Van Rysel Aerodynamic Long-Distance Trisuit review

Of the Aerodynamic Long-Distance Trisuit, Decathlon’s in-house brand Van Rysel states: “The objective of this tri-suit is simple: To complete long-distance triathlons as fast as possible.”

The development of the suit included input from Denis Chevrot, the 2022 Ironman European Championship winner, and Justine Mathieux, who has a top 20 finish at the Ironman World Championships to her name.

Collaboration with European aero experts Swiss Side has also taken place, with wind-tunnel tests further adding to the Aerodynamic’s drag-saving potential.

But is it enough for the suit to make it into our list of the best tri-suits? Let’s find out…

Design

This speed focus is instantly apparent in the very long arm and leg sleeves that extend right down to the elbow and knees, respectively, perhaps made more for a tall and lean body than a short and stocky one like mine.

The benefit is on heightened aerodynamics, as fabric has been proven to be faster than skin in aerodynamic tests, especially close-fitting and honeycombed materials seen here on the Aerodynamic LD Trisuit.

The aerodynamic focus continues with the rear kangaroo-style covered pocket.

The covered side openings might save some seconds in terms of drag reduction, but they’re tricky to access on the move due to the elasticated entry slots.

The result is a possible aero penalty from the time spent reaching around to access them, so I think these will need a rethink in any Aerodynamic LD sequel.

They’re big enough to stash a handful of energy gels, however, and they don’t sag when loaded.

Further drag-reduction properties include the laser-cut arms and leg sleeves, which sit flat and securely on the limbs with no crumpled fabric evident.

Both have lengthy and tacky silicone straps located internally to hold the sleeves in place, with the legs especially effective compared to the restrictive leg bands of old.

Comfort

The full-length zipper guard is welcome for preventing any irritation from the zipper on skin, though.

Unlike many suits targeted at long-distance racing, the zipper isn’t a breakaway method.

This again heightens the aero appeal and limits excess fabric around the waist. The downside is pre- and mid-race toilet stops aren’t the easiest.

Staying with the nether regions, this tight suit doesn’t leave a huge amount to the imagination down there, or if you’re carrying any excess weight around the waist.

A big question is whether you’d want to ride a 226km iron-distance triathlon on top of the Aerodynamic’s slender Tri-Fit chamois.

Despite its dual density padding, my own bottom would certainly not want to go longer than 90km in this.

The benefits of being so lean are that, aided by the perforated construction, it dries quickly after the swim.

Fabric

The fabric is ultra-lightweight (the overall suit weight is 219g for a medium), but it is lacking in any mesh areas for ventilation, and I did find the suit to be one of the less breathable options on test.

There’s also the issue of how black garments reflect less heat than lighter fabrics.

The white over black findings still aren’t unequivocal, however, but anecdotally (psychosomatically?) I feel cooler racing in lighter-coloured fabrics than the fully black ones seen here, especially with a lack of airflow between body and skin.

The benefits of the lack of mesh areas, though, is the suit delivers a UPF 50+ anti-UV rating and the material in the lower legs especially beads water on the swim.

Aero performance

The Aerodynamic Long Distance lived up to its name in 220’s wind-tunnel tests at the Silverstone Sports Engineering Hub with The Bike Tailor.

Its performance over our baseline suit at a 7.5° yaw angle (simply, the amount of crosswind on your bike) was 11secs faster at 30km/h and 26secs faster at 40km/h over a 40km bike leg with the rider on aerobars, which is especially impressive given the £180 price.

Overall, then, for the sub-£200 price tag, there’s much to admire here and it won’t take much in any sequel to make this a real showstopper.

Van Rysel Aerodynamic Long-Distance Trisuit specs

Price:	£179.99
Available from:	Decathlon
Sizing:	XS-XL
Pockets:	2
Breakaway zip?	No