Get a new ride, not counting a bike only. And that spells only one thing, friend: time to discuss the topic of cycling shoes. I know what you are thinking now, as you may roll your eyes and say, “And aren’t shoes just shoes?” Shoes are important when cycling – be it KOM chasing on Strava, Sunday trail, or drizzle commuting. A lot.
I would ride around in old gym trainers. I do, I do. Rookie mistake. My feet were loosened. My knees are paining. It was as though I was operating a canoe rather than a bike. Once I dropped my feet into my initial pair of correct cycling footwear, though, it was love at first step, like I had discovered some form of video game secret. The strength, the comfort, and the hold – it was all top-level.
Cycling shoes aren’t just a fashion statement (although, hey, nothing wrong with a bit of matching kit). They’re designed to transfer power from your legs to your pedals more efficiently. That means less wasted energy, more speed, and—if you're anything like me—far fewer tears on uphill climbs.
They also have the role of covering your feet. Hot spots, numb toes and that strange cramping that makes you wonder why you picked this bike are just some of the results of extended pedals with inadequate backup. You can be a road junkie or dripping with mud after a ride up a mountain but the correct pair of cycling shoes can quite literally make or break your ride.
Riding style is the first thing to consider when it comes to making the right decision in regard to the type of cycling shoe to wear. So this is the skinny on the classic cycling shoe styles:
1. Road bicycle shoes
The characteristics of these shoes are that they have a smooth high-tech look and the sole of the shoe is very stiff, which one can be reminded of an aerospace design. The reason behind the stiffness is perfectly straightforward it is to give as much power as possible at any one moment to the pedals and thus directly increase pedal efficiency and performance.
The construction of the road cycling footwear is low traction and very stiff soles in order to provide the best energy transfer of the rider to the bicycle. They can be frequently be used with three-bolt cleat systems (models like SPD-SL, which are performance riding-oriented with no use in walking). They are therefore not the most appropriate to walk long distances and may leave one feeling that they are heavy when not on the bike.
2. Mountain Bike (MTB) Shoes
More grained and unrefined, MTB shoes are designed to handle off-road mayhem. They have a standard two-bolt SPD system and they have tread soles; wear them when you have to walk (or scramble). Others even have strengthened toe parts so just in case there is a surprise rock, you are prepared.
Ideal Uses: Trail riders, gravel grinders, cyclocross enthusiasts or anyone that might have to walk a bike.
3. Commuter/City Cycling-Shoes
They are the cool siblings in the cycling boot clan. They may appear as normal trainers; however, they have secret cleats or stiff midsoles to enhance pedalling. They balance between functionality and design.
Best suited to: Urban rides, commuters and leisure cyclists who desire convenience.
4. Indoor Cycling-Shoes
Spin class regulars—this one’s for you. Lightweight, breathable, and compatible with studio bike cleats (usually SPD), these are ideal for sweating it out indoors without overheating.
Right then. You know the types; now let’s look at some of the best cycling shoes on the market—ones that’ll boost your performance and not totally destroy your budget.
Best Road Cycling-Shoes
Shimano RC5
Light, stiff, and designed with pro-level features without the pro-level price tag. Dual BOA dials give you a snug fit, and the synthetic upper breathes nicely even on hotter UK summer days (yes, we do get some sun).
Giro Regime
Clean design, superb fit, and power transfer that’ll make you question why you ever settled for less. Plus, they’re comfy enough for long hauls.
Best Off-Road / MTB Shoes
Five Ten Trailcross XT
Mythical clasp and mellow. These are some shoes that confuse the boundary between hiking shoes and MTB shoes. Additional: They also appear great off the bike.
Shimano ME5
Durable, rugged, and built for the rough-and-tumble of UK trails. They’ve got enough flex for walking but still give you solid pedal feel.
Best Hybrid/Commuter Shoes
Specialised 2FO Roost
Great for commuting and sneaky off-road detours. Low-key style meets high-end cycling function.
DMT KM1 Knit MTB Shoes
These aren’t just lookers—they’re breathable, lightweight, and shockingly comfortable. And if you’re after something different? Knit uppers are the future.
Here’s the thing: trying on cycling shoes in a shop is great, but shopping for cycling shoes online is where the real variety lives.
One of the UK’s top retailers when it comes to cycling gear—and yes, they’ve got a brilliant range of cycling shoes types too. Road, mountain, casual—you name it. They even offer price match and Klarna options if you’re feeling a bit skint after payday (we've all been there).
Before clicking on the add-to-cart button, make sure you do the following things:
Fitting: A snug without tight. Your toes should not feel like they are in a vice.
Closure system: BOA dials = quickly and accurately. Velcro = cheap and simple. Laces = fashionable and not meant to be used in the rain.
Sole stiffness: More stiffness = better power transfer. But for all-day comfort, a little flex isn’t a bad thing.
Cleat compatibility: Check your pedals before buying! SPD, SPD-SL, Look, and Crankbrothers—they all have different cleat systems.
Ventilation: Especially important if you’re riding in summer or indoors.
Bike shoes are not a trick but a door opener. To more efficient rides. To present a better stance. To reduce injuries. Be it to the weird yet wonderful sensation of it all simply falling into place.
Once you have finally decided you want to take a plunge, go through a reputable UK-based online shop such as Tredz and purchase your cycling footwear. They have the margins, the lines and the expertise and really, nothing is as good as a delivery to your door that carries with it the scent of new shoes.
Q: Which type of shoes are best for cycling?
It depends on your style. Road cyclists will benefit most from stiff, three-bolt shoes. Mountain bikers should look for grippy, walkable SPD shoes. Commuters and casual riders might prefer something more flexible and stylish.
Q: What are cycling shoes called?
Honestly? Just “cycling shoes”. But depending on type, you might hear people say "road shoes", "MTB shoes", "SPD shoes", "clipless shoes", or even “cleats” (though technically that refers to the cleat attached to the shoe).
