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14 Best Triathlon Shoes (Review) In 2022

Best Choice
asics gel kayano 25
ASICS Gel-Kayano 25 Men's Triathlon Shoes
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Best Value
zoot ultra race 4.0
Zoot Men's Ultra Race 4.0 Boa Triathlon Shoes
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Premium Pick
pearl izumi tri fly elite v6
Pearl iZUMi Men's TRI Fly Elite V6 Cycling Shoe
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By Shoe Hero
Published 10:40 am
Show contents
Contents
  1. 1. ASICS Gel-Kayano 25 Men's Triathlon Shoes
  2. 2. Zoot Men's Ultra Race 4.0 Boa Triathlon Shoes
  3. 3. Saucony Men's Fastwitch 8 Cross Country Triathlon Shoes
  4. 4. Pearl iZUMi Women's W EM Tri N 2 Triathlon Shoe
  5. 5. Inov-8 Men's Trailtalon™ 250 Trail Runner
  6. 7. Pearl iZUMi Men's TRI Fly Elite V6 Cycling Shoe
  7. 9. Newton Running Mens Distance VI
  8. 10. Louis Garneau - Tri X-Lite Triathlon 2 Bike Shoes
  9. 12. Scott Sports Mens Tri Carbon Triathlon Cycling Shoe
  10. 13. Northwave Tribute Triathlon Shoes
  11. 14. Pearl iZUMi Women's W TRI Fly Elite V6 Cycling Shoes
  12. 15. SHIMANO SH-TR5 Cycling Shoes
  13. 16. T-4 AIR WHITE/BLACK 45.0 by Sidi
  14. 17. SHIMANO SH-TR9 Cycling Shoes

Very few sports can be more challenging, yet rewarding like a triathlon. Competing one race that has three disciplines, usually swimming, cycling and running, can test the very limits of your determination and stamina. Even so, there are thousands of competitive triathletes all over the world who put themselves through the paces of this grueling race.

As will all sports, the right gear can give you a definite advantage. When it comes to triathlon, you can spend thousands of dollars on the top-of-the-range gear, but you don’t necessarily need to. A good bicycle will be your most noticeable expense and following the bike is a good pair of triathlon shoes. Now you can get separate triathlon shoes for cycling and running, but the best triathlon shoes will see you through both these disciplines with ease.

The Best Triathlon Shoe

Best choice

1.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 25 Men’s Triathlon Shoes

asics gel kayano 25
Key Features

    I.G.S (Impact Guidance System) Technology

    Guidance line midsole technology

    Flytefoam Propel Technology

    Flexible fit and structural support

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When competing in a triathlon, the last thing you need is to be held back because of something as trivial as uncomfortable shoes. You love these ASICS Gel-Kayanos. Thanks to the durable construction and supportive cushioning, all you’ll be thinking of is crossing the finish line. To avoid any pain during this important race, check out our guide to the best running shoes for shin splints.

Pros

IGS Technology enhances athlete’s natural gait

Great combination of bounce back and cushioning properties

Lightweight and durable

Cons

May need breaking in

Best Price

2.
Zoot Men’s Ultra Race 4.0 Boa Triathlon Shoes

zoot ultra race 4.0
Key Features

    100% Textile and Synthetic

    Boa fast lacing system

    Ultrafit upper

    Z-bound high-response midsole

    Tri-Dry water drainage system

    ZPU outsole

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Inspired by real triathletes, Zoot has its roots in the home of the Ironman Triathlon World Championships in Hawaii. These triathlon shoes are lightweight and offer incredible comfort and support. Your feet will stay cool in these Zoot Men’s Ultra Race 4.0 Boa Shoes and you’ll end your race with a smile.

Pros

Offers comfort, support and ventilation

Designed especially for multisport like triathlon

Cons

Sizes may need to be checked

3.
Saucony Men’s Fastwitch 8 Cross Country Triathlon Shoes

saucony fastwitch 8
Key Features

    Synthetic with rubber sole

    Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch

    Engineered mesh

    PWRTRAC outsole

    SSL EVA midsole

    Medial posted

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Saucony have come up with this great pair of triathlon running shoes that are great for serious athletes and casual runners. Fastwitch 8 Cross Country shoes will support your feet and allow your feet to breath during those tough competitions. They have been engineered to enhance your performance so put them and just go for it. If you are new to running and just started to prepare for the big triathlon race, check out our running shoes for beginners.

Pros

Breathable and supportive

Engineered to maximize performance

Cons

Not a lot of arch support

4.
Pearl iZUMi Women’s W EM Tri N 2 Triathlon Shoe

pearl izumi women's w em tri n 2
Key Features

    3D spacer mesh upper

    Lightweight synthetic overlays

    Quick-lace system

    Breathable mesh lining

    EVA insole for support and comfort

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These Pearl iZUMi Women’s W EM Tri N 2 Running Shoes are ideal for the gals on the go. Tackle the triathlon circuit in comfort with these performance triathlon shoes which are lightweight and incredibly comfortable. The quick-lace system will help you gear up in a flash so you can be on your way to the finish line.

Pros

Ideal for quick transition

Lightweight and comfortable

Cons

May feel bulky

5.
Inov-8 Men’s Trailtalon™ 250 Trail Runner

inov 8 trailtalon 250
Key Features

    100% Synthetic and Textile

    Multi-directional 4mm deep studs

    Power flow midsole technology

    Light, breathable upper

    Dynamic fascia band

    Integrated gusseted tongue

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Running a triathlon will be a breeze with Inov-8 Men’s Trailtalon™ 250 Trail Runners, breathable, yet comfortable tri running shoes. The integrated gusseted tongue helps to keep out sticks and stones and the deep studs will get you through any terrain without missing a step. If your feet are wider than average, be sure to check out our selection of the best running shoes for wide feet.

Pros

Great for running over hard trails

Perfect balance of speed and cushioning

Gusseted tongue keeps out debris

Cons

Lacks arch support

Premium Pick

7.
Pearl iZUMi Men’s TRI Fly Elite V6 Cycling Shoe

pearl izumi tri fly elite v6
Key Features

    Anatomic Tri Closure

    Unibody construction

    Advanced 3-Layer Seamless Composite Upper

    Integrated Carbon Power Plate

    Dual density EVA insole

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Get ahead of the competition with these TRI Fly Elite V6 Shoes from Pearl iZUMi. These road cycling shoes offer excellent arch support and take much of the pressure from the front of your feet and you can stay cool thanks to the exceptional breathable technology.

Pros

Excellent arch support

Alleviates pressure from the forefoot

Exceptional breathability and comfort

Cons

May need to be broken in

9.
Newton Running Mens Distance VI

newton running distance vi
Key Features

    Lightweight upper & Action/Reaction midsole

    Newtonium midsole foam cushioning

    Breathable, seamless mesh

    High-bound EVA materials

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You will love the comfort and feel of these Newton Running Men’s Distance VI triathlon bike shoes. They feature a super comfortable foam midsole and also have an incredible breathable, seamless mesh that keep your feet comfortable and dry no matter how long your run or cycle. For more amazing sports shoes, check out our selection of the best cross training shoes.

Pros

Removable, washable insole

Extra comfort and support you can feel

Cons

May need to be broken in

10.
Louis Garneau – Tri X-Lite Triathlon 2 Bike Shoes

louis garneau tri x lite triathlon 2
Key Features

    HRS-100 retention with anti-slip membrane

    Special puller & double Velcro straps

    Synthetic leather upper with toe protection

    Coolmax Ergo Air insole

    Steel cleats fit all major road pedals. The

    Heel reflector for better visibility

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Louis Garneau is a brand you can trust when it comes to triathlon shoes. Tri X-Lite Triathlon 2 Bike Shoes are easy to pull on or off for quick, simple transitioning and the steel cleats fit all major road pedals. Light and comfortable, you’ll want to wear them every day.

Pros

Designed to make transitioning easy

Super comfortable and durable

Well-ventilated reinforced nylon outsole

Cons

May need some breaking in

12.
Scott Sports Mens Tri Carbon Triathlon Cycling Shoe

scott sports tri carbon
Key Features

    Made from microfiber

    Upper material: microfiber, 3D nylon AirMesh

    Closure: BOA IP1, hook-and-loop strap

    Footbed: adjustable ergo logic removable insole

    Sole: HMX Carbon

    Cleat compatibility: 3-bolt road

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For a fast transition, take a look at these Scott Sports Mens Tri Carbon Triathlon Cycling Shoes. They are tongue free, wrap around tri shoes that fit like a second skin and are quick to pull on or off. These triathlon shoes will give you comfort and performance you can rely on.

Pros

Tongue free, wrap-around construction

Secure fit, with or without socks

Internal layer of synthetic leather provides extra support

Cons

Sizing needs to be checked

13.
Northwave Tribute Triathlon Shoes

northwave tribute triathlon
Key Features

    100% synthetic

    Carbon light sole

    Speedplay adaptor

    Omega heel

    Performance pro footbed

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Out of water, Northwave Tribute Triathlon are a fantastic pair of tri shoes that will really perform on land. They are lightweight with a Performance Pro Footbed that will secure your feet on the bike or on the road. These shoes offer more ventilation, grip and heel protection so you can charge ahead of the track with comfort and confidence. Our guide to the best mountain bike shoes features more great footwear for mountain biking fans.

Pros

More ventilation, grip and heel protection

Easy entry system

Cons

Sizing needs to be checked

14.
Pearl iZUMi Women’s W TRI Fly Elite V6 Cycling Shoes

pearl izumi women's w tri fly elite v6
Key Features

    Anatomic tri closure

    Unibody construction

    Composite upper

    Integrated carbon power plate

    Dual density EVA insole

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Triathlons will seem like a day at the park with these Pearl iZUMi Women’s W TRI Fly Elite V6 Cycling Shoes. They feel incredibly comfortable and offer superior support as they adapt to your unique foot shape. The dual density EVA insole offers cushiony comfort all day.

Pros

Exceptional breathability

Adapts to your unique foot shape

Great arch support

Cons

Sizing needs to be checked

15.
SHIMANO SH-TR5 Cycling Shoes

shimano sh tr5 cycling
Key Features

    Breathable mesh lining and footbeds

    Two hook and loop straps

    Velcro fastening

    Fiberglass-reinforced nylon sole

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When you want a performance driven triathlon cycling shoes, these SHIMANO SH-TR5 Shoes will give you all the extra drive you need. They feature two hook and loop straps with Velcro fastening so you can pull them on or off in a flash. The breathable mesh lining and footbeds will keep your feet comfortable and cool even when you compete or train in the scorching heat. Find more sports footwear by checking out our guide to the best shoes for spartan races.

Pros

Lightweight triathlon shoe

Compatible with two- and three-hole cleats

Cons

Sizing needs to be checked

16.
T-4 AIR WHITE/BLACK 45.0 by Sidi

sidi t 4 air
Key Features

    3k weave Carbon Fiber Insert

    AIR-perforated Triathlon-specific Politex upper

    Plush, brushed interior and minimal seams

    Perforated for air flow and water drainage

    External, reinforced heel cup for superior fit

    Replaceable heel pad

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These T-4 AIR WHITE/BLACK 45.0 tri shoes look fierce and you’ll compete like pro during cycling and running. The uppers are perforated for air flow and water drainage so your feet stay comfortable and dry and the reinforced heel cup offers superior fit you will definitely feel.

Pros

Injected Carbon Fiber reduces weight

Large heel loop for fast transitions

Cons

May need breaking in

17.
SHIMANO SH-TR9 Cycling Shoes

shimano sh tr9 cycling
Key Features

    Faux leather mesh

    Lightweight foam insole

    Carbon fiber composite sole

    3-hole cleat compatible

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You asked and SHIMANO delivered with these SH-TR9 Cycling Shoes that will give you the winning edge in any marathon or triathlon. The faux leather mesh looks every bit as good as it feels and the carbon fiber composite sole is light, yet incredibly durable. Pull them on or off in seconds for an unforgettable race. Don’t forget to check out our guide to the best trail running shoes for women that features more similar high-quality footwear.

Pros

Super lightweight and durable

T1-Quick strap and extra wide collar for easy entry and speedy transitions

Cons

Cleats not included

Sizing needs checking

Triathlon Shoe Buying Guide & FAQ

How We Chose Our Selection Of Triathlon Shoes

Reviews - Triathletes know what it takes to construct a good pair of triathlon shoes, and they aren’t afraid to give voice to their experiences. That’s why we consider the reviews as a useful tool when determining a product's quality and performance.

Brand - Anyone can make a triathlon shoe but certain brands are simply better than others as they have invested in research to determine the best way to put them together. We chose brands that have a long-standing reputation for producing shoes specific to endurance sports like triathlons.

Price - Depending on your needs, frequency, and seriousness of competition, you may be looking for a high-end pair of triathlon shoes or you may just want to test your own limits so something at the other end of the scale will suffice. That’s why our selection of triathlon shoes feature prices that will be sure to please all competitors and those who simply want the training experience.

best triathlon shoes

Features To Look For In Triathlon Shoes

Triathlon Distance (Short, Middle, Long) - When it comes to the distance of a triathlon, you may want to consider having different triathlon shoes for cycling and running. This may be particularly important for middle or longer races as the shoes may wear out somewhat faster. In simple terms, the longer the distance of the triathlon, the more durable triathlon you should be looking for.

Fit - Triathlons, by their very nature, can be grueling. This is the ultimate challenge of stamina, endurance, and physical and mental fitness. A poorly fitting triathlon shoe can slow you down and result in pain and discomfort. They should fit snugly, without being too right and keep your feet secure at all times.

Material - During a triathlon you can expect to sweat. For this reason, you should look for materials that are lightweight and breathable. Comfort is crucial so look for insoles that have good quality cushiony foam that will absorb the shock of your feet pounding on hard surfaces. Fortunately, technological advances have made the materials breathable, durable, and comfortable.

Cleats - The cleats on triathlon shoes are designed to give keep your feet secure and stable during the cycling phase of a triathlon. Depending on the pedals of your bike, look for 2 or 3 hole cleats that will specifically work well with the type of bike and pedals you race with.

Gender - Generally speaking, there isn’t much difference between men’s and women’s triathlon shoes. However, as women tend to have smaller, narrower feet, triathlon shoes for women are usually narrower. They are also a little lighter in weight. Of course, you don’t need to buy triathlon shoes specific to your gender. If you are a man with narrower feet, or a woman with wider feet, you can look at shoes from the other side of the shoe aisle.

Weight - As a general rule, triathlon shoes are lighter than most other athletic shoes, and they need to be. You won’t need shoes during the swimming leg of the race, but the cycling distance can range from about 12 miles to 112 miles, and the running distance between about 3 miles to 26 miles. Heavy shoes will feel like lead weights after a few miles so the lighter the shoe, the better.

Breathability - When you come out of the swimming leg of a triathlon you have mere seconds to dry your feet and pull on your triathlon shoes. Chances are, you didn’t fully dry your feet and with the two land sections of the race, you are bound to sweat. In a closed pair of triathlon shoes, your feet will become somewhat waterlogged. This will compromise the comfort and security of your shoes and could result in painful blisters. Breathable materials will go a long way in keeping your feet cool and dry to avoid these problems.

Durability - I think we can all agree that shoes are a protective layer between our tender feet and external elements such as roads, paths, and trials. In triathlon, your feet are either pedaling furiously or pounding the road. Considering the long distances in a triathlon, your feet and your shoes go through a considerable amount of torture. The worst thing that can happen to a triathlete is for his or her shoes to start to fall apart mid-race. Look for durable shoes that can withstand the punishment they will see during a triathlon.

best triathlon shoes

Triathlon Shoe FAQ

Q: Do you change shoes in a triathlon?

A: While there are specific shoes for cycling and running, in a triathlon, every second count. You can certainly change from cycling to cross country shoes during this transition, but some of the best triathlon shoes are suitable for both transitions so there is no need to change shoes.

Q: Do you wear socks with triathlon shoes?

A: This is a matter of personal choice, but again, it comes down to those precious seconds during the race where you transition from swimming to cycling and then on to running. If you feel you must wear socks during cycling and running, keep in mind that you will need to dry your feet completely after swimming. Otherwise, putting socks on even slightly wet feet will take you longer.

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