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.
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