Best Triathlon Tech from Kona 2024: 11 Standout Gear Picks

Introduction

The Kona 2024 Expo showcased a range of triathlon gear, from prototype bikes to smart goggles and recovery tools. This roundup covers the most interesting products we spotted, focusing on practical features and potential benefits for triathletes. Whether you’re looking for a new wheelset, a more comfortable helmet, or better recovery, these items are worth considering.

Giant Trinity: A New Prototype Triathlon Bike

The Giant Trinity prototype is a significant update to the previous model, featuring a completely new frame. Notable changes include wider forks, wider seat stays, and a surprisingly narrow down tube. This bike is expected to be available in January 2025 and is already being ridden by athletes like Brad Vice and Gusta Eden.

The wide fork design and revised frame shape suggest a focus on aerodynamics and stiffness. While full specifications are not yet available, the bike’s light weight and sleek appearance make it a promising option for triathletes seeking a competitive edge.

CADEX Quad Spoke Wheels: Light and Slick

The CADEX Quad Spoke wheels have been on the market for some time and are known for their light weight and slick appearance. They are paired with the Giant Trinity prototype, indicating their suitability for high-performance triathlon bikes.

Vision Metron SL 91: The Rear Wheel Addition

Vision has expanded its Metron SL 91 line with a new rear wheel. The front version has already proven its speed in professional racing, and the rear version shares the same design. It features a 21mm internal rim width, optimized for 28mm tires but compatible with wider options. The PRS ratchet system with 72 engagement points provides smooth and instant power transfer.

Vision Metron TTW Lenticular Disc: Comfort and Aerodynamics

The Metron TTW Lenticular disc is not a traditional disc wheel. It is built around Vision’s 45 wheel, with spokes inside and a cover over them. This construction offers a more comfortable and compliant ride, especially on rougher roads, while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The 21mm internal rim width accommodates tires up to 30mm.

This design approach prioritizes ride quality without sacrificing speed, making it a practical choice for triathletes who value comfort on long courses.

Vision TF Team Edition Extensions: Adjustable Aero Comfort

The TF Team Edition extensions are off-the-rack aero bars that mimic the fit of custom 3D-printed versions. They come in three lengths and are fully adjustable, allowing you to change the angle, reach, and position. The forearm molding provides an aerodynamic shape, and multiple bolts enable fine-tuning.

FORM Smart Swim 2: Smarter Swimming Goggles

The FORM Smart Swim 2 introduces several improvements: a 15% smaller side mount for better hydrodynamics, an improved gasket for a better seal, and an optical heart rate sensor in the temple. The standout feature is the swim straight function, which uses a magnetometer to help you maintain direction in open water, potentially saving significant distance and time.

Profile Design HSC 250: Neat Nutrition Storage

Developed in collaboration with Precision Fuel and Hydration, the HSC 250 is a gel bottle that mounts on top tube bolts. Despite its name, it holds nearly 300ml and up to six gels. It features markers for tracking fluid and gel intake and seals securely to prevent spills.

Van Rysel XCR Time Trial Helmet: Ventilated Aero

The Van Rysel XCR time trial helmet is available in black, with a white version expected later. It features a removable ventilation port that does not compromise aerodynamics, and internal channels direct airflow over the head. It comes with two visors (clear and one with six magnets) and is priced at £249. It is already being used by professional triathlete Denny Chevro.

Ultra Cool Tech Glacier Tape: Cooling Bar Tape

Glacier Tape is a bar tape that provides a cooling effect when wet and evaporates. It is designed to keep your hands cool during hot rides, enhancing comfort in warm conditions.

Ultra Cool Towel: Portable Cooling

The Ultra Cool Towel offers the same cooling technology in a portable format. You can carry it or wear it around your neck to stay cool. It has been used by professionals in hot environments, such as the Ceramic Speed booth at Ironman events.

This towel is a simple yet effective accessory for athletes training or racing in high temperatures.

Hyperice Normatec Elite: Wireless Recovery Boots

The Hyperice Normatec Elite (also known as Normatec Premier in Europe) is a new generation of recovery boots that eliminate wires and tubes. The entire system fits in a carry bag, making it travel-friendly. Each leg offers 4 hours and 45 minutes of battery life, and for the first time, the left and right legs can operate independently, allowing for customized recovery. They retail for $999, with occasional discounts at events.

Overall Buying Advice

When considering these products, think about your specific needs. A new bike like the Giant Trinity is a major investment, while accessories like the Profile Design HSC 250 or Ultra Cool Towel offer affordable upgrades. The Vision wheels and extensions cater to performance-focused triathletes, while the FORM goggles and Hyperice boots provide data and recovery benefits. Prioritize items that address your biggest challenges, whether that’s speed, comfort, or recovery.

Evaluate each product based on its features and how they align with your training and racing goals. Many of these items are designed to solve common triathlon pain points, from nutrition storage to swim direction.

Conclusion

The Kona 2024 Expo revealed a range of innovative triathlon gear. From the prototype Giant Trinity to the wireless Hyperice Normatec Elite, these products show how technology continues to evolve to meet the demands of triathletes. Consider your priorities and budget to choose the upgrades that will make the biggest difference in your next race.