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Almost all beginners think that they don’t need cycling shoes.
In fact, as a beginner, you can start riding with just regular shoes.
However, in this article, you will discover why cycling shoes are so important.
So, let’s dive right into it.
Why Do You Need Cycling Shoes?
Cycling shoes are made with a stiff sole to help increase your energy. They’re made to keep your feet fixed, so all the power goes straight to the pedal stroke, which improves your performance and overall riding experience.
However, as we said earlier, as beginners, you can start with just some regular shoes, but if you’re going to be riding often and cycling is in your workout routine, it would be much better to get some cycling shoes.
So What Is The Difference Between Cycling Shoes and Regular Shoes?
Regular shoes are flexible and have a soft soles. They’re usually lightweight, which makes them great for walking and running.
On the other hand, bike shoes are hard, firm, and slightly heavier. This gives you less energy loss while pedaling for a powerful stroke.
You may be wondering, Why do you need cycling shoes when you can just wear regular shoes? Cycling shoes do offer several advantages…
Let’s get through some benefits of using cycling shoes.
The Benefits Of Using Cycling Shoes
Secure Foot
Having a secure foot is one of the most important things to have while riding. They get attached by cleats that are compatible with the holes of your bike pedals.
Rigid Base For Powerful Strokes
Cycling shoes are known for their flexibility, which helps your feet to bend and move smoothly.
They have a stiff sole that helps increase your energy, so all the power from your legs goes straight to your pedal stroke.
Smooth Ride
Having your feet fixed to the pedal optimizes your stability and decreases how much effort your legs have to do (here) so your feet can stay in place. This helps develop your pedaling efficiency, which makes your stroke stronger.
An Aerodynamic Position
According to Jen Rulon, attaching your feet to your pedals helps you become more aerodynamic. This makes it easier for you to lower your torso toward the handlebars.
Once you know why you should find a pair, let’s see how you can find one;
How To Find Your Cycling Shoes?
While looking for cycling shoes, you first have to determine which type of riding you’re going to use them for.
Each type of riding has its shoes. After you make your decision, you can then see how your pedals are, then look for cycling shoes that are compatible with them.
Most bike shoes have either 2-hole or 3-hole that you link to clipless pedals, so your feet get fixed, which allows you to pedal more efficiently and smoothly.
Therefore, let’s get into each type of riding and see what are the differences between each type of cycling shoes.
Mountain Cycling Shoes
Mountain bike shoes are designed to work in tough conditions, and they are also a lot easier to walk on, thanks to the flat platforms.
These flat platforms give space for the cleats underneath them. Mountain cycling shoes have 2-holes which makes them smaller.
Road Cycling Shoes
Compared to mountain shoes, road cycling shoes are much lighter. They have a 3-hole cleat.
This makes it a lot more comfortable than the ones listed above, considering that a 3-hole cleat has more space therefore, there are no hot spots on your feet in case you go for long rides.
In case you wanna know more about these two types of shoes, you can watch this video:
Indoor Cycling Shoes
They are also known as Spin shoes. Spin shoes have a good advantage, the shoe clip in so easily to the pedals once you apply a little pressure.
Indoor cycling shoes are made in a way that ensures overall safety, which helps you focus on your performance and enjoy your workout.
Not to forget that they are made with a lightweight and breathable fabric. Therefore you get the smoothest ride ever.
Once you know why you need cycling shoes and how you can find your first pair based on what you are going to use them for.
Let us answer some frequently asked questions. Therefore, you will have everything you’ve been looking for.
Conclusion
Cycling shoes are made to make your riding experience easier, more fun, and more enjoyable.
So, what do you think? Are cycling shoes worth the investment?
Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below right now.
FAQ
Should you wear socks with cycling shoes?
Of course, we recommend wearing socks with your bike shoes to give you better performance and keep you comfortable.
Can Cycling Shoes Be Used Without Cleats?
You can wear cycling shoes without cleats. However, if your bike shoes have cleats, it’s better to install them, so you don’t damage your shoes.
Do Expensive Cycling Shoes Make a Difference?
Yes, they do. More expensive bike shoes are made from pliable and breathable materials, which makes them very helpful during warmer conditions. Therefore, if you aim to ride for a long period, you may wanna consider buying expensive ones.
