To Aero or not to Aero

[Eric]

I have been a firm believer in the benefits of aero helmets since I purchased one in 2005 and have always worn mine to race (all distances). Ironically, as I watched this year's Ironman World Championships online, I noticed that both Chrissie Wellington and Craig Alexander (both of whom defended their titles) did not wear aero helmets. As a result, I think a lot of triathletes should take a lesson from this and ask themselves, whether the aero benefits outweigh the potential for overheating during races that have excessive heat and humidity?

[jared]

Do you feel like you overheat much more with an aero helmet? As a larger triathlete, I feel like I overheat much more than others.

I have heard that for the money an aero helmet is the single best piece of equipment you can get. I guess the benefits may not be that big, however, if the defending champions have opted out?

[Eric]

Jared,

Personally, I dissipate heat fairly well and also try to train in the hottest conditions possible (for the Midwest anyway). As a result, it would have to be triple digits before I would consider not wearing an aero helmet. With that said, I know quite a few athletes that are larger than I am, and they definitely do not fair well in the heat. I do agree however, that the aero helmets provide the best bang for the buck. I do want to point out though the misnomer associate with being aero. The purpose of aero helmets, wheels, frames, etc, are to reduce drag and as a result save you more watts over a specified distance. As a smaller rider, I need to take the benefits of the aero-advantage and I will gladly take all of it.

With regard to the pros, I think with Chrissie's and Craig's running prowess, they need to be as comfortable as possible going into the run, that means keeping their core temperature down and allowing the heat to dissipate through their heads. Like I said earlier though it's all about weighing the pros and cons.