Cycling shoes for every ride: ideal for both leisure and professional cyclists

Cycling is one of the most popular sports in Switzerland. According to a survey by the Federal Roads Office, almost three million people In this country, at least some people cycle from time to time. What’s more, some of the most successful professional cyclists come from Switzerland. To ensure they’re always safe on the road, both professionals and amateur cyclists need the right kit. This includes cycling schools.

An important feature of cycling shoes is the fastenings that secure them to the feet. Here at Gudo, we manufacture a range of fastenings that can be used for cycling shoes, amongst other things. In this article, we’ll look at the benefits of the shoes and the fastenings. 

What makes cycling shoes special? 

To highlight the benefits of cycling shoes, it is first worth outlining their key features. To begin with, there are two main types of cycling shoes: 

• Clip-in cycling shoes: These are part of the clip-in system that can be fitted to pedals. The soles of the cycling shoes feature cleats that click into the clip-in pedals. 
• Platform cycling shoes: They have a flat sole and are therefore used with bicycles that do not have clipless pedals. Nevertheless, they have certain features that set them apart from other sports shoes. 

In addition, shoes can be categorised according to the type of bike they are typically used with. Specific shoes are available for the following types of bicycle: 

• Trekking/touring bike 
• Road bike 
• Mountain bike 
• Dirt bike/BMX bike 

Some manufacturers also offer shoes designed for spinning, i.e. endurance training on indoor bikes.

All types of cycling shoes have a stiff sole, which is usually made of nylon or carbon. Shoes designed for mountain bikes or BMX bikes have soles with a tread pattern. 

The upper part of a cycling shoe should be breathable and is therefore made from a material that ensures this property. This is usually polyester or another synthetic material. It has the advantage of being waterproof to a certain extent. This keeps your feet dry even in the rain. 

The upper part of the shoe also features reflective elements. These ensure that the cycling shoes – and therefore the wearer – are more visible in low-light conditions on the road.  

Cycling shoes that are subject to heavy wear and tear are reinforced in the areas most prone to damage. This applies, for example, to mountain bike shoes. Abrasion-resistant materials are used in their manufacture. 

The fastening system on cycling shoes also plays an important role. This can take the form of either laces or buckles. 

What are the benefits of cycling shoes?

Cycling shoes offer a range of benefits that are enjoyed by both professional and amateur cyclists. First and foremost, they provide safety whilst cycling. This is particularly true of clipless cycling shoes. Their defining feature is that it is impossible to slip off the pedals whilst wearing them. 

The secure grip provided by clipless cycling shoes also affects the cyclist’s performance. As they do not slip off the pedals at high speeds or when cornering, cyclists are able to control their bike more effectively. 

With platform pedal shoes, it is primarily the material and texture of the soles that ensure a good grip. Whilst it is not impossible for your feet to slip off the pedals, this is less likely to happen than with other sports shoes, thanks to the tread pattern on the soles. 

The stiff soles of cycling shoes also ensure that power from the legs is transferred to the bike efficiently. What’s more, they reduce the strain on the feet, which is particularly helpful on longer rides. 

Another advantage of cycling shoes is the breathable material used in the upper. This ensures that your feet are always well ventilated, meaning they sweat less. It is also worth noting the durability and stylish design of cycling shoes, which are key selling points for many users. 

Last but not least, a cycling shoe provides good support for the foot if it has an effective fastening system. Gudo’s products are used by numerous manufacturers of high-quality footwear. 

How are cycling shoes kept securely on your feet? 

As well as laces, fastenings are a practical option for securing cycling shoes and keeping them firmly in place on your feet. The main types to consider are twist fastenings, ratchet fastenings and tension fastenings. 

Screw caps 

The central element of Screw caps is a twist knob. Turning it to the right tightens the cord that holds the shoe against the foot. Turning it to the left loosens the fastening again. Some models, such as the Swock M Power also feature a quick-release function. When this is activated, the shutter opens fully. 

Thanks to the ease of use of twist fastenings, it is very easy to find the perfect fit. If the shoe is too tight, the wearer simply twists the knob a little. They do the same if they want a tighter fit. This means that even children can easily use shoes with twist fastenings. 

That is why not only cycling shoes but also, for example, children’s shoes are fitted with twist fasteners. Many cycling helmets are also fitted with this type of fastener. 

Ratchet fasteners 

Cycling shoes can also be very effective when used with ratchet fasteners can be adjusted. This type of fastening comprises a lever and a toothed strap. Tilting the lever adjusts the strap, which tightens or loosens the cord around the shoe. This fastening therefore also allows for precise control over the level of support the shoe provides. 

Many ratchet fasteners also have a feature that allows them to be released quickly. When Compact S To do this, the lever must be lifted.  

As well as cycling shoes, ratchet fasteners are also suitable for use on safety footwear. They are also used on bike racks and orthopaedic products. 

Tension fasteners 

Another option for fastening cycling shoes is a tension fastener. These are fitted with a clip that secures the cord which holds the shoe to the foot. First, the user can adjust the length of the cord manually. The clip is then closed to hold it in place. A locking mechanism ensures that it cannot be opened accidentally, for example whilst cycling. 

Buckle fastenings are the go-to choice, particularly for ski boots. However, they are also highly useful for cycling shoes and in orthopaedics. 

Gudo's wide range of products 

Gudo specialises in the manufacture of fasteners. In addition to twist, ratchet and clamp fasteners, the range includes Clips to our product range. In addition, we manufacture Speciality products in accordance with our customers’ specifications. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require a specific plastic product. 

We are happy to assist you every step of the way, from development and production right through to assembly. Our experienced team plays a key role right from the design stage of your product. In doing so, we keep a close eye on both the technical aspects and cost-effectiveness. We use prototyping to test the product during the early stages of development. 

To this end, we produce fully functional prototypes that can be thoroughly tested. This process reveals any weaknesses or faults, which can then be avoided in the next prototype. 

At our factory in Lupfig, we have a range of manufacturing methods at our disposal. This enables us to respond flexibly to your requirements. The same applies to the final assembly of your products.

Would you like to find out more about the different types of fastenings available from Gudo? Please feel free to contact us via our contact form Please feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. You can also use the form to order fasteners and other products from our range directly.