How to select cycling shoes?

Selecting the appropriate cycling shoe isn’t as easy as it used to be. Like a lot of athletic shoes, cycling shoes have become increasingly specialized. There are multiple pedal systems, and different types of cycling from spinning, to cyclocross, to road, mountain and triathlon biking. Casual cyclists do not need to worry about purchasing cycling shoes but for those who ride 3 or more times per week, a cycling shoe and pedal system can improve your performance.
Mountain and recreational biking shoes have a recessed cleat and a flexible sole. The recessed cleat and flexibility of the shoe make it easier to walk which is great for mountain bikers who may need to carry their bike over an obstacle or a recreational biker who wants to bike across town to check out the art fair.
Some models of cycling shoes are designed to combine the performance features of a competitive shoe and the comfort and flexibility of a recreational shoe. For example, a newer category of cycling shoe was born out of the popularity of stationary biking classes that are offered at many athletic clubs. These shoes fall somewhere between the casual riding shoes and competitive models. They tend to have more breathable uppers to compensate for the lack of airflow during stationary riding. Triathlon cycling shoes usually have one to three velcro straps to allow for easy entry and exit during transitions.
Additional Information

Have you ever thought of making your own shoes?

I did. I tore some shoes apart with a hammer, pliers, and screwdriver. After inspecting the parts, I realized I could duplicate them and make a pair of shoes. i experimented with different ideas until I finally came up with a good method. After a lot of publicity and teaching locally, I wrote my first book on shoemaking. Since that time, I have revised the book several times, adding new ideas as I developed them. I have given many demonstrations of my shoemaking to clubs and on TV. Now that I am on the Internet, I get orders from all over the world.

There are other ways to experience the fun of sports

Designing athletic shoes is an interesting job that requires either a direct knowledge of science, particularly sports science, or the ability to work with scientists to incorporate current research into a shoe's design. Learning about sports research and how it applies to the different components of a shoe is usually one of the first assignments of a designer starting a job at an athletic shoe company. Most shoe companies, in fact, have some type of research group that brings designers up to speed with the current research in sports. Once a designer is brought up to speed on sport science, she usually works as a member of a team. A team at a shoe company may be comprised of a sport researcher, a materials scientist, a product line manager, and the designer. It is the designer's job to work up a drawing of the team's design that will ultimately be built in a limited number for testing. After testing, the design may be refined or accepted as is and, finally, mass produced. The design drawings will also be used to "sell" others in the company, like the marketing and sales department, on the merits of the new shoe.

Footwear Glossary

Offering a wide variety of shoes, handbags and accessories, we strive to provide you with the best service in the industry. We feel it is our duty to not only provide you with great service, but we would also like to provide a reference guide for you to learn more about us and our industry. We are giving you the inside scoop to our company glossary so you can learn about shoes, handbags and accessories just like us. We hope this guide is useful to you and will make you feel more confident about the features that our products provide.
Boots : A style of footwear extending to the height of the anklebone and above. May extend as high as the thigh.
Heel : Can refer to both the rear, padded area of the underside of the foot, as well as the solid part of a shoe that supports the heel cup.

What is Podiatry?

Podiatry is a field of medicine that strives to improve the overall health and well-being of patients by focusing on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions associated with the foot and ankle. Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPMs) are physicians and surgeons who practice on the lower extremities, primarily on feet and ankles. The preparatory education of most DPMs includes four years of undergraduate work, followed by four years in an accredited podiatric medical school, followed by a hospital-based residency. DPMs are licensed in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico to diagnose and treat the foot and its related or governing structures by medical, surgical, or other means. The vast majority of states also include ankle care as part of the podiatric physician's scope of practice.
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A History of the Elevated Foot

Throughout its history in Western fashion, the high heel has been used to enhance stature, status, and sex appeal. Simultaneously impractical, proper, demure, and daring, the high heel of today bears the imprint of its complex 500-year evolution. From the extravagant chopines of the 16th century to the elegant stilettos of the 20th century, influences as varied as politics to pavement have contributed to the enduring success of elevating shoes.
HEIGHTS OF FASHION

Shoes That Work

The most practical reasons for donning specialized footwear are to protect feet from injury, permit us to do a better or easier job, and improve our performance. Around the world and throughout history footwear has been designed in unique ways to satisfy these needs.
WHAT'S THEIR LINE?

Walking the Path of Innovation

Centuries ago, in the rice patties of Japan, pontoon-like wood frame sandals were innovated to facilitate the planting and harvesting rice. The ingenuity of these and other Japanese forms of footwear are testaments to the legacy of functional design in Japan.
JAPANESE FOOTGEAR

Feet and Footwear in the Indian Tradition

Among the diverse peoples on the Indian subcontinent, the foot is both the most base and the most revered part of the human body. Traditionally the ritual, symbolic and allegorical significance of footwear has overshadowed its utilitarian and functional value.During the Divali Festival (Festival of Lights), which marks the end of the Hindu calendar year in October or November, Lakshmi, the Goddess of Prosperity and Good Fortune, is invited to enter the house. Painted footprints of the Goddess are worshipped and honoured with offerings and oil lamps to light her way into the home.Follow the footprints of Lakshmi; discover how the paduka has resonated through five millennia of history and continues to be an important element of Indian culture to this day.
PADUKA

Native Peoples of the Southwest

The sacred mountains, canyons, deserts, and plains of the American Southwest are home to two distinct tribal lifestyles: sedentary farmers who herded animals and warrior groups of nomadic hunters. The Southwest region consists of the present day states of Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico. The climate is governed by small amounts of rainfall in summer and snowfall on the mountains in winter, supplying water for streams, springs and water holes.
FOOTSTEPS ON THE SACRED EARTH

Alaskan Coastal Cultures

"My grandmother taught me to sew my respect for the animal spirits into the boots and parkas I make." Lydia Apatiki, Gamble, St. Lawrence Island, Alaska, 1988In coastal Alaska, whale and caribou hunters, salmon fishers, hunters on offshore islands and residents of forested fiords thrived in a world where all aspects of the environment possessed spirits.Hunters and seamstresses created footwear, clothing and tools that appeased and communicated with the spirit world. Amulets and designs on visors, kayaks, clothing and tools hid the hunter's identity, transforming the hunters into powerful predators, and protecting them from storms and other dangers.
APPEASING THE SPIRITS

Traditional Footwear from the Great Plains

The artistry of the decorated footwear produced by Plains Indian women has long been admired for its intricate beauty. Each careful stitch was a reflection of the maker and it was through her skills that a woman gained respect and prestige within her own culture. The footwear that women produced also reflected the larger world around them. The conflict and change endemic to the Plains in the 19th century can be read in their artistry. From the age-old traditions of porcupine quillwork to the late 19th century development of elaborate prairie-style beadwork, the story of how Plains peoples embraced new ideas and struggled to preserve traditional values continues to be told through their footwear.
PATHS ACROSS THE PLAINS

Over 80 years adidas has been part of the world of sports and fashion

The human foot is highly functional. Understanding how the foot works dictates how we build our adidas shoes. delivering state-of-the-art athletic footwear. Our main goal is to design shoes that work with the foot, not against it, to help you reach your highest level of performance and comfort.
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We still consider shoemaking an art at Allen-Edmonds

At Allen-Edmonds, We painstakingly craft every pair by hand, in a process that includes 212 different production steps. No detail is too small. Not a single stitch is overlooked. Because that's what it takes to make the most comfortable, longest-lasting shoes you'll ever wear.
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With Anne Klein there's no compromising style

All-Star footwear from one of the most recognized, and trend setting designers in the world today. With an incredible range of styles, the Anne Klein footwear line is sure to provide the perfect compliment for whatever the occasion. From casual to dress, comfort, or function. Simply a perfect fit.
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A philosophy which still holds true today

ASICS® was founded on the belief that the best way to create a healthy and happy lifestyle is to promote sports. In fact, their name is an acronym from the famous Latin phrase "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano," which translates, "A Sound Mind in a Sound Body." Originating in Kobe, Japan over fifty years ago, ASICS® products were introduced to the United States in 1977. They brought with them an incredible story of athletic performance and technical advancements.
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Comfort comes from flexible and fully repairable footbed

For those who spend a lot of time on their feet, Birkenstock shoes and sandals have set the standard for comfort, support and function for decades. The Birkenstock reputation for comfort comes from their unique, flexible and fully repairable footbed. A standard design in the entire collection, the Birkenstock footbed follows the contours of a healthy foot and renders feet in their natural walking position. From old favorites in fresh colors to new styles and materials, this latest Birkenstock collection offers the best in functional, comfortable footwear.
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Born is a leading manufacturer of genuinely superior comfort footwear

Born shoes crafted to meet the sophisticated demands of today's business casual and leisure time fashions, these "Works of Art" shoes blend refined classic elegance with extraordinary comfort and innovative styling. Born offers a wide selection to men and women of style, who, no matter what their age, have a young, free-spirited attitude about their footwear and lifestyle.
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Luxurious and stylish look while delivering extraordinary comfort

Founded by the Magli family in 1936 in Bologna Italy, Bruno Magli shoes and accessories are elegant designs of high quality craftsmanship, offering a sense of style and prestige to a sophisticated and fashion conscious consumer. Bruno Magli footwear is handcrafted from the finest leathers available, for a luxurious and stylish look while delivering extraordinary comfort. With a dedication to the extensive Italian design tradition, Bruno Magli has been handcrafting footwear and accessories in Italy for over 69 years. The result is one of the most respected, innovative, sophisticated, contemporary and distinctive lines in the fashion world today.
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Keeps you comfortable and stylish

Calvin Klein White Label is produced under a license agreement with Jimlar Corporation. This career-inspired line is marketed under the Calvin Klein brand name and positioned as the opening price-point for all Calvin Klein brands.
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Charles David become a forerunner in the industry

Charles David of California introduced its name to the American market in 1987. The business began as a wholesale importing and distribution company selling fine European shoes throughout the country. In just a few years, Charles David has experienced rapid growth with the success of its footwear lines and has become a forerunner in the industry. The primary strength of the company lies both in its creative in-house design team and their reputable factories in Spain and Italy which work together to anticipate trends and produce a quality product in a short turnaround time.
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the favorites of fashion followers throughout the world

Clarks England is recognized by serious shoe lovers around the world for its commitment to comfort, authenticity and individual style. The broad variety of styles includes the best in comfort footwear and sandals, as well as styles ranging from rugged performance to sophisticated career footwear. With an authenticity proven by the passage of time, Clarks Originals are, again, the favorites of fashion followers throughout the world. Clarks- Step inside, a world of comfort Shoes awaits you.
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the world's largest outerwear brands

Founded in 1938, Columbia Sportswear Company® has grown from a small family-owned hat distributorship to one of the world's largest outerwear brands and the leading seller of skiwear in the United States. Columbia's extensive product line includes a wide variety of outerwear, sportswear, rugged footwear and accessories. Developing innovative products that are functional yet stylish and offer great value is what Columbia does.
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The styling on "Converse Shoes" will catch everyone’s attention

Converse - The Original. Chuck Taylor reminds you to be wary of imposters and pretenders. Insist on the Original - The Converse® Chuck Taylor® All Star®. Great American Shoes for over 80 years.
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Long stood for high quality

Since 1957, Dexter has been committed to building shoes for the way people really live. Generations of workers have taken great pride in the craftsmanship of Dexter shoes, which have long stood for high quality even under the toughest conditions. Dexter offers a wide array of widths and sizes to fit almost any foot.
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luxuriously comfortable footwear that never compromises creativity

When the feet are uncomfortable, so is the mind and body." With these words, Donald J Pliner has committed his life to the quality and perfection of an innovative line of shoes. A life-long and family tradition is continued with his luxuriously comfortable footwear that never compromises creativity or fashion.
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One of the most respected and well-know icons in the world

One of the most respected and well-know icons in the world, Dr. Martens' boots, shoes and sandals continue to set the standard for durability, comfort and fashion. Dr. Martens's trademark look and quality construction has been recognized world-wide since 1960.
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Dr. Scholl's and you'll truly know what it is to feel crazy good

Call us crazy but we think your look good shoes should also be your feel good shoes. That's why we've added Memory Fit™ Cushion Insoles to select fall styles. This exclusive Dr. Scholl's® technology hugs the curves of your foot, bouncing back into shape with each step. And we didn't stop there. Soles are light and flexible. Heels are made for walking. Linings are plush and soft. Try on a pair of Original Dr. Scholl's and you'll truly know what it is to feel crazy good.
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Try a pair of ECCO shoes and experience the passion of comfort

ECCO is driven by a passion to create comfortable walking gear. A visionary idea that - as the years have progressed - has developed into the philosophy that has brought them to where they are - setting the agenda for the producers of the world's most comfortable and modern footwear for work and leisure. It is quite simple. Footwear for all occasions must be designed and constructed with uncompromising attention to the comfort of the users, functionality will always be ECCO's top priority. Try a pair of ECCO shoes and experience the passion of comfort.
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For 114 years, Florsheim has been an uncompromising leader in men's footwear

Standing the test of time since 1892. As we celebrate this landmark anniversary, we look back, refocus and set our sites on the future. What we see is a company with a commitment to craftsmanship and fashion-forward thinking. We see a world-class brand name that consumers continue to rely on for quality, style, comfort and value. We see classic styles as relevant today as when we first introduced them. We see new looks, and importantly, new technologies and manufacturing processes that prove style needn't be stifling. We see oppurtunity and, yes, we see change. But we are confident the challenges we face will make us stronger. We are determined, more than ever, to live up to the standards and heritage of the Florsheim brand. 114 years is a long time to be on your feet. We're proud to say we have not only withstood the test of time, we remain decidedly in step with the times. So here's to a successful anniversary year for all of us...and to 114 more years of giving nothing less than 114%.
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combine the world of cutting edge fashion and reliable all-day comfort

Franco Sarto shoes set the standard for European fashion design. Originating from the mind of their name-sake Italian designer, Franco Sarto shoes perfectly combine the world of cutting edge fashion and reliable all-day comfort. These shoes are born of the belief that beautiful footwear need not compromise ordinary wearability. Franco Sarto, European fashion with everyday comfort.
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Gabriella Rocha is the brand for real women who not only love shoes

Shoes made for women who love shoes. Stylish, passionate, fresh, and of course, sexy. Shoes for strutting and dancing down the streets of life. Gabriella Rocha is the brand for real women who not only love shoes, but love life, and love being a woman.
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Details, however small, can make quite an impact

Details, however small, can make quite an impact. A simple stitch can add a feminine flair or a bold design element. A buckle can add a subtle touch or an aggressive brand statement. A sole can be sleek or rugged. These intricate details create the spirit of freedom that is the heart and sole of Harley-Davidson® Footwear.
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Kenneth Cole translates what's hip and what's now to your life

What you stand for is more important than what you stand in. Fortunately, Kenneth Cole New York can help you with both. An American designer known for both his social conscious, and a chic, urban aesthetic, Kenneth Cole translates what's hip and what's now to your life, to your closet. With a variety of styles, all with the distinctive Kenneth Cole flair, these shoes are sure to make a statement.
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Modern designs and colorways combine with classic shapes

Renowned for luxury and classic styling, Lacoste has an unrivaled heritage in the sports fashion market. The brand continues to appeal to the fashion forward consumer and the footwear line is no exception. Modern designs and colorways combine with classic shapes to create a unique style that distinguishes Lacoste from other lifestyle brands.
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Create and manufacture the world's finest walking shoes

For more than 35 years our goal has been the same: to create and manufacture the world's finest walking shoes. True to its heritage, MEPHISTO shoes are designed and built to be perfect. That is the reason we utilize more than 140 different operations and take more than 90 minutes to manufacture a single pair. It is this ideal combination of know-how, technology and experienced craftsmanship that has made MEPHISTO one of the leading companies in France and a benchmark of perfection known around the world.
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Follow our signature trends

You’ll find fresh new styles with Naturalizer Footwear. It’s a bright, bold new season of colors, textures, and designs. Follow our signature trends and see where they take you-from handcrafted ethnic details to tribal influences to softly romantic accents.
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It's clear to see New Balance is no ordinary shoe company

Recognized as one of the world's leading manufacturers of high performance footwear and apparel, New Balance continues to set itself apart from the competition. From their commitment to domestic manufacturing, to their technological innovations, to their extensive width-sizing availability, it's clear to see New Balance is no ordinary shoe company. Endorsed By No One™, New Balance shoes speak for themselves.
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PUMA distributes products in over 80 countries

PUMA® is the global athletic brand that successfully fuses influences from sport, lifestyle and fashion. PUMA’s unique industry perspective delivers the unexpected in sportlifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories, through technical innovation and revolutionary design. Established in Herzogenaurach, Germany in 1948, PUMA distributes products in over 80 countries.
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Keeping up with the demand for comfort, performance, and style

Reebok has always been one the first to see new directions in fitness and training, from Aerobics to Preseason to Blacktop. Reebok has a heritage in discovering these new directions and keeping up with the demand for comfort, performance, and style.
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The first to engineer walking comfort in dress and casual shoes

Rockport has always been one step ahead of the times. They were the first to use advanced materials and technologies in traditional shoes for lightweight comfort. The first to engineer walking comfort in dress and casual shoes. They pioneered the linkage between performance and style that today's consumers have come to expect. They've run the New York City Marathon, climbed Kilimanjaro, and sailed around the world showing our commitment to go the extra mile to make you smile.
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From comfort, to durability, to looks, RSVP

Fashion Footwear has never been so stylish! With the RSVP line of footwear, you don't have to skimp on quality or style. These fashionable, playful designs deliver everything you expect from high-fashion footwear. From comfort, to durability, to looks, RSVP has the entire package. RSVP footwear responds to your every need so you can put your best foot forward.
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The maximum pleasure for all styles of outdoor activity

Salomon footwear is designed to leave you light, allowing freer movement to go faster and farther. From casual and light hiking, to trekking, running and amphibious sports, Salomon strikes the perfect balance between weight and durability, while providing maximum pleasure for all styles of outdoor activity. Lightweight and protective, these styles are designed to address the performance needs of the adventure sportsman.
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Go with your own style and choose a fashion

Skechers: edgy and comfortable shoes for active lifestyles, whether you're hanging out, cruising around, pounding the pavement, or hitting the trail. Trend conscious, athletic, and urban looks in the newest materials. Go with your own style and choose a fashion jogger, sleek updated lace-up, or chunky heel.
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Weitzman creations are the stuff of dreams for women around the world

Whisper "Stuart Weitzman" to any discerning shoe-lover, and you'll inspire a reverie. Sumptuous pumps . . . glittering mules . . . studded stilettos — Weitzman creations are the stuff of dreams for women around the world. Frequently seen on runways and red carpets, Weitzman shoes literally make headlines. Often, they deserve a spotlight of their own. Die-hard devotees have even penned poems and composed songs to celebrate their passion for Weitzman styles. The man behind the mystique is Stuart Weitzman — founder of Stuart Weitzman Inc. Combining an eye for beauty with the technical expertise of a master craftsman, he creates more than 300 new styles of shoes and handbags a year. Each is a monument to fashion and innovation.
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A line of luxury shoes that are as comfortable as they are beautiful

Taryn Rose changed the footwear industry in 1998 by creating a line of luxury shoes that are as comfortable as they are beautiful. Her idea of being well-dressed with a sense of well-being touched a nerve with fashionable women from coast-to-coast, creating a dedicated following for her footwear collection. Formally trained as an orthopedic surgeon, Rose saw patients with many serious foot problems that were caused by fashion footwear, high heels and pointed toes. Being a lover of beautiful footwear, her own feet ached after 14-hour days in shoes with three-inch heels. In the fashion world where beauty and pain go hand-in-hand, Taryn Rose offers women the opportunity to wear exquisite footwear which is also good for their feet.
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Using quality materials and the most advanced technology

Timberland is the name to count on for durable, rugged footwear with all the traction and support you need plus all the comfort you want. We've combined premium materials and the latest footwear technology to create footwear you'll want to take every place you go. Whether you're walking on a sandy beach, a wooded path, or a city street, your feet will feel the benefits of our commitment to making durable products using quality materials and the most advanced technology.
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Powerful and elegant styles for business wear

Adam Derrick designs To Boot New York footwear and accessories that are the ultimate in quality and style. Each season he presents the To Boot New York collection, full of exciting new styles that are modern, versatile, sporty and sexy, as well as powerful and elegant styles for business wear.
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