Basket
Want to get in on the triple effort? Our mission: to guide you in choosing your triathlon gear, specifically your shoes. You'll need two pairs to practice the chained discipline: one for cycling, and one for running. But how do you properly choose your triathlon shoes? Follow the guide!
What shoes for cycling in triathlon?
In a triathlon, you string together three events: swimming, cycling and running. While the aquatic portion is done barefoot, the other disciplines are not.
The second component is the bike
The second component takes place on a bicycle and therefore involves the use of a pair of shoes suitable for road cycling. Note that in the case of a cross triathlon, the event takes place on rough terrain requiring the use of a mountain bike and specific footwear.
From there, know that you have two options: choose triathlon bike shoes or classic road bike shoes.
The main difference between these models is the ability of triathlon shoes to save you time during transitions. Every second counts! Developed with the help of professional triathletes, these shoes are perfectly suited to the special needs of triple effort enthusiasts.
Why does the triathlon bike shoe save precious time during transitions? Because of these little details that make all the difference:
- A loop at the heel to hold the shoe in a horizontal position with an elastic band, once clipped onto the pedal.
- A wider opening to easily slide your foot in.
- A clamping system thought to facilitate foot insertion and adjustment of the setting during the race, usually consisting of one or two Velcro straps, or even a micrometric wheel (BOA or Atop clamping).
- A better ventilation for faster drying.
- A comfortable lining for sockless riding.
Beyond the time aspect, special triathlon cycling shoes provide a real gain in safety. We can't count the number of participants who slip on the mat or tarmac while running with their shoes on their feet, rather than attached to the pedals.
Whether you're throwing your shoes on the mat or running on the tarmac, you'll find that the shoes are a great way to keep your footing
Whether you set your sights on road or triathlon shoes, remember to check their compatibility with your automatic pedals.
Composite or carbon soles?
It all depends on your goals and budget. Are you chasing performance at all costs? If you're willing to put your hand in the wallet, a stiffer carbon sole will maximize your power transfer. You'll also gain in lightness. On the other hand, beware of the risk of heating up the arch of your foot!
Just looking to have some fun on your triathlon? Less expensive, models with a composite sole will provide flexibility and comfort.
What triathlon shoes for running?
For the last event of the competition, you should know that manufacturers have not really created models dedicated to running in triathlon.
So, how should you put on your shoes? A quality pair of running shoes will be perfect for running the miles to the finish line.
How to choose your running shoes
Let's start by saying that the choice of model depends first and foremost on the distance you plan to run on the big day. To do this, you need to look at the races on the calendar that you want to run. S and M size enthusiasts will place more importance on the bite of the shoe and its lightness, while long-distance triathletes will bet on a stable product with good cushioning to tackle the 42.195 km marathon.
Here are the criteria for selecting your future triathlon running shoes:
- the type of stride: pronator, supinator or neutral (universal);
- the shape of the foot;
- the reduction of inner seams for comfort;
- the ease of insertion of the foot.
Triathlon shoes: with or without socks?
That is the question... Purists run without socks, question of timing!
If you're on that team, it's important to get used to running barefoot in your shoes before the competition. Nevertheless, keep in mind that the role of socks is to absorb moisture and sweat from the foot generated during exercise. Without them, the skin becomes more vulnerable to friction and blister formation. To limit this risk, one trick is to sprinkle the inside of your running (and cycling) shoes with talcum powder.
Self-locking laces: superfluous or essential?
Superfluous for beginners, indispensable for those who aim for performance! Also called quick laces, they allow you to put on your running shoes without having to tie them.
How does it work? You make the lacing adjustment to your liking before the triathlon, then put your shoes on directly during the second transition. No risk of the laces coming undone during the race: nothing moves!
There are three models of triathlon laces:
- silicone laces;
- the knotted laces;
- elastic laces;
You now have all the keys to choosing your triathlon cycling and running shoes. Happy searching!
