If you cycle regularly you know the importance of having the perfect shoe for your cycling session. And those who cycle know the sizing of the cycling shoe is a bit different from the usual shoe fits. It is because they are designed to fit comfortably and you may have to go down to half or full size.
Now if you for instance found a perfect shoe but maybe you are not sure which size to buy. There will be charts for sure. However, you should consider them as a baseline. As the size chart is designed for average people, it does not consider whether you have a high arch or a wide foot, or a narrow foot.
So here we are for you to guide on how you can buy a cycling shoe that would fit you perfectly and comfortably. We will make an effort to make it easier for you to understand the process. So if you are interested to know how to size cycling shoes, stay with us!
How to Size Cycling Shoes: Step-by-step procedure
Step 01: Start with measuring your feet.
- Take an A4 paper. Now, Place it on the ground and against the wall. Stand on the paper while keeping your heel against the wall.
- Now grab a pen and draw a line above your big or index toe.
- Take the measurement in mm using a scale. To get the exact measurement measure the other foot following the same way. It’s funny but it is a fact that one foot is longer than the other.
This can be done in another way, where you may need the help of others. You do not need to put your heel against the wall. You can place your foot and have a person draw lines for you on the above of the toe and the edge of the heel.
Step 2: Find your correct shoe size from the chart given by your chosen brand
Now that you are done with measuring your feet, you may go to the website or a nearby retailer. Find the chart for shoe size in mm. If you are at a shop, ask the salesperson, and if online try to match your size with the provided chart.
Sometimes the foot length in mm you find on the charts could vary largely between EU brands. You need to remember, cycling shoes should be well-fitted on your feet.
Step 3: Find the right width
Apart from differing in lengths, feet can also differ in width. Some may have narrow feet, while others may have wider feet. And cycling shoes should fit perfectly on your feet. For that, you need to get the measurement of the widths as well. Look to see if the shoes you have chosen are classified as narrow, wide, or average fit. And to get the measurement of the feet, measure the circumference.
To measure the circumference, measure the broadest part of your foot. You may now look up for the foot length and breadth ratio table. This can help you decide whether you have a narrow, wide, or an average width feet
If your feet are wide, do not buy shoes that are narrow and also vice versa. The narrower shoes will squeeze your feet and make them feel uncomfortable for you. However, the shoes that are classified as average are pretty much fitted and can be worn on both wide and narrow feet
Step 4: Get cleats
Do not forget to mount cleats. This will not be given with the shoe you buy. This means that you have to buy them separately.
What is a cleat? These are the protrusions or external attachments on your shoes that are used to provide extra traction on a slippery or soft surface.
Some facts about cycling shoe and sizes
- Most cycling shoes are smaller compared to street shoes. You may want to go down to ½ or 1 size.
- Cycling shoes need to be a smaller and tighter fit on your feet because that provides you with better control on the pedals and your feet won’t move around.
- The wear out of a cycling shoe mostly depends on the person. So, if you are quite regular on a pro, your shoes may wear out pretty fast quickly.
- If cycling shoes are really needed? Yes! When you are cycling you need to have control of your pedal. So a fitted shoe with cleats will help you have a smooth ride for sure.
- Though it is not mandatory, a BOA system on your cycling shoe is most preferable. They are easy to tie and undo and also comfortable when cycling.
- You may spend a bit higher or higher on your cycling shoes as they weigh very lightly.
- The chart given should be a baseline when you are trying to find the perfect size or fit.
- It does not recommend buying from an online store. However, make sure to get the exact measurement and with that, you can opt for this option too.
Here’s how to size cycling shoes. It is necessary because the usual shoe sizes are not always fit for cycling. You do need a shoe that fits perfectly tight for a balanced and smooth ride. Hope you have understood the procedures we have described for you. Best of luck!
