Cycling is one of the most natural exercise activities to engage in. You can do it anytime and anywhere as long as you got space. But there is more to cycling than just getting on that bike. Have you stopped to consider the cycling shoes you use and what their importance is? Well, it turns out the cycling shoes are a vital aspect of your cycling activity. Primarily, the cycling shoes that you use go a long way to determine the cycling experience you have.
Characteristics of Cycling Shoes
- Consider the perfect fit for your cycling shoes. If you’ve got wider feet, wide cycling shoes may appeal to you, but they will slow you down if they have an extremely loose fit. Too tight shoes are not recommended either, as they may slow down your blood circulation to the feet as you cycle. Opt for just the right fit; you will be comfortable and relaxed as you cycle.
- Strive to get cycling shoes that are not too rigid. You could also consider changing the inner sole to enhance comfort and minimize too much pressure on the foot. Apart from preventing many foot conditions, flexible-soled shoes will distribute pressure equitably across your foot and enhance proper blood circulation.
- Consider the material used to make the upper part of the shoe. Porous materials ensure your feet are comfortable and have minimal pressure. Rubber shoes provide your feet with a firm grip of the pedals as you cycle. Choose between buckles, Velcro and lace, depending on your desired energy transfer throughout the feet, and also whether you are doing casual cycling or professional cycling.
- What is the bottom of the shoe made of? Whatever the material, ensure that it will enable you to have a grip on the bike while pedaling. Avoid shoes that will tend to slip or slide easily as that can pose harm and accidents while cycling.
Benefits of Wearing Cycling Shoes
Some people like to cycle without the proper cycling shoes, without knowing the harm they may run into. Well, here are some of the benefits of wearing cycling shoes, for a reason to get a pair or two today.
- The principal goal of wearing cycling shoes is for protection. As you cycle, there is a chance that you might run into a minor accident. It helps if you are wearing the proper cycling shoes since minimal bodily harm will come to you.
- Another essential aspect of wearing cycling shoes is the comfort they add to your feet as you cycle. Since most biking shoes are made of porous and breathable materials, they go a long way to ensure that your feet remain flexible and comfortable as you cycle, as they allow for proper air circulation in the shoes and this translates to a perfect cycling experience.
- Wearing cycling shoes prevents unnecessary accidents from happening. The shoes are often fitted with anti-slide outer soles, which make the grip between your shoe sole and the pedal firm. Any other ordinary shoes may result in your feet sliding off the pedal, and you might lose control of your bike and get hurt. Proper cycling shoes prevent your feet from sliding off while biking, thereby keeping you safe.
- Cycling shoes are multi-functional. They can be used both for casual cycling and professional cycling as well. You can also use the shoes in the gym on the cycling trainer as they are designed to be compatible with the pedals. The uses are many, and they are not restricted only to cycling outdoors; explore them all.
- Cycling shoes are durable. The materials used to make cycling shoes enable them to last longer, hence give you better service and value for your money. Whether they are buckled up, laced, or have Velcro, the materials for the upper part, the inner area, as well as the outer sole are firm and long-lasting.
In Conclusion
As you can see, cycling cannot just happen with any other shoe out there. It is vital to use proper cycling shoes, just as you would use an appropriate cycling gear like storing your bike in an outdoor bike storage. The best part, perhaps, is that cycling shoes are readily available and affordable as well. You can obtain a pair from your local store or via the numerous online vendors; just as long as the shoes meet the requirements for the appropriate cycling shoes.