10 Best Road Bike Shoes (Review) In 2022

- 1. Tommaso Pista Women’s Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe
- 2. Venzo Bicycle Road Cycling Riding Shoe
- 3. Fizik R5 Road Cycling Shoe
- 4. Giro Techne Men’s Road Cycling Shoe
- 5. Santic Road Cycling Shoe
- 6. Hiland Indoor Spinning & Road Bike Cycling Shoe
- 7. Giro Savix Men’s Road Cycling Shoe
- 8. Sidi Alba 2 Cycling Shoe
- 9. Sidi Genius 7 Air Shadow Carbon Cycling Shoe
- 10. BETOOSEN Road Bike Cycling Shoe
Road bike shoes are an essential component of any riding gear. The reason is simple – they offer comfort, protection, and help to reach peak performance. That being said, your chosen bike shoes should be dependent on your style of riding and the shape of your feet. However, hunting for the perfect clip in road bike shoes can easily become very tiring owing to the stockpile of shoes on the market. Not to worry, we’ve not only provided a list of viable options to choose from, but also a handy buying guide to help you make a more informed decision.
The Best Road Bike Shoe
1. Tommaso Pista Women’s Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe

Dual cleat compatibility
Low profile Velcro straps
Fiberglass reinforced sole
2 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty
The Tommaso Pista Women’s Spin Class Ready Cycling Shoe is uniquely engineered to step up the performance of female spin class riders by providing stiff power transfer from the feet to the pedal. In fact, the Pista is built to work perfectly in any spin class irrespective of the pedal system used. And despite being preinstalled with SPD cleats; it is universally compatible with all spin cleats systems.
Additionally, the Tommaso Pista features an upper made from durable synthetic leather which is equally padded to give the comfiest feel ever while riding. This premium road bike shoe also features ventilated mesh portions for proper circulation of air and is equally fitted with specially designed low profile Velcro straps for a precise ergonomic feel. Then there are the Velcro straps that are constructed to avoid pressure point areas on your foot for maximum comfort and flexibility.
On top of all these great features, this quality road bike shoe features a fiberglass reinforced sole technology for optimal stiffness and enhanced power transfer from the feet to the bike pedals. This means you can cover more distance faster using less technology. Altogether, the Tomaso Pista is not just great for spin class riders but also for road riders and regular riding. In addition to that, it comes with a 2 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty.
2. Venzo Bicycle Road Cycling Riding Shoe

Unisex design
Flexible forefoot and running shoe beveled heel
Textile lining with a removable sock liner
One-year warranty
If you’re looking for quality road bike shoes, then the Venzo Bicycle Road Cycling Riding Shoe is your safest bet. The Venzo utilizes award-winning performance technology to offer wearers a perfect blend of comfort and performance. To this end, it equally features a textile-lined insole with a removable sock liner. The Venzo Bicycle Road Shoe further uses a patented lightweight and durable design to fix the sole of the shoe to the cleats of the bicycle.
The cleat area is compatible with not just the Peloton Bike pedal system but every other cleat type available on the market. It offers the perfect platform, not minding the pedal system you are riding. What’s more, it is equally compatible with SPD-SL, Look KEO, SPD, Speedplay, and Crank Brother Cleats amongst others. To crown it all, the Venzo running shoe comes with a one-year warranty backed by the manufacturer.
3. Fizik R5 Road Cycling Shoe

Boa IP1 closure system
Carbon-reinforced nylon outsole
Precise fit
Laser perforated Microtex upper
The Fizik R5 Road Cycling Shoe is an elegant and versatile premium bike shoe. It is uniquely engineered to offer a perfect fit and maximum pedal efficiency. What’s more, this high-end road cycling shoe is built with a soft and supple laser-perforated Microtex upper that is both strong and durable. Still, on the topic of the uppers, they are also designed for a comfortable and consistent fit while cycling. In fact, all the materials used in construction are incredibly lightweight and offer a comfy feel.
Additionally, these specialized road bike shoes are constructed with a carbon-reinforced nylon outsole for increased comfort and pedal efficiency. Then there’s a padded EVA insole which reduces the pressure at the contact point to secure your foot firmly while riding. It is also fitted with a Boa IP1 closure system that can be adjusted easily to maximize power transfer and for proper fitting.
Finally, it’s also worth noting that this closure system makes use of nylon guides, mechanical reel, as well as a steel lace to deliver improved performance and optimum fitting.
4. Giro Techne Men’s Road Cycling Shoe

Dual cleat compatibility
3 strap Velcro closure system
Injected nylon outsole and EVA footbed
Supple breathable microfiber and mesh upper
This is one of the road cycling shoe brands that offer both comfort and efficiency at the same time. It is perfect for both open road and indoor cycling. The Giro Techne Men’s Road Cycling Shoe further offers the cyclist a comfortable and supportive fit. This is achieved through a supple breathable microfiber and mesh upper.
Furthermore, the Giro Techne Road Cycling shoe is equipped with an injected nylon outsole for increased power transfer. Not just that, it has molded heel pads and stainless steel hardware for enhanced durability. As for the die-cut EVA footbed with proportionate arch support, this provides adequate support for your foot and heel. All in all, these Giro shoes are compatible with both the SPD and SPD SL pedal systems.
5. Santic Road Cycling Shoe

Features Velcro strap and precision buckle top
Universally compatible with all pedal and cleat systems
Efficient ventilation system
Anti-slip wear-resistant outsole
The Santic Road Cycling Shoe has been carefully engineered to improve security and enhance efficiency. This cycling shoe features an anti-slip outsole that is reinforced for maximum security. It also has an excellent and efficient ventilation system for both increased airflow and to keep your feet from sweating. Not just that, the ventilation system is strategically placed around the shoe for extra breathability.
It further comes equipped with a road lock for increased security during professional riding. In addition, the heel cup is adequately thickened for more heel protection.
Furthermore, this riding shoe is fitted with both Velcro straps and a precision buckle top. They are both put in place to provide a precision ergonomic fit and extra comfort while riding. It’s also worth noting that the three-hole cleat area is universally compatible with all pedal systems and cleat types. This makes the Santic cycling shoe great for spin class, road biking and touring.
6. Hiland Indoor Spinning & Road Bike Cycling Shoe

3 Hook loop Velcro straps
Stiff nylon outsole
Durable Toe Box
Universal pedal system compatibility
The Hiland Indoor Spinning & Road Bike Cycling Shoe is perfect for indoor and road cycling ventures. To that end, it features a super lightweight design for additional comfort and flexibility. Its classy and elegant design makes it fashionable for casual cycling and riding. What’s more, it further offers a breathable ventilated microfiber upper for a comfier and airy feel and is compatible with all major pedal systems and has dual cleat compatibility.
The Hiland Indoor Spinning & Road Bike Cycling Shoe is also fully compatible with the two holes (Shimano SPD), and 3 holes (SPD-SL) clipless pedal system. More importantly, it checks the box in terms of protection with a durable toe box and front PVC toe cup. The shoe structure is uniquely built to withstand and resist impacts.
7. Giro Savix Men’s Road Cycling Shoe

Soft and supple breathable microfiber and mesh upper
Injected nylon outsole
Die-cut EVA footbed
BOA L6 dial closure system
The Giro Savix Men’s Road Cycling Shoe stands out amongst its peers with its excellent performance. It features a breathable microfiber and mesh upper material for a supportive fit. This quality road cycling shoe is equipped with an easy to fit BOA L6 dial closure system as well as a front foot strap for set-and-forget convenience.
Additionally, these cycling shoes work to improve power pedaling by enhancing power transfer. Then the outsole offers a universal mounting system that is compatible with all cleat and pedal systems. However, some systems may likely require an adapter to work perfectly. All in all, this high-end performance road bike shoe greatly impacts your overall performance whilst guaranteeing a secure fit.
8. Sidi Alba 2 Cycling Shoe

Highly durable
Politex Upper
Replaceable heel pad
Sidi Heel cup system
Sidi footwear has six decades of experience in manufacturing quality road bike shoes and the Sidi Alba 2 Cycling Shoeis just one out of the many premium shoes they have produced These high-value shoes have been constructed with a solid and durable Politex upper material. What’s more, the seams around the high-stress areas are double-stitched for added durability whilst the carbon composite outsoles give the feet a firm and no flex feel on the pedal. In addition, it combines a soft instep closure and a Velcro system for a more comfortable fit.
All in all, this shoe is amazingly versatile and suitable for road riding, spin classes, commuting, and touring. The quick-drying, highly-breathable mesh along with the low-cut design makes it one of the best bike shoes out there.
9. Sidi Genius 7 Air Shadow Carbon Cycling Shoe

2 closure system for an enhanced adjusted fit
Rigid carbon fiber outsole
Caliper buckle for on-the-fly adjustment
Reinforced heel cup
The Sidi Genius 7 Air Shadow Carbon Cycling Shoe is unarguably another one of the best road bike shoes on the market owing to its elegance, comfortability, and efficiency. Sidi Genius 7 offers a comfortable fit and improved performance which is also thanks to the carbon fiber outsole that enhances rigidity and superior power transfer directly to your pedal system. When off the bike, the replaceable heel inserts and anti-polyurethane toe make walking safer and easier.
Manufacturers of this shoe also included a curved strap and micro caliper buckle to prevent unwanted pressure points on the foot. With these extras, you can easily adjust the bike fitting. The caliper buckle is further complemented by two Velcro straps that will hold the front foot firmly in the shoe. Your heel is also secured with a reinforced cup that prevents heel lift and injury while stomping.
10. BETOOSEN Road Bike Cycling Shoe

Quick lacing system
Nano Upper
Nylon outsole and 100% Carbon fiber cleat
Gear technology for proper fitting
This cycling shoe fuses the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. The BETOOSEN Road Bike Cycling Shoe is uniquely engineered for both male and female cyclists. To this effect, it features an imported breathable Nano upper and a nylon outsole. Even more, it is a non-slip shoe with a closure system that ensures your feet are held safely inside the shoe while riding.
What’s more, a gearing technology has been used to moderate the tightening and loosening of the laces – this further offers the ability to quickly put the shoes on. Overall, these are the perfect road bike shoes that guarantee maximum power transfer, more efficient pedal strokes, and improved flexibility and agility.
Road Bike Shoe Buying Guide & FAQ
Features To Look For In Best Road Bike Shoes
Fit - This is practically the most important feature to look out for when purchasing road bike shoes. The poor fitting can greatly impact your performance and the flexibility of your feet. Finding a road bike shoe that suits the shape of your feet and riding purposes is of great importance. A properly fitting bike shoe should be snug in your heel with even pressure on the instep. Your foot shouldn’t be pressed against the end of the shoe.
Also, well-fitted bike shoes give your toe extra room for comfort and flexibility. The shoe should also be able to hold your forefoot firmly and securely without restricting its movement.
Comfort - Wearing uncomfortable riding shoes takes the shine out of what is meant to be a fun and glorious ride. Casual cycling requires comfortable biking shoes. Shoes with stiff carbon fiber soles have a way of reducing the comfort of your feet. Luckily, there are various road bike shoe models listed above that provide a better balance between efficiency and comfort.
More so, comfortable road bike shoes feature a padded EVA insole to give your feet a comfy feel. Some go as far as providing arch and heel support for your heel to reduce the pressure in the area. In fact, the best road bike shoes in terms of a comfort feature a good closure system and padded sole.
Closure System - Cyclists favor a closure system that can be adjusted easily whilst still offering adequate security for your feet. Modern-day road bike shoes feature three major closure systems- Velcro, Ratcheted, and the Dial system. The Velcro system is found in low-end shoes; the ratchet is found in mid-priced shoes while the dial is mostly found in high-end shoes.
Although the Velcro straps are easy to use, they can be difficult to adjust while riding. This is when ratchets come in handy. They offer a more precise adjustment than the Velcro straps. However, they require both hands to fasten and unfasten. The most precise closure system is the dial system which offers precise adjustment and is operated using just one hand. Dials are however expensive but worth every penny.
Sole Materials - The durability and quality of the material used in the construction of the sole are of utmost importance especially if you want to see your performance improve. The best road bike shoes feature carbon fiber outsoles that help increase stiffness and reduce the overall weight of the shoe.
This directs all your energy transfer through a more efficient pedaling system. Some road bike shoes have a reputation for having hard-wearing and longevity characteristics. Although many models actually offer lightweight soles, they are still very stiff and durable. The stiffer the outsole, the greater the output performance. It’s recommended that you opt for road shoes with stiff carbon fiber soles.
Ventilation - If you intend to cycle for long distances or to engage in hard runs during the summer, then you should opt for road bike shoes with proper ventilation. They prevent smelly shoes and feet amongst other things. What’s more, the best road bike shoes are expected to have a reliable ventilation system.
Some modern shoe models are equipped with ventilation mesh to make your feet cooler. They also prevent your feet from sweating during hot rides and allow fresh air to come through while cycling. There are even some shoes with large cut-outs in the soles for an airy and light feel.
Cleats Compatibility with Pedals - Modern bike pedals work well with a variety of pedal systems. So, you need to ascertain which pedal system suits your cycling style. Your choice of clips when it comes to road bike shoes depends on your pedal system. Also, you might have to buy both the shoe and pedal to go with it.
There are 3 major types of clipless pedal systems used in cleat construction. They include Shimano Pedal System (SPD), Look Style System (SPD-SL), and Speedplay. The SPD is majorly used in mountain bikes, touring, and commuting shoes. The SPD-SL is more common with road biking shoes because of its stability and efficiency. The Speedplay is not so widely used and is seldom found in biking shoes.
Road Bike Shoe FAQ
Q: What are road bike shoes?
A: These are shoe purpose-built for riding and cycling. They come in a variety of styles and designs depending on the nature of the cycling for which they are intended. They equally offer a range of key features which include stiffness, cleat compatibility, and a more efficient transfer of power.
Older bike models make use of toe-clips and toe strap pedaling systems while modern road bike shoes are designed to be compatible with clipless pedal systems. Additionally, road bike shoes can be used in road racing, casual cycling, indoor cycling, and track racing.
Q: Do stiffer cycling shoes make a difference?
A: Flexible cycling shoes can cause a few problems for wearers including discomfort and foot pain. On the contrary, stiffer cycling shoes make a lot of difference in terms of comfort and improved power transfer. The stiffer the sole of the shoe is, the greater your overall performance. They ensure an efficient transfer of power from your body to the pedal system of the bicycle.
Furthermore, stiffer cycling shoes are made from premium carbon fiber flex materials which make them very expensive. What’s more, stiffer carbon soles are usually lighter than regular materials.
Q: Are expensive cycling shoes worth it?
A: They are definitely worth the steep price tag especially when you consider the many benefits and additional features you’d get to enjoy. The major determinant, in this case, is the quality of material used in the production of the cycling shoe.
Cycling shoes with stiffer carbon sole are usually more expensive than their traditional counterpart. More expensive models are usually lightweight and are more comfortable than the cheaper models. Some of them feature a ventilation mesh for proper airflow and cooling of the feet.
Q: Why do I need road cycling shoes?
A: Your feet are presumably the most important contact point between you and your bike. They make the ride smoother, comfier, and more efficient. Road cycling shoes also provide cyclists with adequate power and balance while cycling. What’s more, cycling shoes allow you to transfer more power to every pedal stroke thereby increasing efficiency.
They equally promote greater muscle balance and prevent fatigue due to excessive pedaling. Modern cycling shoes feature air vents that keep the feet from sweating profusely as well as firm structures that prevent your feet from cramping.
Q: Do the shoes come with cleats?
A: Using a cycling shoe involves putting together the pedals, the shoe, and the cleats. Your road bike shoe is incomplete without the cleats. However, most shoe models are unaccompanied by cleats. Cleats come in different styles and designs and they usually come together with the clip-in bike pedals.
The pedal attaches to your bike like a typical flat pedal while the mounting point of the cleats is screwed to the outsole of the matching cycling shoe. Furthermore, the pedal is equipped with a spring mechanism to allow the cleats clip easily on and off the cycling shoe.