Cycling is fun but a very serious adventure and proper care are important to avoid possible accidents and injuries. One of the crucial cycling equipment is a cycling shoe and if they don’t fit you well, they may not do well. So, how should cycling shoes fit?
They should fit tight and snuggly on the heel
Cycling shoe that fits well needs to fit snuggly in the heel and remain tight without putting excess pressure on your shoe’s instep. The shoe needs to offer a little toe room to make sure it does not restrict or pinch your toe movement. Cycling shoe’s aim is to keep your foot stable when riding and offer the power you need to pedal effectively. With that in mind, you need balance when it comes to wiggle room and tightness.
Bottom-line
Majority of cycling shoes does not stretch over time since that is how they are designed. That is why you need to make sure that your shoes are comfortable from day one.
Consider length
Unlike running or walking shoes, cycling shoes do not need an extra room since with cycling there is no foot movement. You need to check if your shoes come with the right length. To do that, simply remove the insole and step on it. If your foot fits on that insole, then that’s the shoe for you.
Bottom-line
By choosing a shoe with the right length, you will have a smooth riding experience as your foot won’t get on your way when cycling.
Check width
Now that you have the right length, make sure you do not compromise on width. The front part of a cycling shoe is usually wide since your foot is wide around the toe area as well. The part is very sensitive when cycling since this is where power transfer from the pedal takes place.
Bottom-line
With that in mind, your cycling shoes should not have any extra space on the sides of your foot. It should fit a bit tight but not very tight.
Heel support
An excellent cycling shoe should offer sturdy support for your heel. The heel should never slip when riding and you should never experience any pain or pressure when walking.
Bottom-line
By choosing a shoe with good heel support, your riding experience will be fun and comfortable.
The ball of your foot
When wearing a cycling shoe with a good fit, your foot’s ball needs to lie at the widest part of your shoe, to give room for cleat positioning in your shoe’s adjustment range.
Bottom-line
With an ill-fitting shoe, your cleats will feel uncomfortable and you may find it hard to use them.
Foot stability
In a well-fitting cycling shoe, your feet need to be neutral and stable. The reason is that unlike usual shoes, cycling shoe’s footed needs to gain good alignment, proper power transfer, and support as well.
Bottom-line
A well-fitting cycling shoe offers stability to your foot making it easy to cycle on all types of terrains.
Your own impression of the shoe
Your foot the final judge! Cycling shoes need to offer the greatest comfort and if you feel that the shoe is perfect, you can never go wrong on that. On the other hand, if you feel that the shoe doesn’t fit properly, ask the dealer to get you another shoe, until you get what works for you.
Bottom-line
Never allow the color or the beauty of the shoe crowd your judgment. Always go for comfort since that is what is important.
In conclusion, keep in mind that having the right type or style of your shoe for cycling and having the right fit will make a great difference. If your shoes fit badly, you will not get the required power to pedal hard and you may not reap the benefits that come with fitting cycling shoes.
Leave a Reply