Do I Need Cycling Shoes?

Do I Need Cycling Shoes?
Photo Credit Ting Hoo/Digital Vision/Getty Images

The style of the cycling shoe fluctuates based on the discipline of biking it has been designed for. While more advanced genres of cycling require the use of specialized shoes, others do not. Avid bikers utilize cycling shoes to boost their performance capabilities. The best cycling shoes have been designed to improve your pedaling efficiency.

Recreational Cycling

Recreational cycling involves riding on paved walking trails as well as asphalt paths in community parks. Recreational bikes have been constructed with comfort in mind and feature handlebars that are elevated higher than the seat. You do not need a special pair of cycling shoes to participate in recreational bike riding. The recreational bike features standard platform pedals. A pair of conventional athletic or walking shoes will allow you to maintain control of the bicycle pedals.

Mountain Biking

You may need a pair of specialized shoes when participating in off road mountain biking. When riding on beginner trails, a pair of hiking shoes will work just fine. However, as you increase the difficulty of the riding terrain, you will need to wear a pair of mountain biking shoes. According to the mountain bike experts at REI, mountain bike shoes feature a rigid sole for increased pedaling efficiency. Top-rated mountain bike shoe have been designed with waterproof fabrics and materials.

Road Cycling

The majority of tour riders utilize specialized shoes that are compatible with the unique pedals of the road bike. When riding long distances, it can get tiresome to keep your feet in the correct pedaling position. To alleviate this problem, wear a pair of road bike shoes that feature a series of cleats that clip into the bicycle pedals. Bicycling Magazine states that top-of-the-line road bike shoes feature buckles and straps instead of a conventional lacing system.

BMX

BMX remains one of the most high impact forms of bike riding. BMXers jump ramps, gaps and stair sets while executing tricks. Conventional athletic shoes do not provide enough heel and ankle support for the high impact landings associated with BMX maneuvers. Wear a pair of custom BMX shoes to prevent ankle injuries and heel bruising. According to Vital BMX, top-rated BMX shoes feature a vulcanized sole as well as a padded tongue. BMX shoes often have a gel insert in the heel section.

References

Article reviewed by Veronique Von Tufts Last updated on: May 26, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments