Triathlon, duathlons, and multisport in general can be expensive. You have to invest in multiple disciplines and the equipment isn’t exactly cheap. On top of that, the races are expensive, and travel and accommodations also add to the expense. That’s why we’re here to give you a cost-effective buyer’s guide to help you save on gear without compromising on quality and comfort.
Rockbros Bike Carrier Rack, P5,254
Bike racks can be expensive and there’s the added cost and inconvenience of adding a hitch receiver or roof rack. With this bike rack, you have the luxury of adding a rack to almost any car (preferably a sedan). It uses high power suction to secure itself to the vehicle and mounts using the front fork and rear wheel. We’ve seen this in action and it’s quite sturdy and secure. There also isn’t any damage done to the vehicle so you can put your mind at ease.
Thinkrider X2MAX Smart Bike Trainer, P11,640
Trainers from well-known brands cost upwards of P50,000. If you’re just dipping your toes into indoor training yet want to take advantage of power-based training and virtual riding, Thinkrider might be the brand for you. This X2MAX trainer has a similar form factor to more expensive brands and also boasts decent hardware to match. The attached cassette can be swapped out just like a regular wheel. This gives you the option to use 10, 11, or 12 speed cogs and better chain alignment with your current setup. While not being lightweight, it’s still manageable and can be easily tucked away in a corner of your house.
X Tiger Mini Electric Pump, P2,637
Using a hand pump is a thing of the past. Not only is it bulky and inconvenient, it also doesn’t really do a great job. Ramming in both high pressure and volume is a problem. There’s also a real risk of breaking the valve because of the repetitive pumping motion. Lastly, dialing in the right pressure is next to impossible. Luckily with electric mini pumps, it’s very easy to solve these problems. Coming in a small yet powerful package, you can easily pump up your tires to the right pressure in an instant.
Spyder Radar Sunglasses, P1,548
Performance eyewear can be expensive. Thankfully, brands like Spyder give you cost-effective yet quality options that look great as well. The Radar line is great for cycling, running, or other sports. It comes in five different colors that help you match your kit.
Anta Travel 2 PG7, P3,595
Anta is a relatively new player but has been gaining traction and recognition internationally. This Chinese brand focuses mainly on basketball but also caters to the running community. The Travel 2 PG7 is a good introductory shoe for beginners as it gives great cushioning and support at a very cost-effective price. The high stack profile mimics over more popular brands and gives you the comparable comfort.
Nabaiji Swimming Goggles, P350
Cheap, comfortable goggles can be hard to find. This is where Decathlon comes in. Their Nabaiji line gives you access to quality, durable equipment at a fraction of the cost. The gaskets are soft and comfortable and the nose bridge is adjustable. This helps you dial in the perfect leak-free fit.
Decathlon Men’s Swim Jammer 100, P550
Decathlon saves the day once again. These swim jammers have been tested by yours truly and offer superior durability and comparable comfort to other more expensive brands. It comes in different lengths and sizes to match your own preferences. There are several designs and colors available but don’t quite match the offerings of other more expensive brands. This shouldn’t be a problem though if your main focus is to log in miles in the pool.
Coros Pace 3, P15,290
A GPS watch is essential if you’re serious about training. There are cheaper options but fall short in terms of functionality, appearance, and accuracy. Coros is a brand synonymous with value for money. Their Pace 3 watch is no exception. It’s made of materials offering a premium feel and powerful hardware to match up with other brands. The screen is bright and crisp even in daylight. As an added bonus, integration with other platforms is becoming more widespread, catapulting Coros into the mainstream market.
