do i need cycling shoes?

[Jim77]

are cyling shoes really needed? if so what sort?

i don't have any suicide pedals just the standard sort.

 

[ianrauk]

if you mean by suicide pedals, cleats... and you have normal pedals, then normal shoes/trainers etc should be fine.

 

[yello]

Need? No. What sort of riding do you do?

You would get better 'transfer of power' with a stiff soled shoe and cleats but it's hardly essential for pootling.

 

[Jim77]

i do a mixture, but in the week i tend to just do some short fast rides (fast for me anyway)..

i was thinking about Specialized Comp Mountain. would they give me more speed o normal pedals?

 

[ianrauk]

The specialized comp mountains will have soles specifically for cleats
heres a pic, and as you can see, they do not have much grip for normal pedals if you use without the clips

 

[Jim77]

Ah yes, i see the problem..... thanks.

 

[bonj2]

if you're hybridding, as it sounds like you are then no you don't really need cycling shoes. Wear brogues if you like

 

[JohnRedcoRn]

and if you do wear brogues youre well on your way to meeting the dress code of my gentleman cyclists club.

seriously though, i ride a hybrid, i'm in no hurry to buy 'proper' shoes as i've spent so much damn money on essential kit, then of course winter gear etc, shoes will have to wait as long as i'm comfortable to be going on with ! slipping off pedals was only an issue in my first week or so of cycling, and as for weight well ok it may be a consideration in future but not for now

 

[chetty]

To my mind, cleated cycling shoes and pedals are the number one upgrade. If your doing anything more than a very easy pace, they make life a lot easier. And for climbing they are unbeatable.

You don't need to spend a fortune. Much of the benefit is gained from the "starter" ranges.

 

[Jaded]

Lidl/Aldi shoes - £15. Pedals - well, some of the cheap Shimano ones.

I agree with some of the others, cleats and clipped pedals make a big difference. Got them on my hybrid before I had a road bike.

 

[remking]

Oh yes!!! Cleats. They are great. Fully recommended... be careful you don't get your foot stuck though.