Tri Top vs Speed Suit

Brian Terwilliger

I need to get my team kit. At double the price, whats the advantage of the speed suit, in reality over the tri top?  How is it for the swim and run?  I am not a fan of costume changes in transition.  My HIM this year is Raleigh and IM is Chattanooga.  The chances of either being wetsuit legal is pretty much zero and I'm not interested in wrestling myself into my top in T1. 

Al Truscott

One piece full vs top + shorts is personal preference IMO. I prefer the one piece as it feels more aero has a full front zipper and long legs down to knees. And covered shoulders for mid day six hours in aero, avoiding sunburn.

Pro tip: instead pulling tri top over head and shoulders, try stepping into it instead. Or just wear a swim skin over kit and remove in T1

Brian Terwilliger

Let me clarify.  The "speed suit" is the EN one by Castelli.  Its a top only.  I prefer two piece for those times when speed could be the deciding factor in needing a shower or not after a pit stop.  With heavily tattoo'd arms, I like the idea of sleeves for sun protection. But $160 for a shirt...

Paul Hough

The advantage of a one piece - sleeved - trisuit is that it is more aero than sleeveless provided that it fits properly.  The rule of thumb is that skin is slow but wrinkles are slower.  There are several one pieces that allow you to take a leak without having to remove the top.  I think I've done more IMs with a 1 piece than a 2 piece, but if it wasn't wetsuit legal I would stay away from sleeves.

Stephen Cogger

I was wondering the same thing. I burn very easily and prefer the sleeves covering my shoulders. Is there any other option for a sleeved top?

@Al Truscott that pro tip is genius. I swim in a sleavless but bike with short sleeves so I'm always dealing with putting on my shirt in T1. Thanks!

Ross Kaffenberger

I've seen some LG one-piece speed suits in race report photos from last year. Anyone know if that kit will be on sale for 2017?

From what I've read, the Castelli top is designed just for the bike - I'd rather just wear one thing the whole race.

scott dinhofer

Ross Kaffenberger said:

I've seen some LG one-piece speed suits in race report photos from last year. Anyone know if that kit will be on sale for 2017?

Ross - in the Castelli post, Coach R specifically stated that it isn't available this year (the LG suit) I do have my Medium up for sale in the classified forum

Dave Tallo

Long sleeve will be faster on the bike, provided it fits right.

That's a paddlin' (great avatar, Brian).