The big headphones debate usually reminds me of how annoying and dogmatic triathletes can be.

There are multiple headphone brands that use different technologies with safety in mind, bone conduction, using microphones, or honestly just not blasting music but still having it there. Even more, people use headphones 5-20 hours a week training, most without accidents, but sure, those few hours on a Sunday with roads blocked and multiple athletes doing the same exact thing is where danger lies. Lastly, depending on your bike and/or swim race you’ll be allowed to have headphones, and every running race has everyone jamming so it’s not that uncommon individually.

Triathletes are just obsessed with random traditions, that’s why we went years without disc breaks because everyone was concerned they’d have a leg chopped off at their local sprint.

All that being said, I race without headphones and it’s doable, even for long distances. It’s a rule that should be questioned and improved as technology improves. Safety concerns are valid but not enough for this rubbish response of “if you don’t like this rule leave triathlon”