and hardwearing, carbon-reinforced palms. There's still enough bike feel through the gloves to move up and down the gears or to slam on the brakes. Info: www.madison.co.uk Specialized Women’s BG Equinox, £27.99Specialized almost managed to resist the temptation

Sombrio Forensic gloves, £26These super-thin gloves are a great all-rounder and they're perfect for the transition from autumn to winter. They might be aimed at mountain-bike riders but they're great for triathletes, too. The tough, hardwearing

Typical cycling use Keeping your hands clean when you have to work on your bike or touch the chain.Other usesBurn prevention: Ever rub your eyes after embrocating? It hurts. Wear gloves when applying the cream. Hand warmer: Like plastic bags for your feet, a layer

your transition.Swimming hats are usually provided by race organisers but a spare is useful for training and for doubling up if the water is cold. Some people like to also use earplugs and nose clips.On Your BikeTriathlon's middle section offers

even to triathlon's most uncluttered, though most technical, discipline, the swim. Most swimming pools will allow the use of kickboards (floats that isolate the legs), pull buoys (to isolate the arms) and paddles or gloves to add power to your swim

mileage and a good old-fashioned clock. Unlike the Ciclosport, the VDO has two big buttons on the front for easy access to the various functions. It's a wired computer, so expect to have some wires trailing around the front end of your bike. The VDO A4