Weizilla

I'm looking to get new triathlon road shoes (current have MTB shoes) but I don't know if I should get them sized for wearing with socks or without socks. From what I've read, tri road shoes designed to be worn without socks but I'm worried that if I train without socks, they'll get all stinky and wear out faster. Then again, if I race without socks, I don't want to be training in something different and have the shoes fit weird during the race.

I'm planning on doing HIM and hopefully IM with the shoes. Probably these: https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-SH-TR3.../dp/B001I0MJVO

cwcaesar

At that distance, I would definitely wear socks, for training and for race. I have only done sprint distances so far, but I still wear socks. It is worth it to me to not have to put up with blisters. That being said, I don't have a tri specific shoe, only road bike shoes. I also refuse to run without socks, so I am going to lose the time in either T1 or T2, so I just put sock on right out of the pool. Also, my goal is just to not finish last. If I were competing for a podium position, I may value that time more.

In a sprint or oly distance, I have seen some that don't wear the socks. That is cool as it will help them save that 10-15 seconds. I just don't see being able to run a marathon (or even a half) without socks on. I just that that at the half and full distance you are going to be putting a lot of miles on your feet and you may want that extra layer of protection.

thehammerdog

I own road & tri shoes wear/not wear socks with each depending on the mood. The socks I do wear are very thin so the fit is not the issue for me.....good thin socks will help keep your feet comfy and shoes less stinky & not impact fit.

joshnc

Are you fast enough to win? didn't think so. I would wear socks then.

rpeterson

I train without socks all summer and when it's warm enough in the other seasons, I also race without socks at all distances including running races. Every pair of shoes I own has been fit with socks on though. Unless you wear thick wool socks year round it's not going to matter, and going sockless won't ruin your shoes any faster.

If you do want to race without socks make sure you're comfortable without them though, you don't want to be 5 miles out of T1 or 5 feet out of T2 and wishing you had socks on; do a few training days without, and if you can stand it then go without.

BartJ

I have the same shoes and love them. I train in socks all the time, but race without them and have never had a problem, not even the slightest hot spot.