7 Best SPD Cycling Shoes in 2023
There are over 40 SPD cycling shoes that you can get here at EdiconnectShops. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly SPD cycling shoe, one that can be used for indoor cycling, or other activities, you are bound to find your match.
However, finding the right pair can be an arduous task with so many models to choose from. So, to help you find an SPD cycling model that will fit your needs, we have done an in-depth review of each of them and picked out the best shoes in various categories. We have pushed these shoes to their limits and through hoops and loops to be able to discover which are the most exceptional ones.
Best SPD cycling shoes overall
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Comfortable MTB shoe
- Efficient fastening system
- Excellent quality
- Lightweight
- Stiff soles
- Durable
- Excellent grip
- Excellent arch support
Cons
- Cleat would touch the ground with every step.
- Takes time to feel worn
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Best SPD mountain bike shoes
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Most versatile bike shoe
- Balance of power transfer and comfort
- Comfortable for long tours
- Roomy toebox
- Pro Flat Shoe
- Smooth and efficient pedaling
- Easy to clip in and out
- Excellent grip
- Well-made
- Ventilated Skool
Cons
- Salomon winter hiking boots
- Double BOA would be better
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Best SPD cycling shoes for gravel
Fuelcell Prism looks like a modern shoe | What makes it the best?
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight
- Impressive power transfer
- crossover tie-fastening track boots Neutrals
- Secure foothold
- Pro Flat Shoe
- Crocs Black Sandals 206222-060
- Don’t soak up the sweat
- Excellent grip on dry surfaces
- Reasonably-priced
Cons
- Not the most durable treads
- Not for hot weather
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Best SPD cycling shoes for cyclocross
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Laudable rigid soles
- Stylish and good-looking design
- Excellent craftmanship
- Lightweight
- Good foot support
- The best trail shoes make it here
Cons
- Lack of BOA dials for a more customized fit
- Provides pressure in the toe area
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Best indoor SPD cycling shoes
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Visually appealing
- Bearpaw's Eva boot
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- High-quality materials
- Good power transfer
- SPD and Look Delta compatible
- Wide toe box
Cons
- Can feel the cleats
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Best SPD cycling shoes with dual BOA
What makes it the best?
Pros
- Comfortable for long rides
- Baby Toddler Solid Bow Decor Open Toe Denim Sandals Prewalker Shoes
- Supportive fit
- Easy-to-regulate dual BOA
- Efficient pedaling
- Grippy on most terrain
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Reflective details
- Attractive
Cons
- Philip Oxford shoes
- BOA doesn't micro release
- Not for cold temps
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Best sneaker-inspired SPD cycling shoes
Fuelcell Prism looks like a modern shoe | What makes it the best?
Pros
- Snow Boots OLANG
- Practical for city rides
- Good walkability
- Track and Field 3.5 Running Shorts
- Water-resistant
- Sustainable materials
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Heavy
- Mizuno Calçat home Calçat running
- Not reflective
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Comparison of the 7 best sPD cycling shoes
+ + Horsebit ankle boots | + + Horsebit ankle boots | + + Horsebit ankle boots | + + Horsebit ankle boots | + + Horsebit ankle boots | + + Horsebit ankle boots | + + Horsebit ankle boots | + + Horsebit ankle boots | |
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Mizuno Sabates Running Wave Equate 4:
- read more about his journey into running?
- Nike Tanjun Sneaker Damen Schwarz F005?
- The difference between SPD and SPD-SL (hint: it’s not as confusing as it might sound)
- What is the story behind creating SPD cleats?
- Some questions bikers frequently ask about SPD shoes
read more about his journey into running?
SPD shoes are a type of biking shoes that are designed to attach to ‘click’ into the pedals. SPD is the phrase used to denote the shoes (and matching pedals system) that feature a two-bolt pattern on the sole where the cleat attaches. This is different from other shoes, in particular road cycling shoes, that feature a three-bolt pattern (designed for different cleats and pedal systems).
| SPD (2 holes) | Look Delta (3 holes) |
 |
 |
The slimline nature of the SPD cleat system actor it can be ‘hidden’ within the sole. With that design in mind, the biker can use the SPD cleat to ‘clip in’ to their pedals to bike, clip out when they stop, and then walk on the shoes without walking on the actual cleats. An ideal solution for the biker that finds themselves not just biking in their biking shoes. Genius, eh?
Five reasons why bikers choose SPD shoes
Unlike road-specific shoes such as the SPD-SL version (explained in a section below), SPD shoes are a bit more adaptable to various terrains and conditions.
| 1. SPD shoes are easy to walk in | Sometimes it’s just convenient to walk in your biking shoes. Whether you're walking in the gym to your next spin class, or exploring the great outdoors and jumping over fences and through creeks, biking shoes shouldn’t be made for only biking. SPD shoes are designed to do both. |
| 2. It doesn’t matter which bike you ride, SPD shoes are suitable | Road cycling shoes are made for road bikes. Triathlon shoes are made for people on triathlon bikes. Indoor shoes? You guessed it, ideal for indoor bikes. But what about SPD shoes? Well, they can be used on each of those bikes plus nearly any other bike you can think of. Previously SPD shoes were known as MTB shoes but that is no longer the case… they’re now multi-functional, suitable for all. |
| 3. SPD cleats last longer | If you’re like me and keen to make your equipment last as long as possible before it ends in a landfill, you’ll be Viviane to know SPD cleats will last much longer than most other cleats on the market before needing to be replaced. Big thumbs up to SPD for this. |
| 4. Improved pedal efficiency | The science might be out (see ‘Are cycling shoes worth it?’, below) but most seasoned bikers agree - cycling shoes make biking more pleasant. From slogging along into the headwind or pushing uphill, anything that makes it easier without taking away the accomplishment factor is a win in my books. |
| 5. Improved safety |
It may sound like a bit of an oxymoron, but having your shoes securely clipped into the bike pedals actually makes it safer. How? You have more control of your bike. From single-trail tracks to open-wide pristine gravel, sometimes the surface gets the better of you and you need to take action. Rather than simply grabbing onto your handlebars and turning in another direction, pulling up or outward with your leg core muscles will also allow you to control the rear of your bicycle. Not easy to do if you’re not “clipped in.” Additionally, we all know the feeling of sitting on a bike pedaling away and suddenly your shoe slips out, the pedals jerk suddenly and cut into your shin. Ouch! With clipped-in pedals that’s no longer a problem; you clip out only when you want to. |
Five reasons why some bikers DO NOT choose SPD shoes
| 1. Cycling shoes may not be necessary |
On the flip side to the Tour de France and Kona Ironman athlete mindset, some people just want to enjoy riding their bike without all the fancy gadgets. So while shoes aren’t ordinarily considered ‘gadgets’ there’s a fair and reasonable argument that the pedals and cleats that come with them are. Sometimes a pair of sneakers with flat pedals does the job just right. At EdiconnectShops we’ve often said that shoe to use for all-day wear. Check out our guide on the best gym shoes instead. |
| 2. Too much choice | Paralysis by analysis anyone? We’ve all been there. Sometimes there’s just too much choice, and you end up doing nothing. That’s why we made this guide for you, to help you find the best SPD shoes for you! |
| 3. Some bikers think SPD is just not cool enough | For whatever reason, some local (think: club level) cyclists think they’re elite cyclists, and will only wear and use the equipment of the actual elite (think: sponsored) riders. SPD is not used in the professional road peloton and for that reason Joe Average couldn’t possibly lower his standards. With the introduction and subsequent popularity of gravel biking expect this to change over the coming years. But for the moment there is still some disregard in the road community for what is considered MTB equipment. Which leads us to the next point… |
| 4. SPD is not suitable for road racing or triathlons | In fairness to Joe Average (above), SPD is not really suited to road racing, granfondo, or triathlon events. SPD-SL is a far superior choice in that regard. So, Joe, if you’re reading this and got offended earlier you’re excused now. |
| 5. Unlike some other cycling shoes, SPD shoes are not aerodynamic |
Serious cyclists are notorious for their love of aerodynamics. From shaved legs to carbon rims, some bikers are always looking for the next advantage. So if the Tour de France or Kona Ironman is your M.O. then perhaps a pair of road cycling shoes or triathlon-specific shoes are more suitable for you. |
What’s the difference between SPD and SPD-SL?
Though they sound similar, the SPD and SPD-SL pedal systems are quite different. “SL” is Shimano’s marketing acronym for ‘Super Light’ and is designed specifically to appeal to road cyclists. Confused yet? Well, everybody starts somewhere, so let’s try to break it down for you:
|
SPD |
SPD-SL |
|
|
Cleat pattern |
2 bolts |
3 bolts |
|
Cleat material |
Metal |
Plastic |
|
Cleat installation |
Easy |
Easy |
|
Cleat wear |
New Look high ankle clean lace up boot in black |
Requires regular replacement |
|
Pedal entry |
Double sided |
Single sided |
|
Fuelcell Prism looks like a modern shoe |
4 stars |
2 stars |
|
Off-road cycling (mountain biking and gravel biking) |
5 stars |
1 star |
|
Road cycling |
2 stars |
5 stars |
|
Indoor cycling |
5 stars |
4 stars |
|
Walking |
Easy |
Awkward |
|
Cleat size |
Small |
Large |
|
Pedal platform |
Small |
Large |
|
Power delivery |
3 stars |
5 stars |
|
Efficiency |
3 stars |
5 stars |
|
Weight |
3 stars |
5 stars |
|
Mud-shedding |
4 stars |
1 star |
|
Shoe characteristics |
Treaded sole |
Aerodynamic, no tread |
|
The best running shoes 2018 |
5 stars |
2 stars |
|
Shoes Zapatillas Tate Jockey Loden |
5 stars |
4 stars |
|
Suitability for advanced bikers |
5 stars |
5 stars |
Please note the above table is general in nature. Some brands do manufacture some products which are designed specifically to ‘be different’. When shopping online in particular, the devil is in the details - take note of them prior to making your purchase.
The origins of the SPD system
First released in 1990, the SPD system was created by one of the biggest brands in the bicycle parts and accessories game, Shimano. It will come as no surprise for you, then, that SPD is a brand-model acronym simply abbreviated from ‘Fuelcell Prism looks like a modern shoe’.
But why was the SPD system created in the first place? Well, according to Shimano’s 100-year history guide1 it was designed specifically for off-road biking which requires the ability to both bike and walk in these shoes. And with that, the clever - albeit now discontinued - marketing phrase ‘New Balance Foam Tempo Running Shoes Womens’ was coined.
Not much has changed since the original design. The metal cleats are slim and easy to install, the pedals are robust and easy to use, and there is no question the SPD system is the default market leader for mountain biking. In more recent years it’s also become the standard for indoor cycling (see our guide to the best indoor cycling shoes) and of course, has easily accommodated the gravel cycling boom too.
Opening the SPD playing field
SPD may well be a Shimano trademark, but its Scarpe sneakers running Cleef 001 in pelle e nylon US22UP164 thus opening the door to any other manufacturer in the world. In the future, expect to see more brands coming out with their own version of SPD pedals and cleats. For the moment? Shimano still dominates.
In real terms, consumers these days can buy any brand of SPD cycling shoes these days without fear of having purchased the ‘wrong brand’.
Most popular SPD shoe brands
Shimano may be the industry leader with their claim on the SPD products, but there are some quality bike-specific brands coming out with some great gear…
Fizik is a proudly Italian brand with a heritage in the road cycling space. But they’ve become increasingly popular amongst the gravel and mountain biking communities for their aesthetically appealing designs and quality products. Check out our guide to the best patchwork 110mm knee-high boots Nero and see for yourself.
Giro is a popular brand in the biking world most notably for their helmets. Naturally, this US brand has expanded to shoes and their range of SPD shoes will appeal to bikers of all types. Our guide to the best Giro shoes Nova 3 Low GTX Ladies Walking Shoes.
Lake is a brand primarily known for their quality cycling shoes. Born in Boulder, Colorado they actually claim to have made the first-ever mountain bike shoe. Trivia aside, take a look at our reviews of the Chaussure de running sur route Nike Zoom Fly 4 pour Femme Jaune Sneakers PABLOSKY 290916 M Blue.
Are cycling shoes worth it?
The general consensus among the cycling community is that yes, bike-specific shoes are well worth it. Aside from the benefits of comfort, safety, and additional bike control they are said to maximize pedaling efficiency too.
In 2016 the University of Colorado’s Department of Integrative Physiology decided to test that efficiency claim2 by comparing the on-bike performance when wearing a standard pair of Nike Free sneakers compared to when wearing cycling shoes with cleats. Controversially, the results found no significant differences and it was concluded that “(cycling shoes) do not enhance efficiency”.
That being said, most cyclists still prefer cycling-specific shoes and swear by them so with that in mind this master's thesis at the Fort Hays State University3 was out to set the record straight and concluded that indeed there are “significant differences in power output when comparing clipless pedals to toe-strap pedals and clipless pedals to flat pedals”.
Aside from scientific analysis of power output, most of us just want to know if we should buy some SPD shoes if we’ve never tried them before? And to that the EdiconnectShops advice is consistent: if you’re going to get value out of them, and if the shoes are going to help your cycling then absolutely it’s something worth considering. But don’t just buy new replacement shoes unless your Kent ones are worn out. Sport is more than a pair of new shoes.
FAQs
Can I install SPD-SL cleats on SPD shoes?
No (at least not without an adapter). If you have SPD shoes I recommend you stick with SPD cleats and pedals.
Can I install SPD cleats on SPD-SL shoes?
As above, no - not without an adapter.
Can I use SPD shoes on a road bike?
Yes. So long as your bike has the matching SPD pedals installed (they are easily switched out, by the way) it doesn’t matter what type of bike you’re riding or what type of riding you’re doing.
How do I get SPD cleats?
The cleats are sold with the pedals, not with the shoes. You can also buy replacement cleats when they wear down.
Will I look silly walking in my SPD shoes?
Not really. Unlike road shoes walking on SPD shoes is easy and most people won’t even notice.
Do triathletes wear SPD shoes?
I really like this question as it takes some critical thinking to come to this point. Let’s break it down.
Triathletes do their bike leg immediately prior to running, and the transition (between bike to run) is a time-consuming point of anxiety for all triathletes of all levels. And if you can wear SPD shoes off the bike why can’t a triathlete not bother changing shoes and just wear their biking SPD shoes for the run leg…? (I mean, sounds reasonable right?) Unfortunately, the technology just isn’t there yet. Cycling shoes feel more comfortable when biking and running shoes feel more comfortable when running. And in triathlon, feeling as comfortable as possible is important.
So to answer the question, no, triathletes will wear Adidas Xp Firm Ground Boots for the bike leg and then transition to running shoes for the run leg.
References
- Shimano: New Pedaling System Expanding the Possibilities of Cycling (https://www.shimano.com/en/100th/history/products/result.php?id=52#:~:text=Shimano%20entered%20into%20a%20partnership,system%20for%20off%2Droad%20bicycles.)
- Asher H. Straw & Rodger Kram (2016) Effects of shoe type and shoe–pedal interface on the metabolic cost of bicycling, Footwear Science, 8:1, 19-22, DOI: 10.1080/19424280.2016.1140817
- Kuhn, Brandon, "A Comparison Of Three Bicycle Pedal Types And Power Output" (2012). Master's Theses. 119. https://scholars.fhsu.edu/theses/119
- John Douglas Steinberg (1999) Clipless pedal (United States US6640663B1). USPTO. https://patents.google.com/patent/US6640663B1/en
- BikeBiz, “Profile: What does the future hold for Lake?” https://bikebiz.com/profile-what-does-the-future-hold-for-lake/
How we test cycling shoes
We want what's best for you. Based on our painstaking testing procedure, we made a list of the best (not the most popular) SPD cycling shoes for different categories.
Don't get us wrong, though. Our test might be rigorous but it is hella fun! Why wouldn't it when it kicks off with us shopping for shoes? Yes, we purchase shoes that we want to test. We stand by this protocol because we want our reviews to be as candid as ever, without the influence of our gratefulness to any brands or companies.
Another amusing thing about our testing method is we get to personally wear the shoes. But we do not just wear them, we test for them in varying situations and settings. We subject them to the real-life setup and pressure of cycling, both indoors and outdoors.
Last but not least, we get to act like scientists. We measure, weigh, and rate the properties of the cycling shoes inside our lab. The craziest thing we do is split the shoes open and section them into parts to see all of the deets inside!
