Cycling Shoes

Tips for buying the perfect cycling shoes

What expectations should one have when it comes to buying cycling shoes? Given the amount of effort and the time a biker spends with these shoes on, they need to be comfortable first and foremost. Don't buy cycling shoes that are too tight or too loose; the best ones are those that anatomically fit the foot shape and in which you have perfect freedom of movement. Make a little test: when you try the cycling shoes for the first time, wiggle your toes inside. If there is enough room to do so without the shoe feeling loose, then you are sure they are the right size. Too tight shoes do not allow the use of thermal socks during the cold season, and keeping warm becomes a very difficult task.

The next thing to test the cycling shoes for is internal and external protection; by internal protection we refer to the elimination of sweat and the proper airing of the tissues, while the external one means water and wind screening. The material the cycling shoes are made of need to be breathable, since in case the in-out communication is not functioning well, the sweat accumulation increases the risk of fungal infections and skin rashes. The best cycling shoes are those that allow moisture transfer keeping the feet warm and dry at the same time.

Easy integration of the cycling shoes on the pedals is another issue to be taken into consideration since some fittings may not match; in order to avoid such inconveniences, you should have a look on the manufacturer's web site to check for details. Sole features are also very important for cycling shoes regardless of the type of rides you are used to; the most advanced models for the matter use a carbon insertion that ensures a great energy transfer from the foot to the pedal. The rest of the structure consists of quality rubber with a high degree of durability and neat cutaways for a comfortable and easy integration.

Last but not least, some cycling shoes are especially designed for mountain biking; usually such models have reinforced uppers and different buckle straps than the shoes used for other types of riding. For instance, protection against abrasion is one thing cycling shoes for mountain biking have so special; the mold of the sole is a bit more aggressive and rigid, while the heel cup is also especially designed for advanced feet protection. Regardless of the type of cycling shoes you are looking for, try the products on before actually buying them. Happy shopping!