Triathlon Magazine Canada Buyers Guide 2023

The Latest Triathlon Gear for All Levels
BIKES,
RUNNING
SHOES,
WETSUITS
AND MORE!
Sam
Long’s TRAINING
Lessons Travel with From Pro Go from Beginner to
Swimming with the Pack
Learned Your Bike Triathlete Power Meter 101:
Safely and to Oscar Tips on What to Buy
(Sort of) Cheaply
Winner? Are Your Running Shoes Legal?
FIND US AT EVERY IRONMAN EVENT OR ONLINE
VOLUME 18 ISSUE 1 BUYER’S GUIDE 2023
Departments
SWIM
TRAINING
Wetsuit Technology Explained 14
How Laura Siddall Turned Her
Swim Around 16
GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE

WARM-UP Wetsuits 18
2 EDITORIAL
ELITE PROFILE BIKE
4 Melanie McQuaid TRAINING
Power Meter 101 20
GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Aero Bars 21
Bikes and Gruppos 22
Wheels 26
Helmets 28
Indoor Bike Trainers 30
Power Meters 31
Features
FUEL Sam Long
NUTRITION RUN BY SARAH KIM BONNER
6 Spring Is the Best Time to Practise Nutrition TRAINING A very public spat with another Sam at the
How a Super Shoe Ban Affects You 32
BUYER’S GUIDE TRI TASTES Collins Cup put American Sam Long in the
What to Look for in a Shoe 34
7 Nutrition Product Guide
spotlight last year. While he’d always cher-
GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE ished being in the limelight, that experience
Training and Racing Shoes 36
has shaped his approach to the sport as
he searches for “the best possible version”
TRANSITION of himself.
TRAINING
Gear Your Coach Wants You to Use 38
Find the Right GPS Watch
46
and Bike Computer 40
TRAVEL GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE The Birth of Zwift
CANADIAN RACE Training Tools 41 BY CHRISTINE FRIETCHEN
8 New Mont-Tremblant Race GPS Watches 42 Zwift is part training tool and part video
Director Pauline Alix Bike Computers 43
game. It makes indoor bike training actually
DESTINATION RACING fun, and to some, even addictive—so addictive
10 Travelling with a Bike
that some triathletes have given up riding out-
BUYER’S GUIDE GEAR doors altogether except on race days. How did
11 Bike Bags this software become such a mainstay in the
triathlon world?
50
FINISH LINE
RACE REPORT 54 TOP
Leo Roy at the Montreal
LISTENS Arena Games using Zwift
Podcasts for Triathletes 55 for the run and bike legs
PODIUM
Oscar Nominee Lesley Paterson 56
Finisherpix, Uncredited, Matt Stetson, Jesse Peters, Kevin Mackinnon
ON THE COVER
Felt IA Advanced Ultegra
Di2 (See the bike buyer’s
guide on p.22 for this
and other great rides)
TRIATHLONMAGAZINE.CA Triathlon Magazine 1

WARM-UP EDITORIAL
SHORT-COURSE CONUNDRUM
CAN WE GET MORE TRIATHLETES

TO RACE SHORTER EVENTS? EDITOR Kevin Mackinnon
kevin@triathlonmagazine.ca
ONLINE EDITOR Kevin Mackinnon
kevin@triathlonmagazine.ca
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Andre Cheuk
T MIGHT SEEM crazy to most triathletes now, but back share of the attention at an event
I in the days after I retired when I spent much of my time
coaching, a lot of the athletes I coached who were getting
designed to generate excitement
for short-course racing. Ours
CONTRIBUTING WRITER Ben Snyder-Mcgrath
COPY EDITOR Amy Stupavsky
PHOTO EDITOR Matt Stetson
ready for Ironman Canada would do anywhere from six to wasn’t the only media outlet that matt.stetson@gripped.com
eight races through the summer leading up to their full-dis- found itself in a position where we ART DIRECTOR Warren Wheeler
tance effort. They loved to be part of the racing community were highlighting the sixth-place layout@triathlonmagazine.ca
and would enjoy seeing their buddies every second week finisher over the rest of the field. [Roseander Main; roseandermain.com]
throughout the summer. The non-racing weekends were We had no choice—that was what PRODUCTION ARTIST Warren Hardy
spent getting some long training done. people were coming to our site WEB DEVELOPER Sean Rasmussen
As Ironman took off in North America, though, start- to read.
DIGITAL OPERATIONS Dmitry Beniaminov
ing with the introduction of Ironman Lake Placid and That’s not a problem, though,
PUBLISHER Sam Cohen
Ironman Florida in 1999, things started to change. Fast if the end goal is met. If we get
sam@gripped.com
forward about a decade, and a lot of athletes doing an more people racing short-course
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR David Smart
Ironman race were down to a couple of races—they’d do a events, even if they’re still aim- dave@gripped.com
half-distance race as a tune-up, then hit their full-distance ing for an Ironman, that is great.
ADVERTISING & SALES Andre Cheuk
race. One year, the day before the Subaru Triathlon Series’ If we generate more attention to andre@gripped.com
Milton event, 38 triathletes hit the water for an open-water athletes like Dominika Jamnicky,
ACCOUNT MANAGER
swim. Not one of them raced the next day. who took third, or super-junior Joel Vosburg joel@gripped.com
That makes no sense to Michael D’hulst, the CEO and Noemie Beaulieu, who made the Lorena Jones lorena@gripped.com
co-founder of Super League Triathlon. final, that is great. If Olympic CIRCULATION Robyn Milburn
“If I play golf, I don’t play twice a year,” he says. “I play hopefuls like Jeremy Briand, or robyn@gripped.com
every weekend.” a nother super-junior Mathis SOCIAL MEDIA Nikita van Dijk
When he participated in long-distance events, D’hulst Beaulieu (no relation to Noemie), nikita@gripped.com
was like the athletes I coached way back when—he did who also made the final along SUBSCRIBE
several races throughout the season to hang out with his with Sanders, also become bet- Visit triathlonmagazine.ca, Call:
triathlon community. He wants to bring that philosophy ter known in the triathlon world 1.800.567.0444
or Send $20.95 (1 year) or $38.95 (2 years) to:
back to the sport. thanks to the Arena Games expe-
Triathlon Magazine,
“I want to make short-course cool again,” he says. rience, that’s a win, too. P.O. Box 819 Station Main,
All of which helps explain the desire to put on the Arena Don’t get me wrong, I love Markham, ON, Canada L3P 8L3
Games event in Montreal last February. I can’t imagine long-distance racing. But most of SUBMIT
how much it cost to put the event on, but it must have all, I love triathlon—regardless of Manuscripts, photographs and other correspondence
been a lot. The broadcast crew for the racing was huge, not the distance. Swim, bike and run. are welcome. Please contact Triathlon Magazine for
to mention the cost of bringing in all the treadmills and (Duathlon is cool, too, but let’s contributors’ guidelines, or see them on the web at
triathlonmagazine.ca. Unsolicited material should be
trainers. The vision is to use events like the Arena Games save that for another editorial.) So,
accompanied by return mailing address and postage.
and Super League Triathlon to generate some excitement I’m with Michael D’hulst. But I’d
TRIATHLON MAGAZINE
and get athletes excited to participate in some of the large like to expand on his vision a bit—
Tel 416.927.8198 Online triathlonmagazine.ca
short-course races the company now owns, including the let’s make all types of triathlons
GRIPPED PUBLISHING INC.
Malibu, New York and Chicago Triathlons. On a local cool again.
75 Harbord St., Toronto,
level, hopefully the excitement generated from the Arena Ontario, Canada M5S 1G4
Games helps build participation in Canadian events, too, KEVIN MACKINNON Tel 416.927.0774 Fax 416.927.1491
including the World Triathlon Championship Series race EDITOR COPYRIGHT 2023 GRIPPED INC.
The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part
in Montreal this June. without the express consent of the publisher. The views included herein
are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the
Thanks to a spirited performance by Lionel Sanders,
who is typically associated with long-distance racing here
Online publisher, owners and management of Triathlon Magazine. We occasionally
make our list available to companies of interest to our readers.
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in Canada, the Arena Games in Montreal turned out to be ISSN: 1718-2441 Printed in Canada
for training tips, recipes, race
a huge success. While everyone was worried he wouldn’t
news and updates on the
make it to the finals, he ended up doing that with rela- Canadian triathlon scene.
tive ease. He blasted to a sixth-place finish against all the
sprinters, setting a new Arena Games bike course record Follow TMC on Social Media
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along the way.
Instagram @triathlonmagazine
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was basically a video game—each heat included a 200-m YouTube Triathlon Magazine Canada
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and a 1-km treadmill run using the Zwift platform. What I The Life of Tri Podcast
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found truly ironic about the Montreal event, though, was
Also available on iTunes and Spotify
that it was a long-course athlete who garnered the lion’s
2 Triathlon Magazine BUYER’S GUIDE 2023
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AGE IS JUST A NUMBER mechanics of running. I did three mentor-
WARM-UP ELITE PROFILE
LESSONS FROM ships with Altis. They are really known for
their sprint coaching. They work with Andre
MEL MCQUAID’S De Grasse. What I gained from my studies was

a deeper understanding of running mechanics.
EXCEPTIONAL Specifically, I learned more about how to

create and express speed in running, how
SEASON strength training ties into that, as well as

mobility requirements required for the most
effective training. Although I did that learn-
BY KEVIN HEINZ ing to be a better coach, it has also helped
me improve.
anadian professional triath-
C lete and regular Triathlon
Magazine writer Melanie
Nutrition is also a huge factor in race-day
performance. Learning just how many grams
of carbohydrates per hour you can train
your body to absorb is a rich opportunity for
McQuaid is well-known for her increased performance, but it’s also hard to
feisty and competitive spirit. get right.
Her battles on the Xterra circuit I know it’s been one of the pieces of the puz-
zle that has derailed some of my performances.
have been among our sport’s
My quest is to learn how to get as many cal-
fiercest. Now, over a decade ories in, and what is the best way to train to
later, she has a new adversary: accomplish that. This is especially true at lon-
getting older. And just like her ger distances.
Many people say Ironman is an eating con-
victories over Jaime Whitmore,
test, and there is no debating that. Being good
she is winning this battle as McQuaid on the at taking in those needed calories is just as
well. She ended 2022 placing run in Arizona important as being a good runner.
third at Ironman Wisconsin,
What has kept you so motivated and
fourth at Ironman 70.3 Waco in
hungry to compete during your career?
Texas and sixth in a talent-rich I think I have a bit of a chippy personality. I
field at Ironman Arizona. This is counter to what most Masters swim have a story that goes back 10 years. As I was
McQuaid turns 50 in May programs do. At Ironman Arizona I had a approaching 40, I had coaches and even spon-
super swim. I wrecked my wetsuit before sors asking me, “So, when are you retiring?”
and has no intention of retir-
the start and it was leaking water, but I still This was when I was enjoying my strongest
ing or conceding one second to was up at the front with the female leaders. I ever Xterra season, yet some of my sponsors
her competitors. We spoke to eventually fell back a bit, but my speed is right that year made me feel really old and were
McQuaid about her season up there. hinting that I should retire. I was at the top of
To accomplish that speed, you have to put in my game, yet I felt that I was being ushered out
and what we can learn from
the time. First, you have to be able to get your the door.
her experience. body straight in the water. Second, you have If that was today and an athlete was 38,
to swim. You have to build that fitness in your there’s no question that they would just con-
How has your training changed over arms. Cycling and running don’t do anything tinue competing, but back then it was like,
the years? for your arms. If you don’t do the hard work, “When are you going to retire?” That attitude
MELANIE MCQUAID: I realized building a you won’t be able to tolerate that first 100 m really annoyed me, but I just kept going.
strong aerobic base cannot be overrated of a swim and maintain the high pace needed A few years after that, I broke my ankle. I
and impacts speed across all race distances. for a great swim time. Your arms will just die. used that misfortune as a challenge to get
Despite racing primarily Ironman events in back to where I was, and I was motivated to
my 40s, I had both my fastest 3 and 5 km run What sorts of other things have you been continue. It was a long process—three and a
races during COVID. doing that contribute to your longevity half years to get back to being a competitive
Getting fitter and stronger, while adding in multisport? pro again—and people were probably thinking,
enough high intensity, will allow you to con- At the start of the pandemic, when not a lot “Why is she so slow?” But I kept continuing
tinue to go fast. Understanding how important was going on, I started a mobility session with because I am also stubborn as hell.
and impactful a strong aerobic base is very my athletes. I focused on the specific types of After I recovered from that injury, my
powerful. triathlon training they were doing at the time. motivation to race and train changed. It has
That has kept my athletes, as well as myself, become a sense of curiosity about just how fast
How has your swimming changed over really healthy. I can become and stay fast at this point. That is
the years? I also lift a lot of weights. I do it all year long, very motivating.
I am faster than ever. I say this because of my but periodize it to complement the specific
position out of the water relative to the group types of training and racing I am doing at the With another ambitious race schedule set for
that I compete against, and because of my time. Sessions involving major power develop- this year, McQuaid is set to motivate triath-
splits in races. ment are very important for all athletes. If you letes of all ages and stages of their tri-life.
During the pandemic, I changed the way I are over 40 and you are not lifting, you are def-
Finisherpix
approached my swim training. I put it more in initely leaving some performance on the table. Kevin Heinz is a regular contributor to
line with how I train for running and biking. I have also been educating myself on the Triathlon Magazine.
WHY SPRING IS THE BEST TIME TO PRACTISE RACE NUTRITION
FUEL NUTRITION
Race morning
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT What you eat on race morning matters and should be prac-
tised and planned so that even if you’re travelling you can
BY ALEXIS WILLIAMS replicate the meal wherever you are. It’s a balance between
feeling energized and not feeling like you have food sitting
s the weather warms up and we’re gearing up for our
A early season races, it’s the perfect time to practise
your race nutrition plans.
in your stomach. One to four hours before the event, aim to
consume a meal with 1 to 4 g/kg carbohydrates—for exam-
ple, a bagel with peanut butter and banana slices. Then,
about 30 minutes prior to the race start, have a small car-
Practising your nutrition plan early in the season is a smart strategy to help you bohydrate top-up, such as a gel, fruit pouch or fruit, like a
test and tweak things prior to the busy race season. Even if you have a well-honed banana. While everyone’s gut reacts differently, it’s best to
strategy from previous race seasons, it can be a good idea to re-test, as our bodies avoid spicy, gassy or very high-fibre foods on race morning.
can change from season to season.
You can test out your nutrition plans in tempo training sessions, but it’s also a During the race
good idea to test them in race simulation workouts, or less important races. Our GI The focus of your race fuelling plan should be on carbohy-
system can react differently when we combine the excitement and nerves of race drates, fluids and sodium.
day. You should also research what products are served on course and the weather
conditions expected for race day, as these will affect your needs and can be incor- Carbohydrates
porated into your training. After about 90 minutes of continuous activity, we deplete
So, what are the basics of a race nutrition plan? Let’s break it down into our body’s stored carbohydrates. This means that if we
three parts: want to continue to have a steady stream of blood sugar
1. The days prior to a race (glucose), we need to take in carbohydrates. If we don’t,
2. The morning of the race we may experience fatigue and fogginess, which is often
3. During the race referred to as “bonking.” For events lasting one to two and
a half hours, such as sprint- or Olympic-distance races,
30 to 60 g of carbohydrate per hour is recommended. For
events longer than 2.5 hours, 60 to 90 g/hour is recom-
mended. You need to train your gut to be able to handle
carbohydrates while exercising, so start with the lower
end of the ranges and work your way up.
You can use a combination of sport supplement products
(sport drinks, gels and bars) and real carbohydrate foods,
like bananas. Keep in mind when you are racing or training
harder, liquid and gel options may be easier to absorb than
solid foods that require more digestion. You’ll want to go
easy on fibre-, fat- and protein-rich foods when racing as
they will be slower to digest.
Hydration
When it comes to hydration, our fluid needs vary based
on your sweat rate, race temperature and other factors. A
good starting point is aiming to consume 400 to 800 ml
per hour, but you could need less or more than this. Next
issue’s article will include more detail on sweat rate testing.
Electrolytes
In addition to water for hydration, we need to consider
that we lose sodium in our sweat. The amount of sodium
we lose in sweat is also personal. If you have a high sweat
1 to 3 days prior to the race rate or are a salty sweater, chances are you’ll need to add
If your event will last longer than 90 minutes, you may benefit from carbohydrate sodium to your training fuel plan, especially if you are
loading. From a triathlon perspective, focus on using this strategy for half- and full- training or racing for more than two hours. Start with
distance races. aiming to consume 300 to 600 mg of sodium per hour,
Carbohydrate loading consists of consuming a very high amount of carbohydrates and adjust as needed. You can do this through electrolyte
(10 to 12 g per kg of body weight) for the one to two days prior to your event, with drinks, sodium tablets or high-sodium gels and foods. Next
the goal of loading your muscle glycogen stores. To break this down for a 68 kg issue’s article will include more detail on how to dial in
(150 lbs.) person, this is about 675 g. Some things to note about carbohydrate loading: your sodium needs.
1. You’ll want to drink plenty of water and fluids to aid with the digestion of the
increased carb intake. Getting started on refining your race nutrition plan early
2. For generally healthy eating, we encourage high-fibre foods and whole grains, in the season will pay off when you arrive on the starting
but during carbohydrate loading, you’ll want to look for lower-fibre, white food line well fuelled and prepared.
options. If you try to load with high-fibre foods, you’ll likely experience bloating
and gas due to excessive fibre intake. Alexis Williams is a registered dietician from
3. Protein and fat can be consumed in moderate amounts as part of regular meals, Burlington, Ont. (fuelyourendurance.com;
but should not be the main nutrients of focus during this period. Instagram: @fuel.your.endurance).
BUYER’S GUIDE FUEL TRI TASTES
Named Sport Isotonic Athletic Greens AG1 Runner’s Protein Xact Nutrition
Hydra Zero Tablets Energy Fruit Bars
THE FOURTH EVENT Zero tablets are a favourite of immune system, provides energy swims and bike rides, too). Each
SMART many endurance athletes. The

tablets come in two f lavours,
boosts and will fill any gaps you
may have in your daily nutrition
serving of the vanilla-flavoured
powder features 8 g of fast carbs
EATING FOR orange and lemon lime, and they

dissolve in water. This isotonic
routine. AG1 features a whopping
nine health products, including
(ideal for refilling your glyco-
gen stores), 12 g of slow carbs
TRAINING solution is ideal for use before and

during workouts, and it will help
75 vitamins, minerals and probi-
otics, all of which work “together
(nutrients needed to help repair
your muscles), 20 g of protein
AND you smash your next ride, run or

race. Despite being rich in flavour,
to help you feel like your healthi-
est self.”
and 403 mg of electrolytes. With
all of that in one convenient and
RACING vitamins (they include vitamins

B1, B2 and B6) and electrolytes,
the tablets contain zero sugars.
There’s a reason that everyone
is talking about Athletic Greens
(you’ve likely heard about the
delicious drink, you’ll be setting
yourself for maximum gains in
training every day.
The Named Sport team rec- company on at least one pod-
e all know that
W ommends using the Isotonic
fuelling might as Hydra Zero tablets in “situations
well be the fourth event
involving excessive water and
cast), and it’s because AG1 works.
Perhaps the best part of AG1 is
that unlike so many other green-
Xact Nutrition Energy
Fruit Bars
FROM $57/US$52, BOX OF 24 Xact
salt loss,” as they will provide you drink smoothies out there on the Nutrition’s energy bars are, as
when it comes to triath- with “quick and refreshing hydra- market today, it doesn’t taste like the company says itself, “the tasty
lon training and racing. tion.” The “preparation” process someone tore up pieces of grass, alternative to energ y gels and
Finding the right prod- for this solution is incredibly tossed it into a blender and served chews.” The bars are small (only
simple. All you need are a couple it chilled. Instead, it’s a tasty and 30 g each), but each one packs a
ucts that can help you
of the orange or lemon lime tab- refreshing beverage that you can strong shot of energy that will
reach your best and lets added to 270 ml of water, enjoy every morning, knowing help you tremendously in both
avoid bonking isn’t then you shake it all up and in a that it’s helping your body per- training and racing. They’re
always easy, but here matter of seconds, you’ll have a form at its peak. light and sweet, and unlike many
delicious and nutritious solution at chews, Xact Nutrition Energ y
are a few that might
the ready. Runner’s Protein bars will pretty much melt in your
just do the trick. These tablets are exactly what $45 As you can guess from the mouth. They’re made from natu-
you need in the middle of a long name, Runner’s Protein is the ral ingredients, and the various
Named Sport Isotonic Hydra swim session, an exhausting perfect protein for runners. That flavours (there are currently six
Zero Tablets ride, a hot and sweaty run and phrase, “protein for runners,” is a available) offer different nutrients.
$9 Named Sport is an Italian an arduous race. Whatever ath- funny one, because you so rarely The blackcurrant bar has caffeine,
“superfood” company that pro- letic situation you’re in, Isotonic hear people talking about pro- which is always welcome on a long
duces sport nutrition products Hydra Zero is the right choice tein in the running community. ride or run, while the E-beet bars
with “the a im of improv ing to refuel and get a much-needed Instead, protein is a topic reserved have added electrolytes. The size
athletes’ knowledge of sports boost of energy. for gym rats and body builders. of the bars are ideal for triathletes,
nutrition.” Named Sport may not But 2Runners & Co. (the Canadian as they are easy to carry while
be a household name in sports Athletic Greens AG1 c o m p a n y b e h i n d R u n n e r ’s training and racing, and they’ll
nutrition in Canada, but it has $79 The team at Athletic Greens Protein) knows that every athlete, quickly become a go-to for anyone
grown considerably in recent created their product to help runners included, need protein in who tries them. You’ll only have a
years, and it is now an official athletes and non-athletes alike their diet. Runner’s Protein is a single issue with Xact Nutrition
sponsor of both the Tour de “build a foundation for better plant-based product designed to Energy bars—when you eat your
France and the Giro d’Italia. health.” Their product, AG1, pro- be consumed within 30 minutes last one you’ll immediately crave
The company’s Isotonic Hydra motes gut health, supports your of finishing a run (it’s great after another.—BS-M
TRAVEL CANADIAN RACE
LEFT
Pauline Alix
OPPOSITE
Alix with her
family
CANADIAN CLASSIC GETS NEW LEADERSHIP
FINDING BALANCE IN
MONT-TREMBLANT
BY CATHY BERGMAN
HE NEW FACE of Ironman in Mont-Tremblant, Que. competitive racing, a career, being a good partner and a parent.
T approaches triathlon as a team sport.
“No one gets to the finish line on their own,” shares Pauline
“Even as a very young adult, Pauline embraced a balanced path
of equal measures of experience, learning and fun,” says Kurz.
Alix. “Community, volunteers and athletes—race day is a “Popo has always run her own race, with great integrity.”
team effort.” Alix does not measure success by the size of her paycheque.
As the first young mother to serve as an Ironman race director Instead, she measures it by the quality of her life. Finding a
leading a three series event in Canada, Alix knows that sur- balance between pursuing a passion for event management
rounding yourself with a supportive team is critical in triathlon,and being the best partner and mother she can be is important
regardless what side of the finish line you are on. to her.
In her rookie year as the race director, Alix is taking on what is
“Women should not have to choose between a career and being
expected to be the race’s largest field ever. The 5i50 and Ironmana good partner and mother,” she says.
70.3 Mont-Tremblant in June will host upward of 4,500 athletes, Dave Christen, the senior regional director for Ironman Group
while Ironman Mont-Tremblant in August looks like it will be a concurs.
sold-out event as well. “We work very hard at Ironman, and within the triathlon indus-
She is looking forward to the challenge. “Strong does not mean try, to create a culture that fiercely protects our colleagues and
you have to do something by yourself,” relates Alix. “Strong is supports their family and personal endeavours,” Christen says.
acknowledging that we are stronger together.” It is this unequivocal support for family that drew Alix to
Surrounding herself with strong women—and men who believe the race director role at Ironman. She was not asked to choose
that women can succeed—has been a driving force for Alix. between her family and her career. Ironman made it clear: family
always comes first.
Family comes first “Anything is possible,” has long been the manta of Ironman.
Courtesy Ironman
Alix worked as a nanny in Australia for triathlete Sascha Kurz, Alix believes that anything is possible, when you believe in
who is a keen supporter of Alix’s new undertaking and under- yourself and surround yourself with a strong and positive sup-
stands the delicate balance needed to walk the fine line between port group.
The journey to leadership New fingerprints
TRAVEL CANADIAN RACE

Although Alix is unique as a young mother with a toddler As Ironman celebrates a 10-year run in Mont-Tremblant this year, Alix
in tow leading the crown jewel of Canada’s Ironman race has embraced her leadership role and intends to imprint her finger-
series, her path to becoming a race director has been simi- prints on the race experience in her hometown.
lar to others. Just as an athlete takes a good year to prepare for an “A” race, Alix
Ben Rausa, the race director for Ironman Florida and has been preparing to run her race series her way. That includes mak-
Ironman 70.3 Gulf Coast, met Alix when Ironman first ing the event more experience oriented, sharing the stories of amazing
came to Mont-Tremblant in 2012. While Alix was just a participants and putting the human side of triathlon front and centre.
fledging volunteer, Rausa has watched her grow into her Max Lambert is very proud of his partner and the mother of his
own, working for a decade in every aspect of triathlon. As adorable young daughter. He supports her tremendous work ethic,
Alix honed her management skills, Rausa saw her mature admires her passion for event management and respects that she also
into a strong leader and take her place at the table among makes work-life balance a priority.
other strong and passionate leaders on the Ironman team. “I watched Pauline race to the finish line at Ironman 70.3 Lake Placid
“She learned the event from the ground up, just as we all in 2017, and I see that same fierce determination as she works toward
did,” says Rausa. a different kind of finish line this year as the race director for the
Christen echoes the same sentiment. Ironman Mont-Tremblant series,” Lambert says.
“Every person in a leadership role at Ironman followed The event series is set against the backdrop of the beautiful four-
a similar path that Pauline traveled,” says Christen. “We season resort in the eastern townships, and the region knows how to
learned by doing. Pauline is a rising star in Ironman and surpass the expected. Managing an event series that is a consistent ath-
we are delighted to have her at the helm of the Mont- lete favourite, Alix also knows how to exceed expectations. Building on
Tremblant race series.” a solid foundation and supported by a tremendous team that is forging a
Just as important as knowing every phase of managing new path for Ironman Mont-Tremblant, Alix is keeping her eye on that
an event the size and caliber of an Ironman series, a calm finish line, while always making time for hugs and cuddles with her
demeanor, the ability to handle stress and deal with every baby daughter, Charlotte.
type of personality is key to serving in a triathlon leader- Professional triathlete Chelsea Sodaro showed us last year that
ship role. young mothers can take the top podium spot at the Ironman World
“Pauline knows what she brings to the table,” says Lily Championship. Pauline Alix is showing us that young mothers can win
Nucera Rausa, the former race director for Ironman 70.3 on the other side of the finish line as well.
Maine. “She speaks with purpose and intention.”
Alix credits her strong sense of self from a lifetime of Cathy Bergman has worked on both sides of the finish line as a six-time
strong female mentors, from her mother to her sisters, to Ironman 70.3 finisher and a devoted volunteer when she is not racing.
Michel Allaire
her Ironman family, along with a community in Mont-

Tremblant that embraces female leadership and inclusivity.
TRAVEL DESTINATION RACING
WITH FINGERS CROSSED, A LITTLE LUCK AND A LOT OF PREPARATION…
HAVE BIKE,
WILL TRAVEL
BY LOREEN PINDERA
When Piché collected her bags at the airport, she dis-

covered the rigid Thule bike case scuffed up, with the little
feet at the bottom broken off. Inside, things were worse.
“When I took my bike out of the case, I found the fork all
scratched up,” she said. “I also discovered that two cables
were cut—one of the gear shifters on the aerobar no longer
worked and a brake, as well.”
How had it happened? Piché said she had packed the
bike like it was crystal, cushioning it with extra padding
and tying every piece down with extra straps. She had
arrived in Florida a week early, to give herself time for
a few rides before her event. But, with electronics and
other parts in short supply everywhere, she spent most
of that week tracking down bike shops and pleading with
mechanics to get her most-prized possession fixed ahead
of her event. She got the bike back just in time to rack it
for the race.
“They ended up using a part from a bike that was already
in the shop,” she said.
On the return flight, Piché’s Felt fared even worse.
“When I picked up my case in Montreal, one of the clips
on it had been ripped right off. The lock had been cut, and
there were bike parts missing.”
WAS ON THE shuttle bus on my way back to my car after watching the last of the One of her carbon wheels was also broken. She said
I pros cross the finish line at Ironman 70.3 Mont-Tremblant last June when I spot- even the American Airlines representative at the airport
ted Flora Duffy out my window. She was out for a jog. She looked fresh and, if she couldn’t believe the extent of the damage and helped her
was feeling devastated, she showed no sign of it. document her complaint.
It was like witnessing a lesson in grace and acceptance: the Tokyo Olympic gold “Customs has the right to open a case,” she said she was
medallist and four-time ITU world champion had flown up from Denver for the told. “They cut my lock and went into mine and made no
race, and all bets were on Duffy to finish on top of the podium. She’d made it to effort to put the bike back the right way.”
Tremblant. Her bike had not. Once home, Piché’s bike went straight back into the shop
Just about everybody has a lost luggage story these days, and for most of us, the for another long wait for parts.
stakes are not quite as high as they were for Duffy. (She’d been forced to withdraw She finally called me at the end of January with some
from the Chattanooga 70.3 due to COVID, and the Mont-Tremblant race was her last good news.
shot at a slot for October’s 70.3 World Championship.) But any age-grouper who has “My baby is back,” she said. By then, she was $1,000 out
ever flown to a race can relate. Of all the logistical challenges triathletes face, how to of pocket for the bike repairs. The case wasn’t yet fixed,
get your bike there in one piece, on time and race-ready can feel like a roll of the dice. and she was still waiting for a response from the airline for
Take Christine Piché. Last year was a come-back year for the 48-year-old elec- her compensation claim.
tromechanical technician, who moved to Lac-Mégantic, Que., to begin the long “It’s a lot of money, but it’s not just about the money,”
preparation to race the gruelling CanadaMan/Woman XTri event. She’d finally Piché said. “The whole thing upset me so much, and deal-
recovered from her injuries after being struck by a car on the bike course at Mont- ing with it took up so much of my time, I’ve neglected my
Tremblant in 2019 while training for her first full-distance race. She’d had surgery training. I haven’t felt motivated—just overwhelmed by
to repair a torn-up shoulder and, to celebrate, last spring Piché invested $17,000 in the whole bad experience.”
a Felt time-trial bike with all the bells and whistles. She won her age group in the As a prep race for the gruelling CanadaMan/Woman,
CanadaMan sprint in July, posted a personal-best time at Ironman 70.3 Maine two Piché signed up for Ironman 70.3 Lanzarote in the
Matt stetson
weeks later, then raced Timberman a couple of weeks after that. She wrapped up Canary Islands in March. Getting there is a snap if you’re
the season in early December, flying to Orlando for Ironman 70.3 Florida. in Europe, but from Canada it involves flying on at least
two airlines. That means more oversized PACK YOUR BABY IN STYLE
BUYER’S GUIDE TRAVEL GEAR

luggage fees, more trips through customs
and, once you leave the airport, more
stress about finding a taxi big enough to
BIKE BAGS
e all know how terrifying it can be to travel with your bike.
haul you, your bike and the rest of the gear
to wherever you are staying.
When Montreal triathlete Genady Balik
W It can be very challenging—as Loreen Pindera aptly pointed
out. Having a bag that is easy to pack and can be wheeled easily
and his partner, Ann Walling, travelled to
Lanzarote for a training camp a few years around an airport is the first step to a happier life when it comes
ago, Balik calculated that the excess lug- to getting your bike to your next race or training camp. Here are a
gage fees for the two bikes alone would add few options that fit both those bills.
up to $600.
“They have very good bike rentals in Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Road Bike Travel Bag
Lanzarote,” he said. “For $500, we could $1,199/US$949 There’s a reason you’ll see lots of these at the airport for your next Ironman event—
rent bikes. So that’s what we did.” this soft-shell case has a unique shape that allows most bikes to fit in with your handlebar and
I shared Balik’s experience with Piché, seat post in place. (If you have a really large frame you might have to do some adjustments with
but the suggestion that she rent a bike in your aero bars.) The result is that all you need to take off your bike are the wheels. A system of
Lanzarote didn’t go down well. internal protection pads and safety belts ensure that all the critical parts of the bike are pro-
“Renting a bike that I haven’t been fitted tected. The case is made of high-density woven nylon which provides excellent protection, but
for: it’s too much of a risk,” she said. “I’m can also be packed down easily to fit into small rental cars or to take up as little space as possible
still recovering from my accident. I risk get- in small hotel rooms. The twin wheel system features eight spinning wheels that make it really
ting hurt again. I risk being unable to finish easy to move around an airport of hotel lobby.
the race. I need my own bike.”
At least getting the bike to the race Evoc Bike Travel Bag
shouldn’t break the bank. $685/US$595 The best of both worlds, the Evoc bag features a hybrid construction that com-
Since 2019, many airlines appear to have bines the advantages of a hard-shell case with the properties of a soft bag. This large bag is
taken pity on triathletes and other cyclists, easy to pack—all you must take off are the handlebar, pedals and wheels, so it will only take a
lowering their fees for bikes. American few minutes at either end of your trip to take care of your bike. There’s a belt system to keep
Airlines, Delta and United now count bikes everything in place, and there’s lots of padding and rubber enforcements that keep all the
as part of your checked baggage allow- parts of your bike safe, especially around the drive train. The wheels easily slide into the two
ance, as long as the packed bike weighs padded compartments. Once you’re on the move you’ll find the smooth, inline-skate wheels
in at no more than 23 kg (50 lbs.) and the with sealed bearings, paired with the conveniently placed handles, make it easy to keep things
overall dimensions of the bike case meet moving.—KM
each airline’s relatively generous maximum
size. Some European airlines, like British
Airways, have followed suit. So has Spain’s
Iberia, for long-haul flights—but a short-
haul flight (from Madrid to Lanzarote, for Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0
example) will set you back ¤45. Road Bike Travel Bag
In this country, WestJet and Air Canada

both charge a $50 handling fee for bicycles,
regardless of whether you are checking
other bags. Air Transat also charges $50
in the Americas, but $75 for transAtlantic
flights.
On almost all the airlines, you’ll still
incur excess charges if your packed bike is
too heavy. Some of the most durable hard
cases weigh in at 12.5 kg when they’re
empty—so how light is your bike?
Believe it or not, this is all an improve-
ment. At least you know what you are in
for. A decade ago, when I hauled my bike to
London for the ITU age-group world cham-
pionships, Air Canada charged me $50 for
the bike as my only piece of checked lug-
gage—plus another $75 in handling fees. I
flew home on Icelandair via Reykjavik to
take advantage of a free stopover, but I paid
US$200 in additional baggage fees: $100 for
each leg of that trip. Evoc Bike Travel Bag
Lesson learned. Do your homework.
Then budget accordingly.
Loreen Pindera is a freelance journalist and

avid triathlete from Montreal.
UA HOVR RUNNING SHOES
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PROPELS YOU FORWARD LOCKED-IN FIT BUILT TO LAST ALL SEASON
Extra springy UA HOVR™ cushioning A simplified heel design An extra tough sole means
in the toes is the conditioning-day provides structure and reliability and durability no
cheat code you need. support where you need it. matter the distance.
AVAILABLE AT UNDERARMOUR.COM
VOLUME 18 ISSUE 1 BUYER’S GUIDE 2023
Swim
Bike
Run
Transition
2023
BUYER’S
GUIDE
SWIM BIKE RUN TRANSITION

TRAINING TRAINING TRAINING TRAINING
Wetsuit Technology Power Meter 101 20 How a Super Shoe Ban Gear Your Coach Wants
Explained 14 Affects You 32 You to Use 38
How Laura Siddall Turned GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE What to Look for in a Shoe 34 Find the Right GPS Watch
Her Swim Around 16 Aero Bars 21 and Bike Computer 40
Bikes and Gruppos 22 GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE
GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE Wheels 26 Training and Racing Shoes 36 GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE
Wetsuits 18 Helmets 28 Training Tools 41
Matt Stetson
Indoor Bike Trainers 30 GPS Watches 42

Power Meters 31 Bike Computers 43

WETSUIT TECHNOLOGY EXPLAINED What’s the scoop with all the panels?
SWIM TRAINING
NEOPRENE Different thicknesses and grades of neoprene are place in strategic parts of the suit do
provide the optimal combination of buoyancy, flexibility and durability in each area
PRIMER of the suit. Thick panels help with buoyancy, while thinner panels are more flexibility.
That’s why you want suits with thinner rubber around the shoulders and arms.
UST CALL HER the “Queen of Neoprene.” When it What are the best materials?
J comes to information on wetsuits, it’s hard to find
someone more knowledgeable that Karen Sing. She bought
“The best tri wetsuits are made with smoothskin rubber on the outside,” Sing says.
“This is the top layer of the neoprene when it comes off the line in a big sheet. Since
her first triathlon wetsuit from the man who created the there’s only one top layer, it’s the most expensive part. It’s waterproof and flexible.”
category, Dan Empfield, in 1987. A few years later she was “With the exception of a few small panels, most wetsuit brands use smoothskin rub-
working for him, helping to develop the Quintana Roo ber with a smooth hydrodynamic coating on it,” Sing continues. “This coating reduces
brand into the dominant triathlon wetsuit company of the friction as the suit moves through the water. Yamamoto’s SCS coating is widely
early days of the sport. accepted as the most advanced, and of course, the most expensive, in the industry.”
After her time at Quintana Roo, she helped Zoot develop According to Sing, suits that feature that high-end Yamamoto rubber (#38, #39
their wetsuits, then did the same for Profile-Design. One and #40) will provide the best performance and durability—if you can, it’s worth
of her crowning achievements, though, is hardly remem- spending the extra money to get one.
bered by all but the most ardent triathlon fans—we can
thank her for the latest developments we’ve seen in wet- Is a sleeveless suit an option?
suit technology over the last 15 years. At the end of 2007 It certainly is. While full suits are two to three seconds faster per 100 m, and are
Sing was the woman behind the Zoot Zenith wetsuit. The warmer, to get the best performance your suit has to fit well and not feel restrictive
design came to her when she was watching a Batman movie. in the arms, shoulders and neck. Sleeveless suits can be very comfortable, and are a
The suit was by far the most expensive on the market at the great choice for rookie triathletes training and racing in warmer water.
time, and featured a new design in which the front of the
suit was “cut up” and featured different panels, with thick, There aren’t a lot of stores that sell suits—I am probably going to get one
5-mm panels of neoprene down the sides. Many of the suits online. How do I know what size to get?
we see on the market now are an offshoot of that suit. Companies with better sizing charts will ask for height, waist and chest measure-
So, when it comes time to buy a wetsuit, what does all ments, Sing says. Ideally, when you’re buying a suit, the person selling it to you will
the technology mean? We asked Sing to explain. ask about your torso length, arm length and your sport background.
“When you’re looking at the sizing charts, if you’re anywhere near the top of the
What’s the most important factor when it comes to weight category, go up a size,” Sing says.
buying a suit? You can also ask your friends and training partners to get a feel for what size peo-
Fit is everything, according to Sing. “If the suit doesn’t pleof a similar size wear. Sing is a huge fan of wetsuit demo days, where you’ll have
fit, it’s no good to you,” she says. “Too small, and your a chance to really dial in the correct style and fit. If you’re in the hunt for your first
neck, shoulders, arms and breathing will feel constricted suit, it doesn’t hurt to rent one, either.—KM
while swimming. Too big, and water, which is heavy, will
build up inside the suit, especially in the arms, and slow
you down.”
In the same way that you might find shoes from a cer-
tain company work best for you, certain wetsuit brands
might work best for you, too. “Different companies tend to
have a certain ‘fit block,’” she says.
How fast will a suit make me?

Depending on the swimmer’s ability, a well-fitting suit can
improve times by five to 15 seconds per 100 m. For a full-
distance swim (3.8 km) that could be roughly a six minute
and 20 second improvement.
Kevin Mackinnon

©2023 ASICS Canada Corporation. All rights reserved.
FROM THE BACK TO THE PACK
SWIM TRAINING
HOW LAURA
SIDDALL TURNED
HER SWIM AROUND
BY SARAH KIM BONNER
aura Siddall might be a professional triathlete,

L but her swim story only started at the age of
29 as a beginner swimmer at her local pool. Now,
after a decade of experience, Siddall is swimming
alongside the world’s best long-distance triath-
letes and, with her best swim to date and 10th
place finish at the Ironman World Championship
in Kona, Hawaii. Siddall knows what it’s like to
walk into a pool as an adult beginner and also
swim with the best in the world.
Long before she started triathlon, Siddall did have some water expe-
riences. Rather than a sport she trained, swimming was more of a fun,
occasional, activity: “It was more swimming lessons for safety as a
young child and pool parties with the big inflatables.”
It wasn’t until the Brit was working in Australia that her corpo-
rate colleagues persuaded her to join them for a swim during their
lunch break.
“It wasn’t swim training, it was more just to get outside—and the sand-
wiches after were really, really good,” Siddall laughs. “I never thought
I was a bad swimmer because I knew I wouldn’t drown, but then when
I joined the group, especially being in Australia where everyone seems
to know how to swim, I realized I didn’t really know how to swim.”
Although she was “sporty,” Siddall says she was a real beginner.
“I was never taught specifically about technique,” she says. “I just
tried to copy what I saw other people doing. I had the motion, but I
wasn’t really moving forward.”
Siddall remembers seeing other swimmers flip turn, then deciding
just to try a somersault and “hope for the best.”
Siddall progressed quickly from an age-group triathlete to the
professional ranks, but her swim was her constant weak spot.
“I put so much work in, but the correlation wasn’t there,” she says.
She tried joining a group, but, with no coach on deck, it didn’t seem to
help. Even when she got help from coaches or other swimmers, Siddall
said the advice was always different and never seemed to translate into
better race performances. She felt frustrated: “How many people can
you listen to when you don’t feel you have the time to get back to basics?”
For anyone who follows her on social media, Siddall has been trans-
parent about long periods of being frustrated and feeling “let down by
her swim.”
“I can train the house down and I’m strong and powerful, but that
doesn’t make me the best swimmer,” she says. “In other sports that
might make you the best, but it doesn’t in swimming.”
Despite her struggles in the water, Siddall was an undeniable con-
sistent performer in long-distance triathlon, earning podium after
podium and capturing many race titles.
However, fans of Siddall saw something start to happen last year.
It didn’t send shockwaves through the triathlon community but, for
those who knew, Siddall was in an unusual place during the swim in a
few races. Siddall was swimming stroke for stroke in the main pack at
big races including Challenge Roth and Kona. In Kona, Siddall swam in
the pack of favourites with Daniela Ryf, Anne Haug and Laura Philip,
clocking a 58:08.
SWIM TRAINING
Siddall’s Top Tips
So what finally changed?
1. The breakthrough came from her time at the Paralympic train-
Find a Coach Who Speaks
Your Language ing camp before the Tokyo Games. As a reserve guide for the British
Finding a coach who explains Paratriathlon team, Siddall was in Tokyo training with the team and
things in a way that connects with ran into another athlete’s coach. He approached Siddall and asked if
you can make all the difference. If she wanted some feedback while she was training alongside his athlete.
you’re not progressing and find-
With extra encouragement from her own coach, Siddall took him up
ing it challenging to understand
feedback and direction from your on his offer.
coach, ask them to explain it in a “Bless him, he spent a couple sessions with me breaking the swim
different way, or find a coach who down, all while he was still coaching to prepare his athlete for the
can. Even a one-off swim analysis
Paralympics,” she says.
from a different coach might
be enough to make positive Siddall says they worked on her timing and there were key words
stroke changes. that resonated with her about the catch, pull and recovery. She gained
the confidence to go slow, especially during the warm-up, where she
2. focused on “setting her stroke up” for the rest of the swim.
Have the Confidence
“The main thing for me was getting someone to explain it in the terms
to Start Slow
Use the swim warm-up to set that made sense to me,” she explains. “I had a few people help and
up your stroke for the main set. previous coaches who had said stuff, but because I didn’t come from
Groups often start really fast, and lessons or a background in swimming, it never really made sense to me.”
Siddall says everyone usually goes
“The work I did with him, I took that away and have been building
past her in the warm-up. Using the
warm-up to lock in good technique on it and I’ve been spending more and more time swimming with the
will pay dividends during the JD Crew in Boulder,” she says. “I’ve done a lot of years swimming on
main set. my own, which is fine and you can maintain a level, but going back and
swimming with Julie Dibbens and the squad, with the work I did in
3.
Tokyo, I had one of my best swims in Daytona and then Kona.”
Focus on Technique—
But Measure Progress Kona was the best swim of her career.
on Efficiency “[The swim] is just damage limitation normally,” Siddall says. “It’s
“In swimming, hard work doesn’t always a panic for me. The women always start so fast, and I feel like if
always pay off, but intentional
I do go that fast I don’t have that lung capacity and if you blow up in the
practice does,” Siddall says.
Technique is a fundamental part swim there’s nowhere to put your feet. If you blow up on the bike or the
of swimming, and it can be hard run, you’re on solid ground—I stop, I fall over, I sit on the ground—but
to choose technique practice over you can’t do that in the water.”
speed work or mileage; although While her new technique had propelled her to new levels, Siddall
you might not initially see the pay-
says the mental coaching from Dibbens was another crucial piece of
off in speed or time goals, holding
the same speed might feel easier the puzzle. It was only after the Kona practice swim that she started to
because you’re more efficient, and really believe things were going to be different but, as Siddall explained,
that shouldn’t be underestimated. “You just never know what’s going to happen on race day.”
“I set off and found myself in the back of a group and I worked out I
4.
Join the Right Group was on Penny Slater’s feet. In Edmonton she was a few minutes ahead
“If you’re a swimmer, find a swim- of me so, I thought, ‘This is good.’ As we got to the turn buoy, Penny was
ming group; if you’re a triathlete, just awesome, she just started moving up and I just stuck on her feet.”
find a triathlon swimming group; Siddall says they had practised following surges with the squad, so
if you’re an open-water swimmer,
she was well prepared.
find an open-water swimming
group,” she says. Joining the right “As we started coming back, I was like ‘That’s a coloured cap!’ and I
group is more likely to put you in a could work out who they were.”
group where people have “similar “Who they were” included the likes of race favourites such as Kona
abilities and goals,” and that will
champs Daniela Ryf, Anne Haug. “The crazy thing is that it felt com-
make a positive difference, not just
on your stroke, but on your level of fortable,” Siddall says, almost still surprised.
enjoyment and motivation. Siddall is quick to add that her performances aren’t consistent.
“Because I’m still not that natural swimmer, it’s so hard to have those
5. consistent performances,” she says. “It happened in Daytona and it
Swim a Lot … More Often
happened in Kona, but Edmonton was a shocker. I think that’s what
Everyone talks about the “feel
for the water,” but that is elusive. you see with athletes with a swim background: consistency. It’s harder
Habit and routine is something to find that click and flow when it’s not natural.”
more concrete. “As a beginner, However, Siddall has stacked up some impressive swims during the
going in the water more often is
past season and it will be exciting to see what the accomplished Brit
better because it just keeps your
LEFT body used to it,” Siddall explains. will do with her new swim pedigree in 2023.
Siddall exits “Shorter swims more often can be
Finisherpix
the water better than two big chunky five- Sarah Kim Bonner is a pro triathlete and freelance journalist based in
in Kona kilometre swims.” Lanzarote, Spain.
BUYER’S GUIDE SWIM GEAR
NEWEST NEOPRENE
WETSUITS
s we explained in our wetsuit primer (p.14), wetsuit
A technology has seen some big changes over the last
15 years. These days it’s hard to find a suit that’s not
going to make you faster, as long as it fits you properly.
As you spend more money, you’ll get more “bells and
whistles” that will drop a few more seconds from your
time, and the suit will likely last a bit longer, too.
Blueseventy Thermal Reaction

Blueseventy Thermal Reaction
$899/US$700 Designed for cold-water swims down to
8.5 C (49 F), the Thermal Reaction offers both warmth
and exceptional performance thanks to the high-
end Yamamoto rubber and SCS coating. The Thermal
Zirconium liner maximizes warmth through more body
heat retention. The seamless shoulders use a single panel
of #39 cell, 1.5-mm Yamamoto neoprene for excellent flex-
ibility, while movement is enhanced through the thinner
2-mm neoprene and flexible jersey liner around the back
and shoulders. You’ll get out of the suit quickly thanks
to the quick-exit leg design, while the 5-Flex side panels
make it easier to get into and help your body position in
the water.
Aquasphere Pursuit V3
$450/US$350 The combination of Yamamoto #39 and #40
rubber, along with Bio Stretch zones in the Pursuit V3
maximize the buoyancy and flexibility. You’ll get out of
the suit in a flash once you get to T1, thanks to the quick
release panels in the legs. Those hitting colder water will
appreciate the Thermo-Guard technology in the upper
body designed to help you retain body heat. There’s also a
comfortable double-layered collar to prevent chaffing.
Orca Apex Float

$839/US$619 The latest version of Orca’s 3.8 wetsuit, the
Apex Float is aptly named because it is the company’s most
buoyant suit. That ensures you’re up high in the water in
order to achieve the best body position to swim your fast-
est. Top of the line Yamamoto #40 neoprene and the High
Elbow Panel in the shoulder, arm and back ensure you have
Aquasphere Pursuit V3
lots of flexibility. The suit is 3-mm thick in the torso and
5-mm thick in the legs to ensure you get the best balance of
flotation, flexibility and warmth.
Deboer Fjord 3.0

$2,071/US$1,500 There’s a reason these premium wetsuits
are worn by many of the sport’s biggest names and fastest
swimmers, including the science-driven Norwegian duo
of Kristian Blummenfelt and Gustav Iden. The latest ver-
sion of the company’s flagship model is faster than ever.
The X-Skin neoprene reduces drag, while the redesigned
sleeves are even more flexible and use technology in the
forearm to help you catch more water. The redesigned
collar keeps water out, while enhancing comfort and dura-
bility. It’s an expensive suit, but you’re getting the benefit
Orca Apex Float
of a suit Jan Frodeno helped refine to get the most out of
his final season of racing.

2XU Propel:1
BUYER’S GUIDE SWIM GEAR

$420/US$350 This all-round suit offers many
high-end features for the price. The front
and back panels are made with premium
Yamamoto #39 cell neoprene, and the suit has a
SCS hydrodynamic coating. The different panel
thicknesses ensure you get the most buoyancy
and durability, while the “rollbar” technology
will help with hip rotation, and flexibiilty is
also enhanced by the floating zip panel that
helps you get more distance per stroke.
Dare2Tri Mach3 0.7

$660/US$484 The thickness of the neoprene in
the shoulders and under the arms is even in
this suit’s name—0.7 mm. The arms feature
tough, but flexible 1.5-mm DuraStretch neo-
prene, and there’s a super-stretch comfort
inner liner to help keep the suit both flexible
and comfortable. The Mach 3 features light-
Deboer Fjord 3.0
weight 44Cell HBF-Limestone neoprene with
a GlideSkin Suerface coating to help you slide
through the water. The unique neck closure
2XU Propel:1
and double layer neckline is comfortable and
won’t chaff and helps make this an easy suit to
get on and off.
Huub Araya
$350/US$349 It’s hard to beat the features you’re
getting for this price—flexibile neoprene com-
bined with Huub’s Arms Neutral positioning
technology that helps you maintain your regu-
lar swim stroke while wearing the suit. There’s
a breakaway zipper to help you fly through T1,
nylon faced neoprene cuffs to keep water out,
and Huub’s specially designed buoyancy pro-
file to help you stay in the optimal position in
the water.
Zoot Bolt 1.0

Dare2Tri Mach4 0.7 Huub Araya
US$760 Thanks to all the buoyancy that comes
from the special Yamamoto neoprene in this
suit it is a great choice for triathletes who are
struggling to master their stroke. The Bolt 1.0
combines Yamamoto SCS #39 with Yamamoto
SCS Aerodome to really put your body on top
of the water. The smooth, nylon liner and thin,
low-profile neck enhance the comfort, while
the gender-specific ergonomically shaped
panels ensure you’ll get an excellent fit.
TYR Hurricane Cat 3

$1,011/US$700 With many of the features you’ll
see in TYR’s flagship Cat 5 suit, the Hurricane
Cat 3 saves you some cash while keeping you
in the mix at any level of competition. Thanks
to the Yamamoto #40 neoprene and SCS Nano
coating there’s lots of flexibility and hydro-
dynamics to ensure you’ll get the most out of
each stroke. Strategically positioned elevation
panels help you attain a proper body position
in the water, while the form-fitting wrist cuffs
Zoot Bolt 1.0 TYR Hurricane Cat 3
help keep the water out. Once you hit T1 the
quick release ankle cuffs are much appreci-
ated, too.—KM

BIKE TRAINING
PEDAL POWER
POWER
METER 101
T’S ALMOST BECOME a “must-have” piece Spider-based power meters

I of equipment these days—measuring your
power on the bike, for many, is as important
ABOVE
Garmin
Rally RS200
The “spider” is what the chainrings on your bike attach to. This type of power meter
registers the load that’s being placed on both crank arms (an important distinc-
pedal power
as being able to monitor speed and distance. A meter tion—you’re getting power measurement from both legs). The SRAM/Quarq and
power meter can be a great tool to help track SRM power meters use this technology—they tend to be more expensive, but are
your improvement, and many people use it to extremely accurate.
gauge their efforts both in training and racing.
It wasn’t long ago that a power meter would Crank-arm power meters
set you back thousands of dollars, but these As the name implies, these power meters measure the amount of strain the crank
days there are lots of options at a variety of arm is being put under. An example of this type of power meter is the Precision 3
price points. You can learn more about the from 4iiii, which is easily added to your bike setup. Typically these power meters
different models in our Buyer’s Guide—what are a lighter option and relatively easy to add to your existing setup.
we’re going to focus on here are the most
popular types of power meters—Spider, crank Pedal power meters
and pedal offerings—and the pros and cons of This is the easiest option when it comes to adding power to your cycling mix, and
each style. (Power meters based in the wheel one huge advantage is that you can easily move them from bike to bike. Garmin’s
hub used to be popular, but the added wheel Rally pedals are one example of this type of pedal system.
weight has made those less popular. You can
also find axel-based and aero power meters, Separate leg measurement
but those aren’t as common as the ones we’re Many of the less expensive power meters will only measure one leg. The power
going to focus on.) numbers from that one leg are doubled to give your power output. It’s still a useful
Regardless of the type of power meter you measurement, and one that can give you some useful data, but if you’re looking to
get, the unit will use strain gauges to measure figure out if there are discrepancies between your left and right legs in terms of
the amount of force you’re putting into the power output, you’ll want to invest in a power meter that accommodates that.
pedals. The difference is where that force is Higher-end power meters will also provide analysis of your pedal stroke, which
being measured. is a great way to monitor and improve your pedalling efficiency.
When it comes to accuracy, you’ll pay more
for power meters that provide more accurate So, when it comes to picking up a power meter for your bike, figure out exactly what
measurements, but that’s not necessarily as you’re after—just a simple power number to gauge your efforts? Or are you looking
critical as it might seem. If the unit is providing for more detailed analysis. Another factor to consider is whether or not you want to
Matt Stetson
consistent measurements, then you’re going to be able to switch your power meter from one bike to another—if that’s the case, a
be able to gauge your efforts accordingly. pedal-based option is a no-brainer.—KM
BUYER’S GUIDE BIKE GEAR
AERO BARS
COCKPIT OPTIMIZATION
hile many tri bikes now come with integrated cockpits, those
W looking to optimize their aero position and comfort might
want to tinker with that set up with some different extensions.
For those who are setting up a bike that doesn’t come with an
integrated bar, adding one of these aero setups will help you hit
some speedy bike splits this season.
Profile Design 43 ASC Aerobar Extensions

$391/US$285 Looking to upgrade your aero bars and want the cool looking, sorry, want the ben-
efits of a carbon-fibre bar that cups your forearms for all the speed and comfort benefits? Of
course you do, but many of the options cost more than many of our bank accounts can handle.
Not anymore, though, thanks to the Profile Design 43ASC bars. The optimized shape puts the
grip section at an 87 degree rise with a 43-degree angle, while the body of the extension sweeps
outwards to hug your arm. The result is a lightweight (230 g) super-strong, aerodynamic bar
that adds enough comfort and support to make staying in the aero position that much easier.
Zipp Vuka Shift AXS 90
Profile Design 43 ASC
Zipp Vuka Shift AXS 90

US$915 The Vuka Shift AXS 90 is much more than just an extension—it houses your
SRAM Red or Force eTap AXS shifting system. These bars put your shift controls
and head unit in a neat package—a seamless solution to integrate all the components
for your electronic shifting system. The 90 mm rise puts your hands in a comfort-
able, aero position to add speed to the mix, too.
Vision Speed Extensions
Vision Speed Extensions
$351/US$282 Coming in at under 200 g, these lightweight aerobar extensions combine
both ergonomics and aerodynamics to ensure you’ll be both speedy and comfort-
able in your aero tuck. The full carbon construction adds to the strength, while the
S-Bend construction puts your hands in the optimal position for everything from
short, hard efforts to long stretches down on the bars.
TriRig Alpha One Carbon Bar/Stem

FROM US$1,100 Designed to provide easy adjustability, adjusting your stack height
with these bars comes easy as you only have to loosen one bolt, and you can even
make tilt adjustments on the fly. There are 21 different positions for your elbow
TriRig Alpha One Carbon Bar/Stem
pads, so you’ll be able to dial in the optimal position. There are five integrated acces-
sory mount bosses, so you’ll be able to add a bottle cage, computer or other storage
with ease. All this comes on a bar that’s super-fast and UCI legal.
SpeedBar
SpeedBar
€3,999 You’ll see some of the sport’s biggest names using these bars and you
can get some, too, if you’re ready to open your check book. These bars support
your arms over their entire length and are available in both custom-made and
tailor-made options. The “custom-made” option requires close-up pictures and
measurements to design extensions designed specifically for your position. The
“tailor-made” option involves a plaster cast of your arms and elbows. Both will
include your choice of bottle and computer mounts to ensure you’re dialling in
your perfect setup.—KM

FIT TO ROLL OUT
BIKES Argon 18 E-117 Tri Disc SRAM Force 22

$4,550/US$3,600 With a combination of out-
our bike will be your biggest equipment
Y investment. The sky is the limit when it
comes to bike prices, but at the end of the day
standing aerodynamics and handling, the
E-117 offers many of the features you’ll see
on the Canadian company’s flagship bikes at
a more affordable price. If you’re OK to skip
even the most expensive bike won’t be any faster electronic shifting, the Force 22 gruppo offers
if it doesn’t fit you well. That’s where you need to excellent value. Down the road you’ll want
start when it comes to your bike choice. Position to invest in some speedy wheels to enhance
your race-day splits, but the Vision Team TC
is paramount when it comes to faster bike splits,
30 wheelset included will get you started and
followed by your wheels. As you can read in our serve as a great training option.
sidebar, more expensive components will get you
a lighter bike and more durability, but not neces- Canyon Speedmax CF 8 Disc Di2
$7,549 Starting with the Speedmax frame
sarily much of a change in race-day performance.
that Jan Frodeno and Lionel Sanders have
While our focus is mostly on triathlon and used to rip up bike courses around the world,
time-trial bikes, we have included one aero road this race-ready bike features Shimano’s
option in our guide this year—for those not solely Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting and power
meter. Add to that the 80 mm deep DT Swiss
focused on triathlon racing, that can be a viable
ARC 1400 Dicut wheels and you have a bike
option to allow you to purchase one bike for all that’s ready to rip through any bike course in
your riding needs. speedy fashion.
Argon 18 E-117 Tri Disc SRAM Force 22

Felt IA Advanced Ultegra Di2
$9,229/US$7,499 Felt was the origi-
Canyon Speedmax CF 8 Disc Di2
nal triathlon bike and continues
to be a powerhouse when it comes
to performance rides. With the IA
Advanced Ultegra Di2 you get all
the benefits of one of the sport’s
fa stest a nd most successf ul
frames. The Ultegra components
provide excellent performance,
and the Devox bars allow you to
dial in a great aero position. The
Reynolds AR 58/62 DB Custom
wheelset that comes with the bike
means that you will be race-ready
from day one.
Cervélo P-Series 105

$4,700/US$3,500 When Cer vélo
burst on to the triathlon scene in
the late 90s, the Canadian-born
brand revolutionized the market.
The company remains the bike-
count leader in Kona, a sgn of both
Felt IA Advanced Ultegra Di2
the brand’s popularity and perfor-
mance. The P-Series offers some
more affordable options to the
company’s flagship P5 including a
500-ml aero bottle, 400 ml of top-
tube storage and an integrated
rear seat mount. It’s a speedy
combination of speed, storage and
comfort. All you’ll need to add are
some aero race wheels and you’ll
be ready to compete at the high-
est level.
Cervélo P-Series 105

Liv EnviLiv Advanced Pro
$7,799 For women who are occa-
sional triathletes who do a lot of
road riding and racing, the new
EnviLiv Advanced Pro offers a
great combination of riding per-
formance and aerodynamics. The
lightweight advanced-grade com-
posite frame and Shimano Ultegra
components will be appreciated
when you’re on a major climb, but
can be quickly adapted to a triath-
lon race with the addition of some
aero bars.
Liv EnviLiv Advanced Pro
Gruppos Shimano Dura Ace Di2

The final price of your bike is determined by the components on it. A
groupset, or gruppo, includes all the mechanical components on your
bike: crankset, bottom bracket, brake levers and shifters (often com-
bined), rear and front derailleur, cassette (the gears), chain and brakes.
More expensive groupsets are typically lighter and more durable.
As technology improves, manufacturers typically include the features
previously seen in high-end gruppos in their lower-level offerings. This
year the big change for triathletes is the availability of electronic shifting
in the more affordable gruppos—105 for Shimano and Rival for SRAM.
The two big players in the component world for triathlon are Shimano
and SRAM. Campagnolo has a long history in the component world, and
you’ll see some bikes set up with the Italian company’s gruppos, but
not too many.
Shimano
The flagship groupset for Shimano is it’s electronic 12-speed Dura Ace
SRAM Force AXS
Di2 R9200. Next in line is the Ultegra Di2 R8100, another 12-speed
electronic gruppo. There are two versions of the 105 gruppo—the
electronic 12-speed 105 Di2 R7150 and the 11-speed 105 R7000. You’re
not likely to see many tri bikes equipped with the lower end Tiagra, Sora
or Claris groupsets.
SRAM
At the top of the line-up for SRAM is its Red eTap AXS 12-speed wireless
electronic gruppo. There are two other levels of the Red groupset—the
Red eTap 11-speed and the Red 11-speed. The next level for SRAM is
its Force components, including the Force eTap AXS, another 12-speed
wireless electronic gruppo, along with the Force 11-speed offering.
Continuing to move down in price, we get the Rival eTap AXS 12-speed
wireless electronic groupset, and the Rival 11-speed. Finally there’s
Apex 1, an 11-speed groupset, along with the 10-speed Apex.

Scott Plasma RC Pro

$14,500/US$10,999 High-performance
is the name of the game with the
Plasma RC Pro, which features
Scott Plasma RC Pro
the Plasma 6 Disc Carbon HMX
Frame and fork with its inte-
grated hydration and cockpit. Add
to that Shimano’s Ultegra Di2
gruppo and Zipp 303SE Carbon
Tubeless Disc wheels and you
have a rocket that’s very similar to
the ride you’ll see the sport’s top
pros using.
Trek Speed Concept SLR 6

$12,400/US$9,000 Everything about
the Speed Concept is designed to
get you going fast, while remain-
ing comfortable along the way.
The lightweight aero frame fea-
Trek Speed Concept SLR 6
tures the aero Kammtail Virtual
Foil tube shaping, integrated fuel
and hydration systems, along with
Trek’s IsoSpeed shock-dampen-
ing system. You also get SRAM’s
Rival AXS wireless electronic
12-speed drivetrain and power
meter and Bontrager Aeolus Pro
51 wheels—it all adds up to a set up
that would thrill many pros.
Ceepo Katana
FROM $6,000/US$4,899; FRAME $4,500/
Ceepo Katana
US$3,600 Named after the Japanese
short sword, the Katana is Ceepo’s
most versatile triathlon frame—
light (just 1,195 g), practical and
aerody na mic. That mea ns it
will serve you well on the hilli-
est courses, or when you have to
push the pace in an aero tuck on
a super-flat course thanks to the
NACA 0021 truncated airfoil tube
shapes. The geometry of the frame
is also designed so you can dial in
an aggressive forward position for
the ultimate in aero performance.
Factor Hanzo SRAM Force eTap

FROM US$6,299 (RED ETAP SHOWN)
Factor Hanzo
With UCI racing in mind, Factor
designed the Hanzo to provide
some of cycling’s fastest riders
the ultimate time trial machine.
That technology all works when it
comes to triathlon racing, too. The
super-narrow tubes slice through
the air, which is enhanced by the
mono riser for the aero extensions.
Add SRAM’s Force eTap gruppo
and Black Inc. aero wheels and
you’ll be at your best in your next
tri or time trial.—KM
WHEELS
AERO SPEEDSTERS
hen it comes to improving your bike split,
W an aero set of wheels is a critical part of
the equation. Of course it all starts with train-
ing and your fitness, but after that the most
important factors when it comes to biking fast
are your position on the bike (read: it needs
to fit you well) and your wheels will get
you the best bang for your buck. If your
bike didn’t come with a race-ready
wheel option, here are a few worthy
upgrades to help you nail a fast
bike split this season.
Hunt 60 Limitless UD
Carbon Spoke Disc
Shimano Dura Ace C60 Zipp 404 Firecrest
Hunt 60 Limitless UD Carbon Spoke Disc Shimano Dura Ace C60 Zipp 404 Firecrest
FROM $2,650/US$2,014 These 60-mm deep wheels $2,750/US$2,200 In addition to the versatile US$976–1,050 The ultimate all-rounder, the
offer the best in all-around performance—a light- 60-mm rim depth that provides a nice 58-mm-deep rims were game-changers when
weight, aero wheel that’s not too deep for those crazy balance between aerodynamics with- they were first launched, somehow provid-
crosswind days. You get the best of all worlds—aero- out being too deep, Shimano’s flagship ing the aero properties of a much deeper rim.
dynamics and responsiveness in a wheel that you’ll wheelset offers outstanding performance There’s a reason you’ll see so many 404 rims
happily take up the steepest climbs. We’ve raved and durability. The C60 has a specific used on the Big Island for the Ironman World
about the Aerodynamicist profile rims in the past, front hub design that enhances lateral Championship—you get amazing perfor-
and you get that along with UD Carbon Spokes that rigidity, which is coupled with the stiffer mance without being blown off the Queen K.
provide six per cent more lateral stiffness than steel spokes to ensure you’ll get premium per- The latest version features a 23-mm rim pro-
spoked wheels but are much lighter. While Hunt’s formance at high speeds and when you’re file that is hookless tire compatible, while the
standard hubs are incredibly smooth and fast, you really pushing hard on the pedals. new German-designed ZR1 DB hub is more
can get even more performance by upgrading to the durable and responsive than previous editions.
Ceramic Speed hubset.
Bontrager Aeolus RSL 75
Profile Design GMR 50/65 Carbon

DT-Swiss ARC 100 Dicut Disc Tubeless Disc-Brake Wheelset
Bontrager Aeolus RSL 75 DT-Swiss ARC 1100 Dicut Disc Profile Design GMR 50/65 Carbon
FRONT $1,750/US$1,300; REAR $1,900/US$1,400 Using $3,780/US$3,037 When it comes to the fastest Tubeless Disc-Brake Wheelset
Bontrager’s three-dimensional modelling possible bike performance, a rear disc wheel $2,450/US$1,652 While optimized for triathlon
design process, this deep-rim wonder delivers is what you want. (There’s a reason the pros use, this wheelset will be popular with road-
impressive aerodynamics without sacrificing use them whenever they can.) At just over 1 kg, ies, too, making it a great choice for those who
stability and performance. The 75-mm rim The ARC 1100 Dicut disc wheel won’t be a bur- combine a bit of bike racing with their tri habit.
profile ensures you’ll cut time from your next den even on hilly courses while helping you to There’s a 50-mm front rim combined with a
bike split, while the RSL OCLV Carbon keeps a quick split. The full-carbon disc is optimized 65-mm rear wheel to optimize aerodynamics
the weight down. Add in the lightweight DT for wider tires to reduce rolling resistance and and stability. These hand-built wheels offer an
Swiss 240s internal hub components and improve comfort. You also get the 180 Dicut extra-stiff hub combined with Sapim CX-Ray
you have a smooth-riding wheelset sure to hub that uses the Ratchet EXP System and spokes for excellent lateral stiffness to get
enhance your race performances. SINC ceramic bearings for top-notch perfor- you the most performance when climbing or
mance and a silky-smooth ride. sprinting.—KM

Ekoi AR16
$290 With eight vents, there’s more ventilation than you’ll
see in most time trial helmets, but the Ekoi AR16 still man-
ages to be an aerodynamic wonder. You get the bonus of
an aero advantage along with the ventilation you’ll need
for hot or hilly rides. This lightweight helmet (just 265 g
including the magnetic visor) is comfortable to wear, espe-
cially for long efforts in an aero tuck. It comes in three sizes
and also with three visors for a variety of light conditions.
Smith Jetstream TT
$490/US$380 If every second counts the Jetstream TT helmet
will get you through your race in a hurry. The lightweight
aero design ensures you’ll get maximal performance, while
the Zonal Koroyd coverage provides both impact protec-
tion and ventilation. The VaporFit dial adjustment system
means you can literally dial in the perfect fit on the fly,
Ekoi AR16
while the magnetic visor comes with both Smith’s high-
end ChromaPop and clear lens. While aerodynamics is the
name of the game with the Jetstream, there are still five
vents for airflow.
Poc Cerebral Raceday

HELMETS $400/US$350 As tempted as we are to push the crazy-shaped
HIGH-TECH LIDS Tempor your way, we’ll stick with this compact aero road
helmet that’s is specially designed to provide excellent
aerodynamics in a variety of head positions. The rear of
ou can’t race without one, and you shouldn’t be train-
Y ing without one, either. These days there’s no excuses,
either—most helmets you’ll find these days are both light-
the Cerebral Raceday is made of soft EVA covered in aero
fabric to ensure you get the most in comfort and aerody-
namics. Add to that the visor specially designed by Zeiss
to enhance your vision of the road surface ahead and you
weight and offer lots of ventilation. Aerodynamics is the have a very speedy helmet that pulls out all the stops.
name of the game when it comes to triathlon bike racing,
of course, and you’ll find lots of speedy helmets in our
guide sure to help you shave some time off your next
triathlon bike ride.
Smith Jetstream TT
Scott Split Plus
Poc Cerebral Raceday

Scott Split Plus
$420/US$300 This aero helmet that’s popular with both
top-level cyclists and many triathletes features MIPS
technology so you get head protection to go along with all
the speed. It’s aero-optimized so you’ll continue to fly no
matter what head position you favour, while the magnetic
buckle and soft ear pads make it easy to get on and off in
transition. This helmet is optimized to be used with sun-
glasses, a popular choice for triathletes, and there’s even
storage windows to hold your sunglasses when you need
to take them off. The outer vents funnel air past your head
to help keep you cool, making this an option for even the
warmest races.
Garneau Course 2.0
Lazer Vento Kineticore
Met Manta MIPS
Bollé Avio MIPS
Lazer Vento Kineticore

$400/US$300 It’s lighter, more aero and cools better than its
predecessor, the Bullet 2.0, making this the perfect choice
for those looking for the ultimate in performance. The
Kineticore’s Integrated Roatational Impact Protection
technology is built right into the helmet, which also helps
reduce weight. There are 13 vents and exhaust ports to
keep you head cool, while the ScrollSys belt keeps the hel-
met comfortable on your head. It’s also compatible with
the Universal Lazer LED light that will keep you visible no
matter what the conditions.
Giro Eclipse Spherical

Met Manta MIPS
$390/US$300 You get a great combination of safety, aerody- Bollé Avio MIPS
namics, fit and style with the Manta MIPS. Aerodynamics $390 The fastest helmet Bollé has made, this lightweight wonder offers an optimized
is improved in the latest edition of the Manta thanks to the fit system and the MIPS AIR lightweight brain protection system. There are lots of
lower and tube-shaped rear profile. You get added crash vents, along with exhaust ports in the rear to ensure excellent air circulation. The
protection thanks to the MIPS technology, while the Dual low-profile shape and Kamm Tail at the back help with aerodynamics, too. As you’d
Gel front padding is both comfortable and durable. expect with a high-performance helmet like this, Bollé even added an Opti-Dock to
hold your sunglasses, and it’s even designed to handle a ponytail.
Garneau Course 2.0
$300/US$205 If you’re looking for an extremely ventilated Giro Eclipse Spherical
aero road helmet, the new Course 2.0 should be on your $360/US$250 It’s the fastest road helmet Giro has ever made, and that’s saying a lot,
list. The aero cage provides excellent aerodynamics, while considering the company’s rich history in the cycling and triathlon world. This
the Super Rotexx patented Rotary Dampening System will lightweight aero road helmet features Spherical Technology powered by MIPS
absorb and dissipate the energy from an impact to protect to ensure you’ll get both performance and protection. The helmet is designed to
your head if you crash. There’s 31 vents to go along with reduce drag across multiple angles, while the 14 vents ensure you stay cool even
the X-Static XT2 antimicrobial padding for comfort, while during the hardest efforts. The Roc Loc 5 air system comfortably keeps the helmet
the Spiderlock Duo retention system is easy to adjust with on your head, while the antimicrobial Ionic+ padding absorbs sweat during those
just one hand. hard training days and races.—KM
BIKE TRAINERS
INDOOR FUN
ven if you don’t live in a spot with tough
E winters, indoor bike training is likely a part
of your regular routine. Biking on a trainer is
efficient and, thanks to programs like Zwift and
Rouvy, can be lots of fun. For those who are
simply looking for an efficient workout that
doesn’t require online connectivity, we’ve also
thrown in a couple of trainers sure to get your
heart pounding and your legs asking for a break.
Wahoo Kickr Smart Trainer

$1,880/US$1,300 The Kickr has long set the standard when it comes to
bike trainers, and the latest version only adds to that status thanks to
some new innovations that make it even better. Highlighting the new
Wahoo Kikr Smart Trainer
features is the WiFi connectivity for faster data transfer, with a race
mode that uses the WiFi capability to broadcast power data up to 10
times faster. The Kickr is virtually silent, even when you’re cranking
it to the max of up to a 20 per cent incline or 2,200 watts of resistance,
measured to within one per cent accuracy. When you’re pushing that
hard you’ll appreciate the side-to-side movement capabilities, too,
which only enhances the Kickr’s status as Wahoo’s flagship trainer.
Dare2Ride Fuego
$750/US$550 You get a lot of premium features for the price with this
trainer—±2 per cent accuracy, a sound-level output of just 52 dB, an
Dare2Ride Fuego
incline of 20 per cent and resistance of up to 2,500 watts. The ANT+
and Bluetooth connectivity allows you to connect to third-party soft-
ware to get the most out of your next online training session. You’ll also
appreciate how simple it is to set up right out of the box—you’ll go from
delivery to workout in no time.
Elite Turno
$814 While many will be drawn to Elite’s interactive trainers like the
new flagship Justo or the Direto XR-T, those looking to save a bit of
money, but still get a tough workout might want to look at the Turno,
a “smart” trainer that’s very quiet and powerful. You’ll still be able to
use this on platforms like Zwift thanks to its ANT+ and Bluetooth con-
nectivity, but it won’t give that feeling of gradient changes and it can’t
be run in ERG mode. It is, however, a direct-drive fluid trainer, making
Elite Turno
it quite unique in the world of bike trainers. For those who like to use
cadence, speed and power data to drive their workouts, the Turno is a
dream, offering a smooth, quiet ride that folds up easily to take up very
little space. You’re apartment neighbours will love you.
Tacx Galaxia Rollers

$400/US$270 We could have raved about the Tacx Neo 2T Smart Trainer,
which offers an amazing interactive cycling experience, but we figured
we’d keep it simple and help you work on your bike handling skills with
a set of rollers from the company. The Galaxia Rollers feature a pat-
ented swing system that absorbs forward and backward accelerations,
which means you can push to the limit to get the most out of your work-
out. The conical rollers keep you in the middle of the trainer, making
this an easy way to learn, too. The Galaxia also retracts for easy storage,
too, making it a great option for tight spaces. If you want to add some
skill development to your indoor training, the Galaxia rollers are worth
a look.—KM
Tacx Galaxia Rollers

MEASURED APPROACH
POWER
METERS
s you’ll see in this year’s guide, some power
A meters have become considerably more
affordable. While they’re not a “must-have” when
it comes to your cycling needs, being able to
monitor your power output during training and
Garmin Rally RS200
racing can be helpful when it comes to gauging
and monitoring your performance. Here’s a look
at a few different options you’ll see at your local
bike store this season.
SRAM Quark Rival AXS
4iiii Precision 3
Shimano Ultegra Dual-Sided Power Meter
Garmin Rally RS200 SRAM Quark Rival AXS

$1,480/US$1,100 As easy to install as any other pedal, the RS200 is the per- US$368 Using SRAM’s DUB technology (a complete system integrat-
fect option if you have a couple of different bikes and want to be able to ing the chainring, crank, spindle and bottom bracket), this entry-level
monitor your power output whenever you’re riding. While the pedals power meter measures left leg power and offers 400 hours of power
provide all the power and cadence info you could need (they’re accu- measurement. (The lithium AAA battery is replaceable.) This light-
rate to ±1 per cent), they take your training to a new level thanks to the weight unit only adds 40 g of weight and is IPX7 waterproof, so you can
advanced cycling dynamics that allow you to gauge the specific weak- be sure it’ll tough out the most challenging weather conditions.
nesses and strengths of each leg—everything from pedalling efficiency
to power phase analysis to the amount of power each leg is providing, 4iiii Precision 3
and these smart pedals can even tell you how much time your spending FROM $440/US$335 You can either get this power meter preinstalled on
seated versus standing. The pedals are both ANT+ and Bluetooth com- a new Shimano crank arm, or add a left one to your existing set up
patible, are easy to set up with a head unit (especially the Garmin ones) to get you into the power game quickly and easily. Battery life is an
and there’s up to 120 hours of battery life, too. impressive 800 hours, and it’s easy to replace the CR20232 battery.
The 3D technology used in the Precision 3 measures all the forces in
Shimano Ultegra Dual-Sided Power Meter your pedal stroke and is accurate within ±1 per cent. The Precision 3
$1,540/US$1,300 You now get all the precision of Shimano’s top of the line is ANT+ and Bluetooth compatible and has an IPX7 waterproof rating,
Dura Ace power meter in a more affordable package. This dual-sided so you can feel comfortable putting this to the test in even the harsh-
power meter is accurate within two percent, so you’ll be able to ana- est conditions.—KM
lyze your pedal stroke and dynamics while also addressing leg strength
imbalances. There’s up to 300 hours of battery life, along with ANT+
and Bluetooth connectivity to ensure you get accurate measurements.
HOW A BAN ON SUPER SHOES AFFECTS YOU, AN AGE-GROUP TRIATHLETE
RUN TRAINING
A LOOK AT HOW THE LATEST

SHOE RULES COULD IMPACT
TRIATHLETES OF ALL LEVELS
N 2020, WORLD Athletics (the governing body of track and field) Plate issues
I announced a ban on “super shoes”—products that many believed Carbon-plated shoes have taken the running and triathlon worlds by
were the reason for record-breaking performances in recent years. storm since the late 2010s, which was when the topic of super shoes
Following this news from World Athletics, super shoes became a hot really gained traction and forced World Athletics to consider banning
topic in the world of triathlon, too, but it took two years for any similar certain features. While carbon is the material most often used for super
rules to be solidified, but World Triathlon recently decided to enact a shoes, the ban covers any type of plate.
ban on this footwear starting in 2023. The new rules state that shoes cannot contain “more than one rigid
In February, just a couple of months after World Triathlon’s ban was embedded plate or blade … that runs either the full length or only part
announced, Ironman decided to follow suit, prohibiting all athletes of the length of the shoe.” Many shoes sold now have plates that run
from using super shoes in competition. This ban will not only impact from heel to toe within their midsole, and that is completely fine, just
pros like Gustav Iden, who flew to a record-smashing win in Kona in as long as it’s a lone plate and not multiple.
a pair of prototype shoes that don’t meet the new standards (more on
those below), but also you, an age-group triathlete. To make sure you What do you need to do?
don’t accidentally show up to your race in now-illegal shoes, we’ve got You might be thinking that this is ridiculous and that you, an amateur
all of the rules listed below. triathlete, shouldn’t be concerned with a ban on shoes that was created
for pros, but that’s not the case. Just like any professional triathlete,
Not too tall you could be pulled aside by officials at your next race if your shoes
The shoe rules are the same across the board, from World Athletics to look like they’re illegal. If this happens to you and it’s determined that
World Triathlon to Ironman. They mainly deal with the thickness of your shoes do, in fact, break the rules, you will be disqualified. Also,
a shoe’s sole and any plates a shoe may contain. Firstly, the sole may the risk of being caught aside, wouldn’t it just feel wrong to knowingly
not be thicker than 40 mm. When Iden won Kona last fall, his On ignore the rules?
Cloudboom Echo 3s featured soles thicker than 40 mm, so if he plans to Really, all you need to do now is make sure that whatever shoes you
defend his Ironman world title this year, he’ll have to opt for a different look into buying conform to the two rules listed above. Check the thick-
model. (While the prototype version of the Echo 3s Iden used in Kona ness of the shoe’s sole before you swipe your credit card and if they’re
are now illegal in both World Triathlon and Ironman races, the regular plated, make sure that they only have one plate. If you’re unsure how to
version of the shoe features a 35-mm stack, so they’re fair game.) figure out these details, ask around at your local run shop. Even if the
salesperson doesn’t know the difference between a legal and banned
shoe, they’ll be able to tell you the shoe’s specs, which is the key to
knowing you’ve got a World Athletics, World Triathlon and Ironman
rule-conforming shoe.—BS-M
RIGHT
Dont worry if you recently
baught a pair of these,
they are still legal!
Matt Stetson

1–19th March
TRIATHLON
TRAINING CAMP
Calling all Triathletes!
Register now and
ride for free with
ROUVY is one of the world‘s leading indoor cycling apps,
combining sport and technology to provide an immersive a 14 day free trial.
experience for cyclists and triathletes of all levels.
Kick off your triathlon season with ROUVY and join the
Virtual Triathlon Training Camp. There are workouts,
challenges, prizes to be won, a Group Ride led by Frederic
Funk and a climactic race!
ROUVY.com/triathlon
RUN TRAINING
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A RUNNING SHOE
TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOURSELF ON

THE RUN, YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO
FIND THE RIGHT SHOES
HERE ARE SO many types of shoes on the comfortably without the added weight of a recommend the perfect shoes for you, and the
T market these days. Which is great—no one
has to settle for a shoe that isn’t ideal for them.
thick-soled shoe slowing you down. Of course,
maybe the maximalist design isn’t for you, and
right shoes could be the difference between
you getting injured or running pain-free all
However, all that variety means you need to you’re used to a thinner sole. If your body can year round.
be very intentional when it comes to buying handle pounding the pavement with less cush-
your next pair of shoes. Don’t just walk into a ioning between your feet and the ground, don’t Where are you running?
running shop, pick a shoe in your size that you feel the need to make the jump to a bigger shoe.
This is another potentially silly tip, but there
think looks cool and head out expecting to lay When it comes to cushioning, it really boils are many runners out there, both new and sea-
down a PB in your next track session or race. down to personal preference. soned, who need to hear it: know where you’re
You need to know what to look for in a running going to run in these shoes. You wouldn’t show
shoe. We’ve got some tips to help you find the What’s your gait? up to a mountain bike race with a road bike, so
right one. Your gait is how you step or stride while run- why would you wear road shoes to the trails?
ning. Everyone’s gait is different, and it can be OK, that’s a bit different, we know, but it’s the
Is it a runner? the key to determining what type of shoe you same idea. Road shoes offer much less grip and
This may sound silly, but when you’re buying need to wear for running. Find out if youover- protection then trail-specific running shoes,
a running shoe, make sure that it is, in fact, a pronate (meaning your foot rolls inward at and if you’re planning to hit the trails for most
running shoe. There are so many different least 15 degrees when you step). You could of your runs, it’s a good idea to invest in the
types of shoes in today’s market that it can also under-pronate (your foot leans outward), right footwear. Likewise, if for some reason
be easy to think that what you’re looking at is or your foot may see a normal, neutral level you only have trail shoes, you might want to
designed for running when it’s really a train- of pronation (under 15 degrees inward with grab a pair of regular running shoes if you
ing shoe that you might wear to the gym. You each step). plan on hitting the roads more and for your
can probably get away with wearing your run- At this point, you may be thinking, “Thanks triathlon races, which typically take place
ning shoes to the gym, but wearing your gym for the new terminology, but how do I figure on roads.
shoes on your runs could lead to injury, so out which of these I’m doing?” Good ques-
always be sure to confirm you’re looking at the tion, and the answer is simple enough: get Making the right choice
right type before making your purchase. a gait analysis. This sounds like some kind Running is supposed to be an accessible sport,
of appointment you’d have to book months and it is at its core. Yes, you can run in anything,
Find the right cushioning in advance, but that’s not the case at all, and whether that’s the latest, most expensive run-
A few years back, you might have had to decide there’s a good chance that the employees at ning shoe on the market or a pair of Crocs, but
between owning a lightweight shoe or a well- your local running store will be able to per- if you can afford to be picky when it comes to
cushioned one. Today, you can get the best form a gait analysis for you right in the shop. your gear, make sure you find the best shoe for
of both worlds. Many maximalist shoes are Once they confirm how much, or how little, you. It’s only going to help you as a runner.—
way lighter than they appear, so you can run you pronate while running, they’ll be able to BS-M
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BUYER’S GUIDE RUN GEAR
SHOE TECH TAKES OFF
NEXT-GEN
TRAINERS
AND RACERS
he running shoe revolution spurred
T on by the addition of carbon-plate
technology to racing shoes seems to Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
have inspired lots more technology

developments in running shoes these
days. Shoes are lighter, but somehow
manage to offer more support and cush-
ioning than ever. It’s a great time to be
in the hunt for a new pair of running
shoes—here are a few worth a look.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
$210/US$160 Asics has made 24 other iterations of the Gel-
Nimbus, so it’s a safe bet that the 25th is a great shoe. The
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 was released in February, and will be
a crowd favourite among runners and triathletes around
the world. It is a well-cushioned, comfortable shoe that is
perfect for training. It has a knit upper that will hug your
feet nicely, keeping you locked in and preventing move-
Puma Deviate Nitro 2
ment as soon as you lace up. The midsole is where you’ll
find the shoe’s ample cushioning, which consists of Asics’s
FF Blast+ foam. This foam, paired with the Nimbus 25’s
lightweight design, will give you an extra bounce with
every step. Finally, we move onto the outsole, which has
Asics’s AHAR rubber to give you great traction and keep
you from slipping. The AHAR outsole rubber is also super
durable, so you won’t have to worry about wearing the sole
out anytime soon, even after you put your Nimbus 25s to
the test in consistent training.
Puma Deviate Nitro 2

$200/US$160 Puma’s Deviate Nitro 2 is, as the name suggests,
only the second iteration of this model, but its release was a
welcome one in the running community. Puma impressed
anyone and everyone who tried the original Deviate Nitro,
and its successor couldn’t have come too soon. The Nitro
2 is an extremely comfortable and fast shoe. That comfort
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
starts in the shoe’s upper, which is made from woven mesh
that is very breathable. One negative part of the original
Deviate Nitro was the heel, which wasn’t all that soft and New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
could cause blisters. Puma has improved on that design $200/US$160 The design team at New Balance says that if they could only make one
and added a padded heel collar, which should eliminate any running shoe, they would choose to make the Fresh Foam X 1080v12. They say that
worries you may have had about getting blisters. The mid- the 1080 is not only the best running shoe New Balance produces, but “it’s also the
sole is where you’ll get most of your speed from this shoe, most versatile.” What do they mean by that? The 1080 can help any runner from
as it has a carbon plate running from heel to toe. Puma elite to weekend warrior. The 1080 features New Balance’s Fresh Foam X cush-
calls this the PWRPLATE, and it is designed to produce ioning (hence the shoe’s name), which is one of the keys to its comfort. The upper
tremendous energy return. Like with the first iteration of consists of the company’s Hypoknit technology, which is stretchy yet supportive.
the Deviate Nitro, you’ll be flying through runs wearing On the outsole, there is durable rubber that will not only provide great traction, but
this shoe. The company’s PUMAGRIP performance rub- also add to the shoe’s rebound and energy return. Plus New Balance also focused on
ber will also keep you on your feet in even the most slippery sustainability—the 1080 consists of a significant amount of bio-based and recycled
and wet conditions. Put all these features together and you materials. This is a shoe that you will never regret buying, and it very well could
get a reliable, fast and comfortable shoe. make you a New Balance fan for life.
BUYER’S GUIDE RUN GEAR
Saucony Triumph 20 Hoka Carbon X 3
Brooks Hyperion Tempo
Under Armour Flow Synchronicity
Saucony Triumph 20 Hoka Carbon X 3

$210/US$160 If you’re familiar with Saucony, odds are you’ve heard $230/US$200 Hoka has released the third iteration of their carbon-plated
of the Triumph. Maybe you’ve even owned a pair. If you have, super shoe, the Carbon X 3. This shoe features everything runners loved
then you’ll be happy to know that the company has released the about the first two models and improves on them, making the Carbon X
20th iteration of the Triumph, and the shoe still only continues to 3 one of the company’s fastest runners to date. The upper is lightweight
improve after the success of its many, many predecessors. A few and knit, making it a pleasant and breathable ride for even the longest
guarantees come with the Triumph 20: you’ll get a comfortable, of runs. The midsole is thick and bouncy (a Hoka classic), and its foam
soft ride with every run, a lightweight shoe that won’t weigh you makeup is designed to give you great energy return. Within the midsole
down, all in a great trainer that will help you thrive as a runner. is the shoe’s carbon-fibre plate, which further improves the shoe’s pro-
The Triumph’s engineered mesh upper is comfortable and breath- pulsion and performance. On the shoe’s outsole there is more foam, but
able, which is always a welcome feature with shoes you plan to this is grippy and will provide great traction. The team at Hoka says the
wear for longer runs. The midsole includes Saucony’s PWRRUN+ Carbon X 3 is perfect for everyday running and racing—the best of both
foam, which provides excellent cushioning and great bounce with- worlds. After so much success with the first two iterations of the shoe,
out adding too much weight to the shoe. The outsole is decked with the Carbon X 3 is without a doubt going to be a fan favourite in the run-
high-abrasion rubber that provides good traction and durability. ning community—and for good reason.
If you already knew about the Triumph, it won’t surprise you that
the 20 is an awesome shoe, but if you’re only just learning about it, Brooks Hyperion Tempo
it’s time for you to see what all the hype is about, because it truly $200/US$150 As soon as you lay eyes on the Brooks Hyperion Tempo,
deserves it. you’ll want—no, need—to try a pair on. It’s a slick, cool shoe that will
catch anyone’s eye. As soon as you’ve got the Hyperion Tempo on and
Under Armour Flow Synchronicity given them a test run around your local run shop, you’ll want—actu-
$180/US$140 This shoe’s just for the ladies. Sorry, gentlemen, you’ll have ally, need is the better word here once again—to get a pair for yourself.
to sit this one out. Under Armour’s Flow Synchronicity was designed This is an ultralight shoe designed specifically to get you ready for your
specifically for women, because, as the company points out, “Women’s next big race. It’s the perfect shoe for hard training sessions in which
feet are different than men’s.” The UA team notes that women’s heels you need to run fast. Now, with some shoes that are built for speed,
and arches, and their feet as a whole, are shaped differently than men’s, performance takes priority over everything else, including comfort.
but so many women’s running shoes follow men’s design and shape That’s not the case with the Hyperion Tempo. While speed and perfor-
standards. Other clothes and apparel are shaped specifically for men mance were clearly a priority for the team at Brooks, comfort was just
or women, so why isn’t that the case for most running shoes. The UA as important. The shoe’s upper is made of a soft, comfy mesh that won’t
Flow Synchronicity was designed by a women-led team that asked rub against your skin, so there’s no need to worry about blisters, even
female athletes what they want in a shoe and studied women’s biome- in your first run in the shoe. The midsole features a brand-new foam
chanics to produce a shoe that is built to support a woman’s feet. The from Brooks, which the company has called DNA Flash. This foam is
shoe is lightweight and comfortable, and it’s perfect for any kind of run, light and offers spectacular energy return, which is perfect for a shoe
whether you’re training for a 5K or a marathon. So, ladies, forget the designed for running fast. The durable and grippy outsole is the final
male-focused shoe designs of the past, because it’s time to start giving touch that makes the Hyperion Tempo a must-buy for every runner and
your feet what they really need: a shoe built just for them. triathlete.—BS-M
BEST USE OF GEAR FOR TRAINING the training opportunities, but the real step
TRANSITION TRAINING
WHAT YOUR COACH up comes from adding a power meter and/or a

“smart trainer” to capture metrics and enable
WANTS YOU TO USE the triathlete to follow a workout file.

The next level of gear is the bike, with
astonishing choices to consider and far too
BY SANDIE ORLANDO many options to cover in this article. From a
coach’s perspective, it’s important to consider
the athlete’s goals and abilities. The bike set
up and fit should be different for a first-time
long course age-grouper doing a flat course
than for an experienced triathlete looking for
a personal best on a short, but hilly, course.
Gear choices would consider facilitating
nutrition and hydration and how long the ath-
lete can maintain an aero position, as well as
aerodynamics. The choice of helmet, wheels,
hydration system and kit can make a substan-
tial difference—if they have properly trained.
HE AVAILABILITY OF gear for triathlon triathlete build distance and endurance in a Run
T is endless. For “gear-heads” who live for
the latest gadgets and technology, it’s a dream
pool by eliminating turns at the wall. The lat-
est tech in swim goggles allows swimmers to
Gear for the run goes beyond a good pair
of shoes and weather-appropriate cloth-
come true. But for those new to the sport, it view their metrics without having to check ing. Training with a multisport GPS watch
can be confusing. Let’s break it down from a their watch. is essential regardless of the type of workout
coach’s perspective. Wetsuits for open-water training are a must and using it properly is key for your coach to
First and foremost—the best gear in the for colder temperatures and can be supple- analyze your run—so use that lap button. Shoe
world will not make up for not doing the train- mented with neoprene booties, gloves and choice is personal, but should be appropriate
ing. It’s also important to note that the needs caps. For warm-water races, triathletes look- for both run mechanics and distance. Some
of a high-performance athlete with race expe- ing to increase their speed may opt to wear triathletes rotate shoes depending on the
rience will be considerably different from an a swimskin over their trisuit. A well fitted nature of the training session (short/intense/
age grouper going after their bucket list race trisuit is a good basic choice to wear for racing racing vs long training runs). Also important
distance. Gear should suit an athlete’s abilities and should be worn for a few training sessions is an appropriate hydration system for longer
and training goals as well as their wallet. to be sure it’s comfortable. training runs to help stick to a nutrition plan.
The most useful piece of gear for training is Out of the pool, tension bands are effec- Treadmills have their place to get those
a sport watch with heart rate, GPS and multi- tive ways of building strength by doing dry brick runs done in inclement weather. A heart-
sport functionality. Capturing time, distance, land swim work for a progressing swimmer, rate monitor is important to ensure you stay in
pace and heart rate of workout efforts is key without investing in an ergometer trainer that your prescribed zones since the machines can
to a successful training program for both ath- would be suited for a competitive swimmer. report different metrics for pace and distance.
lete and coach. The extra functions available Gear that helps make treadmill running more
can enhance training, assuming the athlete Bike effective includes earbuds, a stride pod to
understands how to use them. Extra features, Cycling is the most gear-intense part of triath- measure cadence or using an online program
though, can be detrimental if the athlete gets lon, and it bears repeating that the best gear such as Zwift.
too focused on numbers at the expense of get- won’t make up for lack of training. However, it
ting the workout done. can enhance progression and comfort, which Strength, Stretch & Recovery
are both vitally important. Aside from that, a Functional strength and proactive soft tissue
Swim bike that fits properly is key. work are important for triathletes to avoid
The minimalist or new swimmer’s gear needs The basics of cycling can range from a injury and recover from training efforts. Gear
are simple. A swimsuit, bathing cap, well-fit- hybrid to investing in a “starter” road bike. A can be as simple as some tension bands, a few
ting goggles and watch that can record metrics bike helmet that is CSA approved is manda- free weights and a yoga mat. Upgrades for get-
in a training session. A wetsuit can be bor- tory for all races. Clipless pedals and cycling ting it done might include a Swiss ball or TRX
rowed or rented for open water swimming and shoes are worth the cost for pedalling effi- suspension system if the gym isn’t convenient.
racing to get a feel for one that works best. ciency, while shorts with a chamois add Gear for recovery starts with a foam roller
As a triathlete progresses, adding a kick comfort. Sunglasses for sun and wind protec- and can include a lacrosse ball or any number
board, pull buoy, fins and paddles can help tion and two bottle cages for hydration will get of tools for working out the knots in legs, glutes
build strength and practise stroke correction you started. and shoulders. Upgrades might include a per-
in drills. The downside to using these tools is Progressing on the bike is where things cussion therapy gun or compression boots.
becoming reliant on them instead of working get more complicated and confusing. An
on becoming more efficient through stroke indoor trainer is the next key piece of gear As with all gear, it doesn’t count unless it’s
correction. Advanced swimmers may add for training. Few triathletes can get outdoors being used properly.
tools to focus on certain parts of their stroke. consistently three times a week and execute
A tempo trainer (metronome) helps to increase their workout due to time, traffic or weather. A Sandie Orlando is a multisport coach with CL
stroke rate, a snorkel enables focus on perfect “dumb” trainer (without Bluetooth connectiv- Performance Training, co-race director of the
form without turning to breathe, while bands ity) is sufficient to start. It requires the athlete Georgina Spring Fling and Georgina Marathon
help to dial in stroke efficiency and strength to train by heart rate and perceived effort. with Endurance Event Productions and
by eliminating the kick. A tether can help a Adding cadence and speed sensors will elevate age-group athlete.
COME TRAIN
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Série Amérique du Nord
TRANSITION TRAINING FINDING THE RIGHT GPS WATCH AND BIKE COMPUTER Picking the right bike computer
THERE’S SO MUCH Just like picking a watch, you’ll have to answer a simple question when
buying a bike computer: what do you expect to get out of this machine?
SELECTION WHEN There are very basic bike computers that can tell you how long and how
fast you rode. For some people, that will be enough, but others will
IT COMES TO want more.

As with the watches, the most important feature of a bike computer
TRIATHLON TECH, has to be its GPS functions. Again, make sure that the brand and spe-
cific model you buy is well-known for its GPS system so that you don’t
BUT WHAT ARE find yourself mid-ride searching for a signal. On the topic of GPS, navi-
gation may be important to you. Some units can guide you through your
THE BEST OPTIONS entire ride, similar to the GPS system you’d see in your car, ensuring
that you’ll never get lost, no matter where you’re riding.
FOR YOU? Next up are the computer’s cycling-specific functions. You’ll have
your speed and your distance, but some computers will track elevation,
cadence and power. The latter two metrics will require additional
HEN IT COMES to technology like GPS watches and bike com- sensors, which will add to the cost of the computer. Cadence and
W puters, there’s a lot of variety out there. This wide array of power are two key pieces of data that can help transform your train-
products can present you, the buyer, with the paradox of choice, that ing, because, as many triathletes know, the more information, the
can be both exciting and overwhelming, thanks to all the options avail- better. Another piece of data you might want to see is heart rate,
able. Well, don’t stress too much, because we’re here to help you pick which many bike computers can track, although you’ll need to pair a
the right product for your needs. chest strap or wrist sensor with the computer to get those numbers on
screen during your rides.
Which tech do you need? At the end of the day, whether you’re buying a GPS watch, a bike com-
The first question is pretty simple: do you need a GPS watch, a bike puter or both, it all comes down to what you think you need in your
computer or both? This decision of what to buy really comes down to tech. Figure out what metrics you want tracked in training, and do
your budget. If you can only afford one of these options, the GPS watch your research. The right watch and the right bike computer are both
is the way to go. Many of the top watches can do the same things as out there. Finding them is just a matter of looking in the right place.—
bike computers, but also cover you for your other training. As any tri- BS-M
athlete knows, you need to focus equally on the swim, bike and run, not
just one of the three legs. However, if you can afford to buy both pieces
of tech, you’ll certainly see the benefit of having a mounted computer
during your rides to help give you live stats and navigation.
Picking the right watch

It’s time to ask yourself an important question: what do you need in
your watch? There is so much packed into watches these days, and the
price on your bill will depend on what features you decide you want
and need. The first feature you’re probably going to wonder about is
GPS capabilities. There are few things more frustrating in training
than getting in from a workout, only to find that your GPS files are all
off, and list your session shorter or longer than you know you went. In
either case, other than the overall time that you spent in the pool, in the
saddle or at the track, the file is useless and cannot help you glean any
information. So, when buying a GPS watch, make sure that it’s one with
trusted reviews when it comes to its GPS features.
One of the most important features of a watch that could be easy
to overlook is battery life. Most watches for sale today have great bat-
teries, with some being able to last more than a week on one charge.
However, there will always be outliers, and you don’t want to find out
that your watch’s battery is weak in the middle of a workout (or, even
worse, during a race). Do your research before buying and make sure
that whichever watch you pick has decent battery life.
There are a myriad of other features that you can get in a watch. Most
will have heart rate monitors built in, and some will be able to measure
your VO2 max. Others can pair with running power meters, and
almost all can act as sleep monitors. It’s up to you to
decide which of these features are important and
which you’ll likely check out once and never
look at again. Figure out what you’d like your
watch to do, then find the watch that matches
that description. Otherwise, you could
spend way more money on a watch
that has every bell and whistle
known to man, only to
use a few features.
MISCELLANEOUS
BUYER’S GUIDE TRANSITION GEAR

TRAINING TOOLS
hether it’s a training program that
W will keep you entertained while
riding indoors or an innovative run-
ning tight that provides medical-grade
support for your knee, these training
products will help you get the most out
yourself heading into the race season.
Zwift
$19/US$15 PER MONTH Part online game, part training platform,
Zwift offers the chance to get some serious training done
while riding indoors. You can choose from group rides,
Zwift
races and much more in the different virtual worlds Zwift
offers to stay motivated through even the longest sessions.
The game experience gives you the chance to ride with
friends all year long, while ensuring you’ll keep pushing to
reach the next level, unlock more gear and give you lots of
training metrics. Zwift is both motivating and fun.
Rouvy
US$12 PER MONTH Featuring ultra-realistic, real-world routes,
you can choose from more than 25,000 km of roads from
around the world on the Rouvy platform, making indoor
training a chance to explore some of the world’s most
exciting cycling. The interactive courses allows you to
really enjoy the scenery of each ride. Just like Zwift, you
can also take part in races and even set up your own. It’s
Rouvy
easy to join in with friends to enjoy all the routes, too, and
you can also use the app’s workouts and testing protocols
to get the most out of your training.
Stoko K1 Tempo Running Tights

$398 If you’re coming back from a knee injury
and want to avoid having to train with a bulky
brace, these innovative running tights from
Vancouver-based Stoko offer medical-grade
joint support that you can adjust as you’re
working out to literally dial in the perfect
amount of protection. The K1 Tempo offers all
the support of a knee brace in a stylish, high-
performance ventilated tight that includes
the company’s unique Embrace System, along
with pockets for carrying keys and a phone.
What’s even better is that many health and
insurance plans will reimburse you for the
purchase if a doctor recommends that you
need a brace for training.
2XU Light Speed Front Zip Trisuit

$270/US$220 Designed to provide outstanding
Stoko K1 Tempo 2XU Light Speed ventilation and cooling, this suit is ideal for
Running Tights Front Zip Trisuit long-distance racing. In addition to an easy-
to-access front zip, you get excellent muscle
stabilization and support in an aerodynamic
suit. The sleeveless Light Speed suit uses
premium PWX and SBR materials and Italian-
engineered silicone leg grippers to ensure
you’ll get the perfect fit, while the easily acces-
sible rear envelope pockets provide storage
options for training and racing.—KM
COMPUTING WONDERS Garmin Forerunner 955
GPS WATCHES
atches don’t just tell us the time
W anymore—for triathletes they’ve
become an important training tool that
helps track our workouts, but also help
monitor all the other stress that’s hap-
pening in our lives. Here’s a look at
some of the computing wonders that
can help you be at your best in racing
and training.
Garmin Forerunner 955

$670/US$500 Garmin first introduced the world to its
Forerunner line of watches 20 years ago and, despite hav-
ing more than 40 different versions of this fan favourite,
the company is still improving on it. As we go to press
Garmin has released the new Forerunner 965 ($800), but
there’s still a lot to love in the sleek 955—a multisport
watch that will excite any triathlete. It features a respon-
sive touch screen, meaning you won’t have any troubles
swiping through the various pages mid-workout. The bat-
tery life continues to impress, with the 955 offering 15 days
of power on one charge. Of course, no GPS watch is com-
plete without, well, GPS, and the 955’s navigation system
is top-notch. Say goodbye to getting lost and wondering
where to make your next turn, because the latest in the
Forerunner series has got you covered and will direct you
all the way home. There’s so much more to be said about
the Forerunner 955, from its built-in coaching system and
training insights to its power meter and VO2 max capabili-
Polar Vantage V2
ties and countless other features.
It’s hard to imagine how Garmin could improve on the
955, but as the Forerunner name enters its third decade of
existence, we’re sure they’ll find a way with the new 965.
Apple Watch Ultra

$1,099/US$799 Back when the first few iterations of the
Apple Watch were introduced, there was simply too much
missing to be able to consider the product a “sport watch.”
Seeing as Apple was looking to make an everyday watch, it
was completely fair and acceptable that they hadn’t pro-
duced the best watch for athletes. However, in recent years,
that has changed, and Apple has seriously stepped up its
game when it comes to the watch’s GPS and training capa-
bilities. That’s especially apparent with the Apple Watch
Ultra, which the company describes as the “most rugged
Apple Watch Ultra
and capable Apple Watch ever.” The Ultra was designed
with “athletes and adventurers” in mind, and it will
impress anyone who tries it in training. It’s lightweight yet
durable, water resistant (making it perfect for trips to the
pool) and equipped with many endurance sport-focused
features. It can show you your heart rate zones and moni-
tor your running form (stride length, ground contact time
and more) to help you run more efficiently, and the Ultra is
even designed to measure power. Altogether, this is with-
Coros Apex 2 Pro
out a doubt the best sport watch Apple has ever made, and
it will more than satisfy everyone who uses it.
COMPUTING POWER
BIKE
COMPUTERS
hen it comes to keeping
Polar Vantage V2
$725/US$500 Polar’s Vantage lineup of GPS
W track of your cycling data
on the fly, it sure is nice to have
watches has always been a hit among tri-
athletes, and the V2 will help continue that all the info easily available right
trend. The Vantage V2 is a slick, cool watch in front of you rather than looking
that was built specifically to help you and down at your watch. Bike comput-
anyone who wears it improve as an endur-
ers continue to get more powerful
ance athlete. Whether it’s monitoring your
heart rate, recording your power, counting these days—the two we’ve looked
your caloric and energy output or track- at below can provide you with all
ing your sleep, it will be working to help the training and mapping data
you 24/7. The Vantage V2 has a coaching
you could ever dream of.
system that will monitor all your workouts
and cross-reference them with your sleep
and recovery records. If you’re overdoing Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
it in training, or not getting enough rest $1,010/US$750 With 45 hours of battery life (and up
and sleep, the V2 will alert you and suggest to 100 hours in battery saver mode), the Edge 1040
you take it easy. This will not only help you Solar will go for days and up to weeks between
recover in the moment, but it could help charges. All the basics and a lot more are covered
prevent you from overtraining and getting here—speed, distance and power measurement
injured. The watch is also equipped with a (as long as you have a power meter, of course)—
Garmin Edge
stellar GPS system that will not only track but the 1040 does so much more thanks to its
1040 Solar
where you’ve gone in your workout, but barometric altimeter and mutli-band GNSS to
guide you the rest of the way in times when provide the ultimate in positional accuracy and
you’re running or riding in unfamiliar ter- coverage no matter how far your ride takes you.
ritory. The V2 is an all-around amazing The 1040 is smart enough to recommend power
watch, and all triathletes who try it will fall targets to get you through a course, and can even
for it immediately. give you stamina insights to let you know when
it might be a good time to call it a day. There
Coros Apex 2 Pro are extensive maps that are easy to read on the
$699/US$499 The Coros Apex 2 Pro is spe- 3.5-inch touchscreen, along with lots of ride and
cifically billed as an “outdoor watch” that is training apps (it would take a while to list them
designed for athletes “who train hard and all) to help you get the most out of your training
move fast.” Sounds like the ideal watch for a and racing. The 1040 can even help keep you safe
triathlete. Coros designed the Apex 2 Pro to on the roads thanks to its Varia rearview radar
thrive wherever you take it, whether that’s compatibility and ability to communicate with
in the ocean, in the woods, on the open road emergency contacts should anything happen to
or anywhere else. The watch has a tremen- you. On top of all that you can easily track smart
dous battery that can last 30 days on one notifications, control music, send ride updates to
charge if you’re using it in regular mode, friends and family and connect to a smart trainer.
or 75 straight hours in GPS mode. That’s When it comes to bike computers, there’s not
an 88 per cent increase in battery power really anything the Garmin 1040 doesn’t do.
compared to the original Apex Pro. Coros
also endeavoured to build a strong, durable Wahoo Elemnt Roam
watch that would match the strength and $600/US$400 With a 2.7-inch, 64-colour dis-
durability of the athletes who will wear it. play, the Elemnt Roam offers all the GPS and
Thanks to this design, the Apex 2 Pro can power measurements you could want, coupled
withstand temperatures anywhere from with smart-navigation features to keep you on
-20 C all the way up to 50 C, so no matter track for your next cycling adventure. The lat-
when or where you’re training, it will give est version of Wahoo’s flagship computer offers
you accurate and dependable readings. dual-band GPS for accurate tracking along with
Finally, the Apex 2 Pro was designed to help Summit Segment capabilities and public route
even the most adventurous of athletes, and sharing. There’s even integration with the
Wahoo Elemnt Roam
so it is fully decked out with the best GPS Supersapiens Continuous Glucose Monitor for
system available. It will keep you on-course those who want to see their blood-glucose levels
no matter where you are, and for days at a in real time. All this comes in a lightweight unit
time if necessary.—BS-M (94 g) that offers 17 hours of battery life.—KM
GUIDANCE AND CUSHIONING FOR EVERYDAY RUNNING
SAM LONG
LESS
TO
SAY
AND
MORE
TO
SHOW
BY SARAH KIM BONNER
Marti Milla

S
A M LO N G I S N ’ T A F R A I D O F T H E LI M E LI G H T. Making a after the Collins Cup, Long wrote: “Many have noticed I
name for himself in the early days of his pro career, don’t do it as much anymore; it has to be the right person
Long would call out big names on social media and and situation.”
show up to events boasting he had “the best legs Now, with bigger sponsors and more media commit-
in triathlon.” Like it or not, his playful “smack talk” was ments, Long says he is also cognizant that backlash isn’t
an injection of energy into the pro scene, and triathlon just reflected on him, so the situation is “just more com-
fans and sponsors responded. While his following—both plicated.” He says he hasn’t totally abandoned his cheeky
doubters and believers—grew, so did his palmarès as his trash talk, but nowadays, it only happens privately with
performances started to live up to the hype during the 2019 training partners.
season. Since then, Long has reached as high as sixth in “There’s always space for me to grow and change as a
the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) World person, and there’s always space for anyone to change and
Rankings. He has an incredible 10 race wins to his name, grow,” he says. “I’m as competitive as can be and I want to
claimed second at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship have fun doing it. The smack talk used to be fun, but it was
in 2021, and won the inaugural Clash Miami in 2022. causing problems and way more stress than I needed to deal
OPPOSITE “The Big Unit” has developed into one of the best middle with and it wasn’t fun any more … I just want to streamline
Tackling the famous
climb of Alpe d´Huez with
distance triathletes on the planet, but as he shows the tri- my life and make it as simple as possible because it’s got-
54–33 as his easiest gear, athlon community more of who he is on the world stage, ten so much more complicated. It’s an effort to conserve
Long was forced to stop the outspoken athlete has less and less to say. energy to be the best possible version of myself.”
on some hairpins. “That
destroyed my legs,” he
said. After receiving a
A BOILING POINT BEST SELF AND BEST PERFORMANCE
five-minute penalty in Long stepped back from the media spotlight after he found Who, and what, the best possible version of the 26-year-old
T2 for an infraction in T1, himself the centre of a big blowout right before the Collins seems to be getting more clear every season. Part of that
Long says his mind was Cup last season. Long dramatically stormed out of a heated development was his decision to race in Europe for the
destroyed, so he pulled pre-race interview with Sam Laidlow and Lionel Sanders. summer in 2022.
out of the race.
Laidlow—who at the time had admittedly never won a 70.3 “I thought going to Europe would be a great experience.
or an Ironman—made grand predictions for his own race Believe it or not, I got a lot of backlash for going to Europe.
and poked holes in Long’s previous effort. Long responded I was being told I was washed up and I couldn’t perform
by calling for “respect” for both himself and Sanders. anymore,” Long says.
While Sanders smiled and squirmed awkwardly and the His experience, however, was “the exact opposite.”
PTO interviewer apologized, Long eventually got up and Despite some challenging races, including a DNF at Alpe
left the room, forcefully swinging open the door and leav- d’Huez, Long broke the tape at Ironman 70.3 Gdynia. It
ing everyone on edge. wasn’t just his eventual victory that made the trip a suc-
On the surface, Long understands it looks like “he can cess; in fact, Long specifically credits the challenges for
give it, but he’s too soft to take it.” But, he explains, what making the experience worthwhile.
everyone saw at the interview wasn’t the whole story. Laughing his way through a long list of challenges in
“What happened at Collins Cup race week was great—if Europe—like having no air conditioning in boiling hot
that had been all it was. It would’ve been top-class banter, hotel rooms, no lane ropes in pools, food troubles and try-
but the fact that there was a backstory made it worse,” he ing to race a 1x groupset in the high Alps—Long says it
explains. Long wouldn’t go into further detail, but alluded forced him out of his normal patterns.
to a backlog of private messages on social media that paved “Elite athletes get into such a routine and think that is
the way to his breaking point. what creates the great performance. But it actually made
“I felt like I was targeted as a person,” he says. “I just me more fragile as a person and as an athlete because one
don’t think in our sport it’s okay to target people beyond little thing can disrupt [the routine],” he says. “I always
who they are as an athlete.” used to have this exact same pre-race meal and, after
In hindsight, Long is more upset that the situation Europe, I don’t even think twice about what I eat. Like, I do
impacted his performance and that realization instigated think twice, but I can eat pizza, pasta, anything, the night
change. before a race.”
“The big thing the Collins Cup taught me is that ulti- Long doesn’t doubt he is a better athlete for racing in
mately I’m focused on performance. While it might look Europe, especially on the cycling front, but it was the
like I performed on race day, what happened was a com- value gained outside of swim, bike and run that he appre-
plete distraction during race week and I believe it took ciates the most.
away from the ultimate performance I could’ve had on that “On an individual basis, Europe was nothing but posi-
day,” he says. tive for me. I had hardships but I wanted those hardships.
Long was in an exciting run battle against Lionel That’s something I knew I wanted and was beneficial for
Sanders, the pair famously crossing face-to-face with a me as a person and if the outside world sees that or doesn’t,
flagging Laidlow. Long would finish behind Sanders, but it doesn’t really matter,” Long says.
fourth in the overall standings and the highest placed But, for someone who is self-proclaimed to be all about
American. But Long still can’t shake the shadow cast over performance, personal growth isn’t an expected metric of
his efforts and possibility of what could have been. success. He laughs at the premise.
“Going forward, things like that are just a waste of “I’m laughing because this is exactly what my girlfriend
mental and physical energy that come at a big cost to per- and I are quipping about all the time,” he smiles. “The
formance—it’s just not worth it. From a human standpoint, performance does come first for me, before improving as
it comes at a cost of human happiness so it’s just not worth a human being. I think that’s just the nature of top level
it on any front.” sport. For her, even though she races as a professional, she
The “cost” is exactly why Long publicly clarified why he finds it more important to improve and develop as a person
has stepped back from “smack talk.” In an Instagram post and she’ll put triathlon on the back burner for that.”
“You can’t be 100 per cent on sport 100 per cent of the time,” he continues. “If you
don’t work on yourself as a person, then, eventually, those things are going to catch
up to you in sports. To be a complete, and the best, athlete in the world, you have to
have such a resilient mind, but then it’s also making sure that there’s still that call
from the ego: ‘Okay, who is Sam Long?’ When you’re twenty miles into an Ironman
and you want to quit, where do you find that part beyond who you are as an athlete?”
HEAD AND HEART

If you’ve ever watched Long race, you will already know the answer to that ques-
tion: Long always races with his heart rather than his head. He might prioritize
performance, but it’s his heart, who he is beyond an athlete, that explains why he is
so captivating and so capable at a world-class level.
In an interview with the PTO, Long actually said his best racing advice comes
from the novel The Power of One: “First with the head and then with the heart.” He
laughs, “Yeah, yeah, I remember saying this. That’s who I aspire to be, but often I’m
just somebody who goes on my heart, like my race at Dallas.”
At the PTO US Open in Dallas, Long posted the fastest bike split, but missed the
win by 68 seconds to finish third.
“I’m pretty sure if I just would’ve thought with my head a little bit, played it a little
smarter on the bike and let others do a little more work, the worst I would’ve ended
up was third, but I might have ended up in first,” he says. “Going with the heart, it
didn’t quite pan out but, racing these days, you do need to have heart.”
Although he had turned down his Kona slot, Long says after Dallas he had
changed his mind. “I was 100 per cent certain I was going to change my mind and
go to Kona. Boom, I can race both,” Long says with a laugh. His change of heart was
eventually tamed and, to prioritize performance, he skipped Kona. OPPOSITE
“The main reason [to miss Kona] is to focus on my swim. If you look at Dallas, if I Long races on
swam a minute faster, you almost can’t argue I would’ve lost that race,” Long says. Alpe d’Huez
“I’ve come back with—I’m actually really pissed off with what happened at the end
BELOW
of Dallas. I’m not pissed off with anyone but myself. If I want to win those big races,
Long battles
I have to swim better. It’s just gotten me so motivated.” at the PTO
Despite a decent swim at the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in St. George, Collins Cup
Courtesy PTO

Long suffered a now-famous penalty that ultimately foiled his race ambitions.
However, he got some pay off from choosing performance over Kona when he had “You can’t be 100 per
an impressive late season win at Ironman 70.3 La Quinta. Long took the lead on the
bike and finished with a strong run but, without having to make up for his typical cent on sport 100
swim deficit, he says it was his main-pack swim that set him up for the win.
per cent of the time.
SHOW DON’T TELL
Long has been telling everyone who he is from day one, but now his actions are If you don’t work on
louder than his words. From walking out of the Collins Cup interview to skipping
Kona, racing in Europe, and consistently racing like it’s his last chance on Earth, yourself as a person,
Long has cut out all the noise. Long says it’s triathlon that made him that way and
triathlon that has revealed it. then, eventually,
“If I look at sport over time, it helps make a better person because all the experience
you have in sport combined with the toughness and dedication required,” he says. “I those things are
know it’s absolutely transformed me as a person compared to who I was 10 years ago.
But, on a single day basis, I think sport reveals who you are, especially on race day. going to catch up
Race day reveals who you are as a person and how you race is who you are.”
to you in sports.”
Marti Milla
Sarah Kim Bonner is a pro triathlete and regular contributor to Triathlon Magazine.
GAME OR TRAINING TOOL?
LEVEL UP:
The Birth of Zwift

BY CHRISTINE FRIETCHEN
T HERE ARE ACCEPTED

AND WELL-DEFINED
MOMENTS IN EVERY
The first, near-universal moment
is buying a “real” bike. Then, once
the triathlon mania sets in, you
And as a serious amateur, Min recognized the value of off-season
indoor riding. But he hated it. Whether on rollers or a bike trainer, his
indoor training was effective, but so boring. There was no one to talk to,
want to get better, so you level up no one to ride with, no one to compete against.
TRIATHLETE’S LIFE again. Maybe you’ll join a club or Around 2012, Min’s business life and personal passion converged. He
WHERE A CHOICE IS hire a coach. Next comes a power found himself at a career crossroads, casting about for a “big idea,” but it
MADE TO LEVEL-UP. meter or a smart trainer. Then it’s seemed that all the great new tech ideas were taken. His brother urged
downloading Zwift. him to pursue combining what he knew best: technology and cycling.
For the unindoctrinated few,
Zwift is part training tool and part video game. It makes indoor bike Indoor Cycling was Spinning its Wheels
training actually fun—and to some—even addictive; so addictive that Both Min and Mayfield knew that indoor cycling had stagnated. The
some triathletes have given up riding outdoors altogether except on same basic bike trainers had been around for years. For triathletes and
race days. cyclists, one viable solution was CompuTrainer, which used propri-
Riding indoors is the answer to a bunch of problems, including bad etary hardware to control a trainer’s resistance on the rear tire. The
weather, bad roads and bad drivers. For young parents, it’s the solution company pioneered the electronic bike trainer, and for two decades
to finding a babysitter or negotiating with a partner over who stays was the only real player in the game.
home. Yet, for all its upsides, riding indoors without the aid of distrac- Long before Garmin, the CompuTrainer setup allowed riders to col-
tion is mind-numbingly boring. lect and view cycling data, displayed on a screen during a ride. While
revolutionary in the ’90s and 2000s, CompuTrainer had limitations.
Boredom is the Mother of Invention There were wires between the trainer and head unit, which compli-
This was the reality faced in 2010 by California-based programmer Jon cated setup. You had to calibrate and warm up the system for a good
Mayfield: recently married, with a new home and a baby on the way, 15 minutes before starting a ride or your numbers would be off. And the
the new house was within eyesight of southern California’s Santa Ana system was expensive. In today’s dollars, it would set you back more
River Trail, which every weekend attracted hundreds of local cyclists. than $2,500, clearly out of reach for most.
One hybrid bike later and Mayfield was a newly minted cyclist. Flash And CompuTrainer was a closed system. It didn’t work with emerg-
forward six months and he’d upgraded to a cherry-red Specialized ing wireless standards like WiFi, Bluetooth or ANT+. While the system
Roubaix, but with a newborn, getting out on the trail just wasn’t going included some rudimentary graphics, riders had just a plain road and
to happen. a few blobby trees to look at, with a distant skyline or landscape. To
Meanwhile, in another part of the world, tech entrepreneur Eric facilitate group rides, bike shops would set up CompuTrainer studios,
Min was thinking about a new challenge. He’d spent eight years as a VP where cyclists could mount their bikes to a line of CompuTrainer sys-
at JP Morgan Chase in New York City, then had co-founded a London- tems side-by-side.
based software company, where he’d spent another 15 years. But Min’s
other passion was cycling. Enter the Disrupter
Min had begun riding seriously at age 14 with Olympic aspirations. Zwift is the confluence of right time, right place, right people. A few
A successful amateur, he made it all the way to Olympic training camp. years earlier and the technology would have been too expensive or too
He loved racing, but almost equally, he loved the culture of cycling: the obscure. A few years later and other startups might have snatched mar-
group rides, with guys jockeying for position and showing each other ket share. And if two people that had never met each other didn’t meet,
up, the trash talk, the bravado. He loved the social rides and friend- then the know-how + investment + passion, with a big dose of nerdiness,
ships, the endless chats about gear and training. that resulted in Zwift would have never happened.
LEFT
Jon Mayfield
LEFT
Eric Min
By 2013, Jon Mayfield had developed his own sophisticated solution still collect coins and points in the game.
for indoor training. Teaching himself to code, he gradually improved After Min reached out, Mayfield hosted Min and co-founder Scott
his CRBike Coach software. He was the only user. Barger in that same spare room to demonstrate his project. His heart
Mayfield had created the graphics for video games for years, with was racing, finally getting to show his passion project to potential part-
credits on games such as Disney Princess: My Fairytale Adventure, ners. He’d accidently left his heart rate monitor on, so Min and Barger
Dreamworks Kartz, and Phineas and Ferb. His cycling program began were able to see just how nervous he was, with his HR graphed on the
as a little project over a Christmas vacation, where he wrote his first display screen while they spoke.
few lines of code in his home’s guest bedroom. He iterated on his side
project for years, adding the ability to capture cycling data through a The World of Zwift
power meter and evolving the visuals. The very first virtual bike for the With a unified vision and the funding to match, the new company
program was based on his own cherry-red Roubaix. ramped up quickly, and by late 2014 was in beta testing. It officially
He began posting about his software on triathlon forums like launched to the public in October 2015, with a choice of two rid-
Slowtwitch, looking for a partner or investor. He thought about cre- ing environments, the fantastical “Watopia” and the more realistic
ating a Kickstarter to try to find funding to make CRBike Coach into Richmond, Va.
a real consumer product. Eric Min saw one of those forum posts and It’s a little disappointing that the company’s name wasn’t the result
connected with Mayfield. By early 2014, they were co-founders of a yet- of a half-asleep, in-the-shower eureka, but rather, evolved out of ses-
to-be-named project. sions with a marketing agency. Even so, it’s apt, meant to suggest both
motion and fun.
Gamer + Trainer What started as a way to make cycling less boring has evolved into
As Mayfield tinkered in his spare room, he drafted features that are a powerhouse across cycling and triathlon. For around $15 per month
still at the core of Zwift: that at its heart, it’s a video game. and a compatible bike trainer, anyone ride one of Zwift’s nine virtual
In an interview with Slowtwitch, Mayfield said, “I often get asked ‘Is worlds, and users can make it as much of a game as they want. You can
Zwift a game or a training tool?’ It’s an odd question because training, customize your avatar by switching out gear and clothing. The longer
to me, has always been a game. Whether I was trying to optimize my you use the program, the points you rack up, which allows you to “buy”
CdA in aerolab, trying to best my current FTP, or trying to move up a upgrades within the game.
few percent on the local Strava segment, it’s always been gamified in Just as with any video game, players reach levels (there are 50 levels
my mind.” currently), and receive badges and awards. But one of the most loved
His first version of his “game” merely collected and graphed data aspects of Zwift is the social integration. At any point, you’ll see a list of
from the bike on a screen. By 2011, he had developed a joystick that riders on the course with you, and they’re not AI—they’re actual people
could be used to “steer” in the game to collect coins while riding. From from around the world.
there, he figured out how to pause and return to the game, and he Through the Zwift companion app, you can text other riders, or give
started using ANT+ wireless connectivity to communicate with the them a “thumbs up.” The companion app also makes group rides pos-
bike sensors. sible. You can organize a meetup with friends or teammates, attend
Then came better graphics and some AI “riders” to ride against. He “celebrity” rides with pro cyclists and triathletes and join pace groups.
made an Android app that could connect to the software over his WiFi The Zwift platform hosts dozens of races every week, including the
network so a phone could be used as a display and input device. Zwift Racing League.
Courtesy Zwift
By early 2014, he had added what he called “pain portals” that repre- The exact number of subscribers around the world isn’t pub-
sented the start and end of an interval. Zwift users today will recognize licly available, but it’s believed that there are around 500,000 users
those “portal” entries; most now look like inflated archways, and riders worldwide.
BOTTOM BELOW AND RIGHT
Zwift eRacing Arena Games Montreal 2023
It has been reported that subscribers nearly doubled during the pan- on trainers through Zwift’s virtual world, then a treadmill run, also
demic. With no live events and everyone stuck at home, Zwift was the through the fantasy environment of Zwift. It’s fast-paced, with athletes
perfect companion. The countries with the highest number of Zwift switching disciplines multiple times, all displayed for spectators on
users included Spain and Italy, countries hard-hit by lockdowns. massive screens with pumping music and commentary.
According to Richard Melik, sports marketing lead for Zwift, the Along with the PTO and Challenge/Clash, part of Zwift’s aim is to
pandemic accelerated some plans Zwift had already been discussing. turn triathlon into a prime-time watchable sport with professional ath-
Namely, a series of races featuring the world’s best triathletes. That letes and a legion of fans to follow them. The next events in the series,
became the Z PRO Race Series, which featured triathletes in their which began in Montreal, include events in Switzerland and Singapore.
home pain caves competing for significant prize money. Spectators can watch in person or choose to stream the event, and the
Says Melik, “It was surreal to see athletes of the calibre of Gustav spectacle opens a new revenue stream for pros.
Iden, Kristian Blummenfelt, the Brownlee brothers, Flora Duffy, Says Melik, “We know that shorter formats of triathlon appeal to a
Georgia Taylor-Brown and Chelsea Sodaro all mixing it up on the roads wider broadcast audience. The mixed team relay at the Olympics have
of Watopia.” been the gold standard in attracting a non-endemic audience to the
sport and there are elements of Arena Games that mean it is well placed
What’s Next: Live Racing to do the same.”
Just as eSports evolved to live events where an audience watches elite For an age-group triathlete using Zwift at home, watching the pros
gamers play World of Warcraft and other games in a auditoriums and riding on Zwift is a thrill. Another level-up moment you won’t easily
arenas, Zwift has followed suit. forget? Seeing Lionel Sanders or Lucy Charles-Barclay pass you while
What started as a race series in triathletes living rooms has morphed you’re riding one of the Zwift courses.
into an entirely new type of event: a hybrid live/virtual triathlon. New to Zwift? The company offers a seven-day free trial to check it
Dubbed the Super League Arena Games, this year’s series of three out. But we’ll warn you: it’s easy to find yourself addicted.
events features a live audience watching pro triathletes compete in
a hybrid environment. A pool swim is followed by live bike racing Christine Frietchen is a regular contributor to Triathlon Magazine.
Kevin Mackinnon, Kevin Mackinnon, Courtesy, Courtesy

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FINISH LINE RACE REPORT
BELOW
News 2022 PTO Collins Cup
PTO Steps up in 2023 … sort of events, with each offering US$600,000 (vs the $1 million offered last
When the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) stepped up in year at the Open events). The $2 million year-end bonus will now also
2020 to help pro triathletes with its first US$2 million bonus, it was a be distributed to the top 50 in the world rankings—in previous years it
game-changer for those trying to make their living in the sport. That went out to the top 100. (In previous years, athletes finishing 21 to 50 in
year the PTO also organized the biggest pro triathlon event of the the rankings earned $5,000, while those who finished 51 to 100 in the
year—the PTO 2020 Championship held in conjunction with Challenge rankings earned $2,000 in the year-end bonus.)
Daytona. A year later the organization put on the inaugural Collins Cup, The winner’s check at each of the Open events will remain at
and followed that up in 2022 with three events—the PTO Canadian and US$100,000, with second earning $50,000 (vs $75,000 last year) and
US Open, along with the second running of the organization’s flagship third taking home $35,000 (vs $50,000 last year).
event, the Collins Cup. “Establishing a more regular consistency of ‘world championship
In 2023 things were to expand again with two more “Open” events, level’ events is imperative to grow the sport through TV audiences,
bringing the organization’s number of races to five. In the end that media coverage and sponsor opportunities for our athletes,” said PTO
won’t happen—while the PTO has announced the PTO European CEO Sam Renouf. “So, we needed to think carefully about how we kept
Open in Ibiza (in conjunction with the World Triathlon Multisport the momentum of the first season going as we simultaneously work on
Championships) in May and the PTO Asian Open in Singapore in plans to establish more of a season-long schedule and narrative for the
August, one of last year’s Open events won’t be happening this year. Tour in 2024 and beyond. We believe the steps we are taking in 2023
While the PTO US Open will take place in Milwaukee, Wis., alongside to increase the number of races and spotlight the very best athletes,
the USA Triathlon national championships, the Canadian Open won’t whilst balancing prize funds, will help ensure we continue to grow in
be happening this year due to budget issues in Edmonton that meant a sustainable way.
that Do North, the group that organizes that race, weren’t going to be “Looking back at how the PTO Tour races panned out last year and
guaranteed the funding to be able to host the world’s top endurance then our post-season discussions with athletes, broadcasters and other
triathletes again this year. key stakeholders, it was clear that the best athletes going head-to-
The other big news for pro triathletes looking to cash in on the head creates the most compelling race narratives,” Renouf continued.
largesse of the PTO is that the group will be limiting the number of “Whether that was Gustav [Iden] and Kristian [Blummenfelt] at the
athletes who can compete at events, and also decreasing the number of men’s PTO Canadian Open or Ashleigh Gentle, Paula Findlay and
athletes who will be eligible to receive any of the year-end bonus. Chelsea Sodaro in the women’s race. Those athletes were all in the top
This year the PTO European and US Opens will included the top 20 of the rankings. A similar picture emerged in Dallas at the PTO US
Bartlomiej Zborowski
30 women and men in the PTO World Rankings (as opposed to the 40 Open with Ashleigh pipping Taylor [Knibb] and Lucy [Charles-Barclay].
who were eligible last year), while the PTO Asian Open, set just a week Even if some were surprised by the success of Collin Chartier over
before the Ironman 70.3 World Championship, will include the top 20 Magnus and Sam [Long], he was still number 28 in the PTO World
in the rankings. There will also be a reduction in the prize purses at the Rankings going into the race.”—KM
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Montréal, QC shop north of Toronto. Nutrition Guidebook, Food Guide
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BRITISH COLUMBIA management information.
Podcast. The weekly podcast is hosted by
BIKE BARN
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ONTARIO
to run the First Off the Bike website down Penticton, BC
RACER SPORTIF 250.492.4140
under. He’s joined by Triathlon Magazine OAKVILLE info@bikebarn.ca
151 Robinson St. bikebarn.ca
editor Kevin Mackinnon and each week they Oakville, ON
provide their insights on the latest news in the 905.815.2100
info@racersportif.com
triathlon world. racersportif.com
Of course, we’re biased, but we’d like to RACER SPORTIF
think that the two, who combined have been TORONTO
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going on in the sport. Wrochna has never been racersportif.com
afraid to speak his mind, and the two often
have very different views, which only adds to
the entertainment each week.
While Wrochna and Mackinnon don’t often
see eye to eye on various issues, their experi-
ence and knowledge of the sport at all levels
provides some interesting insights into the
latest developments and performances in the
sport. If you haven’t checked the podcast out,
give it a listen.
THE LIFE OF TRI PODCAST

triathlonmagazine.ca/tag/the-life-of-tri
Also available on iTunes and Spotify
Here are a couple of other podcasts you might

want to check out:
TRIATHLONISH: Kelly O’Mara, the former

editor of Triathlete Magazine, and British pro
Laura Siddall “deliver all the run, swim, bike
news you didn’t know you needed, plus inter-
views with athletes, experts and interesting
people in the triathlon world.” Find out more at
triathlonish.com.
PRO TRI NEWS covers pro triathlon, includ-

ing news, pre-race predictions and race recaps.
Kyle Glass (race director and announcer),
Talbot Cox (best known as Lionel Sanders’s
YouTube partner), Pat Lemieux (Olympic
gold medallist Gwen Jorgensen’s husband and
Sanders’s agent), Mark Matthews and pro tri-
athlete Chelsea Burns provide their insights
on the latest in the professional triathlon
world.—TM
3-TIME XTERRA WORLD CHAMPION EYES THE OSCARS has taught me every step of the way,” she says. “Many times in the past
FINISH LINE PODIUM
LESLEY PATERSON IS 16 years did we think, ‘This film isn’t going to happen,’ but we kept
on going.”
IN THE RUNNING TO One of the driving forces that kept Paterson committed to this project
was the story’s message, which she says is still important today, more
ADD AN ACADEMY than 90 years after it was first published. Unlike most books and films
on the World Wars, All Quiet on the Western Front follows the stories of
AWARD TO HER ALREADY German soldiers and their struggles at war. It was never meant as a pro-
Germany or anti-Allies story, but instead one of anti-war sentiments.
IMPRESSIVE RESUME “It’s such a powerful novel,” Paterson says. “It’s an absolute piece of
art. The way it’s written, the message it’s held and it being about the
other side. It’s such a unique anti-war message, because we’re used to
COUPLE OF YEARS before Scotland’s Lesley Paterson began hearing stories told from the Allied side, the winning side.”
A making a name for herself in the off-road triathlon scene, she From 2006 to the day Netflix gave her and her team the green light to
made a decision that has been the focus of her life in the 16 years since.
make the film, Paterson amassed many accolades in triathlon, includ-
This decision had nothing to do with triathlon but, instead, with the
ing those Xterra world titles in 2011, 2012 and 2018 and the World
completely unrelated world of Hollywood. Paterson and her writing Triathlon titles in 2012 and 2018, along with many other podiums and
partner, Ian Stokell, purchased the rights to the World War I novel All
top-10 results at events around the world. Paterson basically completed
Quiet on the Western Front, and they began adapting it into a screenplay.
an entire triathlon career—and an impressive one, at that—between the
It took Paterson and Stokell 14 years before anyone gave them, time she started her journey with All Quiet on the Western Front and
and their script, a chance, but now, 16 years since they originally today, as she prepares for the Academy Awards.
optioned the rights, All Quiet on the Western Front is a top film on As someone who knows what it’s like to win, Paterson says she’s
Netflix and nominated for nine Oscars, including Best Picture and focusing on enjoying where she is right now. “When I won my first
Best Adapted Screenplay. world title, the next year I came back as the favourite with all these
It’s easy to look at Paterson’s two identities—world champion triath-
expectations. I thought, ‘This is the worst.’ I felt like a fraud.”
lete (she has won three Xterra world titles and two ITU Cross-TriathlonShe ended up defending her title, and in the process, she learned an
crowns) and screenwriter—and dismiss them as completely unrelated, important lesson: “I was living for the future too much and not in the
but she says that’s not the case, noting that her time in triathlon has
moment,” she says. Today, she’s living in the moment and loving the
taught her extreme perseverance, both in her athletic pursuits and ride, and if all goes well, she’ll have yet another piece of hardware to
everyday life. add to her trophy case after the Academy Awards on March 12.—BEN
“I gained this relentlessness, the idea of never giving up, that sport SNYDER-MCGRATH
RIGHT
Paterson at the 2022 Xterra
USA Championship at Beaver
Creek Resort in Avon, Colo.
Jesse Peters

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The Latest Triathlon Gear for All Levels

GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE

GEAR BUYER’S GUIDE

TRIATHLONMAGAZINE.CA Triathlon Magazine 1

CAN WE GET MORE TRIATHLETES

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