Best cycling shoes 2023 | 37 top-rated road cycling shoes for every budget

35 top-rated road cycling shoes tested and reviewed by our team

Your feet are among the most vital contact points when riding and it’s important to select your cycling shoes with care. There are a variety of options but it’s difficult to decide what’s right. It’s good to know that you’ve found the right spot.

We’ve done the miles so that you are able to find the ideal cycling footwear for your needs, style of riding, and budget.

Do you require large sums to buy the most recent model from a pro manufacturer or can a less expensive model perform the same?

Some riders are enthralled by shiny disco slippers in white however, they can be difficult to keep tidy (especially in climates like the UK’s) Some prefer black classics, however, there are those who think that black shoes look boring.

Cycling shoes can vary widely in terms of fit (we’ve provided a detailed guide to large cycling sneakers) and intended usage. It’s easy to throw dollars into the issue and get a set of shoes that aren’t suited to your specific foot shape or style of riding.

After having considered all the possibilities, read until the end to read our buyer’s guide for bicycle shoes for road use.

Best cycling shoes in 2023, as rated and reviewed by our expert testers

With so many cycling footwear available and many options, we’ve divided our top picks of cycling shoes into various price categories, ranging from performance-oriented shoes that cost about $400 to affordable shoes that cost less than $100.

Scroll down to see all the shoes, or click these links to go directly to the various prices:

• The best bicycle shoes $100
• The best bicycle shoes $150
• The best bicycle shoes $200
• The best cycle shoes for $300
• The best bicycle shoes $400

Best cycling shoes for $100

1) Boardman Carbon

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• PS80 as it was tested
• Great value
• Stiff soles, and two-dial adjustment

For $80 this Boardman Carbon shoe offers great features, like the sole made of carbon and the twin Atop dials that adjust as a lower-cost alternative to that of the Boa system that functions similarly. You even get a replaceable heel bumper.
The internal padding in the major part of the upper gives comfort. There’s plenty of ventilation for your feet to stay cool. an adequate toe box size offers a little extra space when compared to other cycling shoes.

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2) Bont Motion

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• PS80 as it was tested
• Extremely rigid soles
• More powerful than the competition

The Motion shoe brings Bont’s trademark stiffness at a more affordable cost, thanks to the sole made of fibreglass.
The shoe weighs more than similar-priced rivals. It could be due to the sole made of fibreglass, however, certain people will consider the weight gain worth it due to the stiffness of the shoe.
The Motion is based around Bont’s classic anatomical last. This results in an uninspiring sleek shoe as compared to others but it also creates an elongated – and more comfortable fit.
Dials could be a better option than Motion’s Velcro straps, however, they do keep costs low and it’s not going to be a problem getting out of the fact that this shoe is a great value in terms of price.

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3) DHB Aeron Carbon Road Dial

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• PS74, as a test
• A high-quality, comfortable shoe with a carbon sole.
• The size of the garment is small.

Aeron Carbon Road Dial shoe from dhb. Aeron Carbon Road Dial shoe from dhb is among the cheapest carbon-soled sneakers that are currently available.
The sole is a great source of rigidity and a powerful pedalling platform, but it did scratch easily during the tests.
The shoe is secured by using Velcro straps as well as dhbs Atop dial. It functions similarly to Boa. Boa is also comfortable. Pay attention to the sizing, however, we would recommend taking a smaller size.
Comfort is great with the synthetic uppers that are more comfortable than many bicycle shoes even though they weren’t as breathable.

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4) Bont Riot Buckle

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• PS99 or $129, as was tested
• Soles that can be heated
• Price bargain for the performance

With a weight of 632g for a pair of EU size 45s at 632g, the Riot Buckle from Bont is one of the lightest, most durable footwear available for sale at the price.
The tub-like sole design is identical to the design found on Bont’s high-end Helix shoes but it’s made from carbon-reinforced fibreglass instead of carbon fibre. The change in the material shouldn’t bother you since the Riot’s sole is still able to provide an efficient transfer of power.
Baking these is the only way to ensure that the fit is perfect and comfortable, so make sure you spend the time to do it. After ours was adapted to our needs they were extremely comfortable and we did not have any issues closing the Velcro strap or ratchet mechanism. The uppers are on the stiff side but.

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5) Triban GRVL 500

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• PS50 as it was tested
• Great value lace-up SPD shoe
• A heel raise may slow performance

The Triban GRVL 500 lace-up shoe has an affordable price, yet it’s got plenty of options.
The shoe features a nylon sole that has fibreglass reinforcement. It is compatible with SPD cleats and features large rubber sections that are designed for stability and walking.
Its GRVL 500 provides excellent comfort during long rides. Although the sole is a bit rigid, it’s not harsh.
The shoe causes your heel to be slightly higher when cycling or walking However, overall, there is no apparent drawback for this shoe.
It’s a budget-friendly alternative for all kinds of riding from commuting to more demanding off-road riding.

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6) Scott Road Comp Boa

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• PS100, $120, and $150 AU$ as test
• Excellent price
• Performance and fit are excellent.

Even though it’s Scott’s most affordable road shoe, with Boa fasteners, the Scott Road Comp Boa still is a great performer.
The sole is composed of nylon as well as glass fibre composite which can help bring the price down.
It’s not as rigid as a carbon sole that is fully carbon, however it’s perfect for use in everyday life.
The comfort is excellent. The fit and comfort are more spacious than Scott’s more expensive and more aggressive shoes. This makes it more comfortable with thick socks.
The Road Comp Boa looks very elegant for a basic shoe as well and has a great selection of colours available.

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7) Specialized Torch 1.0

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• PS90/$110 as tested
• Boa dial adjustment
• Great all-day comfort

The Specialized Torch 1.0 is able to swap Velcro straps to an L6 Boa dial as well as a closed top closure with crossed cords that weigh around 50g for a set in weight.
On the underside, there’s a strong-enough synthetic sole, which is comfy.
The Specialized Body Geometry insoles. They’re made with the same technology as Spesh’s high-end shoes, but with a design designed to accommodate the natural curves of the foot.
With 530g of weight for a size 42, The Torch 1.0 shoe is light and extremely comfortable for everyday riding, but we’ve missed the two-bolt option, which is great for commuters.

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8) Triban RC 520

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• PS70 as it was tested
• Fantastic value
• Flexible enough to use gravel to commute to work

The Triban RC 520 is tough and comfortable enough to endure long rides and commutes.

We’ve also found it suitable for riding on gravel if conditions don’t get too rough or muddy.

Simple straps and laces create a strong closure, however, we had to tie them tight to prevent the heel from rising slightly while walking.

The RC 520 is far from lightweight, however, at this price is still a great value in terms of value.

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Best cycling shoes for $180

1) Bont Riot Road+ Boa

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• PS150 or $182 as tested
• Fitting that can be heat-moulded
• Supremely stiff carbon sole design

With a supremely rigid carbon sole that can be heat moulded, The Riot Road+ Boa shoe is a great way to bring Bont’s unique design philosophy to a more affordable price.
Carbon soles that are tubular the pedals are extremely rigid, making them an impressively effective and comfortable pedalling platform.
Bont claims that it provides anatomical comfort right from the box in comparison to other cycling shoes.
This fit can be totally customised at home by placing them in the oven to bake for about 20 mins at 70degC/ 160degF after which you can put them on and tighten them.
Our tester discovered that it to be the Riot Road+ Boa runs slightly smaller than other models So, make sure to be sure to check the fit before purchasing (an important reminder not to simply rely on the listed sizes of the shoes).

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2) Fizik Tempo R5 Powerstrap

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• PS110 or $120 as a test
• Very comfortable and an even tension
• It is a great option for long rides.

One of the most comfy road footwear we’ve tested, The Fizik Tempo R5 Powerstrap is an excellent choice for long journeys.
The soles are identical to that were used on Fizik’s expensive R5B that’s why they’re not the most rigid and their heel and toe bumpers aren’t replaceable.
The equal tension created by the dual Velcro straps ensured that we did not miss Boa dials.
With 626g for a pair of EU45s, The Fizik Tempo Powerstrap may not be the most light. The price, however, is quite reasonable for its performance.

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3) Udog Tensione

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• PS130or EUR175 or $170/AU$225 as tried and tested
• A subtle appearance
• A comfy fit

Udog (short for Underdog) can be described as a brand-new Italian cycling shoe brand with a direct-to-consumer model that makes it possible for the brand to provide the best value for money.

The Tensiones utilise the carbon composite/nylon blend outsole, with two inverted V-shaped ribbons to either in the middle of the foot or laces for the most comfortable, yet tight fitting.

The shoes were comfortable enough to be suitable for spring riding in all conditions and were not too hot in summer. The sole is fantastic for road use, providing the ability to perform and comfort throughout the day.

However, since they are only available online it isn’t possible to try the shoes before buying.

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4) Fizik R5 Tempo Overcurve

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• £140 / $149.99 as tested
• Great comfort
• Lots of colour and size options 

The Fizik R5 Tempo Overcurve shoe is well perforated to keep your feet cool, although there are no perforations in the toe or composite sole.

The Overcurve part of the name refers to a differential cut to the inside and outside of the opening, to accommodate the different heights of the ankle bone on each side of the leg, a nice ergonomic feature.

You get a single Boa and a Velcro strap, making for easy use, although not quite the adjustability of two Boas.

The R5 Tempo Overcurve is not that light for the price at 560g (size 42).

The lack of sole vents marks them down a bit too, but with six colours and half sizes there are plenty of options. 

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5) Mavic Cosmic Boa

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• PS115 / $143, as tested
• Fantastic performance
• Clean, minimalist lines

One Boa closure gives an elegant appearance However it’s easy to achieve a perfect fit and comfort with Mavic’s Cosmic Boa shoe. Mavic Cosmic Boa footwear.

Although the soles made of nylon/fibreglass are rated as moderately stiff We found them to be perfect for our trips.

There is more than 100 laser-cut ventilation in the uppers, and two additional vents on the soles to keep you cool.

With sleek lines With super-clean lines, the Mavics are a classy look, particularly in white. Be aware of Mavic’s tightness to the body, but you may prefer to up by half.

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6) Pearl Izumi Tour

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• PS120/$130 as test
• Retro lace-up looks
• Excellent combination of flex and stiffness

In order to keep weight by 504 grams (size 42) and ensure a secure and secure fit, the laces of the Pearl Izumi Tour shoe give the shoe a retro appearance.

There are plenty of vents on both the upper as well as the sole to keep your feet cool.

The bottom of the sole of the nylon is backed up by a huge carbon plate beneath the cleat. It offers stiffness where it’s required however, it has a little bit of flexibility elsewhere – 8/14 on the stiffness index of PI.

It’s great for day-long rides but not so great for racing.

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7) Shimano RC5

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• PS130 as it was tested
• Stiff carbon soles
• Elegant lines

With trickle-down features from the Shimano S-Phyre the Shimano RC5 shoe appears to be like a model, sporting an elegant, minimalist upper.
There’s also an option with a blue metallic that you might mistake for S-Phyres.
A new midsole that is seamless reduces weight by 504g in 42-size shoes and reduces the height of stacks by 3.3mm.
There’s a surprising amount of cleat adjustment on the carbon-reinforced composite soles, along with their huge toe vents.
The tongue-free, wrap-around uppers are secured by one Boa dial. It also has an additional Velcro strap that allows for comfort and a comfortable, tight adjustment. an easy switch to turn off or on.
The shoe is extremely airy and has plenty of ventilation. There are a variety of sizes available including large fit.

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8) Van Rysel RR900

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• PS120 has been tested
• Great sole firmness
• Interesting colours and well-made

The Van Rysel RR900 is the top model in the Decathlon brand’s line-up and provides an excellent price.
The shoe features 2 Atop dial closures, and the central rib of the all-carbon sole gives it a remarkable stiffness.
It’s balanced by soft synthetic uppers that are perforated on both sides as well as on the tongue, but not on the toe.
Its Van Rysel RR900 looks well-designed and has intriguing high-gloss iridescent colours.
At 592g, for a Size 42 size, this is not very heavy, however.

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Best cycling shoes for $250

1) Specialised Torch 3.0

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• PS200/$200 as tested
• Weight, performance, and comfort
• Excellent price

Even though it doesn’t have the S-Works name The Specialized Torch 3.0 shoe functions as the same shoe that costs PS100 more.
The Torch 3.0 is a clear take on the design of The S-Works 7 shoe In keeping with the S-Works 7 shoe, the Torch 3.0 has a similar fitting system consisting of two Boa dials as well as a Velcro strap on the front foot. This allows for simple and precise adjustments in fit.
We had to remove the top Boa laces from their anchor in order to put the shoe on it was an inconvenience of a minor nature.
After putting it on, it’s fantastic. The fit is great and has excellent arch support. Additionally, it has plenty of cushioning in the heel cup to avoid any slippage during sprinting or climbing.
Specialized states that FACT’s carbon sole ranks at 8.5 on the stiffness index, as opposed to 15 in its S-Works shoe, however, we found it to be stiff enough.

2) Shimano RC7

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• PS 189.99 or EUR 199.99 or $240 when the test
• Very adaptable
• Excellent value

Its Shimano RC7 goes toe to toe with the brand’s highest priced footwear, called the S-Phyre offering outstanding performance for a fraction of the price.
Comparatively to the RC902, The RC7 is slightly heavier, and the sole is carbon fibre composite, not carbon. This slight stretch it offers is likely to be the best option for most of the time you ride.
The upper is nice and comfortable. It has the same wraparound strap as the RC902 and dual Boa dials that ensure an adjustable snug fit.
The ventilation could be improved The RC7 isn’t ideal for summertime riding.

Best cycling shoes for $373

1) Specialized S-Works 7 Lace

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• PS300 or EUR325 or $325 as a test
• Classic styles
• Cutting-edge performance

The Specialized S-Works 7 Lace is the most comfortable shoe to lace up you can purchase, according to our view.

More lightweight than many high-end shoes The S-Works 7 lace has a lighter weight than many high-end shoes. extremely stiff. It’s still comfortable and breathable to wear all day long.

Although the laces prevent adjustments on the move, they are part of an elegant and aerodynamic design.

2) Giant Surge Pro

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• PS 299.99 EUR 360 / $399 as a test
• Amazing performance
• Flexible

The Giant Surge Pro is the footwear worn in the World Tour by Giant, which is sponsored by Team BikeExchange.
As you would expect from shoes for racing, its sole won’t move when you exert huge effort.
There aren’t any pinch-points in the polyurethane upper that is well-ventilated. There are two unidirectional Boa dials as well as a Velcro strap that lets you adjust tension.
Our tests showed the Surge Pro’s cost to be well-justified. Extras like adjustable arch support and insoles are included.

3) Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon

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• PS279 or EUR290 PS279/EUR290 $299.99 as test
• Amazing Luxury
• Stiff soles

Its Fizik Tempo Deco Carbon is a blend of the comfort of performance, comfort, and ventilation into a truly top-of-the-line package.
The sole is extremely rigid, giving the appearance of speed, but doesn’t cause your feet to hurt.
The light, perforated on the upper and lower lets air flow.
The minimal Tempo Decos Carbon’s simple Boa dial rotates in both directions and is used to distribute tension across the shoe.

4) Bontrager Ballista Knit

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• PS270 / $325 as a test
• A top choice for fairweather
• Ideal for long rides in warm weather

In the full embrace of the woven trend, Bontrager has produced a winner in the Ballista Knit.

The single Boa dial and lightweight material make this Ballista Knit weigh only 554g when you buy a pair that are in EU size 45.

The bottom of the Ballista is a V-shaped slit which is located in front of the cleat and has an elastomer toe bumper which means you won’t scratch the ultra-stiff carbon sole.

The Ballista comes with a DWR (durable waterproof) coating. A pair of waterproof rubber overshoes specially designed for the shoe is also included.

5) Bontrager XXX

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• PS300 or $399 as a test
• Excellent fit
• Excellently done

The Bontrager XXX is the brand’s premium shoe and is used by professional athletes.
As you’d imagine, you’ll receive the stiffest of soles. They also have plenty of ventilation for the underfoot.
The size 45 pair weighed 568g, which is light but not top-of-the-line.
There are two seams within the upper made of TPU, along with numerous venting holes which work for keeping your feet cool. There’s also a grippy coating at the heel to stop lifting.
The two Boa IP1 dials give ample adjustment for the tongue-less, symmetrical closure. The well-designed inside and the heel cup prevent sweaty feet.
The Bontrager XXX ticks all the requirements for a professional-grade shoe.

6) DMT KR3

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• PS236 has been test
• Amazingly comfy
• It’s not ideal in the rain.

DMT was the pioneer of full-knit uppers. The DMT KR3 shoe makes use of the latest technology to make an extremely comfortable shoe.
The fit is fantastic. The knitted pattern matches the form of your foot perfectly, while the Boa dial manages tension in the forefoot.
Carbon soles provide an excellent level of stability and are strong and sturdy.
It’s important to note that these are certainly shoes to wear for summer riding. They’re comfortable and well-ventilated.
There is a polymer component that has been bonded to the knitted fabric to provide protection from elements, we would not recommend the KR3 under wet weather.

7) Fizik R3 Aria

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• PS265 /$300 as test
• Sleek aesthetics
• Effective wraparound upper design

The Fizik R3 Aria has a very elegant design and a comfortable fit. The upper is robust, simple to maintain, and resilient even in harsh weather.
A front Boa dial regulates the fitting across the forefoot. The dial in the rear will adjust the fit around your heel, resulting in an even, snug fitting.
Small perforations and vents inside the sole provide good airflow.
The stiffness of the pedals is amazing for the price.

Best cycling shoes for $400

1) Shimano S-Phyre RC902

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• PS320, $425, $549 AU$ EUR360 EUR360 as test
• Stiff and effective
• Narrow

Shimano’s latest top-of-the-line S-Phyre RC road shoe is a follow-up to the success of the earlier RC901 model. It delivers all over the place, with a stiff and effective carbon sole, and a high amount of airflow.
The cleat bolt holes that can be adjusted let you set up your cleat as you would like. Insoles of high quality are available with adjustable arch supports.
Shimano has improved the design and design of this shoe from the earlier model. The wrapped uppers and Boa dials offer an extremely customizable fit, while the heel retention is fantastic; however, we did discover the forefoot area of the shoes to be a little small.
The wide model could be worthwhile in case you have a wider foot or a more roomy fitting.

2) Sidi Wire 2

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• PS330, as tried and tested
• Fantastic power transfer
• Fits comfortably

Sidi Wire 2 shoe isn’t the lightest at the hefty 660g for size 45.5 It’s stylish, however, it’s stylish, well-fitting, and performs superbly. You’ll probably be extremely satisfied with these shoes regardless of whether you’re a weight nut.
Our test subject discovered that they were quite an oversized fit, however, she was able easily to locate the correct size by taking a half size bigger than normal, something that isn’t available from other brands.
Sidi continues to use the closure dials it has created however they function just fine. There is one drawback: they can be difficult to use with gloves, as compared to a conventional Boa dial.
This shoe does well all over the entire board.

3) Specialized S-Works 7

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• PS340, $400 and AU$500 as tried and tested
• Fits wider
• Fantastic security and the comfort

Specialized has put a lot of effort into creating its range of shoes recently including the new S-Works 7. This is the outcome of all this development.

A larger toe box as well as a more spacious Form Fit in comparison to those of the past generation makes these better suited for feet with slightly larger widths.

It was extremely comfortable, thanks to the Dyneema mesh uppers and Body Geometry designed footbed providing an unrestricted fit that doesn’t restrict the feet’s movement in any manner.

Specialized claims that they believe that the FACT Powerline carbon sole will be the strongest ever made and it appears to be strong enough to handle Peter Sagan’s massive power levels.

The S-Works 7 is a business-like look as well, with a sophisticated design and a variety of colours to choose from.

4) Bont Helix / Helix Reflex

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• PS349 (or $399) as tried and tested
• Custom-fit
• Super stiff and lightweight sole

The Helix is Bont’s most popular racing shoe, featuring an entire design focusing on creating the highest energy transfer between your foot and pedals.
Like the rest of Bont cycle shoes, these are heat moldable, allowing for a totally custom fit.
They also come with a tub-style sole design which provides incredible rigidity. If you’re in need of additional visibility but without sacrificing design, Bont also offers the shoes in a reflective version.
Bont is now thankfully using the Boa closure system that allows for quick adjustment prior to or during the ride.
The price is expensive However, the shoe is like nothing else in the market.
The degree of stiffness is extremely high, which means the Helix isn’t a performance-oriented shoe. If you want pure performance you should look elsewhere.

5) Bont Vaypor S Hologram

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• PS325 as it was tested
• Ultra-thin, ultra-stiff, carbon construction
• The upper is heat moldable and can be customised to fit.

Its Bont Vaypor S Hologram is an expensive option, but it is a good choice if the overall design works for you, the arch is fairly high, and it provides excellent foot stability and retention.
The “bathtub” carbon construction is extremely stiff and the heat-moldable upper is remoulded multiple times to alter the size.
The hologram model isn’t suitable for people who are shy or retiring, however it does provide visibility, and can help to justify the somewhat shocking price.

6) DMT KRSL

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• PS330, as a test
• Ultra-light and air-conditioned
• Absolutely comfortable

Tadej’s weapon, the DMT KRSL’s knitted shoe upper is combined by a carbon sole that is completely new. There are four big meshed vents to provide airflow and help lower the weight.
The fit is extremely comfortable and the firmness and comfort are perfectly balanced. They are so comfortable that the laces look like they’re another security measure.
The heel bumper can be changed and even on the most humid days, there wasn’t even a sign that sweat was visible on our test feet. However, they can get cool on cold days.

7) Fizik R1 Infinito Knit

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• PS330, as a test
• Ultra-light and air-conditioned
• Absolutely comfortable

Tadej’s weapon, the DMT KRSL’s knitted shoe upper, is combined by a carbon sole that is completely new. There are four big meshed vents to provide airflow and help lower the weight.
The fit is extremely comfortable and the firmness and comfort are perfectly balanced. They are so comfortable that the laces look like they’re another security measure.
The heel bumper can be changed and even on the most humid days, there wasn’t even a sign that sweat was visible on our test feet. However, they can get cool on cold days.

8) Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2

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• PS330, $350 and EUR350 as test
• Incredibly light, rigid, and extremely comfortable
• Expensive

Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 is a re-imagining of the style of Fizik’s professional-level R1 shoe, to create the most comfortable and lightweight shoe.
The upper fabric is an elastic and lightweight Microtex fabric.
A band runs across between the two upper closings with an adjustable adjustment micro Boa dial.
Together, they spread equally across the foot.
The sole of carbon flexes laterally to avoid discomfort or cramping. Aspine’, however, extends from the cleat region up to the heel and provides stiffness.
The shoe is almost perfect in comfort and performance for the price.

9) Fizik Vento Stabilita Carbon

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• PS375, $400 and EUR400 as test
• Stiff, with a flexible to
• Costly

Vento Stabilita Carbon shoe Vento Stabilita Carbon shoe uses Fizik’s Dynamic Arch Support (2.0).
It’s footwear that is comfortable and has the ability to adjust the shape.
Despite the cutaway portion, however, the sole remains rigid. Overall, the shoe performs very efficiently.
Vento Stabilita Carbon Vento Stabilita Carbon is ideal for riders who produce big power as well as anyone who appreciates the close fitting and comfort.

10) Sidi Shot

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• PS359 / $549, as tried and tested
• Classic Italian styling
• Solid construction

The Sidi Shot may be one of the priciest sneakers available However, its appeal is indisputable.
Although it’s not the most modern shoe, the design is solid. Also, you’ll find that classic Italian design.
The fit across the shoe is adjustable in a new way using the possibility of adjusting the heel as well as two of Sidi’s dials on the front.
There are plenty of adjustabilities available, however, Sidi’s dials can be less user-friendly than Boa’s dials.
The carbon sole isn’t necessarily the thinnest, but it is the stiffest.
It’s not an ultra-light shoe however it’s definitely made for racing. A young Colombian known as Egan Bernal has won a big race on a bike.
Sidi has launched an upgraded version of its Shot named The Shot 2, with an upgraded carbon sole.

11) Sidi Sixty

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• PS330/ EUR420 as test
• Fantastic fit and great ease of use
• More robust than other competitors

The 60th anniversary of Sidi’s brand is celebrated with the Sixty shoe available in a range of styles as well as the limited-edition snakeskin that we tried.
The closure is made with one centrally placed Techno 4 dial and a front Velcro strap, which works in conjunction with the strong heel cup to keep your feet in the right position.
Sidi has upgraded the Vent carbon sole as well. It’s well-designed and reinforced with plenty of stiffness, and has a vent that can be closed to limit the flow of air beneath your feet during frigid weather.
With a variety of interchangeable components and spares available this shoe is made to last.
At 617g for an item in size 45 is a bit heavy. Sixty is slightly heavier than other models with its higher price.

12) Specialized S-Works EXOS

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• PS450, $500 or 600 AU$ as tried and tested
• Unique design
• Amazingly bright

Aero is everywhere nowadays. It’s still cool to see some ultra-lightweight pieces arrive.
Its Specialized S-Works EXOS shoes are one of those shoes that makes you say “Wow” Our pair of test shoes (size EU45) weighed an amazing 347.2g. It’s only 173.6g per shoe.
Fortunately, given the price of this product, the reduction in weight does not come at the cost of performance.
The mesh is Dyneema. The synthetic fabric is soft but does not stretch.
The sole is thinner, as compared to the Specialized S-Works 7 shoe.
This can also help cut down some pounds, but it’s still a stiff sole. Specialized gives it a score of 13 on its Stiffness Index, which is similar to its S-Works six shoe.
Our test rider found it to be perfect for hot conditions and for long climbs with the mesh uppers that breathe to ensure that feet stay cool.
Sadly, such cutting-edge tech doesn’t come cheap.

Buyer’s guide to cycling shoes: what to look for

The process of buying cycling shoes is an issue with the many possibilities, and the local store may not have everything you’d like to test.
If you’ve been cycling for long enough, you’ll already know the best way to go, however if you’re only getting started, it’s a bit daunting. In this regard we’ve created a quick buyer’s guide that will help you understand the fundamentals.

Fit

Like all other shoes, they are constructed around a ‘last’. This is basically a mould made of the foot that manufacturers make use of to design their footwear.
Each brand has its own style, which is depending on its individual concept of fit. Finding the right shape for you is definitely important, but the best method of finding out is to put on shoes. Make sure you visit a store in person or purchase from an online retailer that has the best return policy.

Sole

In the same way as everything else bike-related carbon is the main top choice for the soles of cycling shoes. It’s not a surprise, though valued for its capacity to be strong and light carbon is the ideal material for soles for cycling shoes.
The drawback is, of course, the price. Shoes for entry-level utilise glass fibre or nylon composite soles to reduce costs. They’re likely to be somewhat more flexible than full carbon soles, but they will be miles ahead of the standard trainers, so it’s definitely not a big expense if you can’t extend to carbon.

Closure system

There are three major closure options currently available. The most well-known are Velcro Straps, or Wire Laces fitted with adjustable dials (Boa and similar).
Sometimes, you’ll find a combination of both. Velcro straps offer the benefit of being inexpensive, efficient, and simple to use and therefore, you’ll typically find them on shoes with lower prices. For higher-end footwear, Boa and other similar dial systems are more popular because of their ability to precisely adjust the fit.
Traditional places also have had some sort of revival in recent months, and if you want a classic style, you’ll have more choices in the near future. But remember that you won’t be in a position to alter your bike’s shoes.

Other features

It’s important to consider what kind of riding you’re wearing your shoes for. Many road cycling shoes are made to be used in hot weather, for instance, which means they’re extremely comfortable and don’t provide much protection against the elements.
If you’re living in an area where the weather is usually wet and cold you should consider whether the footwear is the best selection, or if you would prefer something that is more durable.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, cycling shoes are an essential piece of equipment for any serious cyclist. They offer a variety of benefits that can enhance a rider’s performance and comfort on the bike. Cycling shoes are designed with specific features such as stiff soles, a snug fit, and specialized cleats that provide a secure connection to the pedals. They help to improve power transfer, reduce foot fatigue, and provide better control and stability while riding. With the different types of cycling shoes available on the market today, cyclists can choose from a wide range of styles and features to suit their individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, investing in a quality pair of cycling shoes is a wise decision for anyone looking to take their cycling to the next level.