Triathlons require specialized gear and equipment for the swimming, cycling and running stages of the race. For cycling, the basic gear list consists of a bike and helmet, but can include several additional pieces of equipment such as clipless pedals and cycling shoes. While wearing cycling shoes for a triathlon isn't required, the combination of clipless pedals and triathlon cycling shoes maximizes power transfer and speed potential.
Function
Triathlon bikes have specific frame designs, components and features to improve aerodynamics. Cycling shoes and clipless pedals allow you to pull on the upstroke as well as push on the downstroke during every pedal rotation, resulting in greater efficiency and higher speeds. You can still produce power and speed without cycling shoes, but the cycling shoes are essential if you want to become a successful triathlete.
Transitions
During a triathlon, athletes must transition quickly from swimming to biking and from biking to running. You may save time during these transitions if you're not wearing cycling shoes. However, elite triathletes execute quick and easy transitions by leaving their cycling shoes in the pedals and securing the shoe strap system after they have mounted the bike and started pedaling. The strap system includes a ratchet buckle system that tightens the strap around your foot.
Alternatives
If you don't want to purchase the clipless pedals and cycling shoes, you have several alternative pedal styles to increase your power transfer on the bike. For example, rubber toe clips or straps can be attached to your pedal system that allows you to slip your running shoes into the strap. These straps are lightweight and can be adjusted to fit tightly around your shoe. This allows a "pulling" motion on the upward movement of the pedal.
Beginners
For beginning triathletes, you can gradually incorporate cycling shoes and clipless pedals into your triathlon gear list and bike. Start with your normal pedal system with the straps and change to the clipless pedals and cycling shoes after you have completed a few short distance triathlons and begin to ride longer distances.
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