As the new year approaches, triathlon enthusiasts are eager to gear up for their upcoming races. With 2025 just around the corner, it’s time to unveil the top-rated swim, bike, run, and recovery equipment for the upcoming season. Our selection, based on a combination of reader surveys, editor insights, and age-group testing pools, aims to provide the most comprehensive guide to the best triathlon gear available. In this post, we cover the standout items that have captured our attention and the attention of athletes around the world.
Triathlon Wetsuit of the Year: Synergy Hyperion Elite
The Synergy Hyperion Elite emerges as the best wetsuit of 2025. During the testing process, it impressed reviewers with its flexibility and comfort, making it a favorite among testers. Many assumed it would be a high-end wetsuit priced at $1,000 due to its performance, but its affordability makes it accessible to a wider range of athletes. This wetsuit is particularly lauded for its chafe-free design, allowing for a smooth swimming experience without sacrificing mobility. While it may not offer the robust structural support that some pricier brands provide, its comfort and durability make it a compelling choice for competitive swimmers.
Best Triathlon Suit: Tri-Fit Vortex Black Edition
For those searching for the perfect triathlon suit, the Tri-Fit Vortex Black Edition stands out in 2025. Reviewers praised its unparalleled fit and performance across all triathlon segments—swim, bike, and run. Despite being understated in design, what truly sets this suit apart is its ingenious pocket system, including a pocket for ice to keep you cool during races. Although priced at $550, its lightweight fabric and aerodynamic features make it a top choice for shorter, wetsuit-legal events, combining performance with style.
Top Triathlon Helmet: Sweet Protection Falconer 2VI
The Sweet Protection Falconer 2VI emerged as our top pick for helmets in 2025. Reviewers were pleasantly surprised by the helmet’s performance and value, scoring it five stars overall. Features like an impact shield for enhanced safety, ventilation ports, and compatibility with eyewear set it apart. While it may be slightly heavier than competing options, its comfort and adjustability make it an excellent choice for all types of riders. Often available at a discount, this helmet offers top-rated safety and comfort at a reasonable price.
Best Triathlon Bike: Ventum Tempus
In the bike category, the Ventum Tempus rises to the top as the best triathlon bike of 2025. Breaking away from the unconventional designs the brand is known for, the Tempus features a more traditional frame while maintaining the quality Ventum is known for. It boasts middle-of-the-road handling and comfort, making it suitable for a wide array of triathletes. While it lacks integrated hydration features, its affordability and performance make it a fantastic addition to the competitive triathlete’s arsenal.
Best Cycling Bib Shorts: Pinebury Merino Wool Cargo Bib Shorts
The Pinebury Merino Wool Cargo Bib Shorts received accolades for their incredible comfort and performance on long rides. Testers likened them to their favorite pairs of pajamas, praising the combination of breathable and durable materials. Although not specifically designed for women, athletes found them suitable enough to earn the title of the best long-ride bib shorts on the market.
Best Racing Shoes: Hoka Rocket X3 and Adidas Adios Pro 4
When it comes to racing shoes, the competition was fierce in 2025. The Hoka Rocket X3 and Adidas Adios Pro 4 both received five-star ratings. Each shoe excels in different aspects; the Adidas Adios Pro 4 is known for its aggressive rocker and energy return, making it ideal for short races. Conversely, the Hoka Rocket X3 offers stability and durability, making it perfect for longer distances. Depending on race distance and athlete preference, both shoes are worthy additions to any triathlete’s gear collection.
Top Triathlon Smartwatch: Suunto Vertical 2
The Suunto Vertical 2 has secured its place as the best multisport smartwatch of 2025. With a bright AMOLED touchscreen, extensive activity modes, and remarkable battery life, it stands out in the crowded smartwatch market. Most notably, its built-in LED flashlight makes it particularly valuable for early morning training sessions or dark race-day transitions. Priced under $1,000, it offers impressive features usually found in higher-priced options.
Best Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin HRM 600
The Garmin HRM 600 makes waves this year with its practical upgrades and ease of use. The chest strap is now machine-washable, streamlining preparation for training sessions. It also introduces improvements in activity tracking and connectivity, making it a modern solution to heart rate monitoring for triathletes. Though slightly larger than its predecessor, the HRM Pro Plus, it remains a top choice for those invested in the Garmin ecosystem.
Best Recovery Device: Sharper Image Compression Boots
Finally, we highlight the Sawer Image Compression Boots as our top recovery device. Their impressive affordability, ease of use, and consistent performance set them apart in the recovery market. While slightly bulkier than some alternatives, their effectiveness and low price point make them accessible recovery tools for athletes at all levels.
As triathletes around the globe prepare for the racing season, these gear selections serve as a valuable resource for maximizing performance while minimizing discomfort. The combination of affordability, functionality, and athlete feedback ensures that these products are well-received additions to any triathlete’s training regimen. For more in-depth reviews, visit Triathlete for comprehensive insights into gear and training strategies.
