Tri Suit
The tri suit allows you to transition between swim, bike and run without having to get changed. If you're extremely lucky you'll be able to get a very basic suit at a reasonably cheap price.
If you want padding you're looking at around £40 as your starting point but that depends on how far you're racing. Some tri suits can go up to £200 and are badly designed for the price (in my opinion).
Some are beautifully designed with hidden zips and pocket covers whilst other have gaping pockets that are going to cause drag if you're not wearing a wetsuit.
Ladies
If you're not racing long distance (Olympic and upward) a simple one-piece swimming costume is all you'll need. If you're only doing 20K on the bike you can suffer a little discomfort. Chances are you've been training on the bike for so long now you won't even miss the padding over this distance. Just remember to wear a sports-bra or a garment with support.
Gentlemen
Running shorts and a running T will be fine. You can clip your numbers to your T and leave it in transition. Try and buy some lycra running shorts or just use your swim shorts as long as you're comfortable riding and running in them.
If you want padding you're looking at around £40 as your starting point but that depends on how far you're racing. Some tri suits can go up to £200 and are badly designed for the price (in my opinion).
Some are beautifully designed with hidden zips and pocket covers whilst other have gaping pockets that are going to cause drag if you're not wearing a wetsuit.
Ladies
If you're not racing long distance (Olympic and upward) a simple one-piece swimming costume is all you'll need. If you're only doing 20K on the bike you can suffer a little discomfort. Chances are you've been training on the bike for so long now you won't even miss the padding over this distance. Just remember to wear a sports-bra or a garment with support.
Gentlemen
Running shorts and a running T will be fine. You can clip your numbers to your T and leave it in transition. Try and buy some lycra running shorts or just use your swim shorts as long as you're comfortable riding and running in them.