Best Cycling Shoes in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update April 20, 2024
Still pedalling in your trainers? If you are a bit more than an occasional cyclist, it's time to get a pair of specialized cycling shoes. With this lighter and at the same time, more wear-resistant dedicated footwear, you'll add your riding style a professional touch and achieve a better level of comfort. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Designed for
Pedal System Compatibility
Size
Material
Convenience
Warranty
 
PROS

Reflective printing on the heel cup will make you visible on the road under dark conditions, which is an essential safety aspect. Meanwhile, the patented footbed will minimize the risk of bad odours. 

CONS

The outsole might scuff over time. 

OUR VERDICT

A popular brand name among experienced cyclists and pros, Shimano is widely known for top-quality cycling gear. Engineered specifically to fit SPD-SL and SPD type pedals to a tee, this pair is hands down the best cycling shoes for road rides that will help you get the most out of your pedalling force with minimum fatigue.

detailed parameters
Designed for

Men

Pedal System Compatibility

Shimano SPD-SL, SPD and Look cleats

Size

44 EU

Material

Upper: Synthetic leather with highly-breathable nylon mesh panels

Midsole: EVA-foam

Outsole: Glass fibre reinforced nylon

Convenience

Vented sole for efficient moisture transportation, Reflective print on heel cup, Dual hook and loop straps

Warranty

2 years

PROS

Laced closure with a lace keeper excludes the risk of shoestrings being jammed by the front chain-wheel. Besides, the shoestrings are very durable and won't get loose even under intense pedalling.

CONS

Choosing a proper size is a bit tricky.

OUR VERDICT

The Giro Men's Rumble Vr shoes are one of the most dependable and long-lasting bike runners suitable both for leisure ride and short commutes and for walking on the trail. The branded Vibram™ ECOSTEP rubber outsole combines walkability with decent power transfer and won't wear off for several riding seasons in a row. 

detailed parameters
Designed for

Men

Pedal System Compatibility

2-hole cleats, MTB clipless pedals

Size

4.5 - 13.5 UK, 40 - 48 EU

Material

Upper: supple synthetic fiber with breathable mesh panels

Footbed: die-cut EVA

Midsole: EVA-foam

Outsole: Vibram™ ECOSTEP rubber

Convenience

Laced closure with lace keeper (laces are durable and hold a knot)

Warranty

2 years

PROS

The upper made of quality and tear-resistant synthetic leather will look need and show little to no signs of wear for a very long time. Meanwhile, highly breathable nylon mesh panels will prevent sweating on hot days. 

CONS

Due to large ventilation holes, feet might get cold on colder weather. 

OUR VERDICT

If you are a long-distance rider and need a pair of cycling shoes for clip-in pedals that will keep you safe and comfy and won't let you down, whatever the terrain, this pair from Shimano will get you covered. Great for touring and racing bikes, they will best work for spring and autumn seasons.

detailed parameters
Designed for

Men

Pedal System Compatibility

Shimano SPD-SL, SPD and Look cleats

Size

45 EU

Material

Upper: Synthetic leather with highly-breathable nylon mesh panels

Outsole: Glass fibre reinforced nylon

Convenience

Vented sole for efficient moisture transportation, Reflective print on heel cup, Dual hook and loop straps

Warranty

2 years

PROS

The sole features rubber tips on the front tip and on the back heel, which ensure perfect traction on any trail surface when walking. Moreover, those tips won't wear off on asphalt or paved paths.

CONS

White upper material is easily stained. 

OUR VERDICT

What makes these road cycling shoes from ZOL Stage stand out is their excellent compatibility with all modern 2-bolt and 3-bolt cleats including but not limited to Shimano SPD-SL, SPD, PD, Speedplay Road, Time Road, Crank Brothers pedals and others. More than that, they will suit standard flat MTB pedals as well. 

detailed parameters
Designed for

Men

Pedal System Compatibility

Shimano SPD-SL, PD, Look, Speedplay Road, Time Road cleats, All road pedals

Size

40 EU

Material

Upper: Synthetic leather with mesh panels

Outsole: fiberglass-injected nylon, rugged rubber tips and heel

Convenience

Perforated insole with 2 drainage holes, 3 Velcro strap closures

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The shoe design provides for two touch-and-close straps and a ratchet strap to keep your foot in a maximum fixed position. Meanwhile, a quick-release ratchet strap will let you take off the shoes almost in an instant when needed.  

CONS

The shoes are somewhat heavy. 

OUR VERDICT

The design of the Muddyfox cycling shoes is all built around user comfort. The EVA-foam insole will keep your feet in a maximum natural position while a shaped and padded ankle collar will prevent itchy calluses, and a solid upper will provide secure protection for cold and wet conditions. 

detailed parameters
Designed for

Men

Pedal System Compatibility

Shimano SPD-SL, SPD and Look cleats

Size

7 - 13 UK

Material

Upper: Synthetic leather / textile with mesh panels

Insole: EVA-foam

Outsole: Synthetic compound

Convenience

2 touch and close straps, Quick release ratchet strap, Mesh ventilation channels, Shaped and padded ankle collar

Warranty

1 year

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Shimano Men RP100 SPD-SL

High-performance Bike Runners

If you target to maximise your spinning force and get the most out of your speed-ride on a road bike without feeling exhausted or whacked out, the Men RP100 cycling shoes from Shimano will fit that purpose just right. Shimano cycling gear is highly ranked by cyclists for excellent quality products designed to uplift your riding performance, and this pair of bike shoes is not an exception.

First and foremost, what makes this model an excellent road performer is a special Shimano Dynalast outsole for optimal foot-to-pedal power transfer. A special toe-spring section provides enhanced support to achieve the maximum pedal stroke. This way, you don’t waste energy and feel less fatigued, thus, getting a chance to outperform your personal records every next ride.

Ideal for road touring, the outsole made of glass fibre reinforced nylon is very stiff and rigid to secure your foot in a perfectly fixed position with a certain level of resilience to it for better comfort. Compatible with 2-hole SPD cleats and 3-hole SPD-L cleats, these cycling shoes are a great choice both for hitting a road and for indoor spinning sessions. The only thing to remember is that this type of sole is not the best option for walking. Not only is it slippery and lacks traction, but also it will wear off more quickly.

This model is offered in the EU 44 size that will neatly fit thinner and flat feet. Yet, if you have a higher instep or wider feet, it’s advisable to go up half a size. As for the rest, adjustable dual straps will let you precisely customise the fit to your comfort and keep the foot firmly in place for accurate and efficient pedal strokes. Meanwhile, reflective printing on the heel cup will make you visible on the road in the twilight and under dark conditions, thus, ensuring your riding safety.

To cut a long story short, these road cycling shoes from Shimano deliver a combo of comfort and high performance that will be duly appreciated by experienced cyclists and enthusiasts alike.

Review of Shimano Men RP100 SPD-SL Cycling Shoe - Black, Size EU 44

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B072TKR635

 

Giro Men's Rumble Vr MTB

When Style Meets Functionality

Are you a kind of leisure rider or city commuter who is on the market for a pair of casual bike runner that will combine a stylish design with some features of pro cycling shoes? If so, the Giro Men’s Rumble Vr bike shoes will definitely catch you fancy.

At a glance, these shoes resemble a common pair of regular trainers most of us wear to the office or use for a variety of outdoor activities and pastimes. A black upper made of suede-like synthetic material with mesh inserts combined with bright orange shoestrings and sole liners in the same vivid colour looks very modern and stylish with a strong sporty vibe to it. Thanks to all this, the runners will fit pretty much any casual, city or sport style and will easily bring you from ride to work.

Yet, looking at this model in more detail, you’ll see that these are fully functional cycling shoes. The die-cut EVA footbed along with a moulded foam midsole ensure ergonomic foot positioning and deliver solid and comfortable support with a nice cushioning effect. Though laced closure might be not the most convenient out there, it provides a snug fit with a great degree of customization. And it certainly adds in terms of style. Meanwhile, a lace keeper will eliminate the risk of shoestrings being jammed by the front chain wheel.

Coming down to the outsole, it is made of the Vibram™ ECOSTEP rubber that is grippy by itself. However, the diamond patterns further enhance the traction making these shoes much more walkable than, say, road or even mountain shoes. In fact, you can walk confidently both on trail and grass and on paved surfaces. Suitable for MTB clipless pedals, the shoes also have 2-hole cleat shanks for clip-in pedals.

To conclude, though not the best option for touring and long-distance rides, the Giro Men’s Rumble Vr cleverly pairs cycling-specific features with the comfort of hiking shoes for all-day wear and enjoyable short rides on commuter bikes.

Review of Giro Men's Rumble Vr MTB Cycling Shoes

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £96.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00NEX46ZA

 

Shimano _Men RP100 SPD-SL

Your Best Foot Pal for Long Distances

If cycling is more than your leisure hobby and you are about to take out your bike at any weather, you know that a pair of good cycling shoes can make all the difference while hitting the road, especially when it comes to long-distance rides. This is where the shoe quality is a top priority and this is where the Shimano Men RP100 shoes will really shine.

Right off the bat, this model offers a perfect fit. Two hook-and-loop straps will let you precisely adjust the shoe to your foot, ensuring great stability without the feeling of tightness and overpressure. Meanwhile, the EVA-foam midsole is springy and resilient enough to provide secure support for confident and comfortable pedalling. Next to it, the outer sole made of glass fibre reinforced carbon lends an ideal balance of rigidity and comfort. Besides, it is very light and won’t add much weight to the shoe. And we’d be remiss not to mention the durable and wear-resistant synthetic leather upper that will perfectly withstand any riding style and fit any weather conditions while mesh vents on the sole will keep pesky sweat at bay.

As comfy as they are, the Men RP100 shoes will help you level up your cycling performance as well. The Dynalast outsole is specifically designed to optimise your pedal stroke by retaining the energy. You’ll be able to go faster without getting overfatigued. Meanwhile, SPD and SPD-L cleats compatibility makes this model a match not only for road cycling but also for touring and commuting.

In short, once you slip into these shoes, they will fit almost like a second skin and you’ll hardly remember you wear them even after a ride of many kilometres long. Meanwhile, you can feel like a real racer on those long-distance trails.

Review of Shimano _Men RP100 SPD-SL Cycling Shoe - Black, Size EU 45

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £69.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B072TGWCSQ

 

ZOL Stage Road

"Fit-all-pedals" Solution

Versatility is a strong side of any product, be it a household appliance, a power tool, or a piece of clothing. Versatility is also a forte of the Stage cycling shoes from ZOL and if you need quality bike runners for consistent performance in road rides, look no further.

What makes this model stand out straight away is its excellent compatibility with almost all types of pedals. Featuring smart clean connections, these ZOL runners will suit both 3-bolt cleats and 2-bolt cleats such as Shimano SPD-SL and Shimano PD, Look, Speedplay Road, Time Road, Crank Brothers, and all other road pedals. At the same time, though primarily created as road cycling shoes, these bike shoes also work great with clipless and flat MTB pedals that makes them a perfect fit not only for touring and mountain rides but also for indoor spinning that is a rigorous workout helpful in burning calories and growing muscle strength.

As far as the shoe design goes, it is second to none. Meticulously engineered with road needs in the focus and well-made, these shoes will outlast many of your branded regular trainers, even subject to intense long-distance riding. Besides, a white upper with sharp black accents looks very catchy and will definitely delight those cyclists who also look for a stylish kick.

Like any road shoes, this pair is very lightweight, mainly due to an outsole made of fibre-injected nylon. However, in contrast to models that are very difficult to walk in, the ZOL shoes have rugged rubber tips in the front sole and on the heel that provide good traction on the trail and won’t wear off even when walking on some coarse surfaces like asphalt or paved roads. Meanwhile, a 3-velcro strap closure makes it a breeze to adjust a snug fit and fix your fit in a comfy yet firm position for efficient pedal strokes. The upper is durable and weather-resistant synthetic leather with functional mesh inserts to take away the excess moisture when sweating or getting under the rain.

To resume, if you need reliable, durable, and comfortable bike runners that will suit pretty much any cycling style and cover all your biking needs, the ZOL Stage road cycling shoes will surely hit the spot.

Review of ZOL Stage Road Cycling Shoes

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01GW6YUGA

 

Muddyfox Mens MTB200

Designed With Maximum User Comfort in Mind

Many beginner cyclists find dedicated cycling shoes somewhat uncomfy and difficult to adjust to that perfect fit. Usually, it’s a matter of habit and over time, you get used to a bit different feel cycling shoes bring. However, if you look for a pair that will fit you like a glove from the very first time, give a try to the MTB200 cycling shoes from Muddyfox.

These cycling shoes are all about the ultimate user comfort and you’ll realize it once you slip your feet in. First off, putting the shoes on and taking them off is fast and nearly effortless, thanks to a simple and smart closure system. Two touch-and-close straps will enable you to easily and precisely adjust the fit to your foot width while a quick-release ratchet strap will securely and firmly fix the foot in a stable position, thus, preventing any joint wobbling or excess stress when you try to stabilise the foot during the ride.

Further on, the EVA-foam insole is ergonomically shaped to provide reliable arch support with a decent amount of cushioning and a nicely padded ankle collar will prevent the rubbing and calluses that often appear on ankles after the first rides in new shoes. The upper in this model is made of solid and wear-proof synthetic leather that provides really good protection against cold and wet weather conditions. Meantime, inlined with textile and featuring numerous ventilation channels, it won’t make your legs feel sweaty and hot during summer days as well and will allow for efficient moisture evaporation for your feet to stay dry all the time.

Fitted with a reinforced sole made of synthetic compound, the Muddyfox MTB200 shoes are a bit heavier than road cycling shoes with nylon soles. So, they are not the best option for long road rides. On the other hand, though, they will perfectly work for mountain tours and cycling, hence, the model’s name. Besides, with a grippy texture and certain degree of flexibility to it, this sole will keep you stable on the trail and on the paved surface as well.

To sum up, the Muddyfox MTB200 cycling shoes are great all-season bike runners that will keep your feet comfy and make your rides more efficient. For the price, you’ll get really good value and the quality of more expensive shoes.

Review of Muddyfox Mens MTB200 Cycling Shoes

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B073VP3P68

 

What Are Cycling Shoes?

A warm season is the best period for cycling journeys and it’s just the appropriate time to check if you have the right cycling shoes. Wonder why any other type of sports shoes is not as good as biking shoes? The major difference is in the sole stiffness. While trainers are designed to be flexible to let your feet freely move, cycling shoes are instead designed to keep your foot firmly in place to minimise the power loss and optimise the final pedal stroke. In other words, they are meant to get the maximum out of the pedalling force. At the same time, though, special cycling shoes also better protect your feet and ankles from damages and cut down the stress. Plus, they are much lighter and slimmer than other sports footwear, thus, ensuring a noticeably better level of riding comfort.

Other than that, cycling shoes vary by the type of pedals they are compatible with and by the type of riding style they best work for. Thus, to choose the right shoes, it will be helpful to know the model type you need. Basically, there are three types of bike shoes to choose from:

  • Road cycling shoes are distinguished by the stiffest soles, the lightest overall weight, and two to four protruding cleats for clipless pedals. This model is meant for the most efficient pedalling and is not the best option for walking due to the lack of tread.
  • Mountain cycling shoes are usually a bit bulkier and heavier and have more grippy soles for improved traction when walking. In this category, there are shoes with two recessing cleats for SPD pedals and no-cleat models with sticky soles for flat pedals.
  • Casual or leisure cycling shoes look very much like sneakers and are a great choice for recreational or city rides. They are pretty stylish and can easily bring you from the road to the office. What makes them particularly suitable for cycling is that they're fitted with two cleats that are recessed into the sole and match clipless pedals.

To create a complete functional cycling outfit, a pair of cycling shorts, protective bike helmet, sports sunglasses, and winter cycling gloves for cold-season rides won’t go amiss.

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Publish Date: 2020-04-14 12:49:32