Finding the perfect cycling shoe can significantly impact your comfort, performance, and even injury risk. This review, compiled by a bike fitter with extensive experience, ranks popular cycling shoe brands from worst to best, providing insights into the design flaws and strengths of each. We'll delve into critical aspects like cleat placement, sole stiffness, and overall fit, highlighting why certain brands consistently outperform others in terms of rider comfort and biomechanics. The ranking is based on real-world experience and addresses common problems encountered by cyclists.This expert ranking isn't just about aesthetics or brand reputation; it's a data-driven assessment of how shoe design affects your ride. We'll examine the pitfalls of excessively forward cleat placement, the implications of non-neutral shoe designs, and the importance of choosing a shoe that complements your unique foot shape. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision and avoid common mistakes that lead to discomfort, inefficiency, and potential injuries. Prepare to discover which brands consistently deliver superior support, power transfer, and long-term comfort.
Pros And Cons
- Decent cleat location
- Standard and wide fit options (though wide fit is only average)
- Exceptionally well made
- Wide range of prices
- Wide fit is not very wide
- Top-end models (RC903) are exceptionally narrow
- Look pretty nice
- Cleat location too far forward
- Very flat from heel to toe, leading to instability and need for toe flexing to compensate
- One of the least stable shoes on the market
- Very well made
- Heat moldable
- Adjustable toe box to accommodate issues like bunions
- Only works well with certain foot types (low arch, low instep)
- Lack of foot drop, potentially requiring toe flexing to compensate.
- Fantastic cleat location
- Very well made
Read more: 5 Best Vibram Cycling Shoes: A Buyer's Guide
Specialized Shoes: The Non-Neutral Issue
Specialized S-Works shoes, while well-made with a decent cleat location and carbon fiber sole, suffer from a significant design flaw: they are non-neutral. The elevated medial side of the shoe is intended to address a 4th metatarsal deformity, a condition far less common than marketing suggests.
This non-neutral design can cause issues like overpronation, leading to foot, knee, and even saddle problems. The support provided is often unwarranted, potentially causing more harm than good by supernating the foot.
While modifications like using a wedge can neutralize the shoe, this compromises space and often leads to numbness. This makes Specialized shoes a less than ideal choice for most cyclists.
Mavic Shoes: Forward Cleat Placement and Flat Sole
Mavic shoes, despite their aesthetically pleasing design, have a major drawback: their excessively forward cleat location. This placement assumes an unrealistic ballet-dancer-like foot position.
The flat sole exacerbates the problem, forcing many cyclists to compensate by flexing their toes. This leads to instability and potential discomfort, making Mavic a less stable shoe option.
The forward cleat position also puts excessive strain on the forefoot, potentially causing foot problems.
Fizik Shoes: Entry-Level Models to Avoid
Fizik's entry-level shoes (like the R5B and R4B) share a similar problem to Mavic: an extremely forward cleat location. This, combined with an improperly positioned arch support, can cause foot cramping and knee pain.
However, higher-end Fizik models have improved with more rearward cleat placement and wider fits, showcasing the brand's responsiveness to feedback.
It's recommended to avoid the entry-level models and opt for the newer, improved versions if considering Fizik.
Gaerne Shoes: Durability Issues
Gaerne shoes are exceptionally well-made, often leading to extended use beyond their recommended lifespan. This extended use can cause the shoes to sag and lose their supportive structure.
The forward cleat placement, again, puts strain on the forefoot, potentially leading to numbness and instability. While well-made, the longevity and cleat position make them a less ideal choice.
The overall quality is undeniable, but the potential problems arising from extended use and cleat placement need to be considered.
Shimano Shoes: Good Cleat Location, Limited Wide Fit
Shimano offers a decent cleat location with good adjustability. They also offer a wide fit option, though it's not particularly wide, only average at best. Construction quality is high, with a range of price points.
The top-of-the-line Shimano shoes are notably narrow, a potential issue for those with wider feet. Despite these shortcomings, they are solid and functional.
The balance between features and fit makes them a decent mid-range option but needs further investigation based on individual foot shape.
Sidi Shoes: Heat Moldable, But Limited Fit
Sidi shoes, known for their heat-moldable custom options, cater primarily to those with specific foot types, particularly those with low arches. The lack of foot drop can be problematic for other foot shapes.
The heat-moldable feature allows customization for issues like bunions. However, the limited fit range and distributor challenges make them less accessible.
This makes Sidi a niche option perfect for those whose feet match the design, but not universally suitable.
Giro Shoes: Prior Generations Superior to Current
Giro shoes, particularly older models like the Empire and Factor Techlace, were highly regarded for their narrow fit and excellent cleat location. The Factor Techlace was considered among the best narrow fit shoes available.
However, recent models, especially the high-end Empires, utilize a lightweight, less supportive sailcloth material, making them less stable. This material prioritizes breathability over support, resulting in an unstable platform.
While the lace-up design provides even pressure distribution, the practicality is questionable and older models are superior.
Lake Shoes: Wide Fit Range, But Complex Sizing
Lake shoes stand out due to their extremely broad fit spectrum, offering options for various foot shapes and sizes. They offer a rearward cleat location, decent arch support, and options like vegan and leather uppers.
However, their wide range of models and fits with varying widths can be confusing. Finding the perfect fit requires careful consideration of the specific model and fit options.
The wide selection means a perfect fit exists for many, but navigating the options can prove challenging for the consumer.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cycling Shoe
The ideal cycling shoe depends heavily on individual foot shape and riding style. While some brands like Lake offer excellent fit variety, others like Specialized or Mavic present design flaws that can hinder performance and cause discomfort.
Cleat location is paramount; a rearward placement generally promotes better stability and power transfer. Material choice, especially concerning support and breathability, should also be a key consideration.
Before buying, it is advisable to get a professional fitting to determine your foot type and the best shoe to match it. Prioritize comfort, stability, and a suitable cleat location for an optimal riding experience.