Chip Bands

A chip strap is an ankle band that holds your timing chip in place during a triathlon or running race. The chip from the organisation records your split and finish times; the chip strap ensures that chip stays in place throughout the entire race, including during swimming. A good chip strap is lightweight, quick-drying and comfortable enough that you do not notice it during running.

Some organisations supply a disposable band with the chip; many triathletes choose their own reusable chip strap that fits better, chafes less and goes race after race. The chip strap is worn around your ankle, on the inside or outside of your leg depending on preference. Most models close with velcro and are adjustable to size.

Which chip strap suits you?

Chip straps are relatively simple products, but there are a few practical choices to make. The following scenarios help you quickly find the right direction.

You are a triathlete and want a chip strap that stays comfortable even after swimming: Choose a model of quick-drying, soft material with a firm velcro closure. After the swimming section, the strap must feel dry enough immediately not to chafe during cycling and running. A silicone grip on the inside of the strap prevents it from sinking or turning during the race.

You have used the disposable strap from the organisation but want your own strap from now on: A reusable chip strap of neoprene or soft synthetic material sits more comfortably than the cardboard or plastic disposable straps that organisations generally provide. You set it once to your ankle and keep it from race to race. However, always check in advance whether the chip of your event is compatible with your own chip strap.

You participate in a running race and want a light, unobtrusive strap: For running races the chip strap is simpler than with triathlon: no swimming phase, so no requirement for quick-drying. Choose a light model that sits comfortably around your ankle and does not move back and forth during running. A strap that sits too loosely can slip down towards your shoe, which is annoying over longer distances.

What to look for when purchasing?

Material and comfort

Chip straps are usually made of neoprene, soft elastic fabric or synthetic material. Neoprene and soft materials are more comfortable for prolonged wear and chafe less than harder synthetic variants. For triathlon, quick-drying material is a requirement: a strap that becomes waterlogged during swimming is annoying during the run. Also check whether the inside of the strap is smooth enough not to cause irritation with direct skin contact.

Closure and stability

Most chip straps close with velcro, which makes easy adjusting to size possible. Some models have extra silicone grip on the inside, which keeps the strap in place even in wet conditions or with intensive movements. A strap that sinks or turns during the race means in the worst case that the chip is not properly registered at the time measurement.

Fit

A chip strap must sit firmly enough not to shift, but not so tight that it hampers blood circulation during prolonged wear. Check the adjustable range of the model and compare that with your ankle size. Most models are one-size-fits-most with a wide adjustable range.

Our advice: Wear your chip strap on your ankle for an hour the day before the competition to check whether it sits comfortably and does not move. Also adjust the position: some triathletes wear it on the inside of the leg to avoid contact with the heel of the other foot during running.

Chip strap from the organisation or your own strap?

Most triathlon and running organisations supply a disposable strap with the timing chip. Those straps are functional but generally made of cheap plastic or cardboard, sit less comfortably and can cause irritation with some athletes over longer distances.

Your own reusable chip strap fits better, lasts for years and can simply be washed after use. Always check before using your own strap whether the organisation of your specific competition permits this and whether the chip is compatible with your own strap. At most triathlons using your own chip strap is not a problem, but exceptions exist.

Who are chip straps suitable for?

• Triathletes who want a comfortable, quick-drying chip strap that stays in place throughout the entire race without chafing.
• Runners who run competitions with time registration and want their own strap as an alternative to the disposable strap from the organisation.
• Athletes who regularly participate in competitions and want a reusable chip strap that goes with them to every race.

Need help with your choice?

Would you like to buy a chip strap but are not sure which model suits your needs best? Then we are happy to help. You can reach our specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our triathlon store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about chip straps

What is a chip strap and what is it used for?

A chip strap is an ankle band that holds your timing chip in place during a triathlon or running race. The chip records your split and finish times at special mats on the course. The chip strap ensures that the chip stays in place throughout the entire race, including during swimming, cycling and running. Without a well-fitting chip strap you risk the chip shifting or not being properly registered.

May I use my own chip strap at a triathlon?

At most triathlons and running races the use of your own reusable chip strap is permitted. Always check the rules of the specific organisation, because some events require that you use the supplied disposable strap or impose requirements on the position and attachment of the chip. If you are unsure, contact the organisation before your event.

On which leg do I wear my chip strap?

That is personal preference and sometimes prescribed by the competition organisation. Most triathletes wear the chip strap around the left or right ankle on the inside of the leg. Some prefer to wear it on the outside to avoid contact with the heel of the other foot. Experiment before the competition which position is most comfortable for you.

How do I make sure the chip strap does not slip down during running?

Adjust the velcro closure firmly enough so that the strap cannot slip, but not so tight that it hampers blood circulation. Preferably choose a model with silicone grip on the inside, that gives extra resistance against slipping. Test the strap before the race by wearing it for a quarter of an hour and checking whether it stays in place.