Will WYN republic’s best-selling Hi Velocity X tri suit improve your PB? Two local athletes weigh in after their races.
WHAT IS WYN republic?
Exclusively distributed in Singapore by RDRC, WYN republic is a high-performance sports apparel brand that specializes in tri suits made from premium Italian materials and designed by professional triathletes, Ironman Champions, and husband-and-wife team, Luke and Beth McKenzie. Jeri Chua, founder of RDRC, introduced the brand at the recent T100 Singapore and was ecstatic about being able to make WYN republic more accessible to the local tri- and duathlon communities in the region.
"WYN republic embodies the qualities we look for in the brands and products we carry. Excellent quality, great aesthetics, and grown from a passion to provide best-in-category products." Jeri Chua, RDRC
(Ps: Learn more about WYN republic here.)
The men's Hi Velocity X tri suit featured here in Olive.
HI VELOCITY X TRI SUIT
Designed specifically for longer distance races or training, Hi Velocity X adds side storage pockets for easy access to nutrition and essentials. Flexible and aerodynamic speed fabric flanks the arms to optimize cycling speed and save minutes on your bike leg. Constructed from the finest Italian textiles optimizing breathability, flexibility, quick-dry technology and aerodynamic properties. Ventilated race fabric on upper and slick, aerodynamic bottom.
The women's Hi Velocity X tri suit (featured here in Tyrian) is form-fitting for maximum aerodynamic capabilities while also featuring easy-access back and side pockets for storing nutrition on the go. Also available in other colours.
The brand’s signature "full zip" front panel allows this one-piece suit to act like two pieces for optimal bike-to -un flexibility, and easy bathroom breaks. The detached two-piece construction (joined in the back) allows the cyclist to transition to run comfortably without pulling up on the crotch as often found in one-piece designs. The suit features a Dolomiti Grigno triathlon chamois and a rear "speed" storage pocket constructed with 'speed' fabric and secure storage capacity.
But just how effective is this much-loved tri suit in an actual race? Two local athletes take it through the paces in a full triathlon. Read their reviews below.
The breathability of the material has a boon during the heat and humidity of the race. Jie Shi during her first run leg of the Powerman Malaysia 2024.
Name: Neo Jie Shi
Age: 39
Occupation: Senior HR Manager, ASEAN
Event: Powerman Malaysia, 2024
Jie Shi is a former national athlete who proudly represented Singapore in the women’s marathon at the SEA Games in 2015 and the Rio Olympics in 2016. Following a pause in her running career due to injuries, she found a new passion in road cycling, inspired by her husband’s enthusiasm for the sport. Last year, she joined the West Coast Riders (WCR), where her new cycling friends introduced her to the thrill of multi-sports. Embracing this new challenge, Jie Shi participated in her first sprint triathlon and duathlon in July and August of the previous year.
Red Dot Running Company (RDRC): How did you come to know about WYN republic?
Jie Shi (JS): I came across WYN republic when I was checking out Red Dot Running Company’s booth during the T100 race pack collection in April this year. I was drawn to the aesthetically pleasing tri suits which look, and feel comfortable too.
RDRC: How did you find the WYN republic Hi Velocity X tri suit?
JS: It's extremely comfortable! The suit fits snugly in just the right places and causes no chafing whatsoever. Even in hot and humid conditions, the fabric stays cool and well-ventilated, letting my skin breathe. I tend to sweat a lot, but I find the tri suit quick-drying and lightweight, which doesn’t weigh me down during running and riding.
RDRC: What specific features of the Hi Velocity X tri suit did you find most beneficial for enhancing your athletic performance?
JS: The high-quality, well-ventilated race fabric that optimises breathability and improves aerodynamics when racing. This is a plus, especially when racing in very hot and humid conditions. I also find the rear pocket with side-entry and side storage pockets on the legs extremely useful as they allow easy access to my nutrition.
Jie Shi on her Powerman Malaysia 2024 bike leg.
RDRC: How does this particular tri suit compare to other tri suits you have used in the past, and what sets it apart in terms of quality and value?
JS: Being new to multi-sports, Hi Velocity tri-suit is the very first tri suit I have used. I must say it has set a high standard in terms of comfort and performance!
RDRC: Were there any aspects of the suit that you felt could be improved? Conversely, what did you love most about the suit?
JS: I can’t really think of anything that needs to be improved. If I really need to nit-pick, it would be adding one more rear pocket at the back. Perhaps just a smaller one with zip or top entry to hold other essentials more securely.
On the whole, I absolutely love the sleek and stylish design and that it has all the aerodynamic and functional features that provide comfort and enhance performance.
RDRC: How do you feel about us bringing in brands like WYN republic?
JS: I’m definitely happy and excited that RDRC is bringing in brands like WYN. This offers endurance athletes more options and the opportunity to feel and try on the products.
Kenneth hitting the road on his bike for T100 Singapore in the WYN republic Hi Velocity X tri suit in black.
Name: Kenneth Pang
Age: 33
Occupation: Civil Servant
Event: T100 Singapore, 2024
An enthusiastic triathlete with a deep passion for endurance sports, Kenneth's journey into the world of triathlons began post-COVID, as he sought new ways to challenge himself beyond traditional workouts. Starting with running, he progressively increased his distances from 5Ks to half-marathons, and eventually to full marathons. The thrill of pushing his limits spurred him to explore triathlons, and his first race ignited a profound passion. The camaraderie, discipline, and joy of overcoming both physical and mental barriers continue to motivate Kenneth, driving him to strive for excellence in every race.
Red Dot Running Company (RDRC): How did you come to know about WYN republic?
Kenneth Pang (KP): I discovered WYN republic through fellow triathletes and my coach who raved about the brand's high-quality gear.
Their positive experiences piqued my interest, and I decided to explore WYN republic’s offerings for myself. The first time I tried their apparel, I was impressed by the superior comfort, performance, and stylish designs tailored specifically for endurance athletes.
Additionally, the brand’s strong presence in the triathlon community and commitment to supporting athletes resonated with me. I will continue to use WYN republic apparel for all my racing and training needs. I feel that it enhances my performance and overall experience in the sport.
RDRC: How did you think the WYN republic Hi Velocity X tri suit performed for you?
KP: It was great! It's my first triathlon suit. So it served me well during the race.
RDRC: What specific features of the Hi Velocity X tri suit did you find most beneficial for enhancing your athletic performance?
KP: It was aerodynamic and it was well-fitted, and snug where it needed to be.
RDRC: How does the Hi Velocity X tri suit compare to other tri suits you have used in the past, and what sets it apart in terms of quality and value?
KP: No other comparison.
RDRC: Were there any aspects of the suit that you felt could be improved? Conversely, what did you love most about the suit?
KP: Initially, I was afraid that each time I was gonna wear it, it would tear. But it seemed to be able to handle that stretch. The material was high-performance and tough.
Kenneth cites the supple but strong suit material as one of the most impressive aspects of the WYN republic tri suit.
RDRC: How do you feel about us bringing in brands like WYN republic?
KP: I think RDRC is strong in their connection to bringing power house brands.
RDRC continues to bridge the gap for us living locally here in Singapore to enjoy great endurance sports brands used to be only available outside of our country.
Have a race coming up? Check out our full range of high-performance WYN republic tri suits in person, in-store at 108 Sims Ave. Our experienced staff will be happy to help you find the one that works for you.
PS: Check out the brand's quick-dry Heritage socks that work great for both running and cycling!