Swimrun 101: The Best Swimrun Shoes for 2024

Welcome to episode 228 of the Löw Tide Böyz - A Swimrun Podcast!
We’ve got a new addition to our Swimrun 101 Series this week. In this episode we discuss the state of the Swimrun shoe in 2024, share our thoughts in choosing the right Swimrun shoe for your next race, and give our rankings on the current shoes that are out there.
Note, you can watch this episode on RUclips.
First, The State of the Swimrun Shoe in 2024
Lots of great options…probably starting with what you already have
While most trail run shoes will work, there are some specific features that make a shoe better or worse for Swimrun that we will be discussing later
We wish there were more specific Swimrun shoes but here we are.
Second, Things to Consider for Choosing a Shoe For your next Swimrun
Start with a trail shoe since most swimruns take place on trails so you’ll want something with lugs on the sole
Look for uppers that will drain well
Do the bucket test
Bonus tip: Pair your shoe with thin/moisture wicking socks to prevent blisters/chaffing/hot spots/etc. We like Swiftwick & CEP
Next, it’s time for some shoe show and tell
Some of the shoes that we’ve used or will be using
VJ Maxx Ultra 2
Hoka Tecton X
Hoka Speedgoat
Hoka Zinal
Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC (The only actual Swimrun Shoe on the list)
Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra (no longer in production) (LTBz shoe of the year for 2022 and 2023)
Brand spanking new Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra (with a carbon plate)
Finally, our rankings on the best Swimrun shoes available for 2024 (so far)
Long Races: Hoka Tecton X, VJ Maxx 2
Technical Terrain: Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra, VJs
Overall Winner: Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra
Enjoy!
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That’s it for this week’s show.
If you are enjoying the Löw Tide Böyz, be sure to subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast player and leave us a five-star rating and review since that’s the best way for people to discover the show and the sport of Swimrun. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, and on RUclips. Check out our website for Swimrun resources including gear guides, tips, how-to videos and so much more. Also make sure to check out our meme page @thelowtideboyz on Instagram. If you have any suggestions for the show or questions for us, send us a dm or an email at [e-mail]. Finally, you can support our efforts on Patreon…if you feel so inclined.
Thanks for listening and see you out there!
- Chip and Chris

[@SpeedyLizard]

Good stuff fellas

[@MatthieuERNOUT]

Thanks guys ! Definitely need to try the VJ at some point. Thanks also for the good Instagram plan for the Terrex I bought a new pair ;-). I love my french made 🙂 Millet Intense trail running shoes and will certainly try them for NC.

[@tommyadams1640]

Solid seo play.🎉

[@HerbertKrabel]

Another thought here. Wool socks also work great. I for one use Farm 2 Feet ones.
Also I recommend a bucket big enough to actually stand in with shoes and socks and then go running. Or find a creek along the way

[@lowtideboyz]

Good tips on both accounts! Stand in a creek then take off running and see how it feels. Perfect swimrun simulation.

[@shanadagnysiap]

are there any wide toe box swim run shoe recommendations?

[@lowtideboyz]

The best place to start would be with the trail shoes that work for you. Altras have wider toe box and you might check out wide versions of shoes.

[@shanadagnysiap]

Any specific altras that are good in the water while that drain well when coming out?

[@lowtideboyz]

@@shanadagnysiap Most of the Altras seem to be pretty safe from a swimrun pov.