In the world of cycling, there are few accessories more important than the right pair of cycling shoes. Your body has three points of contact with the bike when riding: the pelvis, the palms, and the feet. Your feet are by far the most important point of contact with the bike, due to the amount of impact put on such a small surface area.  

Having the right pair of cycling shoes can make the difference between a pain-free ride and an arduous cycling session. We have done the research and have chosen the top cycling shoes in three categories: entry-level, value for money, and performance.

Best for Entry-Level Cyclists: Giro Treble 2

Any Giro brand shoe is dependable for entry-level cyclists, but the Treble 2 stands out due to its affordability and versatility. The Treble 2 clips into two-bolt and three-bolt pedal systems, contributing to its versatility. Suitable for road and mountain bikes alike, the Giro Treble 2s are as close to “one-size-fits-all” as cycling shoes go. The velcro straps on these shoes allow the cyclist to adjust the fit to their liking; tight and snug or loose and breathable. The Giro Treble 2 shoes are available for as cheap as $79, making it affordable for entry-level riders who are just dipping their toes into the world of cycling.

Best Value for Money: Shimano RC-701

For those more advanced cyclists who are looking for durable, reliable cycling shoes that don’t break the bank, look no further than the Shimano RC-701 shoes. Quality cycling shoes can cost anywhere from $150 to $500, so the Shimano RC-701, currently available for $135.99, is an exceptional choice for dedicated cyclists that are shopping on a budget. 

This shoe has an ultra-rigid, lightweight carbon fiber composite sole for effective power transfer and is made from high-density synthetic leather to mold perfectly to the cyclist’s feet. With dual Boa L6 dials, cyclists will have the ability to perform micro-adjustments to the fit of the shoe while riding for maximum comfort regardless of terrain. These cycling shoes are perfect for those looking for a high-performance shoe with an affordable price tag.

Highest Quality: Fizik R1 Infinito

For those true-blue cyclists who are looking for investment-worthy shoes, we believe the Fizik R1 Infinito shoes are the best on the market. These shoes have a thin, functional lining that provides enough cushion to the cyclist’s feet without adding unnecessary weight. One standout feature of the Fizik R1 Infinito is the micro-adjustable Boa IP1-B dials, which allow for fit adjustments on-the-fly. These exceptional shoes are made of premium laser perforated microtex, which translates to an exceptional fit and feel for years to come. Worn by professional cyclists such as Philippe Gilbert and Salvatore Puccio, the Fizik R1 Infinito shoes will allow for maximum performance regardless of the terrain or ride length.

Conclusion

When it comes to cycling shoes, there are hundreds of options available, which can seem overwhelming when choosing the right pair for you. There is great importance when it comes to choosing quality cycling shoes to preserve one’s feet. These three options are just a few of our favorites.