From challenges that tour through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world to the most epic races where you can defy your limits, discover 10 triathlons that are essential to any wish list, and start daydreaming about rounding out your own season with some of these challenges.
1. LIVIGNO XTREME TRIATHLON
Beginning with a spectacular 3.8 kilometer swimming segment in the incomparable landscape of Lake Livigno, the Livigno Xtreme Triathlon is undoubtedly one of the most unique triathlons to participate in. During the race, triathletes will enjoy touring through some of the most iconic sceneries of the Italian Alps, such as the Stelvio Pass, the second highest mountain pass in Europe at an elevation of 2,757 m.
During its past editions, the water temperature of Lake Livigno ranged from 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. Because of this, in addition to wetsuits being mandatory, the use of swimming accessories is highly recommended, such as neoprene gloves or socks to make swimming more comfortable.
2. ESCAPE FROM ALCATRAZ TRIATHLON
Inspired by the iconic escape from the Alcatraz prison that took place in 1962, triathletes who take on this race will have to dive from a boat into the cold waters of the San Francisco Bay to complete a journey of 2.8 kilometers.
The race continues with a 29-kilometer bike circuit and an 18-kilometer foot race through Golden Gate Park, to cross the finish line on the shores of the Bay.
The water temperature in the area is usually around 15 degrees, so it is advisable to use neoprene accessories such as a cap and neoprene socks.
3. NORSEMAN XTREME TRIATHLON
One of the toughest races in the world where enjoying the experience is unquestionably more important than your finishing time, this event begins with the participants jumping from a boat into the icy waters of the Hardangerfjord (13 °C to 15 °C), then climbing more than 1,880 meters above sea level on roads and trails to the top of Mount Gaustatoppen.
Maintaining body heat using neoprene accessories such as caps, gloves or hydro booties during the swimming segment will be highly recommended to avoid overly exerting yourself and to face the rest of the race with confidence.
4. IRONMAN FRANKFURT
Famous for its mythical finish line in the city square and for the huge influx of people who come to the event annually, the European long distance triathlon championship in Frankfurt is one of the world's most special events.
The race begins at Lake Langener Waldsee, where athletes have to complete two laps. Immediately afterwards, they go on to explore the city's surroundings and its most emblematic streets both by bicycle and on foot.
The race, which is held annually in August, has an average temperature of 23 degrees Celsius for swimming. So, triathletes usually compete in the event wearing swimskins.
5. HIMALAYANXTRI
The HimalayanXtri is an extraordinary extreme triathlon that takes place in South Asia, in Nepal. In this incredible event, which runs through about 9 eight-thousanders, triathletes will pass through the highest point of any triathlon in the world, no more and no less than 4,000 meters above sea level.
The race starts with a 3.8 km night swim in Lake Phewa, where the water temperature is usually around 15 degrees Celsius, so wearing a wetsuit which provides high thermal insulation will be a very important factor.
6. WILDFLOWER
Located in California's Monterey County, the Wildflower Triathlon gives triathletes of all levels the opportunity to enjoy the experience of a competition, thanks to its various distances and the great atmosphere that extends throughout the entire event.
The racers' challenge begins with a 1.9-kilometer swim through Lake San Antonio, which, during the month of May, when the event takes place, usually has a temperature of between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius.
7. NOOSA TRIATHLON
More than 8,000 participants gather annually at the waters of Queensland's Bay Lagoon to enjoy a unique experience touring the beautiful sea and rainforest of the Australian Sunshine Coast.
It is an Olympic distance event (1.5 km of swimming; 40 km of cycling; 10 km of running), which, due to its unique characteristics, turns out to be a fast and flat circuit, particularly well-suited for beginner triathletes.
The event takes place at the end of October and the water temperature is usually between 23 and 24 degrees, so it will be an ideal race in which to swap your wetsuit for a swimskin and enjoy the event.
8. IRONMAN ARIZONA
Lovers of speed will find the flat and fast course of the Arizona Ironman an unbeatable location to get their best personal records. In addition, the mild temperatures of late autumn make this race a top choice for triathletes from around the world competing in their first long-distance race.
The average water temperature of the Ironman Arizona is usually around 16 degrees Celsius, so a wetsuit will be an essential piece of equipment for triathletes tackling this challenge.
9. ALPE D'HUEZ TRIATHLON
Lovers of triathlon and especially cycling will enjoy the Alpe d'Huez triathlon in France, an event that will tour some of the most iconic points of the French Pyrenees mountains.
The race begins with a 2.2 km swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Verney, to later emulate the passage of the legendary Tour de France and visit locations such as the Alpe du Grand Serre, Col d'Ornon and the 21 curves of Alpe d'Huez.
For the last five editions, the water temperature has been 17 degrees, so wearing a wetsuit will help you take on this challenge with greater confidence.
10. IRONMAN HAWAII
Considered one of the most prestigious and toughest events in the world, the Hawaii Long Distance Triathlon World Championship is held annually between September and November on the Big Island.
The race begins with a 3.8 km swim in Kailua-Kona Bay, continues with a 180 km bike ride through the Hawaiian lava fields, and ends with a 42 km marathon along the coast.
On race day, the water temperature of Kailua-Kona Bay is usually around 26 ºC, a perfect temperature for swimming with a swimskin.