How to Buy Road Bicycle Shoes

Many avid cyclists purchase cycling-specific shoes. Cycling shoes are designed to interface with "clipless" bicycle pedals, a system that binds the shoe directly to the pedal for increased power and efficiency. Road bike shoes are light and narrow, and include various features and designs to suite individual needs. Consider several factors when buying road bike shoes in order to make a satisfying purchase.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine compatibility. Each clipless pedal system uses a unique cleat that attaches to the bottom of the road bike shoe. When considering a particular road shoe, be sure the shoe is compatible with the required cleat. The information will be available with the general description of the shoe. If purchasing the shoes in a store, simply ask the sales clerk.

    • 2

      Look for men- and women-specific road bike shoes. The average man's foot is somewhat square in shape. A woman's foot tends to be more triangular. Gender-specific shoes take into account these anatomical differences, making for a better fitting and more effective road bike shoe, according to the Bicycle Apparel website.

    • 3

      Expect a wide range of costs. Road bike shoes have a sole made either of injection-molded plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber or some combination thereof. Injection-molded plastic will be the least expensive, but will also be heavier and less stiff than fiberglass and carbon fiber. A stiff sole provides a more stable platform for the foot to rotate the pedal.

    • 4

      Test the road bike shoes if available. Bicycle shops will have a bike attached to a stationary trainer for this exact purpose. Try on the shoe and mount the bicycle. The shoes should be snug but comfortable. While the shoes shouldn't pinch, a little less toe room than average is OK. Road bike shoes are not made for walking. A firmer fitting shoe holds the foot stable as it's rotating the pedal.

    • 5

      Choose from among laces, buckles, and straps. Different road bike shoes use different front closure systems. Choice here is subjective, and depends primarily on personal comfort. If available, try on the shoe and check that there are no uncomfortable pressure points once the shoe is securely fastened. While laces are rare, buckles and velcro straps are common features on road bike shoes.