IM Clothes Question For Veterans. . .

Changing clothes is really a personal preference.  I wore the same tri shorts/top combo throughout all of IMWI last year and was very happy with it.

I have seen some people swap out shorts in each transition:  jammers for the swim, bike shorts w/ a thick pad for the bike, and running shorts for the marathon.

Most importantly, if you haven't been training in different outfits, don't do it for the first time on race day.  If you've been training for your brick runs by changing from bike shorts to run shorts, then do that in the race.  If you have been doing your brick runs in the same shorts you bike in, plan to do that in the race.

Also, be aware of what ever pockets you may need for each stage and plan your wardrobe accordingly.

"Tri top and tri shorts from start to finish."

Ditto.  That's what I've always done.  That much less to worry about.

Of course, foul weather can change the plans (like 50s and raining ALL day for IMWI'06) :-) 

Whatever you're most comfortable with. I personally wouldn't do any change outs- just because that's one less thing I have to worry about packing and doing.  The more simple the better. 

That's of course assuming that the weather won't drastically change throughout the race. 

And, if it does, that's when you pull a big helping of HTFU out of your Transition and SN bags. 

Thanks for the help. . .    As I read different threads, my mind starts over working itself, and I start getting into a quandry. 

And of course. . .    I forgot the go-to advise of, "race like you trained". . .    And so I knew my answer before I even asked it.  I just needed to be reminded.

Thanks a heap! ! ! !

yes, definitely race with what you've trained with (tried out well in advance).  whatever you've been wearing for your 3-5 hour bricks and/or double bricks...you know that works over a "longer" period of time and is comfortable/no chaffing so go with that.

i wear oomph shorts and my team tri-top the entire race.  no chaffing and works well.  i spend the time I saved changing my clothes and stretch for 60-90 seconds in T2 before the run.

I've finished two IMs and numerous HIMs.  Never changed clothes.  I wore Desoto tri shorts and a tri top for the entire race.  I did wear socks on the bike and run. 

TJ