Some links on this page are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How this works
Black Friday triathlon gear, by priority
Black Friday is a good time to buy the big-ticket gear for next season. Here’s what to buy first for a 70.3, and the models we’ve checked in each category.
We don’t track or invent discounts. Every model here is checked against its maker’s own specs, and every link shows you today’s price at the retailer, so you can see the real deal for yourself.
Your first 70.3: buy in this order
The things that change your training come first. The things you can borrow, or that go out of date, come last.
-
1. A smart trainer
Most of your 70.3 bike fitness gets built over the winter, indoors. A direct-drive trainer with ERG mode makes structured sessions simple, and it’s the purchase where a Black Friday saving goes furthest.
WahooKICKR CORE 2
Direct drive · up to 16% grade · ±2% power accuracy · ERG mode
Check today’s price → -
2. A watch with a triathlon mode
A multisport mode records swim, bike, run and transitions as one race, and the GPS battery needs to outlast your finish time.
Compare battery life and modes in the Triathlon Watch Comparison →
-
3. Clip-on aero bars
Over 90 km, getting lower and narrower on the bike you already own is the cheapest speed you can buy. Practise in the position all winter.
Clip-ons or a tri bike? The Tri Bike Decider gives a straight answer →
-
4. A tri suit built for long days
One suit for the whole race. For a 70.3, look for one the brand designs for long-course racing or for all distances.
SynergyElite Sleeveless Racerback Tri Suit
Sleeveless · Brand says: all distances · Women’s · Maker’s list price ~$140.00.
Check today’s price →SynergyPro Sleeveless Racerback
Sleeveless · Brand says: all distances · Women’s
Check today’s price →SynergyElite Short Sleeve Tri Suit
Sleeved · Brand says: all distances · Men’s
Check today’s price → -
5. A wetsuit, if your race allows one
Check your race’s water temperature and wetsuit rule first. Fit matters more than features, so size it from the brand’s own chart.
Find one for your water temperature with the Wetsuit Finder →
-
6. Two pairs of goggles
Cheap, and the thing people forget. Buy one lens for bright sun and one for low light, so you’re covered whatever race morning brings.
TYRWomen's Femme T-72 Petite Goggles (clear)
Clear lens · Maker’s list price ~$22.50.
Check today’s price → -
7. Training shoes for the long runs
A 70.3 means a half marathon on tired legs, built on months of training runs. A cushioned daily trainer is the shoe you’ll wear most, so it’s the one worth getting right.
NikePegasus 42
Daily trainer · 10 mm drop · 300 g · Maker’s list price ~$145.00.
Check today’s price → -
8. Race nutrition: don’t stock up yet
Gels and drink mixes have best-before dates, and you should race only on what you’ve tested in training. Work out what you need first, then buy as your plan settles.
Work out your race-day carbs, fluid and sodium with the Race Nutrition Calculator →
How to tell a real Black Friday deal
- Know the normal price before the day: note it now, so a “deal” is measured against something real.
- Check the model year. Last year’s model at a discount can be a great buy, as long as you know that’s what it is.
- Buy from the brand or an authorised seller, especially for electronics and anything you eat.
- For a trainer, check it fits your bike (axle and gearing) and whether a cassette is included.
- Check the return policy: holiday purchases often get longer return windows, which helps if a wetsuit or tri suit doesn’t fit.
Choosing between two models? See them side by side in our Head-to-head comparisons.