Pain in the feet when cycling is a common problem. While there are numerous causes, from a podiatric perspective getting the shoe fit right is arguably the most crucial aspect for comfort and performance on the bike.

Cycling shoes are traditionally narrow and slim-fitting, have relatively rigid and unforgiving synthetic or leather uppers and are constructed on stiff plastic or carbon fibre soles.

Words like slim-fitting, rigid and stiff are commonly associated with problems in the podiatry world. With thousands of repetitions and applications of force to each pedal when cycling, it's little wonder that if cyclists' shoes don't fit well, problems are sure to occur.

Cyclists often report symptoms of tingling, numbness and burning in the feet and toes. The pathological cause can often vary, but poor shoe fit is often the root cause when we peel it all back. Most often, inadequate width around the toes is the culprit.

In an ideal world, all of us would fit into a standard width cycling shoe. But, unfortunately, this is not always the case, particularly when you have bunions, retracted toes, flatter or even high arch feet.

These days with so many shoe brands and models available, the question is, where do I start?

The first thing to do is measure the width and length of your feet.

Stand barefooted on a piece of paper.
Bend down to trace around each foot with a pen.
Maintaining a slight forward lean should put adequate pressure on your forefoot to ensure the tracing is representative of your foot shape.
Measure the distance between the widest points of each foot. These points will likely be at the big toe joint and the bottom of your little toe.
Measure from the back of your heel to the end of your longest toe. Note that your longest toe may not be your big toe.

To select the appropriate shoe size, make sure you measure both feet and use the bigger of the two measurements. Add 5 mm to the length and 1-2 mm to the width.

From there, you can use your measurements and the brand and model size charts to work out the best option for you.

Below are two of our favourite brands and models suitable for a range of people, including those with hard to fit feet. Both brands, particularly Bont, have several width options available for each size.

Bont Vaypor+ - Standard through to extra-wide.

https://bontcycling.com/items/support/size-chart.html

Lake CX 332 - Standard through to extra-wide.

https://lakecycling.com/pages/sizing-charts

If you would like assistance with cycling shoe fit or are experiencing foot pain when cycling, we are here to help. Contact us or book online today.

Author: Andrew Apolloni