Hey man I just bought some spd clipless pedals today but I haven't bought the cycling shoes. I went to my local bike shop to ask them about cycling shoes. All they said was just buy the cycling shoe size like how you would buy regular sneakers. I went online to look for some shoes but they giving me sizes like "44". I don't understand how cycling shoe sizes goes, can you please help me?
Sure thing! There are various sizes when it comes to different brands of cycling shoes. They will often have a sizing chart that compares U.S. sizes to EUR (Euro) sizes. It really does depend on which brand you go for, as well. There should be sizing charts on the shoe companies websites as well as in some of the stores. The people at the store should also be able to tell you what shoe size you wear and give you a general idea as to what size in EUR you should wear. Also, take note that when looking at cycling shoes, you should always try and find stores that have some for you to try on and see what size fits you. If and when you do try a pair on; you’re going to have your heel at the very back, lightly tighten the first and second velcro strap or binding, and then tighten the buckle (if there is one). Cycling shoes do not really expand in length, but they can expand in width if you pedal hard enough. They will often fit a bit tight in the toe area, but if you feel you might grow or something, then feel free to try on a size above that one. Another thing I should add, since you mentioned the pedals, depending on what pedal your using and how often you walk may be a big factor as to what shoes you want. There are 3 types of pedals and cleat formations on shoes.
MTB shoes have 2-bolt/ cleat formation and are much easier to walk around in. This is due to the additional rubber the sole has and the reason why it’s there is for when riders unclip and climb up hills or other terrain. MTB pedals usually are double sided for easier access to clip in.
Road shoes have 3-bolt/ cleat formation. Road shoes will generally have both 2-bolt and 3-bolt cleat formation on the sole. Now, walking in road shoes could ruin your cleat, since there is not additional sole, and be difficult to walk in. Road pedals are one-sided and can take some time clipping in to.
Lastly, there are speedplay pedals. These pedals are double-sided like MTB, but usually require road shoes because of the cleat formation. They consist of a 4-bolt cleat formation, since the pedal is so small and round, the cleat is large and square to cover the pedal entirely.
I have owned 2 pairs of Sidi, a pair of Gaerne, and a pair of Giro. Sidi is a really high end brand and their shoes are very genuine. Although, I bought the Sidi Genius with the sole that was plastic and a size too big for me. They were sized at 45. I wear a size 10-10.5 (depending on the brand). Now, my size of cycling shoe is 44. Both my Gaerne G. Mythos Plus and Giro Privateer are a size 44. My road shoes did give me a little discomfort due to the in-soles, but I swapped them out with Specialized BG Fit in-soles, since I have a bit of an arch. My Privateers on the other had, have a pretty stiff outer-sole and are quite comfortable. At first my toes did not like the feeling when walking around, but that changed over time.
I do apologize for the long essay. Just wanted to cover a number of things and be certain you know what you’re getting into. I do hope this helps you in selecting a great pair of cycling shoes that last you and I also hope that you don’t make the same mistake I did in buying whatever was good looking or cheap. If you have anymore questions or need help with anything, just let me know.
