Gravel Bike Shoes

Cycling shoes at eXXpozed

Why should cycling shoes be worn?

Whether on a road bike or for trekking, cycling shoes are part of the indispensable equipment of every ambitious cyclist. Matching the individual needs, there is the right cycling shoe for every area of use. Starting with the freerider to the mountain bike shoe to the cycling shoe for road cycling, there is a comprehensive selection of high-quality variants. The advantages of a special cycling shoe are obvious - the modern cycling shoes guarantee an efficient power transfer from the foot to the pedal and thus reduce energy losses when pedaling. So many cyclists benefit from this power saving during a steep hill climb or a long distance. An optimally fitting and high-quality cycling shoe facilitates leg work and makes pedaling more efficient. In addition, the cycling shoe with its special sole ensures a secure grip on the pedals and thus prevents possible slipping, which could lead to accidents. In particular, cycling shoes with clip-in technology, in which the sole is clipped to the bicycle pedal with cleats, prove to be advantageous for road cycling, especially since it is possible to pedal more smoothly thanks to this connection between the cycling shoe and pedal. This leads not only to greater safety, but especially to higher performance.

All-mountain, trekking, freeride or road bike?

Depending on the type of cycling, different cycling shoes come into consideration, depending on whether they are used on a mountain bike, a trekking bike or a road bike. Therefore, there are cycling shoes for

• All-Mountain/Trekking
• Freeride and
• Road bike.

Road bike shoes are characterized by a low, smooth profile and a sole made of carbon. A profiling or equipment with studs or knobs is usually not present, since pushing passages are secondary in road cycling. Straps and buckles prevent the foot from slipping. Furthermore, typical are the cleats with three-bolt fastening and an excellent sole stiffness, which benefits an aggressive start. In cycling shoes for mountain biking, depending on the driving style, a stiffer and smoother or profiled sole is used. Whereas mountain bike shoes with a rather stiff sole are suitable for a racing-oriented riding style, cycling shoes with a sole profile that is also suitable for longer pushing passages in rough terrain are particularly suitable for all-mountain riding. However, all mountain bike shoes have a minimum profile, so that safe movement on foot on unpaved surfaces is possible without any problems. In addition, the bike shoes are often used with click systems in mountain biking. Similar to road bike shoes, mountain bikers benefit from a binding between the shoe and the pedal, which, however, does not have to sit quite as tightly in this area of use. Freeriders who prefer flat pedals with a large surface area and pins that provide support ride without a click binding. Also available for these pedals are the matching freerider shoes, which have a specially developed, robust and non-slip sole. Especially the cycling shoes of the Five Ten brand have proven themselves for this area of use. Cycling shoes for trekking tours are also characterized by a non-slip and less stiff sole, which convinces with a good rolling behavior when walking. There are also several variants with different looks and fits for men and women.

How should a bike shoe fit and what materials should it be made of?

Whether all-mountain, road bike or freeride, the fit and comfort are always decisive for cycling shoes. Just like the clothing for cycling, the bike shoe must also sit optimally on the foot to guarantee perfect support and a comfortable wearing feeling. The leading manufacturers such as Scott or Vaude take this need into account with a precise fit processing and special material properties. Thus, many cycling shoes use a ventilated upper material. Such breathable manufactured feet remain pleasantly cool and fresh even in hot temperatures. Other cycling shoes are particularly insulating and warming and therefore well suited to cold weather conditions or fast drying and windproof. Equally important in the rain or water puddles to pass through is also water-repellent or even waterproof material, so that the feet always stay dry. Depending on personal needs and area of use, cyclists and ambitious cyclists alike will find the perfect cycling shoe. Special and often removable inner soles, which adapt perfectly to the foot, ensure a high level of comfort and pain-free cycling even on longer distances. Depending on the design and model, the cycling shoes also have protective toe caps, which are especially common in freeride shoes, velcro closures for an anatomical fit or reflectors that ensure better visibility in the dark.

Top brands for cycling shoes?

The cycling shoes of renowned brands such as Five Ten, Vaude or Scott are characterized by high quality, which goes hand in hand with durability and robustness. Through specially developed materials and a qualitatively first-class processing, the cycling shoes are a proven equipment for the practice of cycling for many years. Features such as a fiberglass-reinforced nylon outsole, ergonomic and antibacterial insoles or shock-absorbing midsoles stand for high quality. The choice of material, innovative technologies and latest design developments ensure a perfect cycling shoe, ideally adapted to the requirements and needs of the cyclist.

What should I look for when buying cycling shoes?

When buying cycling shoes, the first thing to look for is a firm and individually perfect fit. The heel area must sit tightly and the toes must have sufficient clearance so that no pressure points occur. In high-quality cycling shoes, the ergonomic insoles ensure a good fit, which is also influenced by the closure system. While velcro and ratchet closures often make the shoe a bit stiffer, shoes with lacing allow a slightly looser fit. Especially when buying road cycling shoes, the question often arises whether a velcro strap, a ratchet buckle or a BOA lacing system with cord lacing is preferred. Ratchets are extremely robust and provide a secure hold. The lacing system, on the other hand, is particularly light and prevents friction at the contact points. Regardless, all systems have proven to be functional, so the choice mostly depends on personal preference. Those who buy cycling shoes for use with cleats, in other words for clipless pedals, should also make sure that they are compatible with the pedal system used. This applies in particular to road cycling shoes, as freeriders always and mountain bike shoes often manage without a click system. For all-mountain shoes, the presence of heel and toe protection is recommended. Last but not least, ventilation also plays a role, because offered are both denser cycling shoes with a high protection against the cold and well-ventilated models with mesh and holes in the upper material, which increase comfort on hot summer days.

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