Ironman

How do you train for running in a triathlon with out wearing socks?

I can bike with out socks. However, when I run I get blisters on the plantar surface and cuts on my heels. I have had a running store shoe fit. I don't have any problems when I wear socks. In my first triathlon T1 2min 30 sec, T2 1 min 30 sec and I would like to reduce this time

Public Comments

1. what's the big deal with wearing socks?? You should explain why NOT wearing them is so necessary, otherwise ppl aren't going to take time to answer you sincerely.
2. One answer is too simple. It goes against the grain of triathlon training and everything the shoe companies have brainwashed us to believe. Use less technology instead of more. Run barefoot.
3. I always run without socks. Even during training. Some shoes would give me blisters, but others wouldn't. Find a pair of shoes that won't blister your feet once you break them in, and train in those without socks. After you break a pair of shoes in and blister your feet a little with those new shoes, they will callus where they need to. The best way to reduce transition time is to practice them. Be out of your cycling shoes before you dismount. Have quick ties on your shoe stings. Put your hat, shirt, and/or number belt on while running. I am a firm believer in working on transition time. Think of how much work you put in to shave 20 seconds off your run or swim time.
4. 1/ If you want to go this way: use baby lotion, chamois cream, or some other lubricant. Practice on shorter runs or speed workouts. 2/ I often wear socks (dirty transition, longer races). On a good day: under 1:30 in T1 (I put the socks on then), under 0:45 in T2 even during long course races. "Roll" the socks: even with wet feet it does the trick. Practice. Good luck, Alex PS: The link points to a couple pages with a few tricks to shorten transition times.
5. Why not wear socks? I use them and find small cut socks take no time to put on. You can use lotions for your feet as already mentioned. I heard many try this successfully. You might need to order online but there are shoes made for triathletes. Yes, shoes for us and they are made to be put on without socks. All honesty if you are looking to cut time work on speed. Find where you are slow at and get some speed drills in. Good luck