Throughout your triathlon training and race day, there are a few key pieces of race gear that you will use each day. Some pieces will last for a season, and some longer. While how long each piece of triathlon equipment can last, there are some general rules of thumb to determine when it is time to replace an item
Take a look at this quick guide for knowing when to replace triathlon gear:
Swim
- Swim Cap
Swim caps are the most frequently-replaced pieces of swim gear, mainly because they simply can’t last more than a few months. After all the stretching, pulling, and chlorine/sunlight exposure they see, the material simply breaks down.
- Goggles
Swim goggles deteriorate a little with each use. It will be up to you to determine when the lenses are too scratched or they’re not watertight anymore. Frequent swimmers will need to replace their swimming goggles at least every 6 months. Chlorine and sunshine break down the materials no matter how carefully you care for them.
- Wetsuit
There are a few ways to tell if it’s time to replace your wetsuit:
- It’s too loose or too small
- The zipper doesn’t function properly
- A tear is beyond repair
- Velcro no longer sticks
- It smells
Bike
- Helmet
It’s often recommended that a helmet worn frequently should be replaced every 3 years or so. The reason is that the foam degrades due to sun, heat, salty sweat and other environmental factors, added to the usual knocks of regular cycling activity.
- Tires
If your tires don’t have tread wear indicators, repeatedly getting flats from small stones and pieces of glass is an indication that the tread could have worn thin and it’s time to replace your tires. If the protection layer or the casing is showing through, it’s definitely time for some new rubber.
Racing bicycle tires, which are designed for speed and high-performance, may need replacing after 1,000 miles, but tough bicycle touring tires can last as long as 4,000 miles. The most common sign that your bicycle tires should be replaced is a sudden streak of flat tires.
- Chain
If you are using a chain designed for ten or fewer gears, replace your chain as it nears the 0.75 percent mark. If you are using an eleven or twelve speed chain, replace your chain once it has reached 0.5 percent wear. For two-sprocket or single speed bikes, replace your chain as it reaches the 1 percent wear mark. A general rule of thumb is to replace your bike’s chain every 2,000 miles.
If the chain starts to lift off the top and/or the bottom of where it sits on the chainring teeth, this means that the chain is starting to wear or is worn. If your chain lifts off the ring like this, it’s likely worn and should be replaced.
- Brakes
Brake pads need to be changed every 20,000 miles to prevent the brake pads from completely breaking down. You should replace your pads when there’s 1.5mm or less of braking material remaining. If the pads are okay, replace the wheel and keep riding.
Running
- Socks
To ensure that you get a comfortable running experience every time, you must replace your athletic socks as soon as you feel that they are losing their shape or cushioning. You should replace them every 3 to 6 months, depending on their condition.
- Shoes
As a general rule, you should consider changing your running shoes between every 400 to 500 miles. However, if your running shoes are not showing any signs of excessive wear such as holes or rubber sole deterioration, you may be able to wear them for longer without increasing the risk of injury.
As much as training is imperative to a successful race, it’s important to have proper race gear. Proper race gear means that any piece of triathlon equipment you’re using isn’t too worn on race day. This detailed guide for when to replace race gear can help you better determine when it’s time to replace triathlon gear.
Looking for more ways to ensure you’re physically and mentally prepared for race day? Contact me today to set up a free coaching consultation!
Train Right, Tri Right!
Coach MJ
