Footwear Buyers' Guide

The best shoes for road cycling are typically light, efficient, and designed to work seamlessly with clipless pedals (meaning you clip into your pedals). But that all depends on your goals and where you are in your cycling journey. If you’re just starting out, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with riding a road bike in your tennis shoes—you’ll just sacrifice some efficiency. Stiff, flat-soled shoes made specifically for cycling can be a great place to begin. If you're looking to ride far, fast, or both, you’ll likely opt for a road-specific clipless shoe. These shoes are built with lightweight, performance-focused materials and stiff outsoles to maximize power transfer, while also prioritizing a secure, comfortable fit for long hours in the saddle. Road bike shoes typically use 2- or 3-bolt cleat systems that connect to compatible pedals. While they’re not designed for long walks, they’ll still get you into that coffee shop for a well-earned mid-ride caffeine boost and pastry fix.

Gravel and cross-country (XC) shoes are built for riders who want efficiency on the pedals with the versatility to handle mixed terrain. Sitting between road and mountain bike shoes, they balance stiffness for power transfer with enough flexibility and traction for off-the-bike moments. Most gravel/XC shoes use a 2-bolt cleat system, making it easier to clip in and out and more comfortable to walk when the ride calls for it. These shoes are designed to handle long miles across changing surfaces—pavement, dirt, gravel, and everything in between. You’ll typically find a stable pedaling platform, secure closure systems for a dialed fit, and grippy outsoles that provide confidence when navigating loose or uneven terrain. Whether you're lining up for a race or heading out on an all-day adventure, gravel/XC shoes offer a versatile, performance-focused option for riding beyond the pavement.

Mountain bike-specific shoes are built for control, durability, and confidence on technical terrain. While they still provide efficient power transfer, the focus shifts toward stability and grip when navigating steep descents, rough trails, and unpredictable conditions. Compared to road or gravel/XC shoes, mountain bike shoes are designed to handle more aggressive riding environments—mud, dust, rocks, and roots—while offering added protection and durability. Because not every section of trail is rideable, they also feature grippy outsoles and more flexible constructions to stay comfortable when walking or scrambling over uneven terrain. You can choose flat mountain bike shoes (for use with flat pedals) or clipless mountain bike shoes (for use with pedals you can clip into), depending on your riding style and confidence level. Whether you're descending technical singletrack or exploring rugged trails, mountain bike shoes are designed to keep you in control on and off the bike.