BTF rule on towels

General
1

Been discussed in the trials club whatsapp, mostly because we wanted to order cmbranded towels as give aways. Seems overly restrictive to what doesn’t normally seem like a big issue.

The 2026 BTF Towel Rule (Section 7.1.z) Summary:

  • Large Towels Banned: Large towels or beach towels are no longer permitted to mark transition spaces.

  • Allowed Small Towel: Athletes may use a small towel, maximum 12" x 12" (30cm x 30cm) or roughly the size of a flannel.

@fatbuddha is the towel in transition often a problem? I’ve always taken a pool Towel, folded it small and placed it on shoes there so I can quickly dry feet.

2

I haven’t done many small races in recent years and normally have a towel in the T1 bag. Not quite a beach towel but not far off.

3

Always have a small towel and never been pulled up for it

2 Likes
4

just as well, wouldn’t want anyone pulling up that towel if it’s small

2 Likes
5

I had a union jack one, never caused an issue as my shoes and cap sat on it and wetsuit after swim.

6

I’ve just been warned of this today by a race official