Sidi T3.6 Speedplay Air Carbon Shoes - Mens SID005C White/Silver

Fans of Speedplay cleats are probably bummed out about being left out of the easy-compatibility party, but they'll be psyched to wear Sidi's T3.6 Speedplay Air Carbon Men's Shoe, which works with Speedplay cleats without the need for extra plates or adapters.

The T3.6 isn't some Franken-monster that's been cobbled together from spare parts just to please Speedplay loyalists. It's built on an SP Carbon sole, which provides the serious stiffness you need if you're racing for the podium and placing power above easily walkability and smooth flex. Carbon's stiffness and the direct Speedplay compatibility help keep the shoe's stack height to a minimum for increased efficiency and improved ergonomics, and the 6mm of fore-aft adjustability help you dial in the perfect setup for long-distance riding.

Triathlon plays by its own set of rules, so regular cycling shoes don't always cut it. Complicated closures and unnecessary gadgets just slow you down in T1, so Sidi dialed in an overlapping burrito-wrap upper, opposing hook-and-loop straps, and a heel pull tab that let you easily don the T3.6 when the shoes are already clipped in to your bike. Once you have the fit all set, you can just leave the toe strap closed for easier transitions and use only the instep strap, which opens away from the drivetrain for easier adjustment. Each strap also has gripper tabs for easier operation with wet hands.

Last but not least, the upper is made of quick-drying synthetic and mesh and outfitted with laser-cut perforations to help drain water and increase breathability. A heel counter prevents your heel from slipping and developing blisters on hard up-strokes, and a nearly seamless inner lining decreases chafing and discomfort when you're riding without socks.