Cycling shoes: an investment in comfort and performance

For those just starting their journey in cycling, one might wonder: what makes cycling shoes special? Although you can pedal a bike easily with regular sports or casual shoes, or even high heels, special cycling shoes are not just a fashion accessory, especially if you aim for performance. Special shoes – whether clipless or with a sole that grips well to the pedals – are designed for better foot stability on the pedals, comfort, and more efficient energy transfer. Studies show that clipless ("clipless") shoes can increase sprint efficiency by up to 16%. To help you determine if you need cycling shoes and which model would be best, today we'll discuss different types of cycling footwear and their features.

Types of Cycling Shoes

Just like bicycles, cycling shoes are diverse. Depending on what type of bike you ride and the surface you ride on, you might need different shoes. In addition, cycling shoes, like all other footwear, are seasonal – while self-ventilating athletic shoes are great for summer, in the colder months, it is recommended to choose insulated cycling shoes or pair regular shoes with overshoes.

Road Cycling Shoes

Those riding road bikes almost exclusively choose clipless cycling shoes. The soles of road cycling shoes are particularly stiff to ensure efficient power transfer to the pedals and the entire bicycle structure. Road shoes typically have an aerodynamic design and are very lightweight. The lightest and "fastest" road shoe models have carbon fiber soles. Interesting fact: traditionally, road cyclists choose white or brightly colored shoes. This is not just about style – white or brightly colored shoes are more visible, which helps prevent collisions in a peloton and makes it easier for cars to notice you.

MTB Shoes

MTB – mountain biking – shoes are somewhat different from road cycling shoes. Not all MTB cyclists choose clipless shoes, which is why you will find two categories of MTB shoes when filtering footwear in our online store:

• Clipless MTB shoes, designed to ensure maximum energy transfer by securely connecting the pedals and shoes. Although they may look similar to road shoes, MTB cycling shoes have a different type of attachment mechanism – they are designed so that once you clip out, you can continue on foot, even if the attachment components get dirty, and then hop back on the bike. Since the attachment mechanism is less protruding, walking off the bike in MTB shoes is more comfortable compared to road shoes. In addition, some clipless MTB shoes are less stiff than standard road shoes, adding extra comfort.
• Flat Shoes MTB shoes have flat soles that provide stability on platform pedals, which can be mounted on MTB bikes. These are often chosen by beginners. Special MTB pedals have a large surface area and traction-enhancing protrusions that grip well with the soles of MTB shoes.

Gravel Shoes

Gravel shoes are a relatively new category in cycling footwear. These shoes combine the advantages of road and MTB shoes. Gravel shoes attach to the pedals using the same mechanism as MTB shoes. They are softer than road shoes for better cushioning and comfort when walking, yet still aerodynamic and lightweight.

Leisure Shoes for Cyclists

A lesser-known footwear category is leisure cycling shoes. These are ideal for walking and resemble regular sports shoes but have reinforced soles for more comfortable cycling. A firm sole is important even for short distances, as it helps maintain the correct foot position and prevents tension.

How to Choose the Right Cycling Shoes?

Besides your personal style, there are several criteria that will help you choose cycling shoes. Here's what we recommend considering:

• Riding Style: no matter what type of bike you ride, if you're aiming for performance, it's always worth choosing stiffer and more aerodynamic shoes – such options are available in every category of cycling shoes. Look for carbon fiber soles and closures that suit you (e.g., BOA systems). If you ride for relaxation, choose shoes that feel comfortable even off the bike.
• Comfort: first of all, make sure the shoes fit snugly at all contact points without pinching the foot. When cycling, foot positioning is key, so pay attention to whether the insole is comfortable for you. If you're unsure, you can use the Velonova custom insole production or Specialized insole fitting service.
• Size: when riding long distances, the foot may swell slightly, so cycling shoes should be roomy but ensure that the foot doesn't move. Some manufacturers design their shoes for narrower feet, so we always recommend trying on cycling shoes or measuring your foot and comparing the size to that given in the manufacturer's size chart before purchasing.

Most Popular Cycling Shoe Manufacturers

There are several leading manufacturers on the market – we stock their advanced footwear at Velonova.

• Specialized – this brand is best described by its ergonomic design, high quality, and wide range. Specialized also developed its Body Geometry insoles, which adapt to body geometry and can be changed depending on the arch support needed for the foot.
• Shimano also makes all types of cycling shoes and is highly regarded for its winter MTB shoe line.
• Suplest is a Swiss standard of cycling shoe quality – premium category shoes designed for maximum comfort and efficiency. We are proud to stock them.
• Fizik has a wide following due to its elegant, bold design and continuous innovations aimed at cyclists striving for victory and comfort.

Cycling Shoe Accessories

Cycling shoes are the first step towards comfort and efficiency. In our online store and physical store at J. Baltrušaičio g. 1, Vilnius, you will find all the necessary cycling shoe accessories, including:

• Insoles: we make custom insoles or use RETÜL equipment to select the most suitable ones in our physical store, and you can buy Specialized Body Geometry insoles and toe cushions online, which help return the foot to the optimal position for health-friendly and efficient pedaling.
• Foot and Toe Warmers: if you're planning a ride or trip in below-zero temperatures, HAAGO foot or toe warmers, which heat up to 50 degrees due to an exothermic reaction, will definitely come in handy.
• Overshoes: an essential accessory, protecting against cold and moisture in bad weather and cold conditions. Choose from overshoes made by brands like GripGrab, Assos of Switzerland, and others.
• Clips and Other Shoe Parts: from pedals to spare BOA and other shoe parts – we strive to always have spare parts in stock so that no failures interfere with your cycling experience.