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Review: 8 Triathlon-Specific Running Shoes
Written by
Mackenzie Lobby
While plenty of triathletes sport traditional running footwear for training and racing, shoes designed specifically for triathletes can offer a big boost to your performance on race day. From special drainage systems to quick-lacing schemes, these tri-specific running shoes demonstrate the distinctive needs and wants of today's triathlete. Here are the eight models that we liked better than the rest.
Zoot Ali'i
$130
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A true lightweight neutral racer, the Ali'i is perfect for speedy triathletes. The upper on this model stands out, employing UltraFit and BareFit technology along with a Boa Closure System that gives you a sock-like fit for a quick transition.
Scott T2 Palani
$130
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Scott is a unique company in the triathlon market. Rather than getting their start in the running world as most companies do, they started in cycling. The T2 Palani manages to be well cushioned, lightweight, and responsive—making it one of the more versatile offerings of the bunch. Among the triathlon-specific features include a drainage system in the midsole to keep the shoe from retaining water and a heel pull loop to ensure quick entry in transition.
Asics Gel-Hyper Tri
$100
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For race day, it doesn't get any better than the Hyper Tri. This model includes all the things a triathlete could want, including elastic laces, seamless construction, Magic Sol drainage, and Asics's signature GEL cushioning designed for comfort over any distance.
Pearl Izumi EM Tri N2
$125
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Designed with enough cushioning for long-course triathletes, the N2 is both lightweight and breathable. A simple quick-lace pull system and a seamless upper provides sockless comfort without blistering. The Energy Foam midsole makes for great energy return, and the blown rubber outsole ensures durability.
Speedo FST
$115
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Relatively new to the running shoe market, the Speedo FST is on par with the best tri-specific running shoes available. One of the best lightweight options, this minimal amphibious model touts a light midsole that allows you to really feel the road. FluidFlow technology provides effective drainage of excess water, keeping them light and dry.
Newton Distance IV
$155
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The latest model of the Distance trainer, which launched in early 2015, trims a bit of upper weight from previous versions. Like Newton's most popular shoe among triathletes, the five-lug P.O.P. 1+ platform encourages proper form on the run. While this is a lighter weight trainer, it is often used for long course events because of it's top-notch cushioning.
Asics Gel-Noosa Tri 10
$140
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The Gel-Noosa Tri series, offering some of the best cushioning of the bunch, has proven to be a favorite among triathletes. The most notable highlights of this model are the optional elastic laces, heel and tongue grips for easy transitions, a perforated sockliner for drainage, and a WET GRIP Outsole for traction on wet surfaces. That's not to mention the Noosa's crazy color schemes, which make them fun to wear.
Zoot Del Mar
$140
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New for Spring 2015, the Del Mar is a neutral trainer. Since Zoot specializes in triathlon gear, their shoes include a number of triathlon features like a seamless internal fit to reduce the possibility of blistering when worn without socks. Additionally, a Z-Bound+ midsole and ZBR outsole ensure durability, shock absorption, and the responsiveness needed to be a well-rounded option.