Cycling shoes: types and tips for choosing

Cycling can help you stay fit. However, it is important to choose comfortable cycling shoes for a comfortable ride. For more information on how to choose comfortable and beautiful cycling boots, see this article.

Special footwear appeared at the beginning of the 20th century. Initially, it was used only by professional athletes. Cycling shoes created the most comfortable feeling and safety while riding. Later, such an attribute began to appear in ordinary stores, due to which he became popular among cyclists.

Cycling shoes share some of the features described below.

• The sole should be studded, which is necessary to ensure good contact of the foot with the surface of the pedals.
• Also, the sole should be firm, not bendable, firmly fixing the foot.
• There must be a special hard back that fixes the leg well.
• Relatively low weight.
• Cycling shoes are made from durable materials with a long durability. The outsole is made of solid materials that do not deform or stretch. There is also a special silicone under the insole that uses carbon fibers or light metals.

All manufacturers produce models with different types of fasteners.

This is the most affordable option with ease of use and low cost. Velcro can be used as the main type of fastening, and be an addition to the lacing.

This is a sturdy type of fastening that does not come loose or unfasten. Moreover, when using this type of fastening, there is no redistribution of the load. However, it is not very durable, so if damaged, it will have to be replaced.

This is a classic type of fastening. The laces are made from a variety of materials. They are versatile and can be easily replaced if damaged. To ensure maximum hold, they are supplemented with Velcro and other elements.

All shoes are made according to the same principle: they must have a firm sole and a heel with good fixation. There are only two types of sole cover: contact and contactless. The foot can be secured using velcro, ribbons, laces or several types of fastening at once.

There are currently 3 types of cycling shoes on the market.

These cycling shoes are lightweight and ventilated. The sole of these models is quite durable and does not bend, but it is not equipped with spikes. The shoe has increased cruelty, due to which a greater force of pressing the pedals is achieved. These shoes cannot be used for hiking as they do not bend and the foot will tire quickly. The soles of expensive models include special carbon fibers.

This type of shoe has a soft and relatively flexible outsole when compared to road cycling shoes. This is to ensure good grip on the ground. Thanks to the grooved sole with treads, some sections of the road can be walked on. Moreover, the spikes are located inside the sole to facilitate walking.

This type is best suited for city bikes and hybrid models. Moreover, it is often used for tourist travel. To ride with these shoes, you need special pedals.

Boots for walking around the city must combine the qualities of both professional cycling shoes and regular sneakers. The outsole has the same structure as the mountain riding models. This makes it possible to use this shoe for hiking. What's more, the city options are compatible with different types of pedals. This is due to the fact that the sole can be supplemented with spikes, which are sold with the shoe.

There are several types of mounts.

Shimano Pedaling Dynamics is a two-hole system. It is the most common option due to its simplicity and ease of use.

This system implies the presence of three holes in the outsole. This cycling shoe is most commonly used by professional athletes who use toe clips on their bicycles. Look-system provides a secure fit and minimal loss when driving.

This company is a leader among bicycle shoe manufacturers. All models are thoroughly tested. Moreover, the company employs many scientists who are constantly developing new models. The Sidi brand supplies footwear to the official sports organizers. They make shoes for toe clips and regular pedals.

The company provides quality products at affordable prices.

Polaris manufactures special insulated overshoes that can be worn over cycling shoes in cold weather.

This brand is well known among non-professional cycling enthusiasts. According to buyers, the company produces good products at a relatively low price.

The Italian company began its work in the 90s of the twentieth century. Their products are very popular with snowboarders. However, they make good cycling shoes that can be complemented with a variety of accessories.

The French company is known all over the world. The models are of high quality and rigidity.Models are designed in Europe and manufactured in Asia.

The American manufacturer began in the 90s and specialized in the manufacture of climbing shoes. The company's products are still in demand today. They make good mountain and XC models for hobbyists.

To be as comfortable as possible, it's important to get the right size. Better to rely on first impressions, since models with a rigid sole and last will not spread and will not become softer.

The toes should not rest, and the foot should rest snugly on the insole. If one shoe size is tight, and the next one seems large, then it is worth considering models in intermediate sizes. It should also be remembered that American and European sizes may differ from Russian ones.

Universal bike models are MTB and Road types. They provide for the use of road and MTB studs.

Moreover, when choosing boots, you need to consider the purpose of the trip. Hiking shoes are good for casual walks. For sports trips, special professional footwear is required.

It is also important to choose an accessory according to the season. For summer, sneakers and shoes made of lightweight and breathable fabric are better suited, and for the winter period, models with insulation are needed.

All manufacturers produce women's and men's series. However, sometimes there are also unisex options. Experts recommend giving your preference separate collections, since the female foot differs from the male in fullness and other characteristics, which is not always taken into account in unisex models.

Cycling shoes are in demand in the modern market. As a rule, it is presented in the premium and medium segment, which is due to the special structure and the use of new materials.

For a comparison of expensive and cheap cycling shoes, see the following video.