socks are worn, they are normally trainer socks which are faster to put on. Not using socks can cause abrasion which might be painful. Triathletes often practice running the intended distance in the racing shoes without socks. On the long course races most athletes will wear socks, especially for the run, as the comfort provided is seen to outweigh the time lost. Also on long course events some athletes use long compression socks with the expectation that the socks will enhance endurance . Triathlon-specific transition equipment Triathlon, even more so than other multi-sport races, is distinctive because athletes must transition between the three disciplines (swimming, cycling, and running) while the clock is still running on the race. As a result, triathletes have come to rely on particular equipment (in addition to some of the equipment above) to either speed up the transition process, or make it a more comfortable one. Race number belts A race number belt is a simple, elastic belt with a plastic slide-in buckle. As its name suggests, athletes often attach race numbers to this belt, so they can quickly clip it on during the transition before the run. This method allows athletes to not wear the race number (also referred to as a "bib") until the last leg of the race, when it is needed for official purposes (Note: some races also require wearing the bib during the bike portion, in that case on the back. Please refer to specific race rules for your race). It also makes attachment fast and easy, and avoids the need to pin the bib though one's clothing. Rubber bands Especially in professional races, rubber bands are used to speed up the transition process by using them to suspend cycling shoes upright on a bike, while the shoes are already clipped in to the pedals. The athlete will then run with the bike out of the transition area, hop on the bike with the shoes already on it, and immediately start pedaling. The rubber bands will break on the first pedal stroke, and the athlete will then begin pedaling, riding with his or her feet on top of the shoes until the terrain is calm enough to put his or her feet into the shoes while still riding the bike. This low-tech method can save tens of seconds in the race. Talcum Powder Talcum powder is placed in both sets of