Bicycle shoes: types and tips for choosing

Cycling helps keep you fit. However, for a comfortable ride, it is important to choose a comfortable bike shoes. You can learn more about how to choose comfortable and beautiful bike boots from this article.

Special shoes appeared at the beginning of the twentieth century. Initially, it was used only by professional athletes. Bicycle shoes created the most comfortable sensations and safety while riding. Later, this attribute began to appear in ordinary stores, so He began to be popular among cycle enthusiasts.

Bicycle shoes are characterized by some of the features described below.

• The sole should be with spikes, which are necessary to ensure good contact of the foot with the surface of the pedals.
• Also, the sole should be firm, not bending, tightly fixing the foot.
• Be sure to have a special hard back that fixes the leg well.
• Relatively light weight.
• Bicycle shoes are made from durable materials with a long service life. The sole is made of hard materials that are not deformed or stretched. There is also a special silicone pad under the insole, for the production of which carbon fibers or light metals are used.

All manufacturers produce models with different types of fasteners.

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

This is a durable type of mount that does not loosen or unfasten. Moreover, when using this type of fastening, load redistribution does not occur. However, it is not durable, therefore if damaged, it will have to be replaced.

This is a classic type of mount. Shoelaces are made of various materials. They are universal, and if damaged they are easy to replace. To ensure maximum fixation, they are complemented by Velcro and other elements.

All shoes are made according to one principle: they must have a solid sole and back with good fixation. There are only two types of sole coverage: contact and non-contact. The foot can be fixed with the help of Velcro, ribbons, laces or several types of fastening.

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

Such bicycle shoes are characterized by low weight and the presence of ventilation. The sole of these models is quite durable and does not bend, but it is not equipped with spikes. Shoes have increased cruelty, due to which a greater force of pressing the pedals is achieved. This shoe cannot be used for hiking, as it does not bend, and the foot will quickly get tired. The soles of expensive models include special carbon fibers.

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

This type is best for city bikes and hybrid models. Moreover, it is often used for tourist trips. To ride with such shoes, you must have special pedals.

Boots for walking around the city must combine the qualities of a professional bike shoes and ordinary sneakers. The sole has the same structure as the models for mountain trips. This makes it possible to use these shoes for hiking. Moreover, options for the city are compatible with pedals of various types. This is due to the fact that the sole can be supplemented with spikes, which are sold complete with shoes.

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 operation.

Such a system implies the presence of three holes on the sole. This bike shoe is most often used by professional athletes whose bikes are equipped with towclips. Look-system provides a secure fit and minimal loss when driving.

This company is a leader among manufacturers of bicycle shoes. All models are thoroughly tested. Moreover, the company has many scientists who are constantly engaged in the development of new models. The Sidi brand supplies shoes to the official organizers of the competition. They produce shoes for Tuclips and regular pedals.

The company provides quality products at affordable prices.

Polaris produces special insulated shoe covers that can be worn on cycling shoes during the cold season.

This brand is well known. among lay lovers of cycling. 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 among snowboarders. However, they produce good cycling shoes that can be complemented with various accessories.

The French company is known worldwide. Models are of high quality and rigidity.Design of models is being developed in Europe, and production is located in Asia.

The American manufacturer began work in the 90s and specialized in the production of shoes for climbers. The company's products are still in demand. They produce good models for mountain riding and cross-country for lovers.

To feel as comfortable as possible, it is important to choose the right size. It is better to rely on the first sensations, since models with a stiff sole and shoe do not spread and will not become softer.

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

Universal cycling models are MTB and Road types. They provide for the use of road and MTB spikes.

Moreover, when choosing shoes, you need to consider the purpose of travel. For ordinary walks, hiking shoes are good. For sports trips, special professional shoes are needed.

It is also important to choose an accessory by season. For the summer, sneakers and shoes made of light 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 unisex options are also found. Experts recommend giving your preference separate collections, since the female foot differs from the male in completeness and other characteristics, which is not always taken into account in unisex models.

Bicycle shoes are in demand in the modern market. As a rule, it is presented in the premium and middle segments, due to the special structure and use of new materials.

A comparison of expensive and cheap bike shoes, see the next video.