Whether you’re a recreational rider or someone who races, you need a good pair of cycling shoes and those shoes will probably feel like they need to be broken in. Unfortunately, breaking in cycling shoes is something that really cannot be done in the way that you would with a regular pair of shoes.
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about achieving the perfect fit when buying a pair of cycling shoes.
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How do I make my cycling shoes more comfortable?
Although you can break in the uppers of cycling shoes, the soles are made to be stiff on purpose and are not intended to be broken in. Here are a few tips to improve the comfort of your cycling shoes:
- Wearing a thin pair of socks can help;
- You can work on the inside of the shoe to improve the fit by rubbing it with an object like a broom handle;
- The shoe uppers can sometimes be softened by a cobbler.
- Buy leather shoes. It’s easier to break in leather cycling shoes than it is to break in shoes made with synthetic materials.
Do you need to break in cycling shoes?
You do not need to break in cycling shoes. The key to enjoying cycling shoes that are comfortable is to get a pair that fits your foot well from the start.
When you’re in the store to buy your shoes, try them on and wear them for several minutes. If you feel any discomfort while wearing them in the store, don’t buy them. Keep trying shoes until you find one that is comfortable the entire time you’re wearing them.
If you aren’t having any luck finding the perfect pair, try a different pair of insoles. The fit of cycling shoes can sometimes be altered somewhat with insoles.
How long does it take to get used to new cycling shoes?
It is best not to buy a pair of cycling shoes that do not fit comfortably from the start. Therefore, it should not take any time to get used to new cycling shoes.
If you wear cycling shoes that do not fit comfortably from the start, then it will take a while for you to get used to them if you ever do. Unless you’re prepared for unnecessary discomfort while cycling it’s important to make sure that your cycling shoes fit properly.
It is better to spend some extra time finding your shoes than it is to have an uncomfortable experience while cycling.
Can cycling shoes be too stiff?
Cycling shoes can be too stiff. Cycling shoes with carbon soles can sometimes be so stiff that they do not flex enough to absorb the weight and force of the rider’s body. This has contributed to an increase in the rate of painful injuries like plantar fasciitis for some riders.
To prevent this type of injury, insert insoles or a specialized footbed.
How To Choose The Best Pair of Cycling Shoes [Video]
Check out this video for great advice on picking the best pair of cycling shoes for your riding experiences.
Related Questions
Do cycling shoes stretch out?
No, cycling shoes do not stretch out.
Do I need to size up for cycling shoes?
It might be a good idea to go a half size or whole size up when buying a pair of cycling shoes especially if you plan on adding a custom footbed. But, before you do so, be sure to try the shoes on.
Should cycling shoes fit tight?
Yes. Cycling shoes are designed to fit tight so that you can achieve more power when riding.
How do I choose a pair of cycling shoes?
There are lots of different factors to consider when purchasing a new pair of cycling shoes.
Not all cycling shoes are created equal. Some shoes are made with superior materials while others are cheap. Some shoes look amazing while others are ugly.
If you’re going to buy your first set of cycling shoes, it’s important to be aware of what you need to know before you purchase them.
To help you get started, let’s walk through the five most important things you should know before buying your first pair of cycling shoes.
1.Quality vs. Price
The first step to getting your first pair of cycling shoes is to understand the difference between quality and price.
Quality refers to the durability of the shoe, whereas price refers to how much the shoes cost.
Quality shoes last a lot longer than cheaper shoes, but they also cost more.
The right shoes will last you years, but you’ll need to pay a higher price for them.
A high-quality pair of cycling shoes will cost you around $100, but you’ll spend less than $50 on a low-quality pair of cycling shoes.
2. Durability
Durability refers to the ability of a shoe to withstand long-term wear.
You’ll want a pair of shoes that will last you years and years, but they won’t necessarily be cheap.
If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be able to find a pair of shoes that will last you for a couple of years, but you may have to sacrifice a bit of quality. Buy the highest quality shoe you can afford.
3. The type of cycling you plan on doing.
You should also consider the type of cycling you plan to do. If you are primarily a mountain biker, you will need a different type of shoe than someone who cycles on the street.
If you primarily mountain bike, you’ll need an off-road shoe; whereas, if you street cycle, you’ll want a road shoe.
4. Find the right fit
Before buying any cycling shoes, it is important to find the right fit. Cycling shoes are designed to fit snugly but be sure not to buy a pair that fit too snugly. Make sure you check the width of your feet to make sure the shoes you buy are wide enough.
It’s best to try on multiple pairs of shoes. Your feet will tell you which pair feels best and if they’re too tight or too loose.
5. Decide between shoes with clips or without clips.
If you decide to get a pair with clips, make sure to use the correct kind of clip for your bike.
