Tri tops

EricMPeterson - 2009-12-24 6:01 AM 1. So I have been looking at getting a tri top but I am unsure what is worth the money. I don't know what sets one apart from the other and would like some expert advice. I see that Hammer Nutrition has a tri top for $29.99, then I go to trisports.com and see every other brand start at 50 dollars and goes up. What is it about the OTHER brands that makes them better. I now that brand name goes a long way but is there other reasons.

Often, price determines the quality of the stitching, material, and durability.  However, the top brands are all pretty good in those aspects, so the fit should be the determining factor as to which one to purchase. Some mfrs' run "tight", some not.  I have Zoot, Pearl Izumi, Profile Design, Specialized, Performance, and probably some others I can't think of right now.  The Zoot seems to run a little tighter than the others.  The Specialized does not protect my chest from the zipper as well as others.  The P-D is nice and the Performance is lower quality and poorer fit for me.

2. If I am going to pay 50+ dollars for a tri top what do people suggest. I am currently looking at on sale items such as ORCA, 2XU, ZOOT, Hammer Nutrition and a couple others.

All those brands are good brands.  Not sure about the Hammer products.  My guess is they are made by a similar mfr and logoed with the Hammer name.

3. last dumb question. I see some brands label a top as a jersey, singlet and tank top. What the heck is the difference, and is it a difference a rookie would notice. I am also 6'2" and wiegh 215 pounds. I would prefer not to look like a sausage any recomendations for size/ fit.

Jersey have sleeves, either short or long.  Singlet and Tank Top can be tricky.  Some of that depends on the mfr.  It is more semantics than anything.  Either one would not have sleeves.

I know its a lot of questions but I have to justify it with the family and I need a better excuse than it looks cool. 

If you are wearing them for triathlon, I like ones that have a zipper so you can regulate your core temperature some.
 
Thanks in advance