top runners sported brands that are at the forefront of innovation. Daniela Kleiser's choice of Puma shoes helped her achieve the fastest half-marathon split in Taupo, while Jelle Geens's On Running Cloudboom Strike shoes were crucial in his sprint to the world title. Patrick Lange's Adidas Adios Pro Evo 1 shoes carried him through a grueling marathon to clinch his third Ironman world title, demonstrating that the right footwear is key to a strong finish.
The Takeaway
While gear alone doesn't make a champion, it's clear that the right equipment can provide a significant edge. As we look towards 2025, the evolution of triathlon gear continues to excite and inspire. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, the advancements in wetsuits, bikes, and running shoes are a game-changer, offering everyone the chance to push beyond their limits and achieve new personal bests.
Remember, in the world of triathlon, every detail counts. From the sleek design of a wetsuit to the aerodynamic build of a bike, and the responsive cushioning of a running shoe, each piece of gear plays a crucial role in the journey to the finish line. So, as you gear up for your next race, consider how these tools of the trade can elevate your performance and perhaps, lead you to your next personal record.
What wetsuits were highlighted as the best in 2024?
The Orca Apex Flex, Mako Ultimate Torrent, Arena Storm, and Venom Triathlon Swim Skin from Rocket Science Sports were highlighted as some of the best wetsuits for triathlons in 2024.
Which bike was noted for having the fastest splits in triathlon championships?
The Canyon Speedmax was noted for having three of the four fastest bike splits at the Ironman and 70.3 world championships, with athletes like Hayden Wilde, Sam Laidlow, and Laura Philipp achieving impressive times.
What running shoes were used by top athletes in the 2024 triathlon championships?
Top athletes wore Puma, On Running Cloudboom Strike, New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer V2, and Adidas Adios Pro Evo 1 shoes during the 2024 triathlon championships, each delivering exceptional performance.
Who achieved notable swim performances with the highlighted wetsuits in 2024?
Sara Perez Sala, Leo Ouabdesselam, Fenella Langridge, and Sam Askey-Doran achieved notable swim performances using the highlighted wetsuits at the Ironman and 70.3 World Championships in 2024.
#TriathlonGear #FastestSplits
Source: https://triathlonmagazine.ca/gear/a-closer-look-at-the-fastest-gear-of-2024/
Discover unique triathlon-themed merchandise, including stylish t-shirts, stickers, phone cases, and home decor - perfect for endurance sports enthusiasts and athletes. Shop now
