What To Look For
Many cyclists tout the benefits of cycling shoes. Two companies often outshine the competitors: Sidi and Shimano. Bicycling Reviews, a free online resource for cyclists, ranks Sidi and Shimano above other road shoe manufacturers. Sidi shoes originate in Italy; Shimano began in Japan. Both manufacturers offer a selection of shoes designed to meet various needs. Cycling shoes differ, depending on intended use. Shoes designed for comfort while walking often fall under entry-level shoes. Mountain bikers and road cyclists use shoes designed for stiffness. Racers use shoes with lightweight exotic plastic, such as carbon fiber, soles to conserve weight.
Common Pitfalls
Many cyclists believe cycling shoes are a necessary addition for comfort and ride quality. Rivendell Bicycle Works, an online resource for cycling comfort, suggests most cyclists, barring racers and race-like riders, would prefer and benefit from cycling in normal comfortable shoes. Cycling with specific cycling shoes often forces legs to pedal efficiently; cycling with normal shoes trains leg muscles to pedal efficiently resulting in improved pedal stroke for many riders. Cycling accessory manufacturers and many cycling media outlets still push cycling shoes as the most comfortable and important upgrade a cyclist could make to improve cycling enjoyment.
Where To Buy
Many local bicycle shops, triathlon outfitters and online retailers stock cycling shoes and the special pedals a cyclists must utilize for shoe attachment. Shoe stores and department stores often sell shoes not specific to cycling. Platform pedals, for use with regular shoes, often come with bicycles. Larger platforms often result in improved comfort. Cyclists with wide feet often enjoy the width selection Sidi shoes offers. Ordering cycling shoes without sizing feet properly may result in discomfort. Several manufacturers construct cycling shoes designed for winter use. Cyclists should try winter shoes on with thick socks to ensure proper fit.
Cost
Entry-level cycling shoes designed for comfortable walking and riding often retail for $80 to $120. Stiff-soled mountain or ride bike-specific shoes often sell for $100 to $200. Lightweight high-end cycling shoes designed for racers and cyclists with disposable incomes cost $250 to $400. The highest comfort and performance shoes may carry price tags in excess of $500. Cyclists buying new shoes to work with existing pedal attachments must ensure new shoes will accept old cleats. Normal shoes often require cyclists to make no shoe purchase, though cyclists buying shoes distinctly for cycling will want soft rubber soles that grip pedals well.
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