Where Can I Buy Cycling Shoes? – August 2023 Guide

If you’re hunting for a new pair of cycling shoes, you’ve probably asked yourself the same question: where should I buy them? The good news is you have plenty of options, from brick‑and‑mortar bike shops to big‑box sports stores and a slew of online sites. Below we break down the pros and cons of each, so you can decide what works best for your budget, schedule, and comfort.

Shop In‑Person: Bike Shops and Sports Stores

Walking into a local bike shop gives you a hands‑on feel for the shoes. You can try on different brands, check the fit, and get advice from staff who ride daily. Most shops let you test the pedals right there, which is a quick way to see if the sole stiffness matches your riding style. Sports retailers like Decathlon or REI also carry a solid range of cycling shoes, often at a lower price point than specialty shops. The downside? You might have fewer high‑end models on the shelf, and inventory can vary week by week.

Shop Online: Amazon, eBay, and Specialist Sites

Online shopping scores big on convenience. Platforms like Amazon and eBay list dozens of models, sometimes with customer reviews that hint at real‑world comfort. Dedicated cycling sites—such as Wiggle, Chain Reaction Cycles, or Competitive Cyclist—offer detailed size charts, tech specs, and often free returns if the fit isn’t right. When you order online, make sure you double‑check the brand’s size guide because shoe sizing can differ from regular sneakers. Measure your foot length and width, then compare it to the chart. If you’re unsure, order a size up or down and use the return policy to swap.

One tip that works for both offline and online purchases: bring or wear the socks you plan to ride in when you try shoes on. Thick cycling socks add a centimetre or so to the fit, and testing with them prevents surprises on the road. Also, pay attention to the closure system—speed‑lace, BOA dials, or traditional straps—because comfort often hinges on how easily you can adjust the shoe throughout a ride.

Price ranges vary widely. Entry‑level shoes sit around £40‑£80, while high‑performance carbon‑plate models can climb over £300. If you’re just getting into the sport, a mid‑range pair (£100‑£150) usually offers a good mix of stiffness, durability, and comfort. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales—many stores discount last season’s inventory in August, giving you a chance to snag a great deal.

Finally, don’t forget the little extras. Some shoes come with interchangeable cleats for road or mountain setups, while others bundle a pair of saddle‑compatible insoles. If you already own pedals, check compatibility before you click ‘add to cart.’ A quick glance at the product description saves you a costly mismatch.

Bottom line: whether you prefer the tactile confidence of a bike shop or the price‑checking power of online retailers, you have all the tools to find the right cycling shoes. Measure, compare, and test whenever you can, and you’ll be pedaling smoother than ever.