Shirt with back pockets?

[hurleygirl]

So I'm doing my first tri in July, and have decided that I'm not changing so whatever I wear to swim has to work on the bike and run. I was going to buy a pair of tri shorts and a top, but then I found a top in my closet I forgot I had. It's a shebeest tank - tight, with built-in-support (I'm small chested so I don't need more than that). But it has two open back pockets. Is this going to drag me down in the swim?

[KSH]

So I'm doing my first tri in July, and have decided that I'm not changing so whatever I wear to swim has to work on the bike and run. I was going to buy a pair of tri shorts and a top, but then I found a top in my closet I forgot I had. It's a shebeest tank - tight, with built-in-support (I'm small chested so I don't need more than that). But it has two open back pockets. Is this going to drag me down in the swim?

Well, I would suggest that you go to a pool and swim in it. See how it does.

[hurleygirl]

I suppose I could try it out tonight at swim practice. Just throw it on over my suit for a few laps. I wanted to get the shorts today, but I think I'll wait till I see if I need a top too.

Honestly, it did occur to me but the indoor pool where I train is heavily chlorinated. This top is machine washable, so I'm not sure why I didn't want to wear it in the pool :)

[anakiwa]

Can you try it in some fresh water somewhere?

If it's not designed for a triathlon, it may be a little loose, but odds are that it probably won't make a huge difference (unless you're an elite swimmer who'll notice tiny differences). I've experimented with various tank tops, and while they felt a little funny, I don't think it made a significant impact (but keep in mind I'm a weak swimmer and am not going that fast in the first place). Another option is to swim in a sports bra, then throw on a top quickly before you get on the bike.

[Wahine]

Definitely take the top for a test run in the water, I would take the shorts too when you get them. I don't even like the drag of the fabric of the shorts when I swim.