We know you need the best gear out there to give you your competitive edge. We spent months testing the latest and greatest so you can focus on your training, not on your shopping.
Here are a few of our top performance picks for Spring:
Topeak Tri-BackUp Seat Post Kit
Designed to meet the demands of recreational and professional athletes alike, the Tri-BackUp series by Topeak provides quick access to hydration and tools to keep you competitive and preserve aerodynamics whenever possible. Saving time in a race is achieved by pairing one of Topeak’s Tri-BackUp mounts with the Tri-BackUp AirStation and any of the Ninja Bottle Cage Series, which allow for some serious tool and hydration access in a location that won’t slow you down. (Tri-BackUp Pro I Mount $59.95)
Rudy Project Rydon
The Rydon sunglasses is Rudy Project’s all-time best selling performance shade – and for good reason. The sunglasses are lightweight, performance-stylish, and completely adjustable with their flexible nosepiece and temples. The shock-proof Grilamid makes them durable as Hell for hard wearing athletes. Pretty much anyone can rock the Rydon, and most have. (MSRP $249.99-$299.99 depending on lens)
Sacha Inchi Super Training Fuel
Just when you thought you had tried or at least heard of every trendy new superfood, along comes a better, game-changing energy source that you can’t live without. We’ve tried them all, and can honestly say this is one of the best snacks out there. The Sacha Inchi seeds — ethically sourced from Southeast Asia — pack a nourishing punch that is difficult to believe. These tasty little-salted seeds, about the size of a fat almond or more like a crunchier macadamia nut, have 20 times more Omega-3 content than wild pink salmon, boasting the highest known plant-based source of heart-health-essential Omega-3’s. Sacha Inchi seeds also have more fiber, iron, and complete protein than almonds and other nuts and seeds, as well as eight essential amino acids. The crushed protein powder made from the seeds comes in at 64% protein by weight. ($21.99/16 oz. jar of seeds)
LOOK 796 Monoblade
LOOK’s engineers broke the mold with the 796 Monoblade Aerodynamic Triathlon / Time Trial Bike as the culmination of 10 years of R&D resulted in an unprecedented integrated design. It is LOOK’s most aerodynamic tri bicycle offering unmatched comfort paired with stability, lightness and power transmission. The ultralight carbon frame and all of its components work fluidly together for ultimate performance. The 796 combines several of LOOK’s technological innovations together in one bike including Zed 3 Crankset; Aeropost Seatpost; Aeroflatstem; Aeroflatbar Aerodynamic Carbon Handlebar; Trademarked V-Style front brake integrated into the fork; and internally routed cables. (Frame Only $8,499.99; Proteam $13,999.99)
Timex Ironman GPS
What may be the simplest GPS watch ever is now available to our triathlete friends. According to Timex, with the new Timex Ironman GPS all you do is simply select your workout, and begin. Quickly connect to GPS satellites for real-time pace, speed and distance. After your workout, upload your data and charge the watch with the universal micro-USB cable. Features include: Menu-based interface; 12-hour GPS battery life and Quick GPS Fix (connects in under 30 seconds); water resistance up to 50 meters; and Indiglo night-light. ($99.95)
Nuun Performance
Nuun Performance is an endurance drink mix designed for extended and intense activity, and is the first sports drink powder that is both Non-GMO Project Verified and Informed Choice – Safe for Sport verified. Partnered with renowned exercise physiologist Stacy T. Sims to develop Performance, it’s first non-tablet formula, utilizing the latest research in sports science and purity of sourcing from the natural foods industry. The goal is to aid the body to more effectively absorb fluids, carbohydrates, and electrolytes during intense, longer duration exercise where stomach function is compromised. Nuun Performance mix was formulated with a precise ratio of multiple sources of clean carbohydrates and electrolytes that the body needs during activity. Debuting with two flavors, Mango Orange and Blueberry Strawberry, the line will be available in April across sports specialty retailers including REI, Performance Bike and Fleet Feet. (16-serving pouch $19.99; single serve sachets for $1.99)
Elite Tri Box
The efficient and ergonomic Elite Tri Box can be a critical addition to any triathlete’s gear setup. The Tri Box organizes all your equipment based on different transition areas and then rolls out for a methodical area layout. This easy-to-transport bag is fully collapsible, includes internal compartments, a shoe carrying bag, transition bags, and more. ($179)
POC Cerebel Road Helmet
The Cerebel compact aero helmet was developed by POC in collaboration with Cannondale -Garmin Pro Cycling team, Volvo Car Group, and WATTS Lab to improve aerodynamic performance while retaining the brand’s continual emphasis on safety. According to POC, the Cerebel is equipped with a visor from Zeiss with a tint specifically developed to enhance the contrast of the road surface, allowing for faster reactions to hazards at speed. There’s a unique magnetic lens attachment system designed to ensure that the lens is correctly positioned for low drag and allows for quick attaching and removal. (Medium: 54-60 cm; 380 g) ($350)
