Not quite ready to take the plunge and invest in a full-on time trial/triathlon bike? But like the sound of an aerodynamic advantage when you compete? An aero road bike could be just what you’re looking for.

Lighter and better-handling than TT bikes, but quicker through the air than standard road bikes, they’re potentially the ultimate all-rounders.

Here you’ll find our archive of the top-scoring aero road bikes we’ve tested, with all receiving at least 4/5. They’re listed in alphabetical order, and were all still available to buy at time of publication.

You can find more bike reviews in our triathlon bike reviews archive.

BMC TMR01 Ultegra Di2 (2013)
£6,000
bmc-racing.com / evanscycles.com

BMC’s Time Machine Road is one of the fastest and most precise-handling aero road bikes we’ve ridden. With excellent performance and potential positions comparable to full-on triathlon bikes, it’s perfect for powerful triathletes wanting one racing bike for both draft-legal and non-drafting events.

Read the full BMC TMR01 Ultegra Di2 review

Pros
+ Cutting-edge aerodynamics, including brakes and battery
+ Awesome power delivery and handling

Cons
- Firm ride takes no prisoners
- Low kit levels for the high price

Performance 5/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Boardman AiR 9.0 (2012/13)
£1,999
boardmanbikes.com

The AiR 9.0 is a great choice for those who don’t want the expense of owning separate tri and road bikes, giving an aero edge, comfort and great performance in a seriously good value package to satisfy both training and racing.

Read the full Boardman AiR 9.0 review

Pros
+ All the benefits of Boardman’s top aero road frame and outstanding kit for the price
+ Excellent handling and sublime comfort even in long sessions

Cons
- Wheels need upgrading for extra speed on race day
- Not the speediest of bikes when the gradients ramp up

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Boardman AiR 9.4 (2012/13)
£3,499.99
boardmanbikes.com

With an aero edge that invisibly massages your speed upwards the whole time you’re riding it, this bike’s not just an absolute bargain for the price but an effortless way to clock up startlingly fast mileage at any price

Read the full Boardman AiR 9.4 review

Pros
+Aero efficient frame delivers a speed, comfort and handling balance
+ Outstanding kit including race-ready lightweight tubular tyres

Cons
- Not everyone will want to deal with the potential hassle of tubs
- Frame is heavier and slightly softer than the lightest aero bikes

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Cervélo S5 (2012)
£5,871.68 (as tested)
cervelo.com / madison.co.uk

Cervélo started the whole aero road bike genre and they’re still very much at the forefront with the S5. The latest evolution of the species is spectacular in terms of raw aggression and savage speed.

Read the full Cervélo S5 review

Pros
+ One of the most explosive, responsive muscle bikes available
+ Aerodynamic assistance creates excellent speed sustain

Cons
- Hard rear-end comfort and front-end wander under power
- ‘Basic’ frame tested is heavy for the price

Performance 4/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Ridley Noah FAST (2012)
£8,100 (as tested)
ridley-bikes.com

Ridley takes the concepts of braking integration and improved airflow management to whole new levels on its super-light and super-fast all-rounder.

Read the full Ridley Noah FAST review

Pros
+ Super-stiff and silly-fast frameset with neat integrated brakes
+ Relatively light for an aero bike if you go for the frameset build-up

Cons
- Extremely expensive as a complete bike
- Unforgiving ride and needs better wheels than the standard issue

Performance 5/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Scott Contessa Foil (women’s model, 2012)
£2,800
scott-sports.com

Head-turning looks with aerodynamic credentials, aggressive angles and clean, sharp lines make the Scott Contessa Foil a serious bike for contenders on the road.

Read the full Scott Contessa Foil review

Pros
+ Truly aerodynamic design throughout
+ Super responsive, especially for explosive changes of speed

Cons
- Not the most laid-back ride for those who like to mix sportives with races
- Internal cabling might put off keen home mechanics

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Scott Foil 10 (2013)
£5,999
scott-sportsbikes.com

Scott’s Foil is one of our benchmark bikes; its combination of aerodynamic gain, super-surefooted handling and effortless climbing makes it an outstanding all-rounder.

Read the full Scott Foil 10 review

Pros
+ Excellent aerodynamics, yet lightweight and sweet-handling
+ New SRAM Red is far sharper than before

Cons
- Posers and windy day riders will miss last year’s Zipp kit
- Definitely on the firm rather than soft side

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Scott Foil Team Issue (2012)
£6,499.99
scott-sports.com

Scott’s Foil Team Issue combines state-of-the-art aerodynamics with conventional race bike responsiveness and super-friendly handling to produce an outstanding all-round performer.

Read the full Scott Foil Team Issue review

Pros
+ Super-light and responsive aero frameset and complete bike
+ Excellent handling frame and wheels make it an easy speed ride

Cons
- Not quite as rigid as the stiffest bikes in its category but not as painful either
- Expensive

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

ALSO TESTED

Look 675 (2013), £3,799

Scott Foil 20 (2012), £2,799

An aero bike is probably the most important piece of gear you’ll buy on your Ironman / long-distance triathlon journey. Here you’ll find our archive of the top-scoring TT bikes we’ve tested, with all receiving at least 4/5. They’re listed in alphabetical order, and were all still available to buy at time of publication.

You can find more bike reviews in our triathlon bike reviews archive

Argon 18 E-112 105 (2013)
£2,399.99
argon18bike.com; i-ride.co.uk

The Argon 18 E-112 is sharp, instantly engaging and more forgiving than we expected – but still takes a toll over long rides.

Read the full Argon 18 E-112 105 review

Pros
+ Naturally fast and clean ride, with excellent position and handling
+ Surprisingly forgiving for such a precise and power-friendly frame

Cons
- Crying out for an aero wheel upgrade to unleash its full potential
- Expensive for this spec – but the frame is worth it

Performance 4/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Argon 18 E-80 (2012)
£1,699.99
i-ride.co.uk

The entry-level Argon 18 E-80 is a strong complete bike with an appealing pricetag that comes with massive speed and great upgrade potential for those who are willing to invest in the frame.

Read the full Argon 18 E-80 review

Pros
+ Frame balances long-haul comfort and precise handling really well
+ State-of-the-art aerodynamics with serious upgrade potential

Cons
- Wheels are good, but it’s begging for deep-sections to reach its full potential
- Direct-sell bikes edge it on spec, but local shop support can be priceless

Performance 4/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

BMC Timemachine TM01 (2013)
£8,499.99
evanscycles.com

One of the world’s fastest frames matched with arguably the fastest wheels and the most efficient aero transmission makes the BMC Timemachine TM01 a genuine time traveller.

Read the full BMC Timemachine TM01 review

Pros

+ Efficient speed with a responsive,  powerful and confident character
+ Adjustable cockpit adds optimum positioning to serious aerodynamics

Cons

- Definitely on the stiff and unforgiving side
- Limited steering lock, time-consuming stem and brake set-up

Performance 5/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Boardman AiR TT 9.2 (2012/13)
£2,799.99
boardmanbikes.com

The Boardman AiR TT 9.2 is so well balanced and composed it’s almost boring. The fun comes when you see what this can do to your split times, while still leaving you fresh for the run.

Read the full Boardman AiR TT 9.2 review 

Pros
+ Light, fast and comfy aero frame with excellent cockpit
+ Composed and balanced handling, and excellent aero efficiency

Cons
- Needs deeper-section wheels to fully realise its potential
- We’d love to see a Di2 electric shift version in the range

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Cervélo P2 (2012)
£3,999.99
madison.co.uk

Cervélo’s bikes have topped the Kona bike count for years and many of the tallies on the Ironman bike sheet are built on the evergreen P2 frameset. While the P2 is now a little way behind the Canadian brand’s flagship bikes such as the Cervelo P5, its confident, user-friendly and naturally speedy ride mean its classic status remains very much intact.

Read the full Cervélo P2 review

Pros
+ Lightweight frame with good handing and a comfortable ride
+ Standard brakes, BB and fork allow a range of upgrade options

Cons
- Aerodynamics are good but lack the latest integrated component tweaks
- Decent rather than dramatic power delivery and steering precision

Performance 4/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Cervélo P3C (2012)
£2,199.99 (frame and fork)
cervélo.co.uk, madison.co.uk

If there’s any bike that doesn’t need an introduction it’s Cervélo’s P3 Carbon. Officially the most successful aero bike ever built, it’s the choice of thousands of pros and privateers alike. Though it’s expensive and behind the aero curve, the P3C is still a blisteringly quick, accurate, surefooted, and insatiably predatory ride.

Read the full Cervelo P3C review

Pros
+ Outstanding propulsion transfer and locked-in ride position breed PBs
+ Impressively light, phenomenal handling and crisp controls

Cons
- Not as aero or comfortable as the best contemporary frames
- Cervélo’s uncompromising character comes at a price

Performance 4/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Felt DA2 (2012)
£6,199
saddleback.co.uk, feltbicycles.com

This has long been one of our favourite bikes, with Felt’s multi-adjustable and impressively comfortable chassis always impressive. The DA2 comes with Di2 electronic shifting and is still a superbly comfortable bike, but frame and wheel flex are obvious in the handling if you’re a more muscular rider.

Read the full Felt DA2 review

Pros
+ Very comfortable, easily adjustable, aerodynamic chassis
+ Fully integrated Shimano Di2 shifting as standard

Cons
- Skinny tubes make it a frame of two halves when you start to push hard
- Wheels are fast, but less convincing when cornering and cranking

Performance 4/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Moda Mossa (2012)
£1,199.99
eurobike.uk.com

The alloy Moda Mossa adds an even more affordable option to the British company’s Sharp and Interval TT bike line-up. The combination of light wheels and excellent rider position mean the component compromises are overcome to deliver a quick, upgrade-friendly starter bike for triathlon at a sensible price.

Read the full Moda Mossa Review

Pros
+ Aero position and low weight create an efficient ride
+ Good handling and comfortable to ride – very novice-friendly

Cons
- Softness in wheels, cranks and brakes dulls performance
- Microshift gears aren’t as good as big-name transmission kits

Performance 3/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Planet X Stealth Pro SRAM Force (2012/13)
£1,599.99
planet-x-bikes.co.uk

The Planet X Stealth Pro time trial/triathlon bike has been on sale for years. Up-to-date specifications and an unbelievable set of wheels for the price continue to make this lively lightweight the go-to affordable aero bike in 2012.

Read the full Planet X Stealth Pro review

Pros
+ Lightweight, reasonably smooth and responsive aero frameset
+ Great value complete bike kit with quality tubs on aero wheels

Cons
- Flexy, gust-prone wheels can be unnerving for novices in bad weather
- Several testers didn’t like the shape and feel of the carbon cockpit

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Wilier Twin Blade (2013)
£3,699 (frameset)
wilierbikes.com

The Wilier uses a unique Twin Blade fork and smoothly flowing lines to create possibly the most charismatic but still rapaciously rapid aero bike we’ve ever had the pleasure of riding.

Read the full Wilier Twin Blade review

Pros

+ Distinctive but effective aerodynamics with powerful drive
+ Extremely poised ride feel that gets better the longer you ride

Cons

- Gear configuration isn’t as neat as some of its rivals
- Cockpit adjustment options are relatively limited

Performance 5/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

ALSO TESTED

Cervélo P5 Three (2013), £3,499.99

Felt DA4 (2012), £2,899

Forme ATT Carbon (2013), £2,899.99

Isaac Muon (2013), £4,880

Jamis Xenith T1 (2013), £2,380

Lapierre Aerostorm (2012), £3,099.99 (frame, fork, seatpost, stem)

Quintana Roo CD0.1 (2011), £1,999.99

Ribble Ultra TT (2012/13), £1,499.99

Trek Speed Concept 7.5 (2011), £3,000

What’s the best triathlon wetsuit out there? We put more than 30 through their paces to find out. With a testing group of varying abilities, we whiled away hour upon hour in a 50m pool subjecting them to time trials and longer Ironman-pace swims to really get a feel for how the suits would perform on race day.

The initial selection was then whittled down to a final shortlist of 14. Then it was back to the pool for more intensive testing. We judged how easily the suits went on and how quickly we could get them off in a simulated transition. Finally we deliberated on which suits were the most fun to swim in and most worthy of your cash. Read on for the results.

Foor Classic
£99
foor.co.uk / triuk.com

While some wetsuit manufacturers have upped the price of their suits for 2013, Foor have managed to keep their Classic suit at the same ridiculously good value price of £99. You might expect a suit at this pricepoint to have laughable performance, but it’s surprisingly good. The fit is snug but without tight hot spots and while the thick neoprene is less advanced than on pricier suits, flexibility is good, especially for shorter swims, fitting well with the entry-level market. There’s no slick skin coating on the back and underarms so it feels heavier than others on test and, while buoyancy is well balanced, sinky-legged athletes might want a bit more on the quads. It keeps the water out well though, and is comfy while swimming despite the high neck.

Verdict
A superb choice for rookie triathletes wanting flexibility and buoyancy at a keen price
Performance 3/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

TYR Hurricane Category 1
£210
tyr.com / tyrswimwear.co.uk

TYR suits are a popular long-distance choice and considering the exceptional buoyancy of the C1, it’s easy to see why. The snug fit initially felt tight across the chest but loosened up once in the water. Flexibility is impressive for what’s essentially an entry-level suit, and arm and shoulder movement are good for the price. One element that did prove divisive with testers was the suit’s high level of buoyancy. For those with sinky legs looking to conserve energy during races rather than lead out of the water, the Hurricane C1 provides a great solution. However, more naturally buoyant and balanced swimmers may come unstuck with such buoyancy, which can be uncomfortable.

Verdict
A good suit for heavy-legged cyclists looking to go long with excellent support
Performance 4/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

If you’re just starting out in triathlon, there’s no point investing in a super-expensive, super-aerodynamic TT bike. Instead, what you need is a road bike that’s simple to get to grips with, ideal for training and, with the addition of a set of clip-on aero bars, fine for racing too.

Here you’ll find our archive of the top-scoring sub-£1,000 road bikes we’ve tested, with all receiving at least 4/5. They’re listed in alphabetical order, and were all still available to buy at time of publication.

You can find more bike reviews in our triathlon bike reviews archive.

Boardman Road Comp (2012/13)
£949
boardmanbikes.com

Boardman has always offered great value for money, and with its sponsorship of the all-conquering Brownlee brothers, the brand has lots of multi-sport credibility too. The Road Comp sits right in the middle of the Performance Road series, sharing a frame and fork with the slightly cheaper Boardman Race. Out of the box, it’s great for training and entry-level racing.

Read the full Boardman Road Comp review

Pros
+ Distinctive, lightweight and high-performance frame
+ Properly lively, race-ready feel at a great price

Cons
- Massive gear range leaves gaps in flatter terrain
-  Not available in independent bike shops

Performance 4/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Cinelli Experience Veloce (2012)
£999.99
cinelli.it / chickencycles.co.uk

Cinelli is a brand with over half a century of history and heritage, and while the Italian company is well known for its components, it also makes some stylish bikes. The Experience sits towards the lower end of the range, but don’t let that fool you – this well-specced machine is a real mover with racing in its DNA.

Read the full Cinelli Experience Veloce review

Pros
+ The slimmed-down frame is light, classy and stiff
+ Quality groupset and components for the money

Cons
- The firm ride feel might not appeal to everyone
- Orange bar tape won’t be to all riders’ tastes

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Felt Z95 (2013)
£649
evanscycles.com / saddleback.co.uk

Mirinda Carfrae and Becky Lavelle are among the triathletes who reached the podium on Felt bikes in 2012. The American company’s bikes always look the part, but its Z95 endurance machine has brought something more tangible than just good looks to the party at this pricepoint: nine-speed Shimano Sora shifting.  It majors in comfort over all-out performance, but would make a great long-distance machine if its upright position suits you.

Read the full Felt Z95 review 

Pros
+ Great groupset for the price – Sora is a massive step-up from 2300
+ Good build quality, and excellent transmission range

Cons
- It’s the heaviest here, and its upright geometry won’t appeal to racers
- Dual-density saddle can be an acquired taste

Giant Defy 2 (2012)
£799
giant-bicycles.com

Even with functional rather than fancy finishing kit and wheels, the remarkably ‘floated’ ride sensation of the Defy frame is still very much present on the mid-range Defy 2. Where other bikes at this price rattle, rumble and chatter, the Defy glides smoothly. What’s especially clever about this bike, though, is that the compliance and comfort doesn’t come at the expense of powertrain stiffness or steering accuracy.

Read the full Giant Defy 2 review

Pros
+ Extensively shaped and lightweight frameset gives a brilliant ride
+ Quality parts include Tiagra 20-speed gears and external BB chainset

Cons
- Lighter wheelset would allow more of the frame’s speed potential
- Cartridge brake pads would sharpen up braking feel

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Giant Defy 4 (2013)
£599
giantbicycles.com

The Defy 4 is one of the best entry-level all-rounders out there. It’s not a super-fast machine, but the balance it offers you allows you to go at a decent speed all day long and then come back for more the next.

Read the full Giant Defy 4 review

Pros
+ Great for long-distance comfort and a highly versatile do-anything machine
+ Impeccable handling

Cons
- Taller head tube and longer chainstays reduce racing aspirations
- Brakes are OK but could be better

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Kinesis Racelight TK3 (2013)
£1,170
kinesisbikes.co.uk

The UK-designed TK3 replaces the very popular TK2 in the Kinesis range, aiming to be a true four-season bike – the design intent is light and race-ready, but practical with it, with room for big tyres and mudguards.

Read the full Kinesis Racelight TK3 review

Pros
+ Hugely successful mix of performance and practicality
+ Excellent, highly-developed frame and fork package

Cons
- Relatively high overall weight for the price
- Respectable but not outstanding component spec

Performance 4/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Norco Valence A1 (2013)

£1,000
evanscycles.com

In the UK Norco is better known for mountain bikes than road bikes but in its native Canada, it’s a big player in all sectors of the bike market. The A1 is top of the four-bike aluminium Valence range. It offers a superb specification for the money, but it’s more than just a bunch of decent parts – the ride’s great too.

Read the full Norco Valence A1 review

Pros
+ Great spec offers startling value for money
+ Impressively comfortable for long rides

Cons
- Long head tube limits bar height adjustability
- May not suit more aggressive riders

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

Merida Race Lite 900 (2013)
£599.99
meridabikes.com

Merida is one of the world’s biggest bike manufacturers and it also has strong links with Specialized, owning a third of the American company. The bikes it produces under its own name aren’t that well known in Europe, but the Race Lite 900 – the cheapest of Merida’s 19 road bikes – offers a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re looking for speed on a budget you won’t be disappointed, whether you’re after a high-end training bike or your first racing bike. It’s a great frameset with impressive acceleration and handling.

Read the full Merida Race Lite 900 review

Pros
+ Very sophisticated frame and fork combo for the price
+ Quick to respond to rider input

Cons
- Wheels and brakes don’t quite match the quality of the frameset
- Shame it’s not possible to change gear when in the drops

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Ribble Sportive Bianco (2012)
£994.95
ribblecycles.co.uk

Preston-based Ribble was founded in 1897 and is still going strong. Why? Because its internet sales model has enabled its to keep costs down and value up to almost unheard-of levels. Using its online frame builder you choose the kit yourself, our Shimano Tiagra-equipped, carbon fibre Sportive Bianco coming in at under a grand. The overall weight is very competitive but it’s the ride quality that really sets carbon apart from its aluminium competitors, even on this modestly priced model. Once you get it up to speed on a bright, sunny day you’ll appreciate the extra comfort as the miles start to sail by unnoticed.

Read the full Ribble Sportive Bianco review

Pros
+ Comfortable for long-distance riding if sportives are your thing
+ Quality carbon frame and forks at an unbelievable price

Cons
- Lowest spec groupset of the quartet of bikes on test
- Quite heavy and poorly finished wheels, but easy to upgrade

Performance 4/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

ALSO TESTED

Genesis Volant 00, £649.99

Moda Bolero, £999.99

Trek 1.5, £800

1. Accel Recover
£1.49
www.pacifichealthlabs.com

Weight 53g | Carb 60% | Protein 15% | Fat 9%

Accel have blended chocolate and peanut butter together into a nougat-style mix. It’s a bit dry in texture but chews down easily. The triple-source protein mix is potentially more potent per gram. Its 4:1 carb:protein ratio makes it suitable for general use.

Verdict: 4/5

2. Pulsin Maple and Peanut Protein
£1.59
www.pulsin.co.uk

Weight 50g | Carb 34% | Protein 24% | Fat 24%

Pulsin’s vegan-friendly, gluten and dairy-free bar is high in fat, and the cacao butter and carob flavouring make it a hard-going chew. It’s not bad value though.

Verdict: 3/5

3. Clif Builder’s Bar
£1.99
www.cliffbar.co.uk 

Weight 68g | Carb 40% | Protein 29% | Fat 12%

This has a nice texture and taste. Its high protein content makes it a potent recovery recipe and it’s vitamin and mineral enriched if you’re concentrating more on your training than your cooking.

Verdict: 4/5

4. Multipower Protein flapjack
£1.49
www.multipower.com/uk

Weight 70g | Carb 48% | Protein 26% | Fat 11%

The protein/carb balance in this should make for a versatile bar and it’s pretty low cost. However, the substance under the thin veneer of chocolate is more like MDF than flapjack. It’s a stiff chew that rapidly dissolves, leaving an unpleasant sticky residue.

Verdict: 2/5

5. Mule bar refuel
£1.89
www.mulebar.com 

Weight 65g | Carb 58% | Protein 20% | Fat 10%

Mule Bar’s Refuel is the only Fair Trade bar on the market. The chocolate chunks help to break up the fruity consistency and avoid any dry aftertaste. The high fruit content means it’s a high calorie snack with a relatively low proportion of protein, but that makes it potentially more versatile outside of pure recovery use.

Verdict: 4/5

6. High5 Protein bar
£1.99
www.highfive.co.uk

Weight 50g | Carb 44% | Protein 27% | Fat 10%

High5 is the only bar we actually enjoyed eating. The 20% milk chocolate, high cocoa content and palatable texture help. The high proportion of protein to carbs makes it an excellent weight- conscious recovery snack.

Verdict: 4/5

7. SIS Rego
£1.99
www.scienceinsport.com

Weight 55g | Carb 39% | Protein 36% | Fat 12%

The Rego bar packs a higher protein percentage than any of the others here. It tasted good with a fast digesting texture under a thin chocolate skin. That meant we never struggled to eat one straight after training.

Verdict: 4/5

Triradar.com is the online home of Triathlon Plus – the best source of triathlon training advice, triathlon gear reviews and triathlon news.

Log your training for free at the TriRadar.com Training Zone.

Have every issue delivered to your digital device by getting Triathlon Plus through Apple Newsstand, Google Play or Zinio. Subscribe to the print edition with massive savings at MyFavouriteMagazines.

Join the conversation on the Triathlon Plus Facebook page, follow us on Twitter @TriathlonPlus.



1. Blue Seventy Hydra-Vision
£23
www.blueseventy.co.uk 

Blueseventy’s Hydra-vision goggles offer a largely unobstructed field of vision for open-water swimming and a fairly low profile so they don’t flick up during tumble turns in the pool. The gaskets were a little more rigid than others on test, but they remained comfy and completely fog-free. They were also easy to fit with a quick-adjust button hidden in the frame making them a great training and racing choice.

Verdict: 4/5

2. Aqua Sphere Kayenne Ladies
£19.99
www.aquasphereswim.com/uk

This scaled-down version of the ever-popular Kayenne really impressed us. The flexibility of the frame, quick-fit strap and soft gaskets made getting a comfortable fit a breeze. We were stunned by the clarity of the totally fog-free vision and were amazed by the field of vision on offer despite a fairly small frame. There’s also the men’s Kayenne Small Fit for those who are against glittery frames.

Verdict: 5/5

3. Maru Focus Mirror
£15
www.maruswimwear.co.uk

These were the most traditional goggles on test. They sat quite tightly in the eye sockets and held firm once the old-school dual straps had been cajoled into place. Vision through the darkly tinted lenses was understandably narrow, but completely free from fog, making them a good pool training goggle at a good price, though not the best for open water despite the glare protection.

Verdict: 3/5

4. TYR Special Ops
£24
www.tyrswimwear.co.uk

The TYR Special Ops was the comfiest goggle on test, providing a perfect seal and really soft, cushioned gaskets, making them great for long swims. They seemed best suited to testers with wider faces and offered a really wide field of vision. The polarised lenses kept glare out, however fogging was an issue during all test swims and the simple strap was a little bit fiddly to adjust.

Verdict: 3/5

5. Speedo Rift Pro Mirror
£17
www.store.speedo.co.uk

The Rift Pro Mirrors feature a wide field of vision and a soft, comfy gasket that gave a leak-free seal. Adjustment was easy thanks to a quick-release button to reduce pinching on the fly. The goggles seemed to sit lower on the face than the others on test meaning the top of the frame could impede vision while sighting and despite anti-fog treatment, they quickly steamed up.

Verdict: 3/5

6. Zoggs Predator Flex Reactor
£50
www.zoggs.com

The Predator Flex Reactors have comfy gaskets that sit well outside the eye socket and provide a good seal. Easy-adjust straps kept them securely in place when swimming steadily, but head-down push-offs in the pool caused leaks. Visibility was fantastic once you’re used to the bright green trim and clarity through the light-reactive lenses was superb, making them the ultimate race-day goggles. Expensive though.

Verdict: 4/5

Triradar.com is the online home of Triathlon Plus – the best source of triathlon training advice, triathlon gear reviews and triathlon news.

Log your training for free at the TriRadar.com Training Zone.

Have every issue delivered to your digital device by getting Triathlon Plus through Apple Newsstand, Google Play or Zinio. Subscribe to the print edition with massive savings at MyFavouriteMagazines.

Join the conversation on the Triathlon Plus Facebook page, follow us on Twitter @TriathlonPlus.



There are several factors you need to consider when buying a new pair of running shoes. We have listed the most important below.

• Flexgrooves

With the current trend for more natural-feeling running, flexibility has been increased in many shoes, with some models having lengthways grooves designed to help guide your foot gently in a straight-forwards line

• Arch support

Many manufacturers are paring down their support features but you’ll still see plastic arch bridges in some to help control excessive pronation (rolling in) and to aid a smooth ride

• Outsole

Durability and traction are the two things you want from your outsole: sticky, black rubber compounds should help you claw over wet concrete while more aggressive tread patterns can help if you run off road

• Upper

The fabric part of the shoe should be breathable and quick drying. Overlays on the upper can help add support, while special lacing designs locking into the upper can help cradle your foot for a more secure feeling

• Midsole

In traditional everyday running shoes, the midsole contains most of the technology you’re paying for: light, bouncy foam or gel for shock protection and denser foam or plastic units to help control pronation

• Inner

The inside of the shoe should be seam-free to keep you clear of cuts. Look for soft, brushed material, a thick, padded tongue for comfort and, in more expensive shoes, plush sockliners for extra cushioning

How we test:

Our team of four testers have been running since their teens and know their own shoe preferences well; we matched them to shoes they’d feel most comfortable in so every model got the fairest possible write up. Without being told about the shoes’ new features or their price initially, they ran on treadmills, on and off road in the shoes and reported back on step-in comfort, cushioning, support, grip, and the different parts of the shoes. Price and new tech information was then thrown in to the mix so we could rate each shoe for performance and value for money. For comparison, the weights given are ‘sample’ weights, for one men’s size eight (UK) shoe, unless otherwise stated.

Find more group tests from Triathlon Plus in our other best triathlon gear reviews.

1. Puma faas 500

£70
Weight 275g  
www.puma.com

The Simplicity of the FAAS line’s look is down to the one-piece FAASfoam midsole running the length of the shoe. Stability features are limited to a split heel and supportive mesh round the midfoot in the upper, so it’s a light and bouncy shoe, which our tester liked better for faster runs. The plush step-in feeling, thick tongue and secure-feeling upper makes it a good racing choice, with the low weight and seam-free inner reinforcing that. It offers plenty of protection for heel-strikers but midfoot or forefoot strikers will find it slappy. Low breathability (compared with other shoes tested here) lets down its racing potential but grip was great even on slick roads

Verdict

Plush, light and neutral shoe that favours heel strikers.

Performance 3/5
Value 4/5
Overall 3/5

2. New Balance 870 v2

£84.99
Weight 278g
www.newbalance.co.uk

There was a time you wouldn’t get any change from 350g for a stability shoe, but ever lighter foams and less intrusive support features have changed that. The latest 870 is a good example, with new Revlite foam doing the cushioning honours and just a small, split section of higher density foam providing medial support; it’s designed for light overpronators. Nevertheless our tester found it rigid and very stable compared with others we tested, and good for heel-strikers rather than midfoot or forefoot runners. Despite a low 8mm heel-to-toe drop, road feel isn’t great, possibly because of the less flexible outsole than others we tried. The shoe’s inner caused us no problems though.

Verdict

Light shoe for overpronators but not the fastest feeling or most flexible.

Performance 3/5
Value 3/5
Overall 3/5

3. K-Swiss blade Max express

£85
Weight 338g (size 11)
www.kswiss.co.uk

This looks like a ‘natural running’ shoe, with the midsole blades breaking up the line of the shoe all the way from heel to toe. However, on top of those sits a solid layer of EVA – the Glide Guide, designed to help your foot stay central through each step. The upper, with a web of plastic overlays, is more sturdy than it looks too. The result is that this neutral shoe is much more responsive and stiff than first impressions would suggest. Grip from the bladed Aosta rubber outsole is awesome and heel-to-toe transition is smooth, but the immediacy of the experience is lost in what felt, to us, like a flabby fit in the mid and forefoot of the upper.

Verdict

Could be a fast-feeling, responsive cushioned shoe but fit in the upper lets it down.

Performance 3/5
Value 3/5
Overall 3/5

4. On Cloudster

£99
Weight 320g  
www.on-running.com

The new addition to On’s range, the Cloudster is a lower priced shoe aimed at newbies. Tubular Cloudtec lugs on the outsole compress on impact to give cushioning, and little teeth inside the tubes lock together for a sure push-off. It makes for a natural feeling, flexible and light ride. Our tester loved it: snug, comfy and secure, it feels lighter than its 320g suggests and gives a nice bouncy feeling on the road. There are no stability features as such but the secure heel and sturdy upper help the foot feel supported. It’s a versatile shoe too, with great responsiveness at any speed and it’s protective for heel strikers without being prohibitive for forefoot strikers.

Verdict

Comfortable, bouncy, responsive and snug, great for all but severe overpronators.

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Triathlon Plus Top Value Award, issue 52.

5. Mizuno Wave Inspire 9

£100
Weight 295g
www.mizuno.co.uk
 

The Inspire 8 won our Gold Award this time last year, and this update was an improvement for our mild to moderate overpronating testers. The biggest changes are lighter cushioning foam in the midsole and a new construction designed to give a smoother ride. The upper has been opened up for better breathability. Mizuno’s DynaFit concept gives a secure feel round the heel and bottom of the Achilles. Arch support is un-intrusive and the smooth, rolling ride makes them a pleasure to run in. They’re well cushioned without sacrificing road feel and very, very breathable.

Verdict

A supportive, smooth-rolling shoe with a snug feel. Perfect for mild overpronators

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Triathlon Plus Gold Award, issue 52

6. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 13

£100
Weight 320g
www.brooksrunning.co.uk

A stability stalwart, the Adrenaline GTS has long been keeping feet in line and the latest version has been tweaked for comfort and flexibility. It’s a pretty sturdy offering, with the triple-density foam bar in the midfoot controlling pronation. New features include Omega Flex Grooves to make the midsole more flexible and stretch eyelets on the inside of the foot for a more snug-feeling upper. Our tester appreciated the changes: the GTS feels as stable as ever but isn’t clunky with it. It doesn’t give the most pillow-soft landing, but its firmness means you don’t lose energy into the ground.

Verdict

Firm and supportive shoe with traditional stability, tweaked for comfort and fit.

Performance 4/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

7. Saucony Hurricane 15

£120
Weight 317g 
www.saucony.co.uk

Just sneaking below the Brooks GTS in the weigh-in, the Hurricane is still a lot of shoe and, like the GTS, hasn’t been radically redesigned since its last edition. The biggest change is the addition of a Support Frame wrapping around the heel to help with rearfoot stability. Its effect was noticeable to our tester, who felt it catered for his tendency to heel strike off-centre. Though it’s still a very stable shoe, it’s a more bouncy ride than the GTS, which is great if you like a plush running surface, but our tester felt a bit disconnected from the ground. Traction and breathability are excellent, though.

Verdict

A well-cushioned and supportive shoe offering plenty of protection from the road.

Performance 4/5
Value 3/5
Overall 3/5

8. Nike Flyknit Lunar1+

£130
Weight 283g  
www.nike.com

A brand new shoe in the Lunar line, the USP of this shoe is its single-yarn ‘knitted’ upper. It’s designed to give a perfect, snug fit and maximum breathability. It’s not a neutral shoe as such; it follows other shoes in the line in providing support through shaping in the midsole and the Flywire in the upper. That means it’s not overly stable, but it does balance cushioning, flexibility and a quick feel pretty well for such a simple-looking shoe. Step in comfort is good, and combined with its low weight and useful heel tabs, it’s a contender for racing duties too. Traction isn’t great, and we felt slippage in the heel.

Verdict

Light, good looking and natural feeling shoe, but could be more stable and secure.

Performance 3/5
Value 2/5
Overall 3/5

9. Asics Gel Kayano 19

£140
Weight 310g
www.asics.co.uk

We were fans of several previous incarnations of the Kayano. Number 19 is better than ever: as with most traditional support shoes, weight has come right down and support comes less from denser medial foam and more from subtler features such as the new heel counter and Guidance Trusstic unit in the midfoot. Our tester noticed a better step-in feel straight away from improvements to the upper, which feels soft, plush and snug. Where previous editions could feel a bit deadening, this version gives great bounceback and a fast feeling on the road. Grip and breathability are great, too. The price is too high for any run shoe, though.

Verdict

Superb blend of step-in comfort, subtle stability and a fun feel, but very expensive.

Performance 5/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

Triathlon Plus Peak Performer Award, issue 52

OVERALL VERDICT

The range of running shoes on offer is bigger than ever, so for this test we’ve tried to stick with more traditional everyday runners over newer ‘minimal’ shoes. There’s still a broad array here and two generalisations can be made: shoe weights are going down, while prices are going up. It’s pleasing to see that manufacturers are responding to athletes’ concerns about being able to run with a lighter, more efficient gait, rather than building in tonnes of support features. Road feel across the range was better than ever, but three shoes stood out for their broad appeal, subtle security and responsiveness.

Our money-no-object performance choice is the Asics Kayano, an old-school stability model that has really evolved to be lighter and easier to wear – but at a huge price.

And it says something that our top value shoe goes to the £99 On Cloudster – their first shoe under £100, and a brilliant, fast-feeling performer.

Our overall award goes to the Mizuno Wave Inspire 9, an update of last year’s winner, with wide appeal: it fits beautifully and balances speed and stability perfectly.

Triradar.com is the online home of Triathlon Plus – the best source of triathlon training advice, triathlon gear reviews and triathlon news.

Log your training for free at the TriRadar.com Training Zone.

Have every issue delivered to your digital device by getting Triathlon Plus through Apple Newsstand, Google Play or Zinio. Subscribe to the print edition with massive savings at MyFavouriteMagazines.

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1. AMBRE SOLAIRE
SPF 30
£11.99 , 200ml
www.garnier.co.uk

This absorbed well and had a good consistency – not too greasy or runny. The cream had a nice smell but perhaps may be a little girly for boys. It also didn’t sweat off during hard running, and left skin well moisturised.

Verdict: 4/5

2. KINESYS ALCOHOL-FREE SPRAY
SPF 30
£11.53, 120ml
www.kinesys.com

We weren’t sure about the ‘mango smell’ the manufacturers claimed – it was more like kids’ tropical squash. Although the cream seemed thin at first, it dried quickly and didn’t sweat off. Tested on a long ride we didn’t need to reapply over several hours in the sun.

Verdict: 5/5

3. ALOE UP PRO
SPF 30
£10.99, 120ml
www.aloeup.co.uk

This product was virtually fragrance-free and though it seemed watery out of the tube, it soaked in well, dried well, and wasn’t at all greasy. We also found it useful to have a sunscreen come in a squeezy tube rather than a flip-top bottle. It withstood sweat and heavy rain on a five-hour bike ride, so is very water resistant.

Verdict: 4/5

4. HAWAIIAN ISLAND CREATIONS 2X SUNBLOCK
SPF 50
£7.89, 118ml
www.hicsuncare.com

The cream’s consistency was thick and quite dry but absorbed well and was not sticky or greasy. We’re not sure we agree with their ‘doesn’t run into your eyes’ claim, but despite riding for eight hours in blazing sun without reapplying, we didn’t get burnt at all. Bottle was good for grip.

Verdict: 4/5

5. SOLAR RX
SPF 30
£16.36, 100ml
www.keys-soap.com

This product smelled weird thanks to being made from cumin oil and other culinary ingredients. The cream had an odd consistency – quite watery and felt tingly when put on the face. When running, it sweated off really easily – much more noticeably than other brands tested. However, as a plus it had a nice pump action bottle.

Verdict: 2/5

6. MALIBU SPORT SWEATPROOF DRY OIL GEL
SPF 25
£2.99, 100ml
www.malibusun.com

Unfortunately we weren’t impressed with the old-school alcohol gel form this comes in. It did work fine, drying on quickly and protected us from the sun, but the gel stings on your face. It smells of alcohol and comes in a not a very sport-friendly, 80s-style bottle.

Verdict: 3/5

Triradar.com is the online home of Triathlon Plus – the best source of triathlon training advice, triathlon gear reviews and triathlon news.

Log your training for free at the TriRadar.com Training Zone.

Have every issue delivered to your digital device by getting Triathlon Plus through Apple Newsstand, Google Play or Zinio. Subscribe to the print edition with massive savings at MyFavouriteMagazines.

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1. Scott Witt-R  
£100
230g
www.scott-sports.com

The Witt-R is a modern blend of fast curves and squared-off edges. Construction is neat and tidy. Performance wasn’t so hot. The retention system works with a dial wheel and the clicks were obvious if a little far apart. Our main issue with the Witt-R is instability. The helmet is shallower than others on test and, combined with a shallow drop to the retention strap, the helmet felt perched, not planted. A lower position on the retention strap would help. Of course all heads are different and you may have a cranial profile that suits the Witt-R

Overall: 3/5

2. Zero RH+ ZW 
£90
230g
www.veroli.co.uk

This has an airy look thanks to 27 generously sized vents, which allow effective cooling. The ZW weighs a respectable 230g, making it light, but with a nod to durability thanks to minimal exposed EPS foam. A deep internal depth allows it to feel like your head is in it, rather than the helmet resting on the top of your head. The low-slung Powerfit retention strap sits low at the back of the head to lock in the fit, reducing the work of the straps and tethers. Add in some very effective removable pads in  pink or silver and the deal is sealed for us.

Overall: 4/5

3. Cratoni Bullet
£100
175g
www.hotlines-uk.com

The C-Bullet is all about what isn’t there. The 23 vents are big so airflow is massive, which is great if you’re prone to running hot on sun-baked climbs, maybe not so handy for long, cold winters. At 175g it’s also the lightest helmet on test and this featherweight just makes it perfect for weight obsessives. Fit and coverage are good. Rounder than many, we spent a while tweaking to get comfy. The twist dial is effective, though we’d like it to make finer adjustments. The helmet also has some expanses of EPS foam on the outside so handling care is required.

Overall: 3/5

4. Catlike Whisper Plus
£99
290g
www.i-ride.co.uk

The helmet is deep and surprisingly long at the rear, giving excellent head coverage for a road helmet. We know several mountain bikers who choose the Whisper for this very reason. At 290g it’s hardly going to cause neckache, so the classic model is still very much in the hunt, even for weight weenies. We found it very easy to dial in a solid, secure fit and we didn’t need to make changes. Airflow is, as you’d imagine, very good for a helmet with more holes than a colander, so one to consider if you’re busting out the watts or simply live somewhere hot.

Overall: 4/5

5. Giro Saros
£90
265g
www.giro.com and www.madison.co.uk

Giro has led and defined the cycling helmet market for the better part of twenty years. It’s hard not to simply accept that Giro do this better than the others when it fits so well it feels like you’ve worn it before. The height-adjustable Roc-Loc system has finely metered adjustment, ideal for just letting out a fraction when your head gets warm, without losing the fit altogether. We’d like more shell cover, just to add some more ding protection when being handled. Washable anti-bacterial pads and removable straps make it easy to keep clean.

Overall: 4/5

6. Kask K50 Evo 
£80
260g
www.kask.it

Kask’s K50 Evo is a solid budget lid. One element we like is the full in-mould shell return under the brim. This area is often exposed foam and can quickly show damage from use, but the full shell coverage stops the dents and keeps your investment looking sharper for longer. The 24 vents are long and narrow, and while not the most airy on test, we appreciated the extra coverage in the cold. The deep, almond-shaped fit suited us well, and we loved the extra deep drop on the retention mechanism to get it positioned into the nape for maximum security.

Overall: 4/5

7. LAS Squalo
£83
266g
www.chickencycles.co.uk

The Squalo’s fit and construction is first rate. The fit feels sumptuous, soft and enveloping, which means when you’ve tightened the extra-large wheel, the Squalo feels locked on without ever feeling tight. Ventilation is via 29 relatively narrow, slot-shaped vents. Contrary to the look, draw is good even when climbing at low speeds. We love the full bug net and the full in-mould rear sill, though why the front edge isn’t covered is a mystery to us. Removable straps are a nice and actually quite useful touch to have fitted though.

Overall: 4/5

8. Cannondale Teramo
£70
245g
www.cannondale.com

This compact helmet uses an unusual alloy exoskeleton around which the 23-vent dual-density EPS liner is moulded. The basic fit was reassuringly deep, almond shaped and instantly comfortable and gave off a feeling of safety and security. Dialing in the retention strap, we loved the fine indents in the dial mechanism for a precise detailed fit. Another feature we liked was the thick EVA foam pad which added to the comfort. Venting was very good, though we did find drips of sweat making it past the pads – worth noting if you’re a heavy sweater.

Overall: 4/5

Triradar.com is the online home of Triathlon Plus – the best source of triathlon training advice, triathlon gear reviews and triathlon news.

Log your training for free at the TriRadar.com Training Zone.

Have every issue delivered to your digital device by getting Triathlon Plus through Apple Newsstand, Google Play or Zinio. Subscribe to the print edition with massive savings at MyFavouriteMagazines.

Join the conversation on the Triathlon Plus Facebook page, follow us on Twitter @TriathlonPlus.



Cynics might suggest that the marketing of sports nutrition is a seething mass of often contradictory, cherry picked, pseudo science that ends up extremely confusing for the end user. There are some basic truths that hold most of the time for most athletes though so at the risk of vast oversimplification here’s our bite sized bar nutrition break down.

The major constituent of all the bars here are carbohydrates. These vary from slow release fibre rich cereals, through faster to break down starches to fruit based fructose sugars then quick acting simple sugars.

Fat contains over double the calories pre gram but in general it’s less efficient and slower for the body to convert into energy, particularly when you’re exercising hard. There’s a big difference between the ‘good’ fats found in nuts and seeds and artery clogging saturated fats when it comes to overall diet too.

We’ve deliberately left high protein ‘recovery’ bars out of this test. A lot of research suggests a small amount of protein (a ratio of 1g of protein to 3-4g of carb is often quoted as ideal) can help steady carbohydrates processing.

Fibre is important in your overall diet but can cause digestion problems if your body is already working hard. The same is true of sodium (salt) and over strong flavours which might be fine on a steady ride but can give you the gip if you’re really going for it.

Finally there are a whole host of extras that some bars use as a chewy chat up line. These can range from chocloate or yoghurt toppings to supplemental vitamins or even stimulants such as caffeine or guarana. If you think you’re missing these in your lunching life then give them a go, but from experience, the simpler the snack the less likely you are to see them again.

Don’t think that expensive energy bars are your only option for eating on the go either, shop around and you might be very surprised at how close the nutritional breakdown of a malt loaf, breakfast bar or even a jam sandwich is to some of the bars here.

1. High5 Energy

£1.19 
www.highfive.co.uk
Weight 60g

This fruit-based bar is a good fast fix reviver but best nibbled steadily for a slower release. The ingredients of all four flavours are mostly dried-fruit based, bulked up with starch sugars and oats. What little fat there is comes from natural oils and it’s low in sodium. The relatively strong but not overpowering flavours are all natural with no nuts, artificial colours or sweeteners. It’s easy to open, moist enough to chew easily and temperature stable too. There’s very little protein (High5 do a separate 27% protein bar) and that’s backed up in a fair old rush of energy shortly after eating. This is great if you need a quick pick up, but generally it’s better being nibbled gradually rather than gobbling down in one.

Verdict

Easy to eat, decent value, best used when you need a fast fix of energy.

Performance 3/5
Value 4/5
Overall 3/5

2. High5 Sport

£1.19
www.highfive.co.uk
Weight 55g

High5 sweeten their mixed oat and fruit bar with a generous yoghurt or chocolate topping and it’s tasty enough to bring out on a tea break without people thinking you’re a freak. The 20% chocolate top isn’t ideal from a pure performance slant, but sugar percentage is actually lower than High5’s Energy bar and the fat percentage higher. That correlates with the fact it doesn’t seem to spike your energy levels as noticeably if the easy eating gets the better of your “one bit at a time” intentions. It’s one of the higher calorie bars here which makes it better basic value, and great for long rides, but beware if you’re weight watching. It opens easily, works in a range of temperatures and has no nuts, artificial colours or sweeteners either.

Verdict

Limited flavours but very easy eating candy-coated chunk of mixed source energy.

Performance 3/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

3. High5 4:1 Bar

£1.19
www.highfive.co.uk
Weight 50g

Definitely the most ‘techy’ bar in High5’s line up, and as such the one that comes closest to the usual ‘monkey poo’ criticisms of more focused fruit-based performance bars. It isn’t something you’d unwrap at elevenses and, while it’s soft whatever the weather, the recipe means it takes longer to chew down than most. There’s only one flavour (cranberry) available. As the 4:1 name suggests, it has three times the protein and 50 per cent less simple sugars than the other High5 bars for a more sustained release that works well during and after training. It’s free from nuts, artificial colour and sweetener and easy to open too. Stickiness means it gets very messy very quickly if left half-eaten though.

Verdict

Versatile during/after energy balance for  hard training, but sticky single flavour  .

Performance 4/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Winner of the Triathlon Plus Value Award

4. SIS Go Bar

£1.20 
www.scienceinsport.com
Weight 65g

The cobbled texture of rice, oats and soya nuggets in the Go bar mean chewing is slightly slow – particularly when cold – but there’s no stickiness afterwards, which is great in hotter temperatures or during higher intensity use. A decent amount of protein and the overall recipe mix means energy arrives controllably and it’s a decent post-ride or run choice. None of the flavours are too sweet either and they stay palatable even after eating several in a row on a long day or heavy weekend of training. Loose packaging makes it easy to pull open even with gloves on and there’s a 40g, £1 option for smaller appetites. Fat is very low, they’re vegan friendly and free from artificial colouring, flavouring, preservatives and nuts.

Verdict

Chewy, but otherwise very versatile, easy on the stomach, high-performance snacking.

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

5. Clif Bar Energy

£1.25
www.2pure.co.uk
Weight 68g

This distinctively free-form splat of a snack might look like something you’d find on your shoe after running with a vegan dog but in taste and texture terms, Clif bars are in a different class. They even passed muster for the kids’ packed lunches. They’re a bit more fatty and fibre-rich than most of the bars we tried and there’s a fair amount of chewing to do before they’re on their way. There’s plenty of protein in the rice/oat/soy/fruit mix, though, and energy delivery is stable and steady whatever intensity you’re working at, though they are better suited to slower stuff. Clif use as high a proportion of organic (70%) and ethically sourced ingredients as possible, they’re resistant to extremes of temperature and they’re good value too.

Verdict

A bit slow to chew but great value and all- round performance with wholesome ethics.

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Winner of the Triathlon Plus Gold Award

6. Zipvit ZV8

£1.30
www.zipvitsport.com
Weight 65g

Despite oat flakes and rice crisps well up in the mix this actually has one of the lowest carb servings on test. A mix of ‘polydextrose’, fruit sugars and nuts gives predictably steady overall energy delivery. Supplemental vitamins, pantothenic and folic acids are designed to aid energy delivery and overall recovery too. Flavours aren’t too overpowering or queasy, even if you’re working really hard between mouthfuls, and it chews down really fast. We’ve used it before, during and after rides and it’s worked well enough in each situation (including very hot and very cold weather) to make it one of our favoured bars. Packaging disintegrates easily and leaves it vulnerable to fluff and filth if you’re a half now, half later snacker.

Verdict

Versatile, quick eating energy delivery  without a bellyache backlash.

Performance 5/5
Value 4/5
Overall 4/5

Winner of the Triathlon Plus Peak Performer Award

7. Powerbar Ride

£1.35
www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk
Weight 55g

The opposite end of the Powerbar spectrum to the Energize bar (p96), the Ride bar gets a chocolate flavoured whey protein-enriched coating over a mixed fructose and glucose caramel paste with soya crisps, peanut butter and oat fibres. It’s vitamin bolstered, but vegetable oil and simple sugar syrups are well up in the mix. That means a lot of fat in the stats, including over 8 per cent saturated fats, which is almost double that of any other bar here. The comparatively low carb proportion means a slow release that only really works at low intensities but there’s a lot of protein for recovery purposes. Both flavours taste synthetic and the chocolatesque coating does them no favours in hot pockets either.

Verdict

Protein packed but synthetic-tasting fake chocolate coated, high-fat disappointment.

Performance 2/5
Value 2/5
Overall 2/5

8. Torq Bar

£1.35
www.torqfitness.co.uk
Weight 45g

One of the real feel-good content crusaders, Torq assure as much of their ingredients are organic and fairly traded as possible. Moreish flavours make them initially easy on you as well as the world, although the more fruity ones can be quite strong to handle if you’re hammering your racing or training. The high carb/sugar to minimal protein ratio means they hit your system pretty hard too, but that’s offset by the new smaller 45g size that means their gels and drinks all pack the same punch for easier energy strategising. They’re as cold tolerant as you’d hope from a UK product too, but being extra nice to farmers and furry friends inevitably comes at an extra cost per gram of product.

Verdict

Fast acting, moreish energy from responsible recipes, but strong taste and weak value.

Performance 5/5
Value 2/5
Overall 4/5

9. Pulsin Beond Berry

£1.39
www.pulsin.co.uk
Weight 40g

This totally raw ingredient date and almond-based bar also delivers a one per cent Acai berry superfood payload for those who value even the most marginal of gains. It’s fully organically certified too, so the warm fuzzy feeling about the environment will last as long as the powerful raspberry flavouring. The almonds and other bits keeping it together means a lot of fat (16.7 per cent), but that and the super-soft consistency means it chews down quickly. You will need to eat most of a second bar to get the same carb load as most of the bars here, which works out expensive. The high protein content potentially makes it a good post-workout option though.

Verdict

Organic raw ingredient, high-protein bar, but high price for low superfood content.

Performance 3/5
Value 2/5
Overall 2/5

10. Mule Natural Energy

£1.50
www.madison.co.uk
Weight 56g

Another slightly awkward to open bar thanks to a tight, sticky wrapper, but at least the Mule bar’s tricky packaging is compostable if you bring it home (or it accidentally blows away). A high proportion of the ingredients are organic and/or Fairtrade too, so it’s a low-guilt gobfull. A high percentage of starch syrups and fruit mean it packs a rapid energy delivery, chews down quickly and, for once, the wide range of flavours are as appetising as they sound. That does mean potential to trigger an energy spike if you get greedy but pack size is slightly smaller than average which helps steady snacking, if not relative value.

Verdict

Very tasty, fast-acting fruit based bar,  but awkward to open and high price.

Performance 4/5
Value 2/5
Overall 3/5

11. Powerbar Energize

£1.50 
www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk
Weight 65g

Powerbar have massively expanded their energy bar range to include more palatable options, but the Energize bars will appeal to lantern-jawed hardcore fans of the original bars. It’s definitely not convenience food as the wrapper is a sod to open on the move and even at room temperature there’s a lot of chomping to do to put it in the past tense. The powerful flavours need a tolerant palette – or a rapid rinse with water – too. The C2Max dual source (fructose/glucose) mix does seem to perform well particularly over longer, lower intensity sessions though – where the opening and chewing issues are less of an issue too. There’s enough protein in there to make it worth finishing after training if you didn’t manage during.

Verdict

Awkward opening, dubious texture and arduous chewing but good performance.

Performance 3/5
Value 3/5
Overall 3/5

12. Pulsin Energy Bomb

£1.59
www.pulsin.co.uk
Weight 50g

This gluten-free veggie nugget is designed to kickstart your workout or raise your game in the final furlong with a hit of ginseng, green tea and guarana. It certainly seems to work too, properly pepping us up even at the end of the dreaded first week back to work and serious training after Christmas. The mix of fruit, rice malt and whey protein means release is more restrained so you’re not eating an energy hand grenade either. Not everyone is tolerant of the obvious buzz of stimulants in a sports context though. Saturated fat and fibre levels are high too and they’re not cheap. That does pay for eco-electric, locally prioritised production values though.

Verdict

Sustained release ethical energy with a  mental kickstart, but not cheap.

Performance 3/5
Value 2/5
Overall 3/5

13. Pulsin Berry Burst

£1.59
www.pulsin.co.uk
Weight 50g

Not your average sports energy bar but the “ultimate in-between meal snack” built from dates, cashew butter, goji berries, unroasted chocolate and rice malt and powders. That makes it one of the fattiest bars in the test and the rich texture and taste didn’t agree with everyone either. The carb/protein balance makes it a reasonable all-rounder in terms of energy provision for longer, steadier rides (where the fat is less of an issue). There’s a lot of vitamin C if you’re worried about scurvy, while iron and protein levels are designed to beef up vegetarian athletes. Antioxidant elements will appeal to those who subscribe to their benefits too.  Ethical credentials come at a cost though.

Verdict

Antioxidant and vitamin C-rich slow-burn eco bar, but high in fat and price .

Performance 3/5
Value 2/5
Overall 2/5

14. Maxifuel Viper Boost

£1.99 
www.maxifuel.com
Weight 45g

Maxifuel’s Viper Boost puts a varied mix of sucrose, rice flour, ground almonds, starches, fructose and glucose syrups under a relatively thick (14 per cent) dark chocolate skin. Relatively low sugar percentage with high protein and fat content makes it a steady energy delivery bar. Its infamous reputation comes from the caffeine and guarana buzz’ ingredients for kick-starting workouts or restoring flagging focus in the last gasp of a race. Like most stimulant-enriched products, tolerance before queasiness kicks in varies between athletes. Add a crash as noticeable as the boost and you need to check how these bars work for you before racing with them. Very pricey, too.

Verdict

Highly charged bars with a real buzz but expensive and need using carefully.

Performance 3/5
Value 2/5
Overall 3/5

15. Chimpanzee Energy

£1.99
www.harris-active.co.uk
Weight 55g

Chimpanzee bars are another contender for the ethical energy market, with 31% organic content, “1% for the planet” profit share membership and vegetarian society approval. The packaging is easy to open even on our roller test and it’s a soft and easy eat  with the fruit pieces, oats, soybeans and rice crisps chewing down quickly – albeit with lingering shrapnel. The 3 flavours are distinctive and more-ish too and while they’re not cosmetically appealing they taste good enough to come out at tea break. While fat is relatively high, saturated fats are low and the carb:protein balance is bang on 4:1 so it delivers it’s energy in a sustained and versatile way. Buy in bulk though or they’re vastly expensive.

Verdict

Refreshingly distinctive flavours with versatile protein rich energy balance but bulk buying essential.

Performance 5/5
Value 3/5
Overall 4/5

16. 9Bar

£0.85
www.9bar.com
Weight 50g

Looking like a block of bird seed under a carob carapace 9bars come in a range of 6 easy eating flavours. The amount of seeds (and often nuts too) plus vegetable fat and oil gives them an extremely high fat %. The balance also means slow relatively inefficient energy release so they’re best for fuelling long steady sessions, replacing missed meals or as a recovery option. At over 250Kcal per average bar they’re not for weight watchers either. The seeds are packed with minerals, vitamins and amino acids though and they’re dairy, gluten, yeast, egg plus artificial sweetener, preservative and colour free too. This means most allergy/ethically restricted eaters have only got the nuts to worry about and they’re very well priced as well.

Verdict

Very tasty, low cost and nutritous seed bars but extremely fatty and less suitable for high intensity work.

Performance 3/5
Value 5/5
Overall 4/5

OVERALL VERDICT

So at the end of a month of desperate calorie expenditure and aching jaws we can certainly say there’s a very broad range of taste and texture options from tea-break-friendly chocolate-coated treats through to suspect-looking mush and bars that look and taste like leftover emergency rations from the lunar landings. There’s a big difference in the way they deliver their energy, how much protein, fat or other things are mixed in and whether they turn you into a training raver or will keep even the most ecocentric hippies happy.

The more we ran, rode, swam and most of all chewed, the more a few of the bars stood out. High5’s Sport bar was the nearest to a treat, while their 4:1 bar works really well for intensive training. While Zipvit’s bar was never the most tempting initially it slipped down easily and kept us going particularly well whatever our work rate. Torq’s bars scored highly for performance too but they’re bloody expensive.

That leaves us with two clear winners. If you don’t mind trading a bit more fat and fibre for a more ‘snacky’ style taste and texture then Clif Bar are the way to go. For lean, clean, slightly chewy but otherwise versatile eating before, during and after all types of exercise, though, we have to give the Go ahead to SIS.

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