What Is Cycling Shoes?
Cycling shoes are shoes purpose-built for cycling. Cycling shoes are specialized footwear designed for cycling activities. They are constructed with unique features that cater to the specific demands of cycling, enhancing both the rider’s performance and comfort.
Many cycling shoes are equipped with a clipless mechanism or lock system in the sole that allows them to securely attach to compatible clipless pedals. This creates a stable connection between the rider’s foot and the pedal, enabling efficient power transfer during pedaling.
Cycling shoes have stiff soles made of materials like carbon fiber or nylon. This rigidity helps to effectively transmit pedaling force, minimizing energy loss and enhancing cycling efficiency.
The upper part of cycling shoes is designed to provide support and protection to the rider’s feet. It often features reinforced materials and a snug fit to ensure stability and prevent the foot from sliding inside the shoe.To keep the rider’s feet cool and comfortable during long rides, cycling shoes may incorporate ventilation features such as mesh panels or perforated materials.Cycling shoes typically have a secure closure system, such as laces, Velcro straps, or Boa dial systems, to ensure a tight and customizable fit.Cycling shoes are available in different styles to accommodate various cycling disciplines, including road cycling, mountain biking, and cyclocross. Each style may have specific features and construction to suit the demands of the respective cycling activity.
How To Choose The Right Cycling Shoes For You?
Many beginners who just started riding don’t think about buying cycling shoes, but as long as you like and decide to ride professionally and start a long-term cycling career, a pair of professional cycling shoes is really necessary, and it is especially recommended for beginners to buy them in the early stage.
Is it necessary to buy cycling shoes? What are the inherent advantages of locking shoes? And what are locking pedals, cleats, and BOA knobs? Under what circumstances should you choose locking/non-locking?
Identify Your Cycling Type:
Choose lightweight, breathable cycling shoes with stiff soles to efficiently transfer power.Opt for shoes with grip, durability, and some sole flexibility to navigate varied terrain.Prioritize comfort, breathability, and ease of wearing and removing.
Measure Your Foot and Size:
Use professional foot measurement tools or visit a specialty store for accurate sizing.Be aware that sizing may vary between brands and models; try them on if possible.
Consider Sole Material and Stiffness:
Road cycling shoes typically have hard soles made of carbon fiber or nylon for efficient pedaling.Mountain biking shoes may have softer soles but require good grip and abrasion resistance.
Evaluate Breathability and Water Resistance:
Choose shoes with appropriate breathability or water resistance based on your riding environment and season.Prioritize breathability for summer or hot climates; water resistance for rainy or wet conditions.
Select the Right Closure System:
Choose from lace-up, Velcro, or BOA closure systems based on personal preference and riding needs.BOA systems offer convenient adjustment and a secure fit, ideal for long rides; Velcro is quick for short commutes.
Consider Brand and Value:
Choose reputable brands for quality assurance.Find a balance between your budget and desired features without necessarily opting for the highest-end brands.
Cycling Shoes Material
Cycling shoes are composed of various materials that contribute to their performance, comfort, and durability. The key materials used in cycling shoes include:
1. Outsole Materials
The outsole of cycling shoes plays a crucial role in power transfer and durability. Common outsole materials include:
- Nylon: Nylon outsoles are durable and rigid, making them suitable for entry-level cycling shoes. They are often more affordable and ideal for daily rides or non-competitive events.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber outsoles are a hallmark of top-tier cycling shoes. They offer exceptional stiffness, lightweight properties, and strength, enabling efficient power transfer and reducing energy loss during pedaling. However, they are also more expensive.
- Nylon-Carbon Fiber Composite: This material combines the benefits of nylon and carbon fiber, providing good durability and rigidity while being more cost-effective. It is commonly used in mid-range cycling shoes.
- Rubber: Some cycling shoes, particularly mountain bike shoes, feature rubber outsoles for enhanced grip and traction on varied terrain. Rubber outsoles are also more flexible but less stiff.
2. Upper Materials
The upper part of cycling shoes is equally important for comfort and durability. Common upper materials include:
- Synthetic Fibers: Synthetic fiber uppers are lightweight, breathable, and somewhat durable, making them suitable for long rides or warm weather conditions.
- Leather: Leather uppers offer a premium feel and excellent durability but are heavier and less breathable. High-end cycling shoes may use premium leather for better fit and support.
- Mesh: Mesh uppers provide exceptional breathability, making them ideal for hot weather or intense rides. They are lightweight and flexible, enhancing overall comfort.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): TPU is used in high-wear areas of cycling shoes to enhance durability and resistance to tearing.
- Carbon Fiber: Some high-end cycling shoes incorporate carbon fiber in the upper for added stiffness and weight reduction.
3. Additional Components
Cycling shoes may also feature additional components to enhance comfort and safety:
Locking Systems: Cycling shoes designed for use with clipless pedals (often called “clipless” or “lock” shoes) feature various locking systems such as ratcheting buckles, cleats, or Velcro straps to ensure a secure and stable fit during rides. These locking systems are made of materials like metal, plastic, or elastic fibers.
Insoles: Cycling-specific insoles are often made of high-rebound, breathable materials and may include arch support for personalized comfort.
Reflective Elements: Some cycling shoes include reflective strips or panels on the upper or heel to improve visibility during night rides and enhance safety.
Considerations for Purchasing Cycling Shoes
Different types of cycling require different types of shoes. For example, road cycling shoes have a stiffer sole for better power transfer, while mountain biking shoes have a more flexible sole for better grip and traction.
Cycling shoes should fit snugly to provide good support and prevent your feet from sliding around inside the shoe. Make sure to measure your feet and try on different sizes and brands to find the best fit.Depending on your needs, you may want to look for shoes with specific features such as cleat compatibility, ventilation, or water resistance.It’s important to try on cycling shoes with the socks you will be wearing while cycling to ensure a proper fit.Cycling shoes can range from very affordable to quite expensive. Determine your budget and look for shoes that fit within that range.Before making a purchase, read reviews from other cyclists to get an idea of the quality and performance of the shoes you are considering.
Cycling Shoe Types
1. Clipless Cycling Shoes (Lock Shoes)
Clipless cycling shoes are designed to be used with clipless pedals. They feature a cleat and a locking mechanism that securely attaches the shoe to the pedal, enhancing cycling efficiency and safety.
The locking mechanism prevents the foot from slipping during rides.Riders can focus on increasing speed without worrying about foot slippage.In emergency situations, unlocking takes about 10 seconds, making them more suitable for use on well-maintained roads.
Clipless cycling shoes are further classified into road bike lock shoes and mountain bike lock shoes, differing in their cleat and shoe design to suit various cycling needs and terrain.
A type of shoe worn for road cycling, which is currently the most common style. The biggest difference between road cycling shoes and mountain bike shoes is the pedals. The soles of road cycling shoes generally have three holes, and the toes of the shoes will be raised when the feet land on the ground. The shape is smooth and more professional. It is very uncomfortable to walk on and is not suitable for daily city wear.
The sole is as rough as the tire of a mountain bike. The sole usually has four holes and is suitable for mountain bike pedals. The surrounding is mostly made of rubber. The sole is generally soft, the toe will not curl up, and it is more comfortable to walk on the flat sole. However, pedaling on the soft sole will consume physical strength, so it is not recommended to wear it when riding a road bike.
2. Non-Clipless Cycling Shoes (Non-Lock Shoes)
Non-clipless cycling shoes resemble regular athletic shoes but with added features for better fit and foot support during cycling.
They offer a more comfortable fit, ideal for short trips or leisure cycling.Riders can stop anytime without concerns about unlocking.Suitable for a wide range of cycling scenarios and road conditions.
Cycling shoes can be equipped with cleats of different brands, but cleats and pedals must be of the same brand. So just buy pedals of the corresponding brand for the cleats of the brand you buy. In addition, cleats and pedals of the same brand are also divided into grades, but they can be used interchangeably.
According to the “adjustable degree of cleats”, they can be divided into 0 degrees, 2 degrees, 6 degrees, and 9 degrees:
3. Leisure Cycling Shoes / Touring Shoes
Designed specifically for leisure cycling or bike touring, these shoes prioritize comfort and lightweight construction.
Made with lightweight materials and breathable design for long-ride comfort. The shoe bottom is designed for excellent grip, ensuring stable cycling. Fashionable designs suitable for daily wear and cycling.
4. Mountain Bike Leisure Shoes
Mountain bike leisure shoes combine the functionality of mountain bike shoes with the comfort of leisure cycling shoes.
The shoe bottom is stiffer, suitable for mountain biking, enhancing climbing and pedaling efficiency.Balances stiffness with comfort for enjoyable rides.Suitable for most riders and various cycling routes.
5. Road Cycling Shoes
Designed specifically for road cycling, these shoes focus on enhancing cycling efficiency and speed.
Made with lightweight materials and structures to reduce shoe weight and increase cycling speed. Provides a stiff platform for efficient power transfer to the pedals. Features a professional design suitable for road cycling competitions and training.
6. Other Cycling Shoe Types
Depending on specific cycling needs and scenarios, there are also downhill shoes, city commuting cycling shoes, and more. These cycling shoes are designed with the rider’s practical needs and cycling environment in mind.
What Brand Of Cycling Shoes Is Good?
Beginner Level
1. Shimano
- Models: SH-RP1, SH-RP2
- Affordable, durable, and compatible with both SPD and SPD-SL cleats. They offer a comfortable fit and good ventilation.
2. Giro
- Models: Treble II, Techne
- Known for their stylish design and comfort. They often come with versatile cleat compatibility (both two- and three-bolt systems).
3. Pearl Izumi
- Models: Quest Road, All-Road v5
- Known for their comfort and durability. They offer good ventilation and a secure fit.
4. Fizik
- Models: R5 Tempo, Tempo Powerstrap R5
- Known for their quality materials and comfortable fit. They provide a good balance of stiffness and comfort for beginners.
5. Louis Garneau
- Models: Multi Air Flex, Urban Cycling Shoes
- Offer excellent ventilation and comfort. They are also versatile, being suitable for both commuting and casual riding.
Advanced
1. Sidi
- An Italian brand renowned for high-performance cycling footwear, Sidi is known for its quality, durability, and advanced features.
- Popular Models: Sidi Wire 2 Carbon, Sidi Shot, Sidi Genius 10.
- Adjustable heel retention devices, high-quality carbon soles, and innovative closure systems.
2. Giro
- Giro combines style and performance, producing shoes that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Popular Models: Giro Empire SLX, Giro Imperial.
- Lightweight construction, breathable materials, and lace-up or Boa dial closures.
3. Shimano
- Shimano is a leading name in cycling components and accessories, including high-quality cycling shoes.
- Popular Models: Shimano S-Phyre RC9, Shimano RC7.
- Dynalast technology for optimized pedaling efficiency, Boa dial closures, and carbon composite soles.
4. Fizik
- Fizik is known for its innovative designs and high-quality materials, producing shoes that cater to both performance and comfort.
- Popular Models: Fizik Infinito R1, Fizik Tempo Overcurve R5.
- Microtex upper for breathability, Boa dial closures, and R1 full carbon outsoles.
5. Lake
- Lake is a premium brand known for its attention to detail and custom fitting options.
- Popular Models: Lake CX403, Lake CX332.
- Heat-moldable carbon fiber heel counters, Boa dial closures, and kangaroo leather uppers.
