Cycling Shoes Review

What To Look For

Cycling shoes come in two basic formats--those with toe clips and those without. The advantage of the clipless shoe is that it is designed to be locked directly to the pedal, rather than being held on by a toe clip and straps. This allows the rider to make full use the upward motion of the pedaling rotation, and thus all the muscles in the leg. This is much more efficient. The problem is getting on and off the bike is no longer just a matter of taking your feet off the pedals. While clipless shoes are a good investment for road cyclists, casual riders do not need them and they are a mixed bag for mountain bikers.

Common Pitfalls

There is little standardization for clipless shoes and pedals. You cannot simply go to the store, buy a pair of clipless cycling shoes and be certain you will be able to make them work with your existing pedals. You will need to take a close look at your pedal to determine its system, and choose your shoes accordingly.

Where To Buy

If you are not one of those people who say "my shoe size is a 10 or 10 1/2, depending on who makes the shoe," you can buy clipped cycling shoes online. The fit will be good enough and you can make the most of the Internet's bargain-hunting advantages. You can do the same with clipped shoes, but only if you are absolutely certain that your shoes are a seamless match your pedals. If you have any doubts, go down to the bike shop instead. In fact, you might want to take your pedals with you just to be sure.

Cost

In 2009, cycling shoes went for as little as $50 per pair or as much as $500.

Insider Tips

All cycling shoes have thin soles, to better transfer power from the foot to the pedal. They also have a pretty snug fit. To get the best use out of them, you ought to pick up a pair or two of cycling socks to match.