Amy McPherson
If I had not been nudged, I wouldn’t have even considered trying anything from Tri-Fit Athletic. I suppose it’s the word ‘tri’, because I really don’t like swimming laps.
I do however, run. So when given a set of cycling kit, I decided to test it out at the London Duathlon event. To make it even more of a test drive, I wore the bibs sans cream.
The Brand
Tri-Fit Athletic, a relatively new brand in the triathlon world claims to have designs that are “clean, modern and practical”, was born out of its owner not being happy with his own set of triathlon kit while racing at IronMan. That’s reason enough to believe the brand’s designs should be of optimum performance and comfort for multi-discipline events.
The Jersey
I really wanted to love the jersey, simply because I love the colours. I tried it on, and having double checked the measurement chart to see if I am wearing the correct size, I had to think about that.
It is very aero. It is very tight.
I do like my jerseys to be figure fitting, but this jersey just feels more like a squeeze than a hug and I reminded myself that this is designed to be so. Once I started riding, it is in fact very comfortable, as the snug design really makes it easier to gain performance. The technical fabric is light and breezy, and there is a side pocket for gels!
The Bib
Again, I was unsure of the bib shorts on first impression. The chamois looks and feels very light. Is it even going to be sufficient for me down there?
It is. Surprisingly.
Not only is the padding soft, its anti-chaffing quality features a stitched in seam so the edges of the chamois perfectly glides across to the rest of the fabric. The quality of the material feels like a set of second skin, almost as if I was wearing nothing. It is comfortable on the bike and also on the run segments of the Duathlon, when it didn’t feel like I was wearing a huge nappy.
Summary
The Tri-Fit Athletic kit’s snug fit took a little to get used to but once I did, I grew to love it. This kit is especially great for those who race in multi-disciplines and will find the gender neutral designs pleasing.
PS – application of chamois cream still recommended.
Online orders visit tri-fitathletic.com.
