10 Best Cycling Shoes Reviewed and Compared

Design

This pair is sleek and stylish, featuring a dual hook-and-loop strap closure. It has a synthetic leather upper that has mesh layers and an integrated air intake and exhaust system for moisture control and breathability. The sole is flexible, making it fit well across different foot shapes. It is compatible with 2- and 3-bolt cleats, with a wider cleat range so it fits nicely with a range of pedals (although best with PD-R550, PD-R540, PD-540-LA, PD-A520 options.)

Comfort

The Shimano SHR065 have plenty of cushioning, making them score very high on the comfort scale. The insole is flat and there is underfoot cushioning for a more pillowy feel that makes this a great option for beginners. The loop straps are also more comfortable than dials. Overall, there is lots of ventilation keeping the feet nice and dry.

Adjustability

Because of its dual hook-and-loop straps, the consumer can quickly and easily make adjustments. This system also keep the foot nice and secure, although precise micro adjustments dials provide aren’t available here.

Power Transfer

For its affordable price, cyclists will be shocked by how well these perform when it comes to pedaling efficiency. This pair has a fiberglass-reinforced sole that is nice and stiff. It’s intake and exhaust system proves a more energy-efficient upstroke for a smooth ride. As mentioned before it is SPF-SL and SPD compatible for both indoor and road biking, with the cleats sold separately.

Design

The Sidi Wire Vent Carbon overall is just built really well. It has a carbon fiber construction, withe the sole being super stiff. It has a microfiber TechPro upper, and eco-friendly leather thetis durable, provides stability while keeping the shoe light. It also provides water-resistance capabilities and wards off bacteria and odor. The insole provides support and is comfortable, and its features a Soft Instep Closure System that consists of curved strap that distributes pressure evenly.

Comfort

Sidi managed to make a pair that is the right combination of stiffness and comfort, something that is not easy to do with footwear made for the road. It has padding in the heel collar and front closure strap, as well as a padded tongue that eliminates pressure points.

Adjustability

They offer the consumer the option to adjust a lot, with five different points. First up is its Soft Instep 3 that includes a Tecno 3 buckle. This feature keeps the heel down, and these closure system is adjustable on each side. This system is also replaceable. The Techo 3 PUSH System allows for adjustments since these includes dials that go down the length of the shoe to give a more customized fit. These dial includes Sidi’s Wire material that is non-binding to make on-the-fly adjustments worry-free. The PUSH bucks has a button that simply needs to be pushed to lift the buckle so adjustments can be made. It also has an adjustable heel retention device that further secures the heel and can be tightened for a more snug fit.

Power Transfer

If you thought this shoe performs well when it comes to adjustability, wait until you hear about power transfer. It has a Vent Carbon Sole that is super stiff thanks to its weave pattern that maximized rigidness, while directing the force down right to the pedal. All this and it still has controlled flexibility in the toe. Carbon soles are the best for power transfer because how lightweight they are. It also has a vent like its name suggests that allows for air flow. It includes a 3-hole design, with a 10 mm lateral and fore/aft cleat compatibility. They perform exceedingly well in this category, in part because its adjustability that gives a better fit for better form.

Design

Take a look at this pair and it just has that powerful and sleek appearance. And its look goods is backed up by how well it performs. The R5B has a Microfiber upper that is durable to meet the demands of racing, yet flexible, comfortable and lightweight. This material has tiny, diamond-shaped perforations that provides ventilation so that feet stay dry. It is equipped with Boa did controls, as well as micro straps at the bottom for a more snug fit. It also has a reflective strip on the back of the heel for increased visibility when rising at night or in inclement weather.

Comfort

Fi'zi:k R5B Uomo Boa has ample padding with a soft liner that is smooth. It is aerodynamic, with a snug and comfortable fit, with the Boa dial on the side to eliminate pressure points. The company’s Cycling Insole has a sculpted footbed and supportive heel. Because the sole isn’t fully carbon, it does make it slightly heavier than other options. However, it isn’t heavy and the weight is a fair trade for its amount of cushioning and flexibility that put comfort in the forefront.

Adjustability

This option has a 4-anchor, dual Boa Dial, along with a velcro toe strap. The Boa iP1A closure calls for quick adjustments, and makes the foot really feel secure. Turning the dial adjusts the shape volume-wise, calling for a more custom and tight fit.

Power Transfer

It has a carbon reinforced nylon outsole that is designed aerodynamically to transfer the maximum amount of power. Even though it's not made fully of carbon, it is very stiff and stable, great for really sprinting it out on the bike. Along with its rigidness, it provides great support, keeping the heel securely in place to reduce lifting and shifting. This means more power and energy to directed right to the pedals for a more efficient stroke. It also has a low stack height to be close to the pedals

Design

Lightweight, thin and a favorite among many professional riders, the Cosmic Ultimate II has an upper section that swaps stitches for bonding to provide for ventilation. It has a supportive instep, with dials on the side to avoid hot spots. It is equipped with a full carbon sole that is super stiff, and has a 3-hole design.

Comfort

Comfort is in the forefront with this option because of its high-quality Ortholite insole that provides ample cushioning. It has Ergo Fit 3D + with a padding on the tongue. Overall, there is ample breathability throughout the shoe.

Adjustability

This model has two Mavic Ergo Dials that fall off to the sides (with the top one connecting to the padded tongue) that allows for two-way micro adjustment with precise retention. It also has a Smart Release function that makes the dials easy to release. This all adds to a tight fit that is firm and secure.

Power Transfer

The Mavic Cosmic Ultimate II has an Energy Full Carbon SLP outsole that is ultra-stiff, performing the best on the Index Energy Transfer scale for optimal power transfer. This is thanks to the think sole that keeps the feet has close to the pedal as possible, while the frame keeps that foot in place, with ample support to lock down the heel.

Design

The design of the Five Ten is really where it shines. Not only does it have some of the best grip out there, but it supplements itself with some really important attributes. The whole upper of the Five Ten is weather resistant, so moisture is less of an issue. The Five Ten also has a reinforced toe box so you can avoid injuries or stray rocks while on the go.

Comfort

The Five Ten is not only reported as having an extremely snug and comfortable fit, but it also has a sock liner. Including a sock liner in their design means they are a great transition option for a triathlon and you can avoid the discomfort of slipping or ill-fitting socks.

Adjustability

Other than its lightweight design contributing to the Five Ten being a maneuverable shoe, the Five Ten doesn’t have much working towards to its overall adjustability.

Power Transfer

The Five Ten’s are especially sticky and snug which is great if you are looking for serious power transfer. If your feet are flush to the pedals and aren’t slipping then each push and pump is conveyed entirely to moving the bicycle.

Design

This pair has a lace up design that was originally made for Taylor Phinney for the 2012 London Games. It has an overall sleek appearance that just looks like it performs well, and this is so true. The Empire ACC is a lightweight option at about 18.8 oz. It features a Evofiber upper that is light as a feather and breathable, as well as a low-profile outsole.

Comfort

Lightweight and ideal for road racing, this pair is flexible because of its microfiber upper, and as a more evenly tight fit because of its lace system. The collar is padded for added comfort. These aren’t the best when it comes to its level of comfort, but doesn’t cause discomfort in any way.

Adjustability

Because of its laces, adjustments can’t be made during a race or right before a starting to climb. However, it does feature a SuperNatural Fit Kit in the insoles that allows the athlete to customize support.

Power Transfer

The Empire ACC are very stiff thanks to its Easton EC90 ACC Carbon Sole. It has 6.5 mm stack height that makes it one of the press for power transfer since the feet as so close to the pedals. And while its power transfer is impressive, it does lack behind the Fi'zi:k R5B Uomo Boa in this category mainly because the heel can slip a bit.

Design

This footwear is in a league of its own design wise because of the use of its unique Xnetic Knit upper, which consists of a TPU skeletal system that is bonded to a knit material that process support, comfort and breathability. It also has other fun features like water repellent DWR-finish and heel guards for added durability. It has a molded EVA footbed, replaceable heel pads, and an overall great “sock-like” look.

Comfort

They have a stiff sole that isn’t overly rigid, making walking in them comfortably possible. The amount of ventilation here is a major selling point. They have comfortable, resembling more of a sock and feels great on.

Adjustability

This option has empire laces. This means the ability to customize the fit isn’t has much as other options. It also means that adjusting on the fly isn’t possible. However, it does have a secure fit so this might be a major concern.

Power Transfer

The Giro Empire E70 Knit has a Easton EC70 carbon composite outsole, and a TPU-reinforced toe and heel that provides the support needed when in motion on the pedals.

Design

This option has a sleek appearance that just looks like it performs well. And that it does. It has a seamless upper for comfort, is lightweight, breathable and a secure fit. It has a an asymmetric closure with an off-center Boa closure system, as well as a unibody construction.

Comfort

This is a comfortable pair thanks to small features that go a long way. First is its seamless upper that eliminates all stitching. This means it is smooth on the feet. The dials are off center so they don’t rest on the top of the foot that can be sensitive. There is also a replaceable heel bumper.

Adjustability

The Pearl Izumi Pro Leader v4 has a zonal Bi-direction closure that has a great git that is secure and keeps that foot in place. While this is important for power transfer efficiency, it also allows for a semi-custom fit. More importantly is its dual Boa IP1 dials that allows for 1 mm micro-adjustability.

Power Transfer

This option has a 1:1 insole system that allows for independent arch and forefoot varus canting adjustment. It has an integrated carbon power plate that is stiff, while still being lightweight. With a stiffness rating of an impressive 13 for the soles, the overall unibody construction proves super low stack height which enhances pedaling efficiency. It also has a 3-hole design.

Design

It is great for road biking, indoor and mountain biking. The cleat has a 2 and 3-hole design, and a buckle closure. The upper is made of synthetic leather with nylon mesh that makes it durable, strong, stable and breathable. It is lightweight, and has a EVA footbed.

Comfort

It has a pad tongue to add to its level of comfort. There is added support at the instep, and it features a smaller toe box made with women’s feet in find. Plus there is enough air circulation that helps to keep feet dry and comfortable.

Adjustability

Along with a buckle closure, the Shimano SH-RP2 has three asymmetrical straps to reduce pressure and hot sports. As it is specifically designed for women, it has a more secure and narrow fit that feels nice and snug.

Power Transfer

It has a fiberglass reinforced nylon sole with direct connection to the pedal that enhances power transfer to the pedals—with a more efficient upstroke. It is stiff with a low profile, and has SPD and SPD-L compatibility to wear to spin class or when road riding.

Design

This pair is designed to be worn when riding, commuting or getting around on the bike. Its upper includes synthetic leather and mesh that aids in breathability. The EVA insole also offers ventilation, so expect the feet to stay nice and dry without sweat or causing overheating. The bottom is SPD cleats that fits all major MTB pedals. It also has a reflective heel for visibility in low light situations and when night riding.

Comfort

The outsole of this shoe provides some flexibility, making it not too stiff to be able to walk. This flexibility is a great feature for those who do triathlons or who want or need to walk around comfortably off their mountain bike. And its nylon fiberglass outsole also prevents heel pressure. This all calls for one comfortable footwear.

Adjustability

The Multi Air Flex’s closure system consists of three velcro hook and loop fasteners straps that not only provide enough support, but it also allows for a more adjustable fit.

Power Transfer

They have stabilized heel that keeps it down and in place. This means less lifting to not reduce power transfer. The stiffness isn’t as important here since it is a shoe for mountain biking and the consumer needs to be able to walk. That’s where its nylon. fiberglass sole domes in. It is stiff enough for bike riding and without hindering walking.