Raceskin Aero Tri Suit review
At £130, the Raceskin Aero Tri Suit offers good value on paper. Can its performance make it true in reality? Jack Sexty finds out...
Raceskin is best known for its custom triathlon and cycling gear, having kitted out many triathlon clubs over the past decade with its tried-and-tested technical apparel.
The British brand also has a small ‘off-the-peg’ range, with the Aero Tri Suit being one of two men’s tri suits for 2024, the other being the Elite suit (£155).
As far as I can tell, the extra levy on the Elite doesn’t mean it’s aimed at a higher calibre of triathlete.
How we tested
As with all of the products featured in our list of the best tri-suits, this suit has been put through its paces on multiple swims, rides and runs, as well as brick sessions. We’ve reviewed it against a set of criteria that includes comfort, breathability, features (including pockets), how quick it dries, value and range of movement.
Fit and features
The Aero is more speed-focussed, meaning its rear pockets are smaller and the sleeves have prominent trip lines for improved aerodynamics, while the fit is tight.
Raceskin advises sizing up if you’re in between, and I’d agree having just about got on with the medium suit during testing.
Those with a larger chest circumference might find it plunges down a little too much at the neck, and if I was taller than 5ft 9in I’d opt for a large.
It’s worth taking advantage of Raceskin’s very good customer service if you’re unsure.
The Aero is a do-it-all suit, designed for speed yet boasting numerous features that make it appropriate for long-course.
There are four pockets in total – one on each leg and two at the back – to harbour plenty of nutrition such as energy gels or energy bars, and the chamois is described as a “multi-density long distance pad for advanced comfort”.
As mentioned, the Aero is close-fitting, but on my first ride and run I didn’t find it restrictive or overly tight at all.
The leg grippers are comfortable, I didn’t experience any chafing and the prominent housing over the zip means there’s little chance of it catching around the neckline.
Fabric performance
The suit’s impressively breathable, too, with enough mesh down the sides to keep you cool on all but the hottest days. The top section doesn’t separate so there’s no option to completely open it out, which is something to bear in mind if you prefer maximum airflow for long-course.
Raceskin says the Teflon outer repels water quickly, and I’d have to agree after swimming and riding/swimming and running in the Aero.
It’s also pleasant to swim in, and those aero sleeves don’t appear to restrict your stroke at all through the water.
We’re advised by Raceskin not to train heavily in its suits and avoid getting sunscreen on them…
The latter recommendation might be impractical when you’re very pale like me and in the thick of a race, but our experience so far suggests the Aero is robust enough to take a fair bit of race-day abuse.
Just don’t use it day in, day out as per Raceskin’s advice.
Conclusion
We’re very impressed with the Aero suit during the test period, and it’s particularly pleasing how unrestrictive it is considering the close fit.
For most triathletes the Aero would be an excellent choice, though perhaps slightly more appropriate for middle distance and under.
Considering the amount of tech and bonus features packed in, it’s very good value compared to the competition.
Want more choice? Take a look at our list of the best tri-suits on the market right now.
Stuff Verdict
The Raceskin Aero Tri Suit delivers impressive tech and comfort at a great price. Score: 90%
Pros
- Great value
- Good selection of pockets
Cons
- Durability could be potential pitfall
- Sizing runs small
Raceskin Aero Tri Suit specs
Price: | £130 |
Buy from: | Raceskin |
Available sizes: | S-3XL (men’s), XS-XXL |
Breakaway zip? | No |
Chamois pad: | Multi density long distance pad |
Pockets: | 4 |