Road Cycling Shoes: Deals

Clipless vs. Flat Pedals 

• Clipless: Offers a high level of control while riding fast or technical moves like hopping up onto curbs or over logs. Despite the name, you do clip in and out of them with special cleated shoes.

• Flat (platform): Don’t require clipping in and out, so it's easier to bail in a crash. No special shoes required.

What kind of riding will you be doing? 

• Mountain biking: Flat pedals paired with grippy bike shoes allow easy dismounts; clipless options offer more pedal efficiency, control and power while climbing, and feature 2-hole cleats. 

• Road cycling: Clipless pedals offer the greatest power and efficiency; often feature cleats with a 3-hole design. 

• Recreational riding: Flat pedals or 2-hole cleats make it easier to walk, mount and dismount. 

• Bike commuting: Clipless pedals boost efficiency over long distances; flat pedals let you wear regular shoes instead of cleats. 

Types of bike helmets:

• Mountain bike: Rear-head coverage for off-road trails; often includes added ventilation

• Road bike: Lightweight, aerodynamic; designed for maximum airflow

• Recreational cycling: Budget-friendly choice for casual riding 

Fit tips 

• Measure the largest part of your head with a flexible measuring tape (or use string, then measure it)

• Check the brand's sizing chart

• Aim for a snug fit

• Between sizes? Choose the smaller size 

Added protection 

Look for technologies that reduce rotational forces during a crash, like Mips, WaveCel or KinetiCore. 

Features 

• Vents: More vents improve airflow and reduce weight

• Visor/brim: Keeps the sun out of your eyes

• Chin bars: Extra protection for downhill mountain biking

Where do you plan to ride?
A gravel bike is perfect if you plan to ride unpaved surfaces like dirt or gravel roads and paved roads to get there.

Consider your tires
Tires are often treaded or knobby for durability and traction. Wider tires are more capable of handling rougher, looser terrain; skinnier tires are ideal for smooth, hardpacked surfaces.

Get the correct frame size
Frame sizes may be expressed in the length of the seat tube or XS through XL size range. Consult that bike's sizing chart.