Quote Originally Posted by tryingtri View Post
I am going to check out Danskin's tri site for gear. This is such an expensive sport. I feel like I need a sponsor just to get all the necessary gear to get started.
It can certainly feel that way when starting out. Take heart, tho, once you get the big purchases out of the way (bike, shoes, helmet, and basic cycling outfit), all the rest is just "wants" instead of "needs." And don't rule out e-bay for great low-price stuff. I purchased all but my bike, helmet and speedplay pedals off of there. I got my aero bars, bike shoes and MANY cycling/tri outfits off there and for FAR less than if I'd bought them new. Hey- I like to recycle so I try to reuse as many things as I can.

Quote Originally Posted by tryingtri View Post
What about a transition bag? Any specific suggestions or some qualities to look for in a good bag?
To be honest, my "transition bag" is nothing more than a great backpack I bought at WalMart last summer. It's huge- has 3 large compartments (one for each discipline- the largest one can fit my wetsuit), a bunch of side pockets (some mesh for my wet stuff) and great padding on the back and shoulder straps. It even has a removeable mesh drawstring bag. It cost a whopping $15. I don't care about fashion at races, and since it's orange- it's always easy to see my spot in tranistion. You can spend tons of money or less and still wind up with good, practical, nice stuff.