socks or no socks

Pulling socks over wet, sandy feet takes too long during a sprint race.  Get your feet wet and then try practicing some transitions to see for yourself.

I gave up wearing socks after my first sprint.  Most of the races I do are at the beach and I usually have a water bottle at T1 to give my feet a quick rinse to get the sand off before I put my bike shoes on.  I occasionally get small blisters during the run, but nothing that doesn't heal within a couple of days.  If you want to try to go sockless just make sure you do some training rides & runs without them before your race to get used to the feel.  For something longer than a sprint I might take the time to put some on at T2 before the run.

Mark

I rode sockless in all my races up to a HIM and I often train without them.  Running, for me, is a different story.  I would highly recommend running without socks a number of times.  The moisture from your feet and legs can produce some nasty friction inside your shoes and leave you with huge blisters.  Some people can get away with it and others can't.  I suspect that it largely has to do with the shape of your foot. 

Personally, I don't feel that I lose much time by sliding on socks in T2.  I am already running barefoot, have the socks rolled up and yankz on the shoes.  5-6 seconds at most...and that won't often make a difference in your race. 

Sockless! It's liberating.  Plus, it's what I like to call "free speed."

Be sure to wash your shoes regularly if you do go sockless, though.

~B

I wear socks on the bike and run.  I'm of the belief that the more comfortable I am, the better I perform.  Sure it probably means a little longer T1 time, but I'm not out there to win the whole thing. 

I spray my feet with an extra water bottle, and do a quick wipe down with a little towel.  It add's maybe 5-10 secs in the grand scheme of things.  Trust me, it's not my transition times that are holding me back from qualifying for Kona...

Oops.... Anyway... I don't use the washing machine, but the sink instead.  Every couple months, yank out the laces and inserts and give them all a good scrub down in some warm, slightly soapy water.  Shoes these days can stand up to the washing treatment just fine.  Besides, you might only wear them for 450 miles or so.  May as well have them lookin' spiffy while you do!

~B