Tri-Fit Vanguard tri-suit review
We put the new Tri-Fit Vanguard tri-suit to the test to see whether affordability and quality can really go hand in hand.
220 Triathlon Verdict
The female version of this suit bags our best on test award – is there much else to say? Score: 93%
Pros
- Great value for money
- Comfortable and functional design
- Sleek aesthetics
Cons
- Zip catching issue
- Minimal padding
This new entry level triathlon suit from Tri-fit offers a fabulous suit at a super competitive price point which is perfect if you are budget conscious and looking for some great kit.
How we test tri-suits
Each tri-suit we review gets put through the same level of testing, including numerous bike, bike, runs, triathlons, AND brick sessions, of varying distances over the period of several weeks at a minimum. We test against a range of criteria, including comfort, breathability, support, stability, pocket capacity, durability, aerodynamics, and value. For more details, see how we rate and test products.
Features and fit
The Vanguard has full front access with a zip opening front jersey style top which makes it so much easier to get on and off than the traditional design.
In the lower body, you’ll find the ergonomic panel construction which provides a glossy finish and with a good close fit around the thighs both great for aerodynamics.
The top section of the suit is made from a much more breathable fabric which helps with cooling thanks to the quick dry mesh.
Any water left over from the swim quickly evaporates from here and it doesn’t really soak into the bottom half so it dries quickly.
The legs offer the seamless raw edge with printed silicone grippers that keep it in place further enhanced by a silicone hem strip which prevented any roll up when the wetsuit was put over the top.
Tri-fit offer a great cut on the shorts; the high waist provides an excellent, comfortable fit around the waist and prevents any little gap appearing between the shorts and top – no one needs to see my belly button whilst I am racing!
The YKK zipper feels sturdy and runs up and down easily. The only slight snag is that there is an inner fabric liner on the upper part of the zip, presumably to prevent chafing at the chest, but I found the zip catches on this when zipping up on the move.
A fabric flap over the top of the zip would improve the neckline but I appreciate you can’t have everything at this competitive price point.
The elastic Interface chamois pad is both extremely lightweight and super soft but as it’s not very thick you’ll want to ensure you are well adjusted to being in the saddle.
Comfort and performance
That said, it is super soft with almost zero bulk so no discomfort on the run – you really can’t feel it is there at all. There are two adequate sized, easily accessible pockets on the rear of the suit.
They are deep enough to store some gels and snacks and well ventilated so you don’t end up with sweaty, soggy contents. It is great to see the Vanguard available in some unique colour ways – Plum, Black and the Wine Red that I tested here.
A clear single colour design with the subtle Tri-fit logo on the sleeves and legs creates a suit that looks more expensive than it is.
The bottom line
The suit is built for all distances – I’d be happy up to half iron distance but personally think I would need more padding in the chamois to cycle more than 56mi/90km (not that I’ve tried it!).
With many features of a high performance suit at a very competitive price this is a great option if you need a new suit for 2025.
Review by Sarah Broadley
| Price: | $173 / £125 |
| Sizing: | Women: XS-XL |
| Pockets: | 2, side entry |
| Breakaway zip? | Yes |
220 Triathlon Team
Journalists, reviewers, coaches and athletes 
