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Cycling shoes are specialized shoes for cycling with a stiff sole and often studs. They may have a means of attaching to the bike’s pedals and are designed for different types of cycling. Stiffer shoes result in an easier ride and better alignment. Some shoes have a clipless pedal system while others accommodate a toe clip. Touring and beginner mountain cycling shoes may have some tread and flex in the toe. The best cycling shoes are very light but expensive. For occasional riders, an inexpensive pair may suffice. Casual cyclists do not need cycling shoes, but competitive cyclists should have appropriate ones.
Cycling shoes are shoes made specifically for cycling. They are usually light and breathable garments, not particularly suitable for walking after cycling. They fit tightly to the foot and feature a stiff carbon or plastic sole and often studs.
Many cycling shoes feature a means of attaching the shoes to the bike’s pedals, which is easier when a person is racing or mountain biking. Different cycling shoes are usually designed for the different types of cycling you might be doing. Mountain cycling shoes are different in construction than shoes made for bike racing, touring or spinning.
One of the key features of cycling shoes is their degree of stiffness. A stiffer shoe results in an easier ride and keeps your feet and legs in better alignment. Some cycling shoes are purchased with a pedal attachment. This is called a clipless pedal system. A cleat on the sole of the shoe attaches to a fitting on the pedal. These are some of the newest forms of cycling shoes and thought to be more efficient.
Previous cycling shoes were designed to accommodate a toe clip. The toe clip is a small metal cage on the pedal where the ball of your foot sits. Some toe clips were adjustable, allowing the foot to fit securely. Others are looser, which means your foot can come off the pedal more easily. This was not always a desirable feature, since people may have to readjust their foot to keep it firmly on the pedal.
Some types of cycling shoes can meet walking needs. People cycling on tours have pit stops and may need to be able to walk from place to place. If you plan on using cycling shoes for touring, consider the kind specifically designed for it. They can be recognized by the tread, a feature not common to other cycling shoes, and by a small cleat. They are usually less stiff than other types of cycling shoes because a very stiff shoe is not comfortable for walking.
Beginner mountain cycling shoes may also feature some tread and some flex in the toe. Again, you may need to get off your bike and walk in places, especially if you’re new to cycling. Ask the sport shoe experts for this feature if you’re just starting out as a mountain biker.
Usually, the best cycling shoes are very light ones. However, if you’re not going to ride professionally, the cost of the best shoes can set you back several hundred US dollars (USD). If you only ride occasionally, but think you could still benefit from cycling shoes, consider an inexpensive pair, under $100.
Of course, for the casual cyclist, cycling shoes are largely useless. Wearing any shoe can easily satisfy a kid who just wants to ride his bike through the park. On the other hand, a child or an adult who wants to compete in the cycling world should absolutely be equipped with cycling shoes that are appropriate for the type of cycling he wishes to undertake.
