As a amateur runner and cyclist, I had been considering the next phase in how to get more fit and what that plan might look like. Never one to dip my toe in the shallow end, I decided to add swimming to the mix and signed up for the Huntsville Sprint Triathlon coming up on Aug. 5. Talk about jumping in the deep end.
I swam a lap at the Huntsville Aquatic Center and realized I was totally out of my element. I’ve been a swimmer in the neighbor’s pool and at hotels all my life. But I didn’t know how to swim. Or, rather, swim efficiently. Heck, I didn’t even know what to wear.
So I sought help.
The staff at Fleet Feet Huntsville recommended the California-based brand TYR. They were very knowledgeable and helped me pick out a pair of goggles and a tri short. I must say, even if I’m a newbie at efficient swimming, at least now I look like I’m trying to figure it out.
TYR Sport was established in 1985 to provide the competitive swim market with new, innovative technical swimwear. Since its inception, TYR has grown to exist as one of the world’s most recognizable swimming and fitness brands.
I walked out of Fleet Feet with my shorts and goggles, eager to try them. Spoiler alert — I highly recommend both Fleet Feet and their selection of TYR products. By the way, Fleet Feet Huntsville and Madison stores were named among the 2021 Best Running Stores in America by The Running Event, an organization that conducts an annual industry trade show.
TYR Competitor 7-inch Tri-Short
The TYR Competitor Tri-Short is constructed of lightweight, quick-drying and ultra breathable fabric. The shorts also include UPF 50+ protection, back pocket storage and a stretch woven drawcord.
Constructed from TYR’s advanced Competitor woven technology, the Competitor Tri-Short offers stretch, recovery and durability. The shorts are 80 percent nylon and 20 percent spandex. They are quipped with specialized compression webbing for increased blood flow and maximized muscle performance.
I like the construction of these shorts. They seemed more durable than the initial other-brand pair I bought from Amazon. They’re not too bulky and have a nice compression feel. I am very comfortable in these shorts for the swimming, biking and running legs of the tri. And hey, they look good as, well.
The Competitor 7-inch Tri-Short MSRP is $69.99.
Nest Pro Goggles
According to TYR, the TYR Nest Pro goggles were inspired by the unique nest-like architecture of Beijing’s 2008 Olympic stadium. The frame boasts an innovative, grid-like construction that sets it apart from competitors. Ideal for male and female athletes, the Nest Pro features a unibody design and wide peripheral range.
Being a new “competitive swimmer,” I was looking for a good, all-purpose, simple goggle that would keep water out of my eyes and not fog up.
Equipped with embedded anti-fog tech, these latex-free swimming goggles retain clarity without the need for traditional anti-fog spray application. This makes them a great choice for triathlons, open water and training. The Nest Pro goggles fit my needs perfectly. I have yet to have them become waterlogged or overly foggy.
The Nest Pro’s unibody nosebridge design is also a good fit for all facial types over 16 years of age. The polycarbonate lenses include full UVA/UVB protection.
The Nest Pro MSRP is $24.99.
