Fine Tuning Your Equipment
- AIMEndurance Team
- Mar 12
- 2 min read
In many endurance sports, equipment plays a major role in performance. From skis and bicycles to shoes and wet suits, the choices athletes make can influence comfort, efficiency, and confidence on race day. But while equipment matters, it’s important to remember there is no single “perfect” setup. The best piece of equipment is the one that works best for you.
Here are key principles to guide your equipment choices.
Find What Works for You
Endless options exist for nearly every piece of athletic gear. What works for one athlete may not work for another, even at the highest level. Instead of chasing the latest trend, focus on finding equipment that complements your body, style, and goals. The right choice is personal, not universal.
Customize When Possible
Many types of equipment can be adjusted or customized to fit you better. This may mean dialing in bike position, tailoring ski flex, or selecting footwear with the right support. Small changes can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency, especially over long distances. Working with a coach, fitter, or knowledgeable technician can help you optimize your setup.
Test in Training, Not on Race Day
The best way to know if equipment works for you is to test it during training. Try different setups in varied conditions to see how your body responds. Compare options head-to-head when possible. These sessions give you valuable feedback and help prevent surprises on competition day. The golden rule: never race with equipment you haven’t already tested and trusted in training.
Keep Race Day Simple
Once race day arrives, your job is to focus on performance, not gear. Second-guessing equipment choices can waste valuable mental energy. By race day, trust the equipment you’ve tested and prepared with — then set your full attention on executing your process and competing to the best of your ability.
