The 2XUs have plenty of high-end features for the cheapest guards on test. The stirrup removes the need for a tight band around the ankle, which can result in blood pooling in the foot. Stitching is neat and robust throughout and should ensure a good working life. The silicon gripper at the top does a […]
As one of the pioneers of compression clothing with a heritage of producing some outstanding compression tights, bib shorts and tri-suits, we expected great things of the Skins calf guards. Disappointingly, they just didn’t deliver. Having measured our tester’s calf to confirm his size as a medium, the guards still slipped on far too easily […]
Catlike is most synonymous with stylish helmets but their performance eyewear also graces the faces of the pro peloton, including the Movistar team. The D’Lux is the top model in the range and they’re a lightweight but durable plastic-framed affair with interchangeable lenses and an adjustable nose bridge. They’re free from innovation or anything that […]
What Alison McConnell doesn’t know about inspiratory muscle training really isn’t worth knowing. The British physiologist has been the driving force behind the now widespread integration of this training modality into the programmes of many different and high performing athletes. This book is, therefore, something of a bible for all sports participants looking to be […]
This new Trispoke from US-brand Cole is a real high-quality offering. It’s full carbon with a 58mm-deep rim, 64mm spoke profiles and a weight, on our test model at least, of 736g, which is reasonable for a wheel of this type. It runs on sealed bearings that are super-smooth out of the box – give […]
This lightweight bra from German brand Anita will keep everything under control when training. It offers plenty of comfort and control, and goes up to an H cup – great for those with fuller chests or who wear multiple bras to get that extra support. It dries quickly thanks to its highly functional microfiber fabric, […]
Depending on the shape of your head, the 777 is either one of the best- or worst-fitting helmets available. If it takes to your noggin, it’s snug but not tight and secure without pinching. But if the 777 and your bonce don’t immediately bond, then forget it. However much you adjust the chin straps or […]
As the name suggests, My Protein has traditionally fed the needs of power athletes. But the new MP Max One range offers some premixed solutions for us more endurance-inclined triathletes. The Energel is the brand’s first appearance on these pages and it’s a fairly simple affair – not dissimilar from the texture of an SiS […]
Their heritage may be steeped in the mountain bike market but recent history has witnessed Polaris diversify into road and tri. The Equilibrium is their 2011 tri-specific shoe: designed in America, made in China and sold in the UK at a mid-range price point. It features a single reverse strap, heel loop and wide opening […]
Smart design features, as to be expected from a top-end triathlon suit
He’s amusing, arrogant and controversial. And one of the world’s best athletes. As such, reigning Ironman World Champ Chris McCormack is a sport fan’s dream and I’m Here to Win is certainly chock-full of revelations, soundbites and gossipy snippets (Faris al Sultan’s mum asked Macca to leave her son alone). Even if some of the […]
Normally the M-Dot endorsement means an exorbitant price tag, but with these glasses from Foster Grant coming in as the cheapest on test, do they buck the trend and deliver a must-have bargain? For £26, they’re not at all bad. The dark polarised lenses do a good job of reducing glare and provide a high […]
Jetblack declare that they’re “proudly an Australian company” on their packaging. And, as the second Aussie offering on test and at the highly competitive budget end of the market, they’ve nailed it. The opaque plastic frames won’t win any fashion awards but they’re far from ugly and have a certain retro cool factor about them. […]
A respected cycling brand, smoked and clear lenses, hard carrying case and soft pouch, all for well under £40? There has to be a catch. Well, even if the bright blue colour we had on test isn’t to your taste, there are more understated white and black frame options available, so you should be able […]
Brand-conscious posers should look away now. Like the Bloc Stealths, you’re not going to don the Madison D’Arcs as a fashion statement. But the fashionistas would be missing out as you can’t fault what Madison has thrown into the package. To kick things off you get four lenses: clear, dark, rose-coloured and a persimmon light-enhancing […]
If you can overlook the slightly clumsy 1980s feel to their styling, the Blocs offer great value for money (our tester owned a pair at the beginning of his triathlon career and they served him well). For £45 you get the three must-have lenses and a soft carrying pouch-come-lens cleaner. The only thing that’s missing […]
Rather than the Trevisos having changeable lenses, Ryders have opted for photochromatic lenses. These become darker as the sunlight gets brighter and then, as if by magic, lighten up as the sky clouds over. In all conditions, the lenses provide 100% UV protection. The system worked reasonably well, but in lower light conditions we’d still […]
Coming in some extremely stylish packaging – including a denim-covered hard case – the Australian YoYos opened their account well. Along with the lightweight and minimalist frame, you get the three key lenses (dark, yellow light enhancing and clear). Slipping them on, the fit is excellent but immediately the small lens size raised concerns. Although […]
The oversized lenses and neon green and black styling won’t be to everyone’s taste but the Evil Eyes will certainly get you noticed. They come with dark lenses and light-enhancing orange ones, with both giving 100% UV protection (you can also add to your lens choice from the extensive Adidas range, including prescription options). The […]
With sponsored athletes including Chrissie Wellington, Miranda Carfrae, Javier Gomez and Craig Alexander, Oakley should know what triathletes want in a pair of shades. The Fast Jackets certainly look the part, combining mean and moody styling with plenty of functional features. For your considerable cash outlay you get polished black ‘Iridium’ lenses for bright days […]
Top-end Swiss brand Tag Heuer label the Squadra as ‘avant-garde eyewear’ and the look is certainly cool, contemporary and minimalist. From the frameless one-piece lens to the flexible arms, they ooze quality. They’re incredibly lightweight but probably not as light as your wallet will be after buying them. Sure, you get a hard case and […]
At £1.85 per serving, the USN Endurosport is more than twice the price of many competitors. So they’d better be offering something pretty special to justify the cost that’s comparable with the convenience of a pre-mixed drink. The large recommended dose of 75g, which is focused on carb loading, is the prime reason for this […]
Viper Active is Maxifuel’s all-in-one sports drink for “anyone who takes part in vigorous exercise”. It has various guises depending on how it’s mixed up, allowing you to use it before, during and after exercise. It contains around 7% protein, 88% carbs and a host of electrolytes, so just about caters for every situation. The […]
Most of us have used the celebrated SiS Go Electrolyte drinks in the past, and this latest offering is a simple electrolyte and carb affair to drink during exercise. Its 95% carb content comes from maltodextrin and fructose that, when mixed, hits around the 9% concentration level (again, add more water if looking to dilute […]
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