11 Best Triathlon Running Shoes Reviewed & Compared

Comfort / Stability
The Solana ACR (All Conditions Running) features a number of technologies to create optimal comfort and stability. Let’s discuss them. With an 8mm drop, the Solana is good for both midrange runs and “I’m going to be out here a while” runs. The sole is improved with extra traction created by injected ZVA – good for off-road running. With a specially designed upper, the Solana will keep you dry in wet weather conditions. With full-foot impact protection and wet road gripping lugs, athletes will find a stable run on all road conditions. Zoot’s premium fit system – BareFit – provides a seamless internal fit for a comfortable session. The outer upper is made from a weather-resistant treated material with closed-cell mesh to battle the wicked winter elements. To lock your heel in place, the Solana ACR has a 3D molded heel counter for ease of comfort. Lastly, for a smooth and even run, the Solana features constant ground contact.

Durability / Quality
The Solana ACR is made of Zoot Carbon Rubber for extended wear and long-lasting durability. Overall, the shoe is built for many miles.

Cost or value
With a moderate price tag, the Zoot Solana ACR is well worth the cost. You might even find a great deal on Amazon!

Comfort / Stability
The shock absorbing GEL system is used in the rear and forefoot areas. The midsole is made of ASICS’ Solyte foam, which delivers responsive cushioning, while cutting down on weight. Additionally, the Dynamic DouMax system in the midsole also help slow the rate of pronation, making these an ideal choice for those who tend to over-pronate.

These are packed with a bunch more features such as their I.G.S or Impact Guidance System which enhances the foots natural gait.

The flexible DuraSponge Outsole, made from a blown abrasion resistant rubber, also adds some extra cushioning. For additional durability, AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) covers the high wear area under the heel. Finally, the WET GRIP tread design allows the Noosa to function well over multiple surfaces in different climate condidtions.

Durability / Quality
This company consistently puts out quality products that perform exactly how they are intended making them a reliable.

Cost or value
They are a reasonably affordable choice almost every time. The GEL-Noosa Tri 11 is no exception, and a great option for your next triathlon.

Comfort / Stability
The Nimbus 19 proves to be a great choice for triathlon athletes because of its well-structured technology. The shaft measures as low-top from the arch for a wide range of movement. The midsole features FlyteFoam technology and Fluid Ride which provides the perfect combination of response and cushioning with a reduction in weight and exceptional durability. The Gel Cushioning Systems are located in the rearfoot and forefoot absorbs shock during strike and liftoff and allows movement on multiple planes of the foot as it transitions through the gate cycle. The Heel Clutching System Technology has an exoskeletal heel counter which provides improved support and a heel fitting environment. Lastly, the Fluid Fit upper technology combines multidirectional stretch mesh with stretch reinforcements that expand and contract to fit a runner’s foot like a glove.

Durability / Quality
The Nimbus 19 is made from Asics’ best quality materials. The shoes will stay prominently clean when running on trails and dirty terrains. After 100 miles they will feel as though you are pulling them out of the box for the first time.

Cost or value
Depending on where you buy the Nimbus 19 the price tag may be higher, but great deals are always available on Amazon.

Comfort / Stability
The upper has been enhanced with a more adaptive design, removing the amount of overlays that the previous version utilized. The heel of the first version seemed to be slightly stiff and restrictive, not moving properly with the user’s foot. This has also been corrected in the Hyper Tri 2. Also, the new seamless upper construction has improved breathability all around, including with the perforated sockliner. Additionally, these come with elastic laces, which is ideal for quick on/off transitions.

Moving down to the Magic Sole ventilated midsole, we find a fair amount of comfort, while retaining decent response and ground control. The Gel cushioning system is used under the heel to provide great shock absorption and impact recovery.

Durability / Quality
The outsole is completely different on this version, using their newest technologies in its design. The DuraSponge blown rubber outsole has been reinforced with ASICS’ high abrasion AHAR rubber compound in high wear areas such as the heel and forefoot, for greater durability and traction. Furthermore, the overall flexibility is enhanced even more by a flex groove which runs almost the length of the shoe.

Although these are number five on this list, this is a guide of the ten best shoes for triathlons. that means that these are among the best options out there, in terms of function, comfort and performance. These are worth considering.

Cost or Value
The price of this running shoe varies from average to expensive in cost.

Comfort / Stability
Now coming in an unique tongue-less approach for a fastest wear than ever before, without reducing comfort. The wrap closure style assures an even faster wear to reduce important seconds, increase security and adjust the fit to every foot. The arch support is equipped with an ErgoLogic insole for top-class sustain. For breathability, the SCOTT Tri Carbon offers a 3D Nylon Airmesh Upper, combined with advanced Microfiber for the ultimate lightweight feature.

Durability / Quality
The outsole is covered with HMX Carbon, giving a flawless grip and providing superior peddling power and endurance. The RacingFit technology provides a slimmer fit that adjusts to the feet, which is enhanced by the synthetic leather WrapFit that provides greater comfort. Lastly, a PowerZone outsole was developed by scientists to provide an axial zone around the heel and a power zone that distributes impulse and energy through the rest of the outsole

Cost or value
These can be quite pricey, but they come equipped with so many benefits that make it well worth every penny.

Comfort / Stability
This is a highly comfortable and stable triathlon running shoe that has 6 water drainage ports making it easy to run in all types of terrain. It has a roomy toe box, its Meta Flex technology provides flexibility, and its Quick release lacing system allows you to slide them on your feet quickly. It is very lightweight and highly breathable.

Durability / Quality
There were very few complaints about the durability and quality of this running shoe it should last a long time.

Cost or value
The price of this running shoe is quite expensive, but well worth your money.

Comfort / Stability
The TekSheen upper material is designed to be adaptive and very stretchable, giving the wearer a foot hugging fit. Instead of traditional laces, these are secured by what they cal their BOA system. It is basically a thin cable that tightened or loosened by a dial located on the front. Also, instead of holes or loops, the lacing cable goes directly through the overlay straps. This method allows a more custom and snug fit after adjusted.

Durability / Quality
The Z-Bound midsole foam that is used is pretty responsive and extremely light. You’ll also find Zoot’s CarbonSpan+ in the midsole, which is basically a carbon fiber insert that provides a bit more torsional stability.

The combination of blown rubber and their ZPU patterned lug design allows the outsole to perform well over various surfaces. Finally, also have a few drainage ports located under the forefoot for water release.

These have a really unique design that actually seems to work quite well. With these you can comfortably get through your run and turn some heads, both at the same time!

Cost or Value
These running shoes can be a bit on the expensive side, but most runners agree they are well worth the price.

Comfort / Stability
As for the mechanics of the Gel-Kayano 24, the shoe contains IGS (Impact Guidance System) technology to enhance the natural gait of the foot from heel to toe; FlyteFoam midsole technology for more response and less packing of materials; Fluidride midsole cushioning which combines support, weightlessness, and durability; Fluidfit upper mesh that stretches in multiple directions for a seamless, glove-like fit; exoskeletal heel counter that hugs the heel and holds it in place for stability; rearfoot and forefoot cushioning for impact-absorption on strike and lift-off; Dynamic Duomax support system added support and stability, vertical flex grooves for enhanced gait efficiency; Ortholite X-40 Sockliner provides moisture management and high-level breathability.

Durability / Quality
Nearly all reviews of the Gel-Kayano 24 praise the durability of the shoe.

Cost or value
With a moderate price tag ($160 on Amazon), the shoe is worth the cost.

Comfort / Stability
This racer features a tighter-tuned trampoline lug membrane for greater stability, responsiveness, and power. The Newtonium foam cushioning system provides increased comfort by placing the cushioning closer to the foot. The full flex zone allows natural splay of the foot. As for the upper, the lightweight mesh is breathable and flexible. The seamless upper gives increased ventilation and improved conformity. In the midsole, the Distance VI contains Action/Reaction technology, a biomechanical metatarsal sensor plate, enhanced medial midsole platform, high-rebound EVA, s.h.a.r.c. in the forefoot, and a high abrasion rubber outsole wedge on the lateral heel.

Durability / Quality
The Distance VI is made of high-quality materials. Runners purchase the Distance VI time and time again while it lasts for hundreds of miles.

Cost or Value
While the Distance VI has a higher price tag ($140-$270), the shoe is well worth the cost with its comfort and durability.

Comfort / Stability
The construction of the upper is a seamless one. This growing trend allows a significantly reduced chance of blister causing irritations on the interior of the shoe. The nearly transparent Transfer Dry spacer mesh does an outstanding job of keeping the feet cool with plenty of airflow. Also, instead of traditional laces, the quick lacing system allows fast cinching adjustment for a perfect fit, or for quick removal.

These are an ideal choice for those summer events due the their high breathability. In all, there several option in this guide that offer fancier technologies and newer gadgets, but these are more than suitable for a fast tempo, high endurance race like a triathlon.

The 1:1 energy foam midsole gives the proper amount of responsive cushioning, while also providing decent energy return. Combine that with the shoe’s 1:1 shock absorption foam, the impact felt during each heel strike is greatly reduced. Furthermore, the offset shape of the midsole allows the user to run with a more free and responsive ride through each gait cycle.

Durability / Quality
Improvements over the previous version were subtle, but effective. The blown rubber outsole provides quite a bit of flexibility and traction. There is also what they call a Flow Line Element that follows the runner’s cycle, applying increased grip on various road surfaces.

Cost or value
The price of these running shoes varies from average to expensive in price.