Cycling shoes make a fantastic Christmas gift for that mad keen cyclist in your family.
Like all sportsmen, he'll go through shoes at an alarming rate.
And everyone knows that comfortable, reliable shoes can make all the difference in how well that bike ride goes.
Of course, he could just wear any old sporting shoe, but Miss Trixie has been spending some time with some die-hard cyclists (ooh, the Lycra!) and they said that they won't even bother getting on a bike without specialized cycling shoes.
What Type of Cyclist is He?
You'll find it easier to choose the correct style of shoe if you know what type of bike he rides and how he rides it.
- Does he enter competitions?
- Does he just muck around?
- Is he just in it for the social side?
Choosing Custom Cycling Shoes
The Casual Road Rider
If he doesn't enter competitions, but likes to go riding around the local scenic track on weekends, then he may be looking for something he can wear both on the bike and off.
Look for hybrid cycling footwear. They can't be clipped onto the pedal, but they are comfortable for riding as well as walking around.
Also a good choice for bike commuters who need to walk on/off trains and into office blocks.
The Serious Road Rider
You'll know this guy as the one who disappears on his bike for hours, enters all the local events and will shout down anyone who complains about cyclists on the road.
These guys need serious footwear designed purposely for cycling. The shoes feature very stiff soles and rigid uppers. A bit like clogs, but without the floral decals. The whole idea is that they give him something firm to push down on as he pedals without hurting his feet.
They come with holes drilled in the soles ready to have the pedal cleat screwed in. It's a similar system to attaching ski boots to snow skis and easier to click in and out of than the old toe straps.
Make sure you know which cleat system his pedals use as they can vary from two to three to four holes.
Mountain Bikers
These guys need a completely different style of shoe.
Not dissimilar to their bike tires, really. Their shoes need to be firm so they can push down hard, but with some serious rubber work for traction on dirt, rock and mud.
They come in styles suitable for use with a cleat system, or with a plain sole for use with an ordinary pedal. So, make sure you know what type he uses.
Tips
- Road cycling shoes are pretty rigid, so do not tend to 'wear in' like normal shoes. If they are too tight at the start, they'll stay that way.
- They should be snug but with room to wiggle his toes. Check the brand and size he currently has.
- Cleats are supplied with the pedals, not the shoes. You'll need to know which system he uses before you buy the shoes. They aren't interchangeable.
- It's tempting to go for discount cycling shoes, but as always, you get what you pay for. More expensive brands will have a more supporting style and fit. They'll be lighter and use better quality materials.
Top Brands To Choose From
- Adidas cycling shoes
- Nike
- Lake
- Diadora
- Northwave
- Sidi
PLUS: Check out our other gifts for men who like cycling:
