Why would you need a pair of cycling shoes when you can just head out on your bicycle wearing just about anything? Good question. You might not know but cycling shoes have stiffer soles. This helps in a better power transfer from your leg to your pedal. But that’s not all. The ould also make your ride more comfortable and give your foot better support!
So many advantages! Do you still think that it is the same to ride wearing any kind of shoe? NO? That’s what I thought.
Best Cycling Shoes For Performance and Comfort- Reviewed In 2024
Which is the best pair of cycling shoes? How will we know when we have found the best cycling shoes for ourselves? These are some of the questions that I will be addressing in our guide and review section. The best kind of cycling shoes will make sure that you are efficient while riding.
These are some of the best cycling shoes that I came across (I tried a lot and finalized these options!). There is going to be a variety of choices, we will have some of the best road bikes, mountain bikes, and indoor and cyclocross shoes for you to choose from.
| Cycling Shoes | Price/$/£ |
|---|---|
| Fizik Transiro Infinito R1 Knit | 399.99 |
| Giro Savix Women's Road Shoe | Starting at 70 |
| Chrome Industries Storm 415 Traction Boot | 180 |
| Specialized S-Works 7 Road Shoes | 249 |
| Scott Road Comp Boa | - |
| DHB Dorica MTB Shoe | 51 |
| Boardman Carbon | 85 |
| Bont Motion | 69.95 |
| Triban GRVL 500 | 50 |
| Specialized Torch 1.0 | 89 |
| Giro Savix II | 95 |
| Gaerne Carbon G. STL | 489 |
Note: All the prices mentioned are subject to change.
1. Fizik Transiro Infinito R1 Knit- Editor’s Choice
Price: MSRP $399
Cyclists love going for shoes that make them feel whole, the Fizik Transiro Infinito R1 Knit is one of those amazing shoes. This is the kind of pair that you can use for any discipline of cycling, may it be road or mountain biking. The stiffness of road shoes is combined with a user-friendly design that allows for an easy transition. If we had to go into the details then this is a triathlon shoe and a road shoe, making it a multi-purpose wonder.
With the Infinito R1, no matter how far you travel, you will always have that amazing comfort and performance. You can even use this pair without socks- now tell us, how fun does that sound?
Let’s talk about some of the key benefits that you will be getting from the Fizik Infinito since there are a lot of technologies that went into the production of this pair. You can adjust the forefoot area according to your absolute comfort. This is thanks to the Infinito system, which is a textile webbing of sorts. The fit of the pair feels comfortable and supportive due to the closure system.
The construction of the pair is where it gets really interesting. The upper material is made from a machine-knitted material that just locks in the user and feels pretty comfortable. When it comes to the outsole there is an R1 full-carbon soleplate, which gives the maximum power output fit for any kind of rider. There are also vent openings that allow for maximum airflow to make your feet feel cool while riding.
Advantages:
- Perfect Build Quality
- Top-Notch Comfort
- Multipurpose
- Amazing Fit
Disadvantages:
- Very Expensive
2. Giro Savix Women’s Road Shoe
Price: Starting at $70
The Giro Savix Women’s Road Shoe is one of the best choices for females who want to enjoy cycling. They can be used for either road or mountain biking, despite the name and the performance is something that you will immediately fall in love with. This pair is fully compatible with both 3-bolt and 2-bolt cleats, which makes them multipurpose. Although while reviewing them, we found them to be more comfortable with road bikes, that did not stop us from going all out on mountain bikes too, the difference was subtle.
The outsole of this pair has injected nylon which keeps the power transition balanced. The die-cut insoles are there to make sure that the user has maximum comfort, and is fit for female riders. There is breathability while wearing the Giro Savix, and the weight of the shoes does not feel much.
The fitting of Giro Savix feels fine although you can adjust the upper system thanks to the Boa L6 lacing system. Our advice would be to try them out in stores in actuality before purchasing them.
Advantages:
- Boa Dial System Is Amazing
- Top Performance
- Comfortable Build
- Best For Women
Disadvantages:
- Sizing Problems
3. Chrome Industries Storm 415 Traction Boot
Price: MSRP $180
People love commuting in their cycling shoes, and if you love to do that then we present the Chrome Industries Storm 415 Workboot. You won’t find a robust pair like this anywhere else, the Storm 415 is also 100% water-proof. The break-in period for these boots is also very low compared to the other shoes that we have reviewed.
Keeping in mind the weather protection that this pair offers, there is a break-in period that is required. The construction of this pair is also commendable, the upper part is made from oiled full-grain leather, and with the internal 4-layered breathable membrane, it provides a very relaxing experience for the user.
While wearing these boots, you are always going to feel in power, almost indestructible too, thanks to the protective layers. The extra-added layers allow the user to be protected from ankle damage which is a big concern while commuting. Do you know what would enhance the overall experience? Combine these shoes with weather-proof trousers and you will be set.
What I loved about these shoes apart from the features is their design, they just look gorgeous! They are workhorse boots so use them to the fullest!
Advantages:
- They are 100% Water-Proof
- Full-Grain Leather Build
- Can Be Used On/Off Bike Comfortably
Disadvantages:
- Breaking In Takes Time
4. Specialized S-Works 7 Road Shoes
Price: MSRP $425 (Now $249)
Looking for maximum power transition? Then look no further than the Specialized S-Works 7 Road Shoes. Also dubbed as the best racing shoes, the Specialized S-Works is a beast of a pair that you should not miss out on. These shoes have a powerline carbon sole which naturally feels very light but also stiff. Thanks to the Padlock heel system, the boots lock your feet in place, which makes travel over long-distance comfortable and very relaxing.
Dyneema material is used for the construction of these shoes, the best thing about them is that they don’t stretch out when pulled. This makes sure that your feet are protected, they get to stay in your shoes. Users can also adjust the fit of their shoes because of the Boa S3 Snap dial, this takes flexibility to another level.
These shoes might be pricey, but you won’t find the quality anywhere else!
Advantages:
- PadLock Heel System Feels Amazing
- The Stiff Carbon Plate Is Secure
- Durable Build
Disadvantages:
- Expensive Price Tag
5. Scott Road Comp BOA
Price: MSRP $129
The Scott Road Comp BOA is a budget-friendly option that never sacrifices quality. As the name gives away, this pair comes with BOA fasteners which enhance the overall amazing performance.
This pair has a nylon and fiberglass sole which increases the performance but also brings the price down, something that people will definitely love. They may not be that stiff like the full carbon options, but they are good for a ride and everyday use if you want to use them off the bike.
Combine them with thick socks and you will love the overall fitting. You will not have to worry about the comfort of these shoes, they are of the same quality as the higher-end options from Scott’s.
Advantages:
- Amazing Price
- Boa Fasteners
- Balanced Between Fit and Performance
- Available In Different Colors
Disadvantages:
- Stock Issues
6. DHB Dorcia MTB Shoe
Price: MSRP $51
When it comes to cycling shoes, the lace-up style has become very famous, their popularity has grown. Advanced features but with an old-school design, almost everyone wants a pair of shoes like that. If you are into that or want something fancy then check out the DHB Dorcia MTB Shoe. DHB already has a great lineup of cycling shoes, even though the Dorcia might be entry-level it still gets the work done thanks to the amazing performance it offers.
With the laces already fitted into the shoe, you get next-level adjustability. You can tweak the fit of your shoe on the go, this is the kind of flexibility this pair offers, something that everyone will come to love.
Thanks to the semi-perforated upper build of the shoe, the ventilation is enhanced which promotes breathability. It also has a nylon sole that is compatible with both three-bolt and two-bolt cleats. This means that you can use this amazing pair for both mountain and road biking.
Advantages:
- Price Is Affordable
- Retro Look Brings Back Nostalgia
- Comfortable Fit
Disadvantages:
- The Outer Layer Can Get Damaged Quickly
7. Boardman Carbon
Price: MSRP £85
The Boardman Carbon may look very simple but it has a very advanced build and through that, the user gets to enjoy a lot of features. The one thing that stands out here is the all-carbon sole, which is rare to find in cycling shoes of this price tag.
The Atop dial adjustment is also what the users will love, think of it as a cheaper alternative to the Boa dial system. It gets the job done just like Boa, so there is a lot to praise about the Boardman Carbon. Comfort is certainly there, users have expressed that they feel quite comfortable when wearing the Boardman, this is thanks to the internal padding. The venting is also generous to make sure that your feet always remain cool.
Toe box width is also generous, comparatively, there is much more space to be enjoyed here with this pair than with the other shoes that we have mentioned.
Advantages:
- Affordable Price Tag
- Great Value Offered
- Atop Dial Adjustment
Disadvantages:
- Stock Issues
8. Bont Motion
Price: Now $69.95 (Was $99)
Bont shoes are known for their stiffness and just because of that, we had to add the Bont Motion to our guide. The fiberglass sole is what makes the Motion amazing, there is a fine balance between the weight and stiffness.
Keep in mind that these shoes are heavier than some of the other shoes listed in this guide, the weight is also something that people will love regarding the shoe’s stiffness levels. The width is also great, there is a difference that is noticeable when you put this pair on.
Velcro straps also increase the overall value of these shoes, and when combined with the shoe’s fitting is something that every user will love.
Advantages:
- Affordable Price Tag
- Amazing Stiffness
- Heavy Than Others
Disadvantages:
- Some People Might Not Love The Shoe Being Heavy Than Other Options
9. Triban GRVL 500
Price: Now $50 (Was $89)
Triban GRVL 500 works best for those who don’t want to spend too much on cycling shoes but also don’t want to sacrifice the features. There is a great balance between the pricing and features offered, so there is plenty to love here.
Just like the Bont Motion, this pair has a nylon shoe that is reinforced with fiberglass. Compatibility is also what you will love, they are fully compatible with SPD cleats and the deep rubber sections allow for an amazing experience off the bike when you are running or walking. Even though you have planned out a day’s-long ride you will love the comfort of the Triban GRVL 500.
If you want to try these for commuting or wild adventures like the off-roads then the Triban GRVL 500 is the best choice for you. Just try them out!
Advantages:
- Affordability
- SPD Cleats
- All-Day Comfort
Disadvantages:
- Heel Raise Could Be A Concern
10. Specialized Torch 1.0
Price: Now $89.99 (Was $120)
If you want some amazing shoes then you have to try the Specialized Torch 1.0. The way these shoes are built will impress every rider, this time the velcro straps have been swapped for a Boa L6 dial and crossed cord top closure. All of this makes the shoes drop some weight, making them extremely lightweight.
When I tried these shoes out, I was impressed with the stiff nylon composite sole, which makes the shoes very comfortable. You won’t feel any kind of strain while wearing this pair.
The shoes are made more secure and comfortable thanks to Specialized Body Geometry insoles. These shoes have a special shape structured to support and cater to the foot’s natural curves, you are going to love the feel of these shoes.
Advantages:
- Boa Dial Adjustment System
- Amazing All-Day Comfort
- Lightweight
Disadvantages:
- No Two Bolt Cleat Option
11. Giro Savix II Cycling Shoes
Price: Starts at $95
The Giro Savix II shoes provide a well-balanced experience. They are very comfortable and also provide amazing performance. These shoes are stiff enough and perform well even without a carbon sole, I mean the durability is great, this was a surprise when we tried out these shoes.
The rider’s versatility is also going to be increased by the two-bolt and three-bolt cleat mounting options that are offered from the very start. These shoes also have a lot of ventilation, thanks to the synthetic upper which is on the top, and mesh panels. This pair of shoes is also well-padded which increases comfort. For the closure system this time around, Giro has done an amazing job of combining both a single Boa L6 dial and a front velcro strap.
The fitting of these shoes is surprisingly good, which is why they will work with different foot shapes. The soles are also going to hold up well as they were protected by front and rear TPU pads. You have to try out these shoes!
Advantages:
- Features A Stiff Nylon Sole
- Compatible With 2 or 3 Bolt Cleat
- Impressive Ventilation
- Boa Closure System
Disadvantages:
- Not Suitable For Cold Environments
12. Gaerne Carbon G. STL
Price: MSRP $489.95
Gaerne is a phenomenal Italian shoe brand that has become quite famous over the last couple of years. If you are looking for a premium pair of cycling shoes, then we recommend the Carbon G. STL from Gaerne. Honestly, there are plenty of reasons to try out these shoes, let’s start with the stiffness which is just amazing. Apart from that, users are going to love the rigid heel cup which comes with a cat’s tongue inner surface to help with the heel lifting problem.
There is one main issue with these shoes, there are no mesh sections so we won’t recommend using these shoes for too much warm weather. We found these shoes to be very comfortable, I have wide feet and I faced no issues during my testing time. Since these shoes also have the Li2 BOA dials, you can easily loosen the bindings during long rides which will increase your comfort.
Advantages:
- Stiff Sole
- Amazing Heel Lift Prevention
- Unmatched Comfort
Disadvantages:
- Lack Of Mesh Sections
Now you must be thinking- What Kind of Cycling Shoes Should I Go For?
What Kind Of Cycling Shoes Are The Best For You?
When it comes to cycling shoes, there is not just one kind, there are many for a variety of disciplines. Now you may like one of them or you would even be tempted to get all of them. Each type of shoe will have different features, and these features will be best suited to their intended use. Let’s discuss the different types!
- Road Bike Shoes
- Mountain Bike Shoes
- Cyclocross Shoes
- Indoor Cycling Shoes
1. Road Bike Shoes
Road bike shoes are amazing because they offer the best kind of power transfer, if you want seamless performance then definitely go for these. They have a very stiff sole, probably the stiffest, and have wide cleats, which makes them amazing for the job ahead. When it comes to compatibility, you can easily use them with a pedal setup and even a 3-bolt cleat.
On the other hand, walking with them will prove to be very difficult, this is because the cleats are exposed. As the name goes, these are best if you will be doing road biking with them and won’t be using your feet much while resting.
2. Mountain Bike Shoes
Mountain Bike shoes have some of the best stiff and rugged soles that you will find in shoes. They are made in such a way that they offer the best traction on rough terrain. They are easier to walk around because of their 2-bolt cleat design, we found them to be much more comfortable than road shoes. Mountain Bike shoes offer amazing versatility, and if you would be doing some trail walking too then get these amazing shoes ASAP.
3. Cyclocross Shoes
Cyclocross shoes are just different kinds of mountain bike shoes. These shoes have different types of soles that have spots that can be fitted with spikes for enhanced traction. For a cyclocross rider, you spend a lot of time jumping off your bike, so the extra traction works wonders here.
4. Indoor Cycling Shoes
Let’s take a look at indoor cycling shoes, these are also called spin class shoes. These shoes have soles with grippy treads, much like mountain bike shoes, very comfortable for walking.
Cycling Shoes Buyer’s Guide- What You Should Know
If you have been cycling for a while now, you might have an idea of what ticks you. The kind of cycling shoe that defines you will only be dependent on you, so make the right choice here. Here we will discuss what you need to know about cycling shoes before going out to purchase them.
1. Make Sure The Fitting Is Perfect
If you have tried out cycling shoes before then you would know that they are built around a mold called last which is shaped like a foot. This “Last” is what other brands use to shape and manufacture their shoes so that the design is perfect.
You need to find and go for the shape that fits you the most, so the best option here is to try different options. Sometimes you also have to keep an eye on the heel cup, it should be balanced, don’t go for a heel cup that is lifted too much. Most cycling shoes, especially budget cycling shoes have a nice fitting system, you can also try out them.
Purchasing from an online retailer without any kind of knowledge is hard and not recommended. Always try out the shoes before purchasing, if you have to go to a physical store then make sure that you go. A flexible return policy would also help out a lot here. If you don’t follow this, you could have a problem with the cycling shoe soles.
2. Know That Different Shoes Have Different Soles
Carbon is something that works best with both bikes and cycling shoes, you may want to go for a shoe with a full carbon sole because of its amazing properties. Shoes with carbon soles are very stiff and are also lightweight, but there are also some downsides that you need to know about.
Entry-level cycling shoes on the other hand will have nylon soles with fiberglass. These are also good options, but sometimes they increase the weight of the shoes. However, these budget cycling shoes are still more flexible than carbon cycling shoes so choose carefully.
3. The Closure System
There are three main closure systems that you need to know about when it comes to cycling shoes. Traditional laces are also there, some might love them some might have even matured from them. Then there are Velcro straps and micro-adjustable dials like the Boa and Atop that I mentioned.
Velcro straps are something that you will find in every budget cycling shoe whereas higher-end shoes will have the Boa system. So it is a question of what makes you comfortable.
4. Cleat Compatability
It is critical to make sure that the shoes you choose are compatible with the pedal system of your bike, otherwise, you will just be wasting a good pair of cycling shoes. The most common types of pedal systems that are being used are Look, SPD, and Speedplay.
5. Breathability Is Necessary
You need to go for shoes that have mesh sections, this will enhance the ventilation of those shoes. If your choice of shoes offers enough breathability then you will be cool during hot rides, just make sure to keep a balance. Don’t ignore this important feature/aspect of cycling shoes otherwise, you will have a tough time while cycling during hot summer days.
6. Durability
You just bought a premium pair of cycling shoes but they wear out very quickly, this is something that you should have paid attention to before purchasing. Always make sure that you get a pair that can withstand wear and tear and doesn’t degrade that quickly. Shoes that are constructed from durable materials are a plus point!
7. Style and Color Options
If you are going to be spending so much on cycling shoes, why not go for the stylish options? This aspect is more of a personal preference although some options can improve your overall visibility on the road.
FAQs
Question: What Are The Best Shoes For Cycling?
There are a lot of great cycling shoes that you can get right now, some of the popular ones are even on flash sale. If you want some specific options then I would suggest that you go for:
- Fizik Transiro Infinito R1 Knit
- Specialized Torch 1.0
- Triban GRVL 500
Question: What Is The Average Price Of Cycling Shoes?
There are some cycling shoes that you can get for as low as $50 or as high as $1000+, all of this depends on your choice.
Question: Do You Wear Socks With Cycling Shoes?
That’s totally up to you, but with socks, your comfort and control will increase. Cycling shoes have to be very stiff and snug enough for efficient pedaling, make sure that the socks that you go for can integrate with the cycling shoes.
Watch: All You Need To Know About Cycling Shoes
Still confused about how to get the perfect cycling shoes? Watch this cycling footwear guide from GCN, should clear all of your queries!
Recap
There are a lot of cycling shoes, and I discussed them in this guide. You can choose from amazing road cycling shoes or even triathlon shoes, all of these shoes will offer a different kind of experience.
From the guide, the best one for us was the Fizik Transiro Infinito R1 Knit. It is an all-rounder cycling shoe that offers the best performance for any kind of cycling discipline.
There are also essentials that you need to know before going out for cycling shoes, I discussed them in this guide thoroughly. Make sure to use the best of that knowledge for yourself. If you have any queries then do reach out to us in the comments below!
Also Read
- How To Choose The Best Winter Cycling Shoes, Boots And Footwear
- Why Spinning Shoes Are The Best Choice For Indoor Cycling
