eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Buy Bike Shoes

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(10 Ratings)

Buying bike shoes is a great first step toward improving your cycling comfort and efficiency.

From Quick Guide: Sports Shoes Guide
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Booties
  • Bike Pedals With And Without Clips
  • Bike Shoes
  • Socks For Cycling
  1. Step 1

    Consider what type of pedals you plan to use. If you want clipless pedals, make sure the shoes are a good match for the specific pedals you'll buy (some shoes work with certain pedals better than others).

  2. Step 2

    Be aware that if you plan to use regular pedals with clips and straps, some bike shoes have velcro or other straps that will interfere with the toe straps.

  3. Step 3

    Decide how much you want to spend. Bike shoes range in price from $50 to $250. More expensive shoes tend to be lighter, stiffer and more durable.

  4. Step 4

    Consider mountain-biking shoes for everything except road racing. Good mountain-biking shoes are almost as light and stiff as road shoes, and you can walk in them!

  5. Step 5

    Think about fit. Bike shoes should fit tighter than normal walking shoes, but they shouldn't be uncomfortable. Try them on with thin cycling socks.

  6. Step 6

    Consider materials. Leather shoes seem to be less common these days, perhaps because there are many great, durable and breathable man-made alternatives.

  7. Step 7

    Consider color. Cycling shoes come in some pretty wild colors. Be sure to choose shoes that won't make you feel silly later on.

Tips & Warnings
  • Spend some time trying on shoes and asking questions. Getting the right shoes will make a huge difference in your cycling experience.
  • You can buy "booties" for cold weather riding. These fit over your cycling shoes and are generally made of neoprene.

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

eHow Article: How to Buy Bike Shoes

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Sports & Fitness Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

eHow Sports and Fitness
eHow_eHow Sports and Fitness