I went around and around and around and around and around and around and around on this last year.
And then I went around some more. I looked at everything. High end. Low end. Cheap imports. Mid grade. Brand name. Off brand name.
I couldn't find any sleeved top that had the right pockets. I wanted pockets like a cycling jersey.
I wanted one that looked right....because hey...if you're gonna look like a dork
(which you're gonna in tri gear
)....you might as well look like a handsome dork. I found a few....but then I saw that really clashed with the piping on my tri-shorts. To be fair, I realized how worn my tri shorts were also.
So, then the real hunt was on. Top and bottom. And, keep in mind, I was dead set against a one piece.
Found an Amazon dealer
(happily, they also have an actual brick and mortar in FL
) to let them know I would be ordering a bunch of stuff and likely returning it. I know they're used to it in this industry, but I wanted to be proactive. They told me they'd be on the lookout for my order. In fact, when I sent it...they contacted me via phone and Amazon to see if they could switch out and add a few things. They even somehow gave me a discount knowing I'd be sending stuff back and that they were 'adding' charges
(albeit temporary
) to my card.
Somehow, I wound up loving a one piece with NO shirt pockets, and only teeny, narrow pockets on the thighs. I never wear a tri top cycling...have plenty of cycling jerseys. Not sure why I felt like I wanted those pockets. And since the shorts and top combo were super comfy, I enjoy them for racing. And all of my races are either short enough...that I don't need all sorts of goodies in my pockets....and the longer ones I only need a few extra comforts that easily fit as I tend to live off the course if need be.
Returned everything else.
Not saying the 1 piece is for you. But, don't be afraid to go out of the comfort zone. I did. And I'm more comfortable.