How to choose the best cycling shoes?

I'm sure that, if you like to go running or play football or basketball, you have specific footwear for any of these disciplines. So why not buy some cycling shoes that make you feel more comfortable when cycling? Undoubtedly, they are able to increase your performance much more than you imagine. From comparar.net we want to give you the keys that you need to consider to choose the right ones.

The size of your cheap cycling shoes

This is the first key that we are going to give you. In this sense, both women's cycling shoes and men's cycling shoes should fit loosely. That is to say, we recommend that you buy one size more than you usually use in the rest of your footwear. The reason? When pedalling, the foot tends to move forward. And, if the shoe is too tight, you'll end up with nail and toe discomfort.

To make sure your new cheap cycling shoes fit you well there's a simple trick. Put them on and try to bring the tip of your toe as far as you can towards the forefoot. If you can fit your index toe comfortably through the heel area, you've chosen the right size.

The width of the bike shoes

Another important aspect. Remember that when you put pressure on the pedal while riding, the forefoot widens. If your cheap cycling shoes are too narrow, you may feel discomfort. And not only that. There is also a chance that you will suffer a muscle or bone injury over time.

For the width you need in your cheap cycling shoes you need to remove the insole from the inside and place your foot on it. In case it sticks out, look for a larger size model. If you can see the margins, then it will fit you well. It should not fit completely snug as, if you cycle in winter, you will need to wear thicker socks than in summer.

The shoe closure

This is the element that holds the foot in place and keeps it inside the shoe without it slipping out of place. Specifically, the fastening system must be located on the instep so that it does not generate excessive pressure in the area.

When buying cycling shoes, you should know that there are two main types of fasteners:

• BOA fasteners. The most popular and widespread due to how well they hold the foot and how easy they are to adjust. However, they are not recommended for cyclists with a prominent instep and a very hollow sole.
• Two- or three-component latches. The ideal ones for people who have a foot with these characteristics. The adjustment elements allow more or less pressure to be applied to key areas of the foot depending on its anatomical shape.

Types of cycling shoes

The vast majority of cyclists use clipless pedals. These have a series of anchors in the optimal position for pedalling. To use them, it is necessary to have suitable footwear, i.e. cheap cycling shoes that adapt to them.

However, not all of them are the same. Let's take a look at the existing ones:

• Road cycling shoes. That is, those designed for riding on road bikes. They are the lightest and have soft soles that allow you to walk with them for a few meters, although it is not the most advisable. They adapt perfectly to the foot and pedal to allow the impression of as much force as possible. The cheap road cycling shoes also incorporate quick release systems to prevent risks in case of accident.
• Shoes for mountain bike shoes. Buying mountain bike shoes is a bit more complex as the choice also depends on the type of mountain bike you have and the modality you practice. For example, models for XC, Downhill or Enduro have a strong binding and a very stiff sole. They also incorporate lugs in case you need to put your foot down. On the other hand, men's or women's trail or cross country MTB shoes will be much lighter and more flexible.

Materials used to make cycling shoes

The cheap cycling shoes are usually made of synthetic materials that generally imitate the feel of leather. In fact, this fabric is also the most recommended in the mountain disciplines for its impermeability and water resistance. On the other hand, the majority of offers in cycling shoes on the road refer to models made of natural leather. In this mode, these characteristics are not so relevant.

Another different issue is the material of the sole of the cheap cycling shoes. Generally, they are made from plastic derivatives or in nylon. However, if you take a look at the catalogues of the most prestigious firms, you will find that many of them incorporate carbon fibre in them to make them stiffer and lighter.

Best brands to find MTB shoes on sale

There are many alternatives when it comes to buying quality cycling shoes without going outside the budget you have set beforehand. A good example is the catalogue of cheap SiDI shoes. In it you will find a wide variety of mountain and road models able to meet your needs for a fairly tight price.

The same can be said of the Scott MTB shoes of reduced price. This brand specialises in mountain biking (although it also has road models) and offers an ideal entry-level shoe for those who have never used this type of footwear.

We hope that, whether you came here looking for how to choose cheap and good MTB shoes or whether you came here wanting to know the key aspects of road cycling shoes, you found the information you needed to get hold of them. At compare.net we're sure that, taking into account the criteria we've just discussed, you won't struggle to find the right ones for you.