12 best triathlon shoes

Triathlon shoes are specialized cycling shoes designed to meet the unique demands of triathletes during a triathlon race, which includes swimming, cycling, and running. Here's what you need to know about triathlon shoes:

  1. Quick Transition: One of the key features of triathlon shoes is their design for quick transitions. Triathletes need to change from swimming to cycling to running as efficiently as possible. Triathlon shoes typically have features like wide openings, large loops or straps, and a single or no closure system to allow for speedy transitions.

  2. Drainage and Ventilation: Since triathletes exit the water and often have wet feet when transitioning to the cycling leg, triathlon shoes are designed with drainage holes to allow water to escape. They also incorporate breathable materials to help keep the feet dry and comfortable during the cycling and running portions of the race.

  3. Cleat Compatibility: Triathlon shoes are compatible with various types of cycling cleats, such as SPD-SL or Look Keo, depending on the rider's preference and pedal system. Some triathlon shoes come with cleats included, while others require you to purchase them separately.

  4. Sockless Design: Many triathletes choose to go sockless during the race to save time and prevent blisters. Triathlon shoes are often designed with sockless comfort in mind, featuring a soft interior lining and minimal seams to reduce friction.

  5. Single Strap or Closure: Triathlon shoes often have a single strap or closure system, such as a large hook-and-loop strap or a single BOA dial, to make it easy to put on and take off the shoes quickly.

  6. Heel Loop or Pull Tab: Triathlon shoes typically have a pull loop or tab at the heel to assist in pulling the shoes onto wet feet during transitions.

  7. Lightweight Construction: To keep the shoes as light as possible for efficient pedaling and running, triathlon shoes are usually constructed from lightweight materials, such as synthetic leather or mesh.

  8. Sole Stiffness: Triathlon shoes have a moderately stiff sole to ensure efficient power transfer during cycling while still providing enough flexibility for running.

  9. Fit and Sizing: Like regular cycling shoes, triathlon shoes come in various sizes and widths to accommodate different foot shapes. It's essential to choose a size that provides a snug yet comfortable fit.

  10. Price Range: Triathlon shoes come in a range of price points, with higher-end models often featuring more advanced materials and closure systems.

When selecting triathlon shoes, it's important to consider your specific needs, budget, and the type of triathlon events you plan to participate in.Properly fitting, comfortable shoes can significantly impact your performance and comfort during a triathlon race.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best triathlon shoes on the market
  

PEARL IZUMI Men's Tri Fly Select V6 Cycling Shoe

PEARL IZUMI

Based on 210 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Men's Tri Fly SELECT v6 delivers a podium-worthy performance and the barefoot comfort of a Seamless Upper. Making this an exceptional all-around triathlon bike shoe.

  • 87% Rubber/13% Textile
  • Imported
  • Synthetic sole
  • 1:1 anatomic tri closure eliminates hot spots and removes pressure from your instep
  • Bonded Seamless Upper delivers all-day riding comfort and durability; SELECT insole provides excellent longitudinal and transverse arch support
  • SELECT 1:1 Composite Power Plate with carbon fiber forefoot insert provides lightweight stiffness and durability (stiffness rating 8)
  • Plate features Direct-Vent technology for cooling and drainage; 3-bolt road cleat & SPD compatible
  • EVA foam and rubber heel bumper gives stability and walking comfort

User questions & answers

Question: I am size EU42 narrow foot. Will a 43 be the right choice
Answer: You need to read the two sizes that are on the sidewalk of your tire. The first listed size is the size of the tire itself. Ie; 26" or in your case 29" the second size is how fat your tire is. Yours could read 1.95 or if it reads 2.30 then you need a tire that is 29x2.30 or the next size larger say 2.35 or 2.50
Question: I wear size 13 asics my foot is a bit wide what size would be best
Answer: My bike does not show millimeters. It's 26 inches.
Question: Are clear covers included
Answer: Yes it will it fits perfectly
Question: Will these work on a peloton home bike
Answer: Click on "Add to Cart" or the "Buy it Now" button at the top right of the page. Then follow the instructions to buy on a debit or credit card or a Paypal account.

Fizik Powerstrap R4 Unisex Adult Triathlon Shoes

Fizik

Based on 135 reviews Check latest price

Product description

T Ransiro Powerstrap R4 is a triathlon shoe with an extremely quick and intuitive to use, wrap, ideal for short distance races. For sprint triathlon sizes or short distance, where every second shaved in transition matters, we wanted to offer a shoe that could offer the fastest and intuitive locking system possible. Powerstrap is extremely quick to clip - simply slide into your shoe, pull and roll out of the transition without any problems. The strap is designed to pull an extended area of the shoe upper, so the fit is snug and secure, even with a relatively simple system. To facilitate the transition, the Powerstrap can be locked in an open position ready for the entrance of the foot quickly and easily, while the heel is equipped with a rubber loop to facilitate the setting of ready-made shoes attached to the pedals and pulling your feet easily and quickly. The upper of the shoe combines mesh - for superior ventilation - with Microtex to ensure adequate support of the foot at every pedal.

  • Knitted upper: engineered construction for enhanced ventilation and comfort
  • R1 full UD carbon outsole: ultimate stiffness and lightness tuned for max power transfer
  • Infinito: advanced volume control of the fore-foot area
  • Dynamic Arch Support: customized fit of the plantar arch
  • 2x BOA IP1-B dials

User questions & answers

Question: Are these comfortable wearing without socks
Answer: Yes all presta and Schrader valves have removable cores
Question: What does “we” mean next to size
Answer: I don't know sorry go for the middle that way you know whether you need a bigger or smaller it's at least somewhere to start
Question: Fizik lists this shoe as unisex. any woman with narrow feet out there tried it? i own the road fizik r5b donna (woman specific) thanks
Answer: no
Question: Why are they so expensive
Answer: No, thanks.

Triathlon Cycling Shoes for Outdoor Road Bike Racing or Indoor Training Peloton Spinning Class 3-Hole Cleat System Compatible

MiFeloo

  • Bonded seamless synthetic upper with ventilated mesh offers maximum breathablity, and anti-slip linning delivers utility and comfort
  • Imported
  • Lightweight fiberglass reinforced nylon provides optimal stiffness and durability, helps to maximize the power transfer for every pedal stroke. And air-flow vents gives more breathability sole
  • Washable and removable insole is made of soft EVA, perforated for comfort and quick drying
  • Intuitive, quick and secure strap closure removes pressure points from instep
  • Open tongue design provides ultra-ventilation for drying your feet quickly. and easy for riders to put on and take off during trasitions
  • Versatile cycling shoes is suitable for many occasions, such as triathlon racing, outdoor road biking, indoor spinning class, intense peloton training etc.
  • 3 hole cleat systems are compatible with major road pedal systems such as SPD-SL, LOOK-KEO etc.(CLEATS NOT INCLUDED)

Product features

Seamless Composite Upper

  • Clean and neat
  • Comfortable and reliable
  • Exceptional breathability

Open Tongue Desgin

  • Great ventilation
  • Quick drying after swimming
  • Can be worn with or without socks

Lightweight, Durable and Efficient

  • Extra reinforcement with lightweight fiberglass, enhance the rigidity of injected nylon outsole.
  • A stiff sole helps riders to maximize power transfer and promote efficiency of pedal strokes.

Gavin Triathlon/Road Mesh Cycling Shoes Mens Womens

Vilano

Based on 172 reviews Check latest price
  • Synthetic sole
  • Tongue free with heel loops, easy to pull on over wet feet!
  • Nylon fiberglass sole for efficient power transfer
  • Synthetic microfiber leather upper with breathable mesh
  • Micro adjustable straps for great fit, reflective heel cup for safety
  • Compatible with: Look, SPD, SPD-R & SPD-SL cleats (cleats and pedals sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: I have giro women’s tri shoes in 39. i am normally an 8 in sneakers and the shoes are a little too small. should i get a 39 or 40 in these
Answer: Around 7.6-7.7 oz.
Question: Do you need an adapter to use these? Or can you just insert spd cleat directly on it
Answer: I would use the 2.1-2.6. The tube won’t be stretched to the max when inflated.
Question: Can these be returned if they don’t fit
Answer: Amazon delivers our products, so if there is a problem with a damaged product, please contact them directly.
Question: Does it come with free cleats
Answer: They work for me I would go with 2.1-2.6 if they don't work you might need the smaller size but the company is great they will take care of you

Product features

SIZE CHART

Cycling shoes are meant to be snug, stiff and offer good support. They are designed to work with clipless pedal systems. These systems temporarily connect the shoe to the pedal (much like a ski binding system) for increased efficiency of power-transfer. They use a cleat installed on the bottom of each shoe and a matched fitting on the pedal. Cleats generally come with pedals and/or can be purchased separately for indoor cycling class.

Tongue free design

No tongue means:

  • Easy to get in and out of
  • Lack of seams over the top of your foot
  • Keep feet secure and rub-free
  • Aid performance and reduce chance of injury going into the run phase

Fast fit, great feel

Comfortable from the first mile to the last. Simple to adjust, quick drying... Gavin's triathlon bike shoes will make the transition to the cycling leg easy.

Compatible with SPD and LOOK

Versatile tri shoes are compatible with both two bolt and three bolt cleats (sold separately).

Lightweight

Every ounce matters on race day! Gavin PRO1 Tri Cycling Shoes are the perfect choice for training.

Tommaso Veloce 100 Triathlon Road Cycling Shoe

tommaso

Based on 285 reviews Check latest price
  • BEST PRICED TRIATHLON SHOE ON THE MARKET: Looking for a triathlon shoe that is lightweight, breathable, and comfortable? Check out the Tommaso Veloce Today!
  • COMFORT & VERSATILITY: Supple synthetic leather upper hugs foot for maximum comfort, while the open tongue design and mesh offer ultra-ventilation, perfect for drying your feet after the swimming portion of your race. This versatile design can be worn with or without socks.
  • QUALITY & PRECISION FIT: 100% Fit Guarantee, 100% Free Fit Returns, 2 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty. If unsure about your sizing, please match the CM sizing with whatever shoes you currently wear, as this will offer the best sizing options. If in between sizes, size down for optimal fit. Low profile hook and lock Velcro straps offer precision ergonomic fit, adding comfort and security to all of your rides.
  • INCREASE POWER: Get the most out of every pedals stroke with our fiberglass reinforced sole, which provides optimal stiffness and maximizes power transfer. This breakthrough technology allows users to ride longer and faster using less energy.
  • MAXIMUM COMPATIBILITY: the cleat area is compatible with SPD-SL, SPD, Look, and Speedplay cleats, offering the perfect platform no matter what pedals you ride.

User questions & answers

Question: Do I need to buy the cleats for these to work with a Peloton bike or do they come ready to use
Answer: Yes they should work for an E-Bike.
Question: Necesito una bota de horma ancha, esta bota es de ancho normal o extra
Answer: Sorry Paul, I gave the wrong info. The tube stem is 60mm and then it says this on the tube: Continental Race 28, 18/25-622/630, made in China, 07055194. I have some Continental Grand Prix 4-season tires sized 700X23 and these tubes work fine with that size of tire.
Question: Does SPDs fit
Answer: I put one of these on a mountain bike tire and it worked great.
Question: I wear a us 9.5, what size should I get? Thanks
Answer: Life Time

Product features

Get Out and Ride!

Tommaso bikes and our other products will help to get you out in beautiful places like this! Once you've purchased your Tommaso bike and found out how much you love to ride, getting a pair of cycling shoes will help heighten your experience!

Tommaso Veloce Shoes
Additional Shoe Features & Information

The Veloce is designed to fit all 3-bolt cleat systems, including Shimano SPD-SL, Look, and Speedplay. Perfect for triathletes.

Tiebao Outdoor Triathlon Road Bike Cycling or Indoor Spinning Class Riding Shoes Compatible with SPD, SPD-SL, Look-KEO Cleats for Men Women

Tiebao

Based on 50 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Size Chart

Please choose shoe size according to the shoe inner length. If you have wide feet, please choose a half or one size up.

US 4.5 =(Shoe inner) 233 mm = 9.17 inch = EU 36 = UK 3.5

US 5.5 =(Shoe inner) 240 mm = 9.44 inch = EU 37 = UK 4.5

US 6 =(Shoe inner) 247 mm = 9.72 inch = EU 38 = UK 5

US 7 =(Shoe inner) 253 mm = 9.96 inch = EU 39 = UK 6

US 7.5 =(Shoe inner) 260 mm = 10.23 inch = EU 40 = UK 6.5

US 8.5 =(Shoe inner) 267 mm = 10.51 inch = EU 41 = UK 7.5

US 9 =(Shoe inner) 273 mm = 10.74 inch = EU 42 = UK 8

US 10 =(Shoe inner) 280 mm = 11.02 inch = EU 43 = UK 9

US 11 =(Shoe inner) 287 mm = 11.29 inch = EU 44 = UK 10

US 11.5 =(Shoe inner) 293 mm = 11.53 inch = EU 45 = UK 10.5

US 12.5 =(Shoe inner) 300 mm = 11.81 inch = EU 46 = UK 11.5

US 13 =(Shoe inner) 307 mm = 12.08 inch = EU 47 = UK 12

  1. Classic Hook Loop Strap:
    • Quick closure, comfortable fit, reliable in inclement conditions.
    • Adjustable single hook and loop strap can be used easily and quickly to put on/take off the shoes, saving your time during the match.
  2. Ventilated Upper:
    • Mesh tongue keeps the instep fresh.
    • Combination of highly breathable mesh zone and air vent facilitates more ventilation.
    • Synthetic leather, great tension, strength and flexibility.
  3. Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Outsole:
    • Extra reinforcement with lightweight fiberglass, enhance the rigidity of injected nylon outsole, facilitate the energy transfer to your pedals.
  4. Road Smooth Outsole:
    • Further vented zones improves the breathability.
    • 3-bolt and 2-bolt cleat systems, compatible with major pedal systems on the market.

  • Synthetic microfiber leather with highly-breathable mesh, and anti-slip linning for comfort and utility.
  • Imported
  • Lightweight fiberglass reinforced nylon is rigid and maximize the power transfer, and Air-flow vents provides more breathability sole
  • Washable and removable insole is perforated for comfort and quick drying
  • Adjustable single hook and loop strap can be used easily and quickly, saving your time during the match
  • Strap holder on the upper will help to hold strap in place to keep the shoes open
  • A webbing on inner side of shoe or pull tab on heel of shoe can be used to elastic band the shoe to your bike. Holding the shoes in place, ready for you to place feet onto or straight into the shoes
  • 3-bolt and 2-bolt cleat systems are compatible with major pedal systems such as SPD,SPD-SL,LOOK-KEO etc.(CLEATS NOT INCLUDED)

User questions & answers

Question: Are these sizes listed for men or women
Answer: You have to select your size before you check out. They offer both 29” and 26”.
Question: Do the cleats come with
Answer: Yes, presta
Question: Are these compatible with soul cycle home bike
Answer: Yes presta
Question: Are they compatible with Look Delta cleats
Answer: Any decent air pump can accommodate both Presta and Schrader valves.

Santic Triathlon Cycling Shoes Road Cycling Shoe Men Triathlon Racing Bike Shoes

POWERICH COMPANY

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Imported
  • Upper Material:PU
  • Shoe Width:Medium(B,M)F
  • Triathlon Cycling Shoes : Full carbon outsole is lightweight and laterally stiff for ultimate power transfer.
  • Triathlon Racing Cycling Shoes: Intuitive, quick and secure closure comfortable breathable excellent drainage performance is best for Triathlon.
  • Triathlon Bike Shoes: Suitable for most look delta clip, and this triathlon cycling shoes can also be used as indoor cycling shoes, bike shoes for peloton , and cycling shoes

Product features

Santic Triathlon Cycling Shoes

ALTRA AFM1923G Men's Kayenta Road Running Shoe

ALTRA

Based on 330 reviews Check latest price
  • Imported
  • Outsole: FootPod technology sole
  • Ideal Uses: Road running, triathlon, speed workouts
  • Cushioning: Light
  • Stack Height: 23mm
  • Weight: 5.9 oz. / 167 g
  • Designed to Improve: Natural Foot Positioning, Toe Splay, Comfort, Stability

User questions & answers

Question: Are the insoles glued in to the shoe, or are they easy to swap out with an orthodic
Answer: Hello, obviously the dimensions are different but the tube will work for the 26x1.75-2.125.
Question: Is the whole outsole harder rubber or just the colored areas
Answer: Not sure the thickness. But I had a hard time installing it could be a user malfunction but who knows
Question: Can I use a coupon
Answer: Yes. You need to look at the tires on your bike. The size is printed on the side. If the size is within the sizes specified for these tubes, you're good. This is the standard size for adult bike tires in the USA.
Question: Can I return them after I’ve worn them
Answer: No. There is only one tube in the box.

Product features

About Altra

It started with a shoe in a toaster oven. Golden Harper, an elite runner and running store manager in Northern Utah began to notice the design of traditional running shoes was hurting customers more than helping them. He began experimenting on their shoes and used a toaster oven to peel back the midsole, carve out excessive heel height, and modify the shoe to a “Zero Drop” profile. Harper and industry research believed excessive heel height encouraged a high-impact heel strike. Once his customers fell in love with his Zero Drop modifications and saw they helped encourage a low-impact landing, he knew he had an innovative solution to a better run. A few years and awards later, Altra has evolved from the inside of a toaster oven to a Top 10 running specialty store brand. We are the only running shoe company to provide a complete line of footwear with a FootShape toe box and Zero Drop platform.

SIDI Shoes T-5 Air, Scape Cycling Men, Grey Yellow Black, 48

SIDI

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Technology: heel sidi to fit shoes quickly replaceable heel.

  • Upper:made of perforated politex
  • Sole: twelve carbon composite sole.

Triseven Premium Nylon Triathlon Cycling Shoes | Lightweight, Unisex & Fiberglass Sole [Black]

Based on 40 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The TRISEVEN Shoe offers the technology you need to take on the world of triathlon . The reinforced nylon outsole provides excellent rigidity and is combined with the insole for ventilation system that channels air from the front all the way through the back of the shoe, keeping your feet cool . A wide strap and the loop heel lets you easily pull the shoes on for a fast and efficient transition, and the velcro strap that enhances support without pressure points and is reversed to facilitate closure while on the bike. A Little loop for Gripping rubber on leveling the crank in transition area. - Cleats are compatible with SPD-SL and SPD, - Weight 285g - Synthetic Upper with breathable mesh underlays - Wide strap closure allow for a custom fit - Heel pull loop for easy transitions - Ventilated textile foot bed - Reflective elements 100% Money Back Guarantee

  • 🚲 SIZE MATTERS: [USA 6, EU 38] Please reference the size chart provided in the product images to be sure you select the correct size. If you have any doubt for which size you are, feel free to send us a message and we will respond within 24 hours with our suggestion.
  • 🚲 FULL COMPATIBILITY: The perfect Triathlon shoe for transitions. Compatible with SPD–SL and SPD.
  • 🚲 PREMIUM DESIGN: Our ultra lightweight (285g) carbon TriSeven Triathlon shoe is designed with your performance and comfort in mind. Made of cool synthetic, microfibre, nylon, breathable mesh and a carbon sole. The shoe has one tall heel loop for easy transitions AND one wide front strap with reflective elements for your safety!
  • 🚲 RIDE LIKE A PRO: Triseven is the official sponsor of the GVT BMC & Ceepo Triathlon Teams! Many professional riders and Ironman competitors use our Triathlon & MTB shoes for training and races.
  • 🚲 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: Absolutely LOVE our premium cycling shoes & gear even more than we love making it, or you'll get your money back with no questions asked!

User questions & answers

Question: La talla que se selecciona es en talla usa o en talla uk, pregunto porque solo se visualiza el numero adimensional
Answer: They are not...
Question: I wear size 12 in men’s running shoes. How does this compare at
Answer: It seems like it about 1.75 inches
Question: I wear a size 9 and I have a wide foot. Do these run wide, regular or narrow
Answer: 60 pounds
Question: Are these compatible with look keo cleates
Answer: Fit Range 1.9/1.95/2.10/2.125 inch

Louis Garneau, Men's Tri X-Speed III Triathlon Cycling Shoes for Racing and Indoor Biking, Compatible with Major Road and SPD Pedals

Louis Garneau

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Tri X-Speed III cycling shoes provide the technology you need to take on the world of triathlon. Set to get you through the bike section in total comfort with the same ergonomic design as our high-end models. Designed to help speed transitions with a special puller and an easy-to-adjust reversed hook and loop strap. A durable synthetic leather upper offers protection and prevents toe collapse. Equipped with our patented Ergo Air outsole made from reinforced nylon for stiffness and a multi-vent system to stop boost airflow. Inside the cup, the HRS-80 retention keeps the heel supported and firmly in place, while Power Zone technology increases arch support and power transfer.

  • TRIATHLON CYCLING SHOE: A cycling shoe built to take on the world of triathlon and get you through the bike section in total comfort, without pressure points to affect the run that follows
  • STANDARD FIT: Roomier, more comfortable fit for all-day riding; Easy to adjust, reversed hook and loop strap with a special puller to speed transitions; Size 42 weighs only 9.6 oz (272 g)
  • DESIGNED FOR POWER: The synthetic leather upper provides protection, durability and prevents toe collapse; Power Zone technology improves arch support and power transfer
  • BREATHABLE AND RIGID: Patented injected nylon/fiberglass outsole for extreme ventilation and stiffness; HRS-80 retention cup keeps the heel firmly in place while pedaling
  • COMPATIBLE: Fits all major road and SPD pedals; Cleats not included

User questions & answers

Question: If my daughter wears a 39 pearl izumi what size should i buy in these? thanks
Answer: Doubt it. Im 42 as well. Ordered a 44 and its a perfect fit. Very little or no allowance at all
Question: Is there a size guide
Answer: Go with a size larger, these shoes run small and are narrow
Question: Is sizing accurate, if I wear a 43 in other bike shoes will I need to go up or down or is 43 still good
Answer: no
Question: Works for women? if yes do you have them in 7.5 us size
Answer: Yes, just need to use the smaller Shimano SPD cleats unless the Peloton comes with the larger Look/Shinano style pedals. These shoes run small and are narrow, I had to get size larger, I normally wear a 44.5.

Fizik Men's Transiro Infinito R3 Triathlon Cycling Shoes - Black/White (Black/White

Fizik

Product description

The passion for design and performance behind fizik’s diverse product range for road, off-road and triathlon is expressed through the countless victories in the pro peloton, being the choice of the most inspiring athletes and winning many design awards. fizik is committed to providing the ultimate in saddle, shoe, bar-tape and component design - combining comfort and light weight with technology and innovation. Through physiological research, anatomic studies and advanced technological development, fizik has succeeded in creating that perfect combination. No matter whether you challenge yourself or other riders, or whether you’re a pro-rider or an amateur, if you’re searching for the most beautiful and best performing cycling gear, fizik is the answer.

  • Founded in 1996, fizik’s mission is to make the most sophisticated, inspiring and beautiful gear for the world’s most discerning cyclists.

User questions & answers

Question: Will these work with SPD pedals
Answer: They're worth the money. I have been cycling for over 10 yrs. This is the best shoe I have worn yet.

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