For sockless comfort and faster transitions, tri-bike shoes are a must. We assess seven of the best…
WORDS JACK SEXTY, MATT BAIRD IMAGES KADEN GARDENER
BUYER’S GUIDE
When it comes to bike shoes, triathletes have slightly different needs to cyclists who’re not planning to swim before or run after their ride. Most of us will be riding sockless, so drainage and quick-drying properties are important, and there’s an even greater need for a comfortable shoe lining.
Many triathletes attach shoes to the bike for mounting in T1 and remove the shoes while still on the bike in T2, so features such as heel tabs and closure systems that are easy to undo on the fly come into play. Straps were traditionally used to provide a simple tri shoe closure system, but dial systems are seen increasingly in various combinations nowadays, too.
If you’re just starting out and will be putting your shoes on before mounting the bike, road shoes might suffice; but tri shoes can also be used for training rides, and the extra breathability comes in handy for indoor riding.
TRANSITION LIKE A PRO
READY TO TAKE TRANSITION TO THE NEXT LEVEL? IT’S TIME TO LEARN THE FLYING MOUNT – THE METHOD OF HOPPING ONTO THE BIKE FAST IN T1 BY USING A LEADING LEG TO GET OVER AND ONTO THE BIKE.
1. Firstly, clip your shoes to the pedals and tie two elastic bands through the heel loops. Put the non-drivetrain side band over the rear quick-release or thru-axle, and the other over your front derailleur. Then open your shoes up wide to help slip your feet in easier.
2. Work out from which side you’ll want to mount. If you’re rightfooted, it’s likely you’ll lead with your right leg, which means mounting from the non-drivetrain side.
3. Now practise running with your bike, holding the saddle to steer, and then quickly grabbing the front bars as if you’re about to hop on.
4. With some momentum, move both hands up onto the base bars. Use the leg farthest from the bike to jump up, then swing your nearside leg around the back of the saddle so your bum lands straight on.
5. Don’t worry about your shoes until you’re on, then you can slide your feet in and tighten. If the bands haven’t already snapped, they will when you start pedalling... and you’re away!
MAVIC ULTIMATE TRI £385
mavic.com
Mavic’s top-of-the-range Ultimate Tri has a price tag befitting of its name, promising cutting-edge materials and super
