- Use
Road
Shoes designed for long distance rides on the bike therefore little attention went into off-bike use. These shoes usually have a smooth and rigid plastic or carbon sole, devoid of grips or lugs, while the uppers are usually vented for breathability. See road cycling shoes
Mountain
These shoes have more aggressive, lugged outsoles to better aid the rider while off the bike. Tends to be crafted from tougher and water resistant materials for rough and muddy trails. This section includes Enduro cycling shoes. See mountain cycling shoes
Triathlon
Almost similar to road shoes but are designed to be easily removable, have soft lining for sockless comfort, and good drainage. See Triathlon cycling shoes
Track
Also take after road shoes, but tend to be very simple in aesthetic and almost always equipped with traditional lace closures. See track cycling shoes
Indoor
Often called spinning shoes and related to fitness, this type is considered to be a fusion of both road and mountain shoes, as it has more rubber than a road shoe for walking around but sleeker than a mountain bike shoe. See indoor cycling shoes
Cyclocross
This cycling activity houses various footwear designs. When the course is wet, shoes used resemble mountain bike shoes, but if it is wet, flat pedals and sneakers are usually used. See Cyclocross cycling shoes
Casual
These shoes usually display a casually stylish design that includes footwear used for leisurely biking, commuting, and touring. It houses skate-inspired bike sneakers, BMX footwear and bike sandals suitable for the urban jungle to rocky terrains. See casual cycling shoes.
Winter
Cycling shoes with insulated and/or waterproof features and usually with over-the-ankle coverage. Engineered to protect from the cold, wind or moisture during chilly seasons. See winter cycling shoes
- Brand
- Closure
Lace
Cycling footwear that uses shoelaces to secure feet in place. See lace-up cycling shoes
Velcro Strap
Also called hook and loop, this closure system fastens via straps. These shoes are relatively easy to put on and off. See Velcro strap cycling shoes
BOA
This closure is a patented system that consists of three parts: micro-adjustable dial, ultra durable yet lightweight laces, and low friction lace guides. It is designed to provide optimal fit and precision. See BOA-equipped cycling shoes
Buckle
Shoes with a device that secures two loose ends. It is usually made from metal or plastic.
Rachet
Shoes that use a micro-adjusting plastic strap, usually located at the top of the shoe. See Ratchet cycling shoes
- Features
Waterproof
Crafted from waterproof materials, these shoes protect the wearer’s feet from getting wet and may be used in wet conditions. Check waterproof cycling shoes
Water-resistant
These shoes' materials are able to hold off the penetration of water to some degree but not fully. See water-resistant cycling shoes
Reflective
Shoes with reflective materials aim to enhance visibility in low-light areas for the wearer’s safety. Check reflective cycling shoes
Breathable
Cycling shoes that allow air to permeate through the materials. These shoes usually employ perforated textiles or there are ventilation holes throughout. See breathable cycling shoes
Replaceable Sole
Most often found on Road Cycling shoes' smooth outsoles. The sole guards provide traction and grip when off the bike. Replaceable ones are deemed to be more practical. See shoes with Replaceable Sole Guards
Lace Tucks
Lace closures are the original lockdown system of cycling shoes. However, cyclists fear these laces getting caught in their bikes while riding. This is where Lace Tucks come in handy. Some shoes employ different techniques such as sleeves, pockets, and garter loops to keep laces safe and tucked away. See cycling shoes with Lace Tucks
SPD
In this context, SPD pertains to shoes with two-bolt cleats. This type of cleat system is mostly seen on mountain bike shoes. See SPD cycling shoes
Look Delta
Look Delta is broadly used for pedals and shoes with three-bolt cleat systems. This type of cleat design is usually applied to road cycling shoes. See *Look Delta cycling footwear*
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