​5 great cycling shoes for all rides – Bike Magazine Australia

Whether you’re in need of some sleek racing shoes or some downhill mountain bike kicks, Competitive Cyclist has got a deal for you. With a new sale for every stage this tour season, all sorts of cycling shoes are now available for discounts from 30 to 73 percent. We picked a few of our favorites. (The shoes you choose might help you identify with your crew. Learn more about the wide variety of cyclists with Rodale’s Bike Tribes.)

Giro Empire VR90 

Photograph courtesy of Giro

The Giro Empire VR90s are about as sleek and sexy as mountain bike shoes come. These lace-up kicks use its Vibram Mont rubber lugged outsole for comfort and grip off the bike without sacrificing the shoe’s smooth design. On the bike, the shoe’s upper Teijin microfiber material is seamless and breathable while the Easton EC90 carbon fibre soles keep your ride stiff and efficient.

Pearl Izumi X-Project P.R.O. Limited Edition 

Photograph courtesy of Pearl Izumi

Pearl Izumi has optimized the X-Project P.R.O. carbon composite soles for an excellent balance between stiffness and flexibility. Designed specifically for XC racing, the X-Project P.R.O. keeps your pedal stroke efficient while still allowing for enough comfortable flex off the bike. With an insole system for custom arch support, this XC shoe should stay snug no matter the trail.

Giro Empire ACC 

Photograph courtesy of Giro

Giro designed these slick lace-up cycling shoes for American cyclist Taylor Phinney for the 2012 Olympic Games. To meet Phinney’s performance needs, Giro crafted the Empire ACC Shoes with lightweight and breathable Evofiber microfibre and an ultra-stiff Easton EC90 ACC Carbon Sole. With a sleek profile and a claimed weight of 215g, these road shoes are as quick as they are stylish.

Pearl Izumi Pro Leader III Limited Edition 

Photograph courtesy of Pearl Izumi

With dual Boa dials and insoles offering customizable arch support, the Pro Leader III hugs your foot without irritating hot spots or pressure points. This road shoe’s carbon sole boasts a 13/13 stiffness rating for ultimate efficiency.

Shimano SH-AM900 

Photograph courtesy of Shimano

Shimano designed the SH-AM900s to take on downhill and enduro pursuits. Created with synthetic leather, the shoe features a tough shield to protect against trailside debris during rapid descents. Added traction gives you grip off your bike while a EVA foam sole provides some stiffness during your ride.

Copyright © 2016 Rodale Inc.