New to cycling - looking for advice and suggestions for road shoes

[Tank63]

I'm looking at getting some cycling shoes and would like to know what people go for? I'm looking for road shoes but theirs loads of manufacturers so which should I avoid and what should I be looking at. Also do I get a pair that are my normal size or go slightly bigger? Is there anything to be aware of?
Sorry for such a stupid question but I don't want to waste my money plus I don't know what to look for in choosing a pair of shoes.

 

[MikeW-71]

For the first pair, definately get to some shops where you can try them on, fit is the most important thing. My local shop has 3 brands, and I went for Shimano as they were the best fit for me. Mavic were close, but not quite as good.

They were slightly bigger than my normal size and they have been absolutely faultless, very well made and durable. When trying them, stand up to check under your full weight that they are still comfortable. They don't need to comfortable to walk in (and probably won't be anyway).

There are a variety of retention systems depending how high up the ranges you go. My more expensive Shimanos have two velcro straps and a ratchet strap at the top that can be adjusted on the move. The cheaper pair just have 3 velcro straps.

The sole will ideally be very stiff, and it needs to be as the whole shoe becomes the pedal when you're clipped in. Carbon will be the stiffest and most expensive, but cheaper reinforced plastic soles are not far off and for a recreational rider, the difference is not critical. I'd go the same speed whichever pair of shoes I was using TBH.

 

[vickster]

Do you need to be able to walk comfortably for any distance off the bike?

How much do you want to spend? Shoes can range from under £40 to over £200

Do you have narrow feet, wide feet, high arches, flat feet, bunions etc? Sizing varies from brand to brand and shoe to shoe, you'd be best to go to your local bike emporia as above.

 

[Tank63]

Thanks for the advice.

Regards

 

[Pale Rider]

There's something to be said for buying cycling shoes which are a bit bigger than your usual size.

You may want to deploy extra socks in the colder weather, and many cyclists find their feet swell a bit during a ride.