Triathlon - swimming equipment

Triathlon is about so much more than just swimming, cycling, and running. It’s about mastering three demanding disciplines – and staying strong throughout. That’s why everything starts in the water. The swim segment doesn’t just set the pace for the rest of your race – it also places unique demands on your gear, technique, and preparation.

At Watery, we know how crucial a strong swim start is. We've guided everyone from first-time sprint racers to seasoned Ironman athletes chasing new personal bests. And they all have one thing in common: When the gear fits, the technique works, and the preparation is in place – swimming becomes a strength, not a struggle.

On this page, we’ve gathered the best, most thoroughly tested gear for triathlon swimming.

How to choose the right wetsuit for triathlon

A good wetsuit makes a world of difference in open water. You need freedom of movement, warmth, and the right amount of buoyancy to swim more efficiently with less effort.

At Watery, we naturally offer a wide selection of wetsuits for triathlon (Browse our full triathlon wetsuit range here). Every day we help both beginners and Ironman athletes find the perfect wetsuit. Here’s what we recommend you look for:

Thickness and buoyancy

• We recommend 1.5–2 mm around the shoulders and arms for maximum flexibility

• 3–5 mm around the hips and legs gives extra lift and a better position in the water

• More buoyancy = less energy spent staying afloat

Choose based on water temperature and distance

• If you're swimming in cold water (under 15°C), go for a thicker wetsuit with good insulation

• For sprint distances, many prefer a lighter, more flexible suit that’s quick to remove

• For half and full Ironman distances, comfort and sustained buoyancy are key

Fit and experience level

• Beginners benefit from suits with extra buoyancy and a forgiving fit

• Experienced triathletes often choose more flexible, tighter-fitting models

• A wetsuit should feel snug – but not restrict your chest or shoulders

For women and men

• Women’s wetsuits are designed with more room at the hips and a narrower waist

• Men’s models are typically longer in the legs and broader across the shoulders

• We’re happy to help you find the model that fits your body best

Our customer service always recommends testing your wetsuit at home with a swim cap and goggles – that’s the best way to get a realistic feel of how it performs on race day.

👉 Read our ultimate guide to buying a wetsuit for triathlon and open water – with tips on thickness, fit, and water temperatures.

Triathlon swim goggles – how to choose the right pair

In open water, your goggles are just as important as your wetsuit. You need clear vision, fog-free lenses, and a pair that stays put without adjustments during your swim. That’s why we recommend goggles specifically designed for triathlon – with the right fit, lens type, and visibility.

At Watery, we’ve tested and handpicked goggles that we know perform in competition. Here’s what to look for:

Lens type matters

• Mirrored lenses reduce glare – perfect for sunny days and open water

• Polarised lenses block reflections and provide a calmer field of vision

• Clear lenses are ideal for cloudy days or indoor training

We always recommend bringing two pairs on race day – one with dark lenses and one with clear, so you’re ready for any condition.

Fit and comfort

• Go for a low-profile design with soft silicone that seals without pressure

• Adjustable straps and nose bridges ensure a stable fit throughout your swim

• Anti-fog and UV protection should be standard – all our top picks have it

One of the most common questions is: “How do I know if they’ll stay watertight?” Easy – put them on without the straps and press them gently onto your eyes. If they create a vacuum, they fit well. (Order a few to test at home – return the ones you don’t keep)

👉 Browse all our triathlon swim goggles – tested and race-ready.

Essential triathlon swim gear – and nice-to-haves

When you’re training for a triathlon or gearing up for race day, having the right equipment is key. At Watery, we advise athletes every week – from first-time sprinters to full Ironman participants – and we know what works.

Must-haves – the essentials you can’t do without

To feel confident and perform well in the water, we recommend the following gear as a minimum:

– A triathlon wetsuit suited to the water temperature and your skill level
👉 Explore all triathlon wetsuits here

– A well-fitting pair of goggles with lenses matched to the light and weather
👉 View all triathlon goggles here

– A swim cap to stay warm and visible
👉 Shop all swim caps here

– A swim buoy for open water training – for visibility and safety
👉 Check out our swim buoys here

– Friction lotion to prevent chafing from wetsuits and straps
👉 Browse our friction lotions here

With these essentials, you’ll be fully equipped for both training and race day.

Nice to have – to boost training and comfort

Once your basics are sorted, a few extras can take your training and performance to the next level:

– Pull buoy, kickboard, and paddles for technique and strength training

– Swimming fins to improve your kick and build leg power
👉 Explore all fins here

– Swim or triathlon watch to track distance, pace, and heart rate
👉 View all swim & tri watches here

– Changing mat to change in and out of your wetsuit without getting sandy
👉 Check out our full range of changing mats

Depending on your goals and experience level, these extras can give you more out of each training session – and peace of mind on race day.

Why triathletes choose Watery

When you shop at Watery, you don’t just get the widest selection – you also get expert advice.

We offer Ireland’s best range of triathlon wetsuits and open water gear, and we’re ready to help you find the right equipment for both training and competition. Whether you’re new to the sport or chasing a new PB.

Here’s why triathletes trust us:

• Free expert advice from triathlon specialists – Monday to Friday, 08:00–22:00
• 100% price match guarantee on all triathlon products
• Quick delivery so you’re race-ready, fast
• Free shipping on orders over €79
• We’re specialists in swimming, triathlon, and open water – and we’re here to support you