People wear both one and two piece suits. If you're not sure whether you'll want to do another tri or not, I'd recommend a two piece
(tri top and tri shorts
). A tri top
(for women at least
) is basically a running top
(sometimes with a built-in bra, sometimes not; some brands feature a removable one if you'd rather use your own
) that's more snug-fitting around the torso. If you decide not to do more tris, they can also be used for running or gym workouts. Tri shorts are lycra shorts that are longer than running shorts
(usually mid-thigh; some a bit longer
) with a minimal pad that protects a little on the bike but won't get super wet and heavy on the swim. They can also be used for biking, running, or spin classes, or even with a top for gym workouts. Danskin has fairly cheap women's tops in a wide range of sizes with some cute designs that are cheaper than most of the dedicated tri brands like Zoot or 2XU. That being said, I haven't been impressed with the quality of their shorts--I got one pair that didn't last a single 30-mile ride! I've had the best luck with Zoot shorts.
There are also one-piece tri suits that some athletes prefer. They basically look like a bathing suit with longer legs
(usually to mid thigh
) and a small pad for cycling. Some zip in front and some in back. I like one piece suits better for racing, as I tend to have fit issues with tri tops
(I have a small waist relative to the rest of me, apparently
). But unless you plan to do a lot of open-water swimming, they are basically only useful for triathlons. I think a lot of women might feel awkward doing a normal run, ride, or gym workout in a one-piece tri suit--at least I would!
Another option would be to just get tri shorts, and do the swim in a sports bra and the shorts, then put on a tech tee or jersey for the bike and run. I think that's basically what I did for my first tri, only there weren't any tri shorts in country. I was wearing a pair of men's fake Speedo jammers instead. I wouldn't recommend that--major chafing, even in a sprint!
Edited by Hot Runner 2015-11-10 6:25 AM