How Do I Wear a Chip Timer for a Triathlon?

Triathlon participants race through three successive events: swimming, cycling and running. Competitors are required to change their attire to accommodate each event--an important factor to consider when choosing how to wear a timing chip.

  1. Wearing a Chip Timer During a Triathlon

    • Collect your chip when you sign in or register for your triathlon event. If you are not issued a chip, you may purchase one for personal use. Check with your event officials for guidelines on which type of chips may be used at the event.

      Timing chips are either tied to the laces of a shoe or secured around the ankle with a strap. Most multi-sport competitors choose to wear their timing chip exclusively on the ankle. This way, you can avoid increasing your race time by moving the chip--transitioning time between events counts as part of your overall race time. An ankle strap chip will stay put whether you are swimming, cycling or running.

      When competing in a triathlon, you’ll need to change gear and clothing at least twice, from swimming attire to cycling gear, and again from cycling to running. You may choose to wear a swimming suit, wet suit or swim trunks during the swim portion. This definitely requires the use of an ankle strap chip timer as you will not be wearing shoes.

      Transitioning to cycling gear requires adding shorts or pants and perhaps a top layer, in addition to other gear including a helmet, shoes and possibly sunglasses. If you choose to wear an ankle strap timing chip during the swim, you could move the chip to your shoe during this portion of the race. However, it could cost you valuable time moving the chip and there's a chance you could drop or forget your chip if you remove it. Wearing an ankle strap ensures that your chip stays with you and it won't slow you down.

      Most competitors wear different shoes during cycling and running segments. Special cycling shoes have special clips that attach to the bike pedals to prevent slipping. These shoes cannot be worn for running--especially long distance. You’ll want comfortable, reliable shoes for the running segment. This is another good reason to stick with the ankle strap chip timer as you’ll save time switching the chip from one pair of shoes to another.

      Another option to consider if you are wearing your chip timer with an ankle strap is whether you will use an event-provided strap or your own personal strap. Straps are inexpensive--around $5 each--and using your own can ensure your comfort throughout the race. Check with your event officials before the race to be sure you can use your own strap.