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How To Buy

Road Cyclists

Road shoes have flat, stiff soles and 3-bolt cleats for maximum power transfer. They're ideal for long rides, racing, and group training. Fit should be snug but not restrictive.

Cleat Compatibility

  • SPD-SL: Shimano’s wide, stable road cleat.
  • Look Keo: Lightweight and race-oriented.
  • Look Delta: Used on Peloton bikes (not Keo-compatible).
  • Speedplay: 4-bolt system; highly adjustable (adapter may be needed).
Road Cleats

Pro Tip: Road cleats are brand-specific. Check your pedals before buying.

Why Riders Choose Road Shoes

  • Superior pedaling efficiency and power transfer
  • Stiff, supportive fit for long-distance comfort
  • Best for speed, racing, and road-specific performance

What to Consider

  • Not walkable — exposed cleats can wear quickly
  • Less versatile for off-bike movement

Mountain Cyclists

Mountain bike shoes have stiff outsoles with a walkable tread. They're designed for trail riding, gravel, cyclocross, commuting and indoor cycling. When choosing your shoes, consider the type of pedals you use, your riding terrain, and how much walking you’ll do off the bike to find the perfect match for your needs.

Types of Mountain Shoes

  • Clipless MTB: 2-Bolt SPD Compatible with durable uppers and grippy, lugged soles. The cleats are recessed allowing the shoes to be walkable. Despite terminology clipless means to clip in.
  • Flat Pedal: No cleats. Sticky rubber tread for optimal grip on platform pedals.
  • Gravel: Lightweight, stiff, less aggressive tread-- 2-Bolt SPD compatible shoes for mixed terrain. Gravel shoes are also a good alternative if you prefer to use 2-bolt SPD cleats with your road bike and/or care about weight.

Cleat Types

  • Shimano SH51: Single-release cleat — twist your heel left or right to unclip.
  • Shimano SH56: Multi-release cleat — allows release in multiple directions (easier to unclip).
  • Crankbrothers: Compatible only with Crankbrothers pedals — not interchangeable with SPD systems.
SPD Cleats

Why Riders Choose MTB/Gravel Shoes

  • Walkable and versatile
  • Durable for off-road riding
  • SPD compatibility with indoor spin bikes (excluding Peloton)

What to Consider

  • Less stiff than road shoes = slightly lower efficiency
  • Heavier with smaller cleat contact area

Indoor Fitness Riders

    Indoor cycling shoes optimize performance, comfort, and safety during spin sessions. Unlike sneakers, they securely attach to the pedals, allowing for
  • efficient energy transfer, improving power and performance
  • better control, reducing risk of injury
  • superior foot support and comfort

Pro Tip: Studios/Gyms often use 2-bolt SPD; Peloton uses Look Delta. Check your pedals before you buy.

Why Mountain Bike Shoes Are Popular Indoors

Many indoor cyclists use MTB shoes with 2- Bolt SPD cleats since most studio bikes are SPD-compatible. These shoes feature recessed cleats for better walkability and rubber soles for grip—perfect for gym floors or at-home use.

When to Use Road Shoes Indoors

Road shoes are needed when used with the 3-bolt Look Delta cleats that are only compatible with the Peloton or some studios offer a dual sided set up. They are not walkable.

FAQ's

How do I choose the right size cycling shoe?

Cycling shoes should fit snug but not tight, leaving room for light swelling during longer rides. Since sizing varies by brand, we recommend using your consistent EU size or comparing your sneaker's size tag to the brand’s size chart. If you're between sizes and no half size is available, sizing up slightly is usually safest.

Do cleats come with shoes?

Cleats are typically sold separately. However, most new pedals do include a set of compatible cleats. Always check that your cleats match the pedal system you use.

How do I prevent numb feet or discomfort while riding?

  • Make sure shoes aren't too tight—or too loose
  • Adjust cleat position to relieve pressure
  • Try insoles with improved arch support
  • Use thin, moisture-wicking socks

Why are there so few women-specific cycling shoes?

Many brands now offer unisex shoes. If a product doesn’t say “women’s” but is in the women’s category, it’s likely unisex and shown in men’s sizing. Your EU size typically stays the same between men’s and women’s models. For US sizing, women usually subtract 1.5 sizes from their men’s equivalent.

What’s the difference between road, mountain, and indoor cycling shoes?

  • Road: Lightweight and stiff; use 3-bolt cleats for efficiency.
  • Mountain: Grippy, walkable soles; use recessed 2-bolt SPD cleats.
  • Indoor: Often use SPD or Look Delta cleats and prioritize ventilation and comfort.

I have wide feet — what are my options?

Most cycling shoes fit narrow. Even wide models from Shimano or Fizik tend to be close to a standard E width. For riders needing a true 2E or wider fit, brands like Lake and Sidi are better options. Lake’s wide shoes have wider soles and toe boxes, especially in higher-end models. Sidi’s Mega series adds extra upper volume and width.