Hoka One One Carbon X

Using a very pronounced rocker in combination with a carbon plate embedded into Hoka’s special combination of foam, the Hoka One One Carbon X is meant to not only make the wearer faster, but more efficient. This race-day only shoe helps accelerate the foot from strike to toe-off and definitely works best when running at speed. Compared to other brands’ attempts at carbon-plated shoes, Hoka’s version is definitely created with triathletes in mind, as there is an appropriate amount of traction for wet aid stations, a thin mesh upper for ventilation and wet feet, and a pronounced heel tab for easy on in transition.

$180, Roadrunnersports.com