Cycling during winter is a great way to keep yourself fit. However, one of the biggest concerns people have with cycling in the winter is staying warm. Getting cold toes on a winter ride can quickly put a damper on your day, as once your feet begin to numb, there’s not much you can do about it aside from heading inside to warm up. That’s why you should equip yourself with the best shoes for winter cycling. With shoes for winter bike commuting, you can finally keep your feet safe from the elements and enjoy your ride! So, today we’re going to help you pick a pair of shoes for cycling in winter! Keep reading to find the perfect pair!
Table of contents
- Lake CX145 Cycling Shoes
- Fizik X5 Artica Cycling Shoes
- Lake Cycling MXZ303 Men’s Winter Boots
- Northwave X-Celsius Artic Goretex Shoes
- Northwave Extreme XC Shoes
- Louis Garneau Klondike Winter Bike Shoes
- SHIMANO SH-MW501 SPD Shoes
- SIDI Zero Gore Shoes
- Fizik Terra ARTICA X2 Shoes
- Fizik R5 Artica Shoes
- Shimano MW7 Mountain Bike Shoes
- Mavic Frost Road Shoes
- XLC Men’s Winter MTB Cycling Shoes
- How To Choose The Best Shoes for Winter Cycling
- What kind of shoes should I wear for winter cycling?
- What should I wear for road cycling in winter?
- Is cycling in the winter harder?
Lake CX145 Cycling Shoes
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Though not the most popular shoes for winter cycling, the Lake CX145 Cycling Shoes are worth considering. Made from a mix of waxed canvas and leather, these shoes have a waterproof layer to keep your feet dry. Using 2 Boa IP1 dials to cinch the shoes tight, you can easily adjust the shoes even with cold fingers.
Apart from that, there are also slots for two and three-hole cleats, and the sole is made from Lake’s Competition fiberglass injected nylon sole. It’s stiff enough for pedaling and can absorb shocks well too. Plus, they’re available in a wide range of sizes for men, women, and wide feet. However, as with other Lake shoes for cycling in winter, they run a bit small.
- What We Love:
- A highly adjustable pair of shoes for winter cycling that can be worn by anyone.
- Pros:
- Multiple size options
- Convenient Boa closure
- Impressive shock absorption
- Durable, premium construction
- Suitable for road cycling
- Cons:
- Run small
Fizik X5 Artica Cycling Shoes
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For off-road riding with extended periods of walking, the Fizik X5 Artica Cycling Shoes are one of the best options out there. With a reinforced nylon sole that’s covered with a super soft and grippy rubber sole, these shoes are tenaciously grippy on slimy and wet surfaces.
On the bike, these shoes for cycling in winter will give a supportive pedaling platform with a pleasingly supportive and firm heel cup. Apart from that, we also love the internal speed lacing system that makes the fit effortlessly accurate. Plus, they’re surprisingly highly breathable! Not to mention, anyone who wears these shoes will instantly look like a star! Speaking of winter footwear, you should also check out our best travel shoes for winter!
- What We Love:
- A stylish option that doesnt imp on quality.
- Pros:
- Look stylish
- Soft and grippy rubber sole
- Pleasingly supportive
- Offer a nice fit
- Highly breathable
- Cons:
- Some people think they’re too light
Lake Cycling MXZ303 Men’s Winter Boots
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Feel free to invest in the Lake Cycling MXZ303 Men’s Winter Boots if you can’t stand one more cycling session without freezing your feet this winter. These shoes for winter cycling are the ultimate robust option to get through the cold, snow, and rain. They’re built to keep your feet warm and happy, and they’re also one of the most popular waterproof shoes for cycling in winter!
As one of the best shoes for winter bike commuting, they’re designed with Pitards WR100 resistant leather, making them breathable and highly durable. As you can see, the sole’s grip is Vibram and offers incredible grip even on snow or icy surfaces. Meanwhile, the Thinsulate liner regulating inside keeps the cold out and protects your feet from getting numb. Apart from that, we also love the BOA micro closure system that ensures a fine distribution of pressure points and hot spots.
- What We Love:
- A nice pair that’s ideal for those looking for warm and protective boots.
- Pros:
- Surprisingly lightweight
- Sofr and flexible sole
- BOA micro closure system
- Incredibly durable
- Thinsulate liner
- Cons:
- The toe box is a bit small
Northwave X-Celsius Artic Goretex Shoes
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Northwave is a brand that’s known for producing plenty of top-notch shoes for winter cycling. With a double Boa closure system, you can easily achieve the perfect fit with the Northwave X-C Celsius Artic Goretex Shoes. Besides that, they’re also designed with an additional Velcro strap. Though expensive, we can rest assured that you won’t be disappointed with these shoes.
Another thing that we love about them is the fact that they’re equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane that allows for excellent heat insulation. Additionally, they’re built with a double shield construction for even more protection against the cold. That’s not all, as the same Gore-Tex membrane also makes the core of these shoes waterproof!
- What We Love:
- High-end shoes for cycling in winter that excels in nearly every area.
- Pros:
- Double Boa closure
- Gore-Tex membrane
- Waterproof
- Premium construction
- Come in a wide range of sizes
- Cons:
- The price tag is jaw-dropping
Northwave Extreme XC Shoes
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Say hello to another pair of shoes for winter cycling from Northwave! The Northwave Extreme XC Shoes are another example of the brand’s brilliance as these shoes aren’t only perfectly insulated but are also waterproof, thanks to their Gore-Tex membrane. This means you can ride your mountain bike without worrying about the weather at all.
Aside from being waterproof, the Gore-Tex membrane is also windproof, keeping your feet warm. Thanks to the triple-density Speedlight 3D carbon sole, you can rest easy knowing that you’ll be provided with a pair of stiff cycling shoes. Meanwhile, to enhance longevity, these shoes are designed with rubber reinforcements, making it harder for abrasions to develop.
- What We Love:
- A brilliant pair of shoes for winter cycling that’s packed with tons of incredible features.
- Pros:
- Perfectly insulated
- Waterproof and windproof
- Triple-density Speedlight 3D carbon sole
- Durable
- Offer a nice fit
- Cons:
- Lack color options
Louis Garneau Klondike Winter Bike Shoes
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There might be plenty of shoes for cycling in winter available on the market, but the Louis Garneau Klondike Winter Bike Shoes manage to stand out by featuring the world-famous Boa quick attachment system for easy adjustments on the fly. Apart from that, this feature also reduces pressure points to enhance the fit.
Moreover, the triple-layered insole and the neoprene cuff that traps in the warm air won’t let your toes and feet be left cold in frigid climates. What’s more, the sole is also adapted for the winter. It sports rubber legs instead of hard plastic, which enhances the traction you get in the snow when you need to walk.
- What We Love:
- A highly insulated and ideally fitted footwear that will work for just about anyone and everyone.
- Pros:
- Boa quick adjustment system
- Amazing insulation
- Perform well in snowy and wet conditions
- Comfortable neoprene cuff
- Offer a snug fit
- Cons:
- Some quality control problems
SHIMANO SH-MW501 SPD Shoes
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If you’re a veteran cyclist, chances are you’re familiar with this brand. Yes, this is the brand that makes amazing mountain bike pedals and bike saddles. It knows what cyclists need in all types of climates and integrates that knowledge into its footwear, including the Shimano SH-MW501 SPD Shoes. What makes them the best shoes for winter cycling is their weatherproof upper and lightweight design that keeps your feet nimble yet protected and warm.
Moving on, the interior membrane is composed of DRYSHIELD that works to wick away water and snow before it reaches your foot. This liner boasts a soft fleece-like lining that’s super comfortable and works to hold in heat as well. While these shoes boast a ton of features to keep your feet warm and dry, they’re not overly heavy and won’t hinder your full range of motion.
- What We Love:
- A modern-looking option that’s specifically made for keep you dry and warm.
- Pros:
- Grippy rubber outsole
- Lightweight
- Fast and secure adjustments
- Waterproof DRYSHIELD membrane
- 360-degree reflective printing
- Cons:
- Too narrow for some
SIDI Zero Gore Shoes
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Those who have tons of money to spend should take a look at the SIDI Zero Gore Shoes. Yes, there are many expensive shoes for winter bike commuting on this list, but this pair is by far the most costly one! Thankfully, as the best shoes for winter cycling, they’re backed by many amazing features that justify the price tag.
First of all, they feature a lightweight Microfibra Microtech upper and Gore-Tex membrane to keep water out yet allow sweat to escape. Plus, the cable dial and Velcro system allow you to adjust the shoes without any fuss, so they fit snugly. Even better, the heel pad is replaceable! Lastly, the carbon composite sole is constructed from injected carbon fiber in a nylon matrix, ensuring a firm, no-flex feel on the pedals.
- What We Love:
- An expensive model that’s backed by premium features.
- Pros:
- Durable construction
- Available in many sizes
- Offer a snug fit
- Breathable
- Offer a no-flex feel on the pedals
- Cons:
- The most expensive option
Fizik Terra ARTICA X2 Shoes
5
If our previous options didn’t excite you, we’re sure this pair will! The Fizik Terra ARTICA X2 Shoes are the best shoes for cycling in winter that boast supportive features to keep your feet comfortable and dry when riding in some pretty nasty conditions. Plus, the lightweight exterior is composed of 100% waterproof materials to keep the rain and snow on the road right where they belong.
Meanwhile, the higher cuff is composed of stretchy materials, so it won’t ever hinder your full range of motion. For the sole, it’s made from a thin layer of grippy rubber that’s designed for snow and rain-soaked pedals, promising a secure grip. As with some of the best shoes for winter bike commuting out there, they’re pretty durable!
- What We Love:
- They feel like a pair of summer riding shoes that’s reinforced with features and materials to keep your feet warm and dry.
- Pros:
- Waterproof
- Grippy rubber sole
- Resistant to tearing and ripping
- Breathable design
- Lightweight
- Cons:
- Can break your bank
Fizik R5 Artica Shoes
4
The next pair of shoes for cycling in winter that we’d like to show you is the Fizik R5 Artica Shoes. Sandwiched between the Microtex exterior shell and the plush fleece-lined interior is a fully waterproof membrane that keeps the rain out and allows your feet to breathe. There’s also a layer of foil insulation to keep the cold from infiltrating the shoes without much bulk.
Underneath the waterproof zipper is a speed lace system that’s adjusted with a tug and distributes pressure evenly over your entire foot. Moreover, these shoes are solid enough for base miles and do well to mute road vibrations, making them the best shoes for winter bike commuting.
- What We Love:
- These waterproof shoes are an ideal pick for road riders.
- Pros:
- Waterproof
- Stylish design
- Great shock absorption
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Cons:
- The high cuff can feel restrictive
Shimano MW7 Mountain Bike Shoes
3
Of course, you can’t talk about the best shoes for winter cycling without mentioning the Shimano MW7 Mountain Bike Shoes. These are the brand’s top-of-the-range shoes for cycling in winter, and they offer performance to match, keeping your feet happy in those terrible winter conditions. Of course, they’re packed with plenty of impressive features.
Although they’re designed for SPD pedals, that doesn’t mean you can’t use them on a road bike! As long as you have the right pedals, they can also be your favorite shoes for winter bike commuting. We’re sure you’ll appreciate the chunky, grippy sole for when you need to get off the bike at any point. Furthermore, these shoes come with a Gore-Tex lining, meaning the upper is essentially waterproof and windproof.
- What We Love:
- Well-specced shoes for winter riding that offer everything you need.
- Pros:
- Versatile
- Chunky, grippy sole
- Gore-Tex lining
- Lightweight
- Incredibly popular
- Convenient hook-and-loop closure
- Cons:
- More expensive than most shoes for winter bike commuting
Mavic Frost Road Shoes
2
As the best shoes for cycling in winter, the Mavic Frost Road Shoes will keep you warm in cold temperatures. These beauties fit like other quality cycling shoes or perhaps better, given the ergonomic insole that offers incredible arch and heel support. For other options that offer amazing support, take a look at some of the best travel shoes for walking on concrete!
These shoes’ synthetic materials allow your feet to breathe while shielding them from the cold. This means you won’t end up with sweaty feet no matter how fast you ride! What’s more, the neoprene wrap around the ankle is flexible enough for comfort but strong enough to shield out water. With everything they offer, saying no to these shoes for winter bike commuting would be a big mistake!
- What We Love:
- These shoes are for riders who want to keep their feet warm and comfy during winter.
- Pros:
- Highly comfortable
- Durable construction
- Waterproof
- Pretty affordable
- Flexible neoprene wrap
- Enhanced grip
- Cons:
- Run small
XLC Men’s Winter MTB Cycling Shoes
1
As with some of the shoes for cycling in winter on this list, the XLC Men’s Winter MTB Cycling Shoes aren’t exactly cheap. However, you’re paying for quality and performance. As the best shoes for winter cycling, they come with a lace-up closure system that offers you a nice fit. Plus, they’re available in a wide range of different sizes to choose from!
For optimal thermal insulation, these shoes have been outfitted with Lycra and a waterproof coating of polyurethane. Not enough? Fret not, as the interior is padded for further insulation! As you probably guessed, these shoes are waterproof as well. However, our favorite feature is the outsole. It’s comprised of both nylon and fiberglass, making it extremely rugged. Even better, there are TPU studs that offer even more grip!
- What We Love:
- These shoes are a great all-rounder that allows you to ride worry-free.
- Pros:
- Durable construction
- Convenient lace-up closure system
- Amazing insulation
- Waterproof
- TPU studs for more grip
- Rugged sole
- Cons:
- On the small side
How To Choose The Best Shoes for Winter Cycling
Now that we’ve shown you our top picks let’s break down what you should be looking for in a pair of shoes for winter cycling!
Weatherproofing
It’s not just chilly temperatures and the wind that make your feet cold in winter, as wet conditions are a real problem too. So, the key to a good pair of shoes for cycling in winter was weatherproofing and added insulation. We recommend getting shoes with Gore-Tex or other waterproof membranes built into the uppers.
Sole
Shoes for winter cycling tend to have a more flexible sole than race-dedicated summer shoes, and you’ll appreciate the extra comfort they offer. If you’re a dedicated road rider, then you might want shoes with a road sole. But if there’s any chance of going off-road, or even just on rough or icy roads, it’s better to get a pair that has grippy tread.
Warm lining
The next thing you are going to want to make sure your shoes have is a warm lining. If your ride is only going to be around half an hour, you could probably get away with unlined shoes. But if your ride is longer than that, you’ll start to notice how cold your feet are getting.
Fit
While you usually want your shoes to fit snugly with thin, lightweight socks, a little extra room for warm socks can be invaluable in winter shoes. As always, with shoes, it’s worth visiting a shop in person or ordering from a retailer with a good returns policy, so you can try them on for size with the kind of socks you want to wear while riding.
What kind of shoes should I wear for winter cycling?
For winter cycling, you’ll want a pair of shoes that can keep your feet comfy, warm, and safe from the elements. You’ll also want them to perform well on wet or icy surfaces.
What should I wear for road cycling in winter?
Well, everyone might have different answers. However, you can consider wearing a comfy base layer, a cycling bib, arm, and leg warmers, a waterproof winter jacket, and of course, shoes for winter cycling!
Is cycling in the winter harder?
Yes, cycling in the winter is usually harder as cold weather makes your bike slow. The wheel and bottom bracket bearings, along with grease in places like the freewheel, can become stiff, causing more rolling resistance compared to summer temperatures.
