The week leading up to the race I start writing down every piece of gear I will need during race day, from setting up in transition to dry clothes once the race is complete. This, of course, is based on my own personal needs and training; your list will vary, however this will give you a good idea of items you should have, items you may want to have or items that would be good to have but you just didn’t think of.

GEAR CHECKLIST

Must Have’s

  1. Swim Goggles (a second back-up pair is a good idea)
  2. Swim Cap
  3. Bike
  4. Bike Water/Fuel Bottle
  5. Bike Shoes
  6. Helmet
  7. Running Shoes (ok, if you’re a barefoot runner this isn’t a must)
  8. Timing Chip
  9. Fuel

Good to Have

  1. Garmin / GPS Watch
  2. Tri-Suit
  3. Wet Suit (this is usually a must for me but some prefer no wet suit if water temp is warm enough)
  4. Neoprene Cap (if water is really cold)
  5. Socks (I’ve tried to forgo socks in training and ended up with blisters during the run so they’re a must for me at least for running. Depends on weather temp if I wear them during the bike portion.)
  6. Speed laces
  7. Hat
  8. Glasses
  9. Towels (2)
  10. Sweats & Sweatshirt (for before and after race)
  11. Flip flops / Sandles (for before and after race)
  12. Phone
  13. Bottles of Water and Gatorade to keep in Transition

Extras – these items I incorporated into my 70.3 training that I didn’t necessarily use for shorter distance triathlons

  1. Vest (keep core warm during bike portion – also pocket to store phone and extra food)
  2. Fuelbelt(most rely on aid stations but I like to carry my own)
  3. Excedrin
  4. Arm Warmers
  5. Aquaphor
  6. Electrolyte Tablets
  7. Black Marker

Did I leave something out that you are sure to have in your gear checklist? Share with us below!