Subaru Banff Triathlon : Official Thread

A wetsuit is required for this race.  I guess you could do a sleeveless one, but that would be crazy.  It's also recommended that you wear a neoprene cap, and likely that booties and gloves will be allowed.  The water temperature was 12 degrees last year (53 f)...

It will be a stunning, beautiful race though!  I'm doing it and super excited, despite naysayers that warn me I will freeze. 

Last year they actually shortened the Oly swim  because it was so cold. People wore heavy duty gloves in the water!!

We haven't had much of a summer, so I can't imagine its much warmer this year. Bundle up!!

Agree with Deb, wetsuit and a neoprene cap.  Last year most people didn't wear booties or gloves, but it wouldn't be a bad idea. It was especially cold last year because the air temp wasn't very warm either, but the year before it was 28C on the very same day.  The weather is just so variable you have to prepare for anything.

But definitely a full wetsuit and neoprene cap, and consider goggles/mask that has more facial coverage, and definitely definitely do a pre race warm up swim so you don't lose your breath when you start.