Cycling – it can be a lot of fun whether you are a casual rider, competitor or somewhere in-between. For some, “clipping in” with cycling cleats is preferred over wearing athletic shoes or hybrid options. Cycling cleats have a stiff sole which protects your feet and allows more efficient transfer of energy. So basically, you work less!
Cycling cleats vary from brand to brand just like running shoes. They vary in width, weight, color, style and may come with one, two or three straps to hold your feet in place. I recommend you research the many choices online so you will have a better idea when shopping at your local bike shop.
Which brand of cycling shoes are the best? The “best” cycling shoe is the one that fits your feet….not what your cycling buddy wears, your competition or the svelte model wearing the cleat in your favorite bike magazine. As with shopping for running shoes, I advise all of our cycling patients and customers to really take their time and shop around. This means you may have to frequent multiple cycling shops before you find “the one” pair of cycling cleats for you!
A few tips –
Define your budget. Knowing this ahead of time can help reduce your chance of overbuying.
Are the cleats for recreation or competition? Cycling cleats vary in price based on the materials and typically increase in price when geared toward longer event riding.
What is the shape of your feet? Are they bony and thin or are they fabulously fleshy or even somewhere in-between?
Do you have a high, normal or flat arch? Often times, over the counter or custom inserts are needed to allow for correct support of each foot.
Do you plan on wearing socks with your cycling cleats or sockless?
What distance do you typically ride per week? Will this distance increase i.e. training for an endurance event?
Armed with answers to the above will help you drill down to the right set of cleats. Take this information with you to the bike shop. The more information you know ahead of time and provide to the fitter, the more enjoyable your shopping experience will be for you.
Happy Cycling!
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