Getting the right fit and fixings for your cycle shoes

Comfort and adjustment in your cycling shoes

Getting the right size in a cycling shoe isn't much different to that for a normal shoe and you'll find that the top shoes are often available in half sizes, which makes your choice easier.

However, choosing the shoe whose shape fits your foot best is very important. Just like in any other performance sports shoe, cycling shoes are going to take a lot of strain and stress and you don't want it all transmitted into your foot, especially unevenly.

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Finding a cycling shoe shape that suits your foot

In particular, cycling shoes are generally stiffer than other sports shoes and won't adapt to your feet as easily. This can result in pressure points developing on your feet. Its worth remembering that the shoes need to be comfortable on pulling up as well as pushing down, so the top of the shoe support and tongue are an important consideration.

It may sound obvious but you need to check that the ball of your foot is directly over the cleat as this is where you'll apply most pressure.

In general, cycling shoes should be a closer fit than a standard shoe, so that you don't move about in them much; this is an issue because your foot may not move much for hours, which gives plenty of time for sores to develop if there are pressure points.

Also be careful with the width, because under sudden pressure (eg. sprint), you don't want to feel your foot is in any way being squashed sideways.

Fastenings on cycling shoes

There are two main things to consider when checking the straps or fixings on your cycle shoes. Firstly, its useful when cycling competitively to be able to tighten or loosen your shoes on the move. There are various ratchet type systems which allow you to simply bend over to adjust them.

Secondly, will you want to get the shoes on and off quickly in an event like triathlon ? In this case you may prefer a single strap fixing, rather than a standard fastening.

There are also fastening systems like the BOA lacing system which tighten the shoe laces and keep the excess ends hidden, which is important for safety.