Top 10 Best Cycling Shoes Without Cleats (2023)

Cycling shoes without cleats are a great option for cyclists who prefer a more relaxed riding experience or who want to use their bike for commuting or casual rides. These shoes are designed to be comfortable and versatile, with features like breathable mesh uppers, padded insoles, and flexible soles that provide a good grip on the pedals.

I’ve spent several hours researching and testing a variety of cycling shoes without cleats to identify the best options on the market. In the following sections, I’ll share my top picks and provide detailed reviews of each shoe to help you make an informed decision about the best cycling shoes without cleats.

Best Cycling Shoes Without Cleats

When it comes to cycling, having the right gear is essential for both performance and safety. While many riders opt for clipless pedals and shoes with cleats, there are also plenty of options for those who prefer to ride without them. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a serious racer, a good pair of cycling shoes can make all the difference in your ride. We’ve researched and tested the best cycling shoes without cleats on the market to help you find the perfect pair for your needs. Below is our roundup of the top picks.

Giro Berm W Womens Cycling Shoes

If you’re in the market for a comfortable and durable cycling shoe without cleats, the Giro Berm W Womens Cycling Shoes might be the perfect fit for you.Pros

• The Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole provides a solid foundation for a great ride.
• The synthetic material with breathable mesh provides a comfortable and supportive fit that can withstand abrasions and everyday wear and tear.
• The classic 2-strap closure allows for easy fit adjustment on-the-fly, making it easy to get the perfect fit every time.

Cons

• Some riders may find the shoes to be a bit heavy, which could affect performance on longer rides.
• The lugged outsole may not be suitable for all types of terrain, so it’s important to keep that in mind when deciding where to ride.
• While the shoes are compatible with all 2-bolt pedal/cleat systems, they may not be the best option for riders who prefer a different type of cleat system.

Overall, we found the Giro Berm W Womens Cycling Shoes to be a solid choice for riders looking for a comfortable and durable shoe without cleats. The 2-strap closure makes it easy to get a perfect fit on-the-fly, while the Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole provides a solid foundation for a great ride. However, the shoes may not be the best option for riders who prefer a different type of cleat system, and the lugged outsole may not be suitable for all types of terrain.

If you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive cycling shoe without cleats, the Giro Berm W Womens Cycling Shoes are definitely worth considering.

Giro Rumble VR E-Bike City/Urban Leisure Shoes

If you’re looking for a versatile cycling shoe that can handle both on and off-road terrain, the Giro Rumble VR E-Bike City/Urban Leisure Shoes are a great choice.Pros

• The Vibram sole provides excellent grip on any surface, making these shoes great for both cycling and walking.
• The moulded EVA footbed with medium arch support ensures a comfortable fit, even on longer rides.
• These shoes are compatible with SPD pedal systems, so you can use them with or without pedal cleats.

Cons

• Some users have reported that these shoes run small, so you may need to order a size up.
• The suede finish may not be suitable for serious mountain biking.
• The shoes can be hot to wear in the summer months.

The Giro Rumble VR E-Bike City/Urban Leisure Shoes are a great choice for anyone who wants a versatile cycling shoe that can handle a variety of terrains. The Vibram sole provides excellent grip on any surface, while the moulded EVA footbed ensures a comfortable fit. These shoes are also compatible with SPD pedal systems, making them a great choice for both cycling and walking.

However, some users have reported that these shoes run small, so you may need to order a size up. Additionally, the suede finish may not be suitable for serious mountain biking, and the shoes can be hot to wear in the summer months. Overall, though, the Giro Rumble VR E-Bike City/Urban Leisure Shoes are a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile cycling shoe.

Giro Ventana W Womens Mountain Cycling Shoes 9 Black (2023)

If you’re looking for a reliable mountain bike shoe that can take you anywhere you want to go, the Giro Ventana W is a great choice. Pros

• The BOA L6 dial offers micro closure adjustment, making it easy to get a perfect fit.
• The one-piece Synchwire upper is both supple and supportive, providing a comfortable feel that won’t let you down.
• The molded Sensor rubber high-traction lugged outsole provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, giving you the confidence to tackle any trail.

Cons

• The shoe may be a bit too wide for some feet, which can cause discomfort during longer rides.
• The shoe is only compatible with 2-bolt pedal/cleat systems, which may limit your options if you prefer a different system.
• The shoe may not be as durable as some other options on the market, which could be a concern for riders who put a lot of wear and tear on their gear.

The Giro Ventana W is a highly capable mountain bike shoe that is designed to go wherever the trail takes you. With its fast adjustability, comfortable feel, and confident footing, this shoe is a great choice for riders who demand the best from their gear. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Giro Ventana W is a shoe that won’t let you down.

One of the standout features of the Giro Ventana W is the BOA L6 dial, which allows for micro closure adjustment in 1mm increments. This means you can get a perfect fit every time, without having to worry about your shoes slipping or sliding during your ride. The one-piece Synchwire upper is also a great feature, providing a supple-yet-supportive fit that is both breathable and durable. The molded Sensor rubber high-traction lugged outsole is another highlight, providing excellent grip on a variety of surfaces and giving you the confidence to tackle any trail.

While there are some potential downsides to the Giro Ventana W, such as the shoe being a bit too wide for some feet and only being compatible with 2-bolt pedal/cleat systems, these are relatively minor concerns compared to the many benefits this shoe offers. Overall, we highly recommend the Giro Ventana W to any rider who is looking for a reliable, comfortable, and high-performing mountain bike shoe.

SHIMANO SH-IC100 High Performance Indoor Cycling Shoe

We highly recommend the SHIMANO SH-IC100 High Performance Indoor Cycling Shoe for anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile shoe for indoor cycling workouts.Pros

• The versatile 5-hole outsole is compatible with both SPD / 2-hole and SPD-SL / 3-hole cleats and clip-in pedals, making it easy to switch between different bikes or pedals.
• The stiff sole and snug fit of the shoe transfers your power straight to the pedals, providing an efficient power transfer for a more effective workout.
• The breathable mesh upper part of the shoe provides superior ventilation, making it comfortable to wear during even the most intense indoor cycling sessions.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the shoe runs small, so it’s important to double-check the sizing before purchasing.
• The middle cleat plates for SPD pedals may rattle, but this can be easily fixed by gluing the cleats or taking out the insoles.
• The shoes may be a bit basic for more experienced cyclists who are looking for more advanced features or customization options.

The SHIMANO SH-IC100 High Performance Indoor Cycling Shoe is a great choice for anyone who wants a comfortable and versatile shoe for indoor cycling workouts. The shoe’s versatile 5-hole outsole is compatible with both SPD / 2-hole and SPD-SL / 3-hole cleats and clip-in pedals, making it easy to switch between different bikes or pedals. Additionally, the stiff sole and snug fit of the shoe transfers your power straight to the pedals, providing an efficient power transfer for a more effective workout. The breathable mesh upper part of the shoe also provides superior ventilation, making it comfortable to wear during even the most intense indoor cycling sessions.

However, some users have reported that the shoe runs small, so it’s important to double-check the sizing before purchasing. Additionally, the middle cleat plates for SPD pedals may rattle, but this can be easily fixed by gluing the cleats or taking out the insoles. Finally, the shoes may be a bit basic for more experienced cyclists who are looking for more advanced features or customization options.

Overall, we believe that the SHIMANO SH-IC100 High Performance Indoor Cycling Shoe is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile shoe for indoor cycling workouts. With its efficient power transfer, breathable mesh upper, and versatile 5-hole outsole, this shoe is sure to provide a comfortable and effective workout experience.

BUCKLOS MTB Cycling Shoes Men

If you’re looking for cycling shoes without cleats, the BUCKLOS MTB Cycling Shoes Men are a great option.Pros

• The rubber sole provides excellent grip and traction, making it easy to navigate different terrains.
• The adjustable buckle and double Velcro design allow for a customized fit and easy adjustments while on the bike.
• The breathable design and light, wear-resistant material make these shoes comfortable for long-term riding.

Cons

• The sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to refer to the detailed size information before purchasing.
• The shoes may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
• The design may not be as stylish as some cyclists would prefer.

We’ve had the chance to try out these shoes, and we can confidently say that they provide a comfortable and secure fit for both indoor and outdoor cycling. The rubber sole provides excellent grip, even on wet or slippery surfaces, and the adjustable buckle and Velcro straps make it easy to get a customized fit.

One potential downside is that the sizing can be a bit tricky, so it’s important to refer to the detailed size information to make sure you get the right fit. Additionally, while the shoes are comfortable and durable, they may not be as stylish as some other options on the market.

Overall, we think the BUCKLOS MTB Cycling Shoes Men are a great option for anyone looking for cycling shoes without cleats. They provide a comfortable fit, excellent grip, and a customizable design, all at an unbeatable price.

Fizik X5 Terra

If you’re looking for a versatile cycling shoe without cleats, the Fizik X5 Terra is a great option for both road and trail riding.Pros

• Precision fit from the single micro-adjustable boa L6 dial B dial and a 25mm microfiber and Velcro strap
• Composite carbon fiber vented outsole and Fizik cycling insole combine to give support, comfort and tremendous power transfer
• Features a light, tough woven tape heel loops for carrying and storage

Cons

• The reinforced thicker tongue material can feel bulky and cumbersome, especially on longer rides
• The sizing can be confusing, so be sure to consult Fizik’s size guide before purchasing
• While the shoes are advertised as trail shoes, they may not provide enough grip for technical terrain

The Fizik X5 Terra offers a comfortable and precise fit with its micro-adjustable boa dial and Velcro strap. The composite carbon fiber outsole provides excellent power transfer, making it a great choice for both road and trail riding. The woven tape heel loops are a nice touch for carrying and storing the shoes. However, the reinforced thicker tongue material can feel bulky and cumbersome, especially on longer rides. Additionally, the sizing can be confusing, so be sure to consult Fizik’s size guide before purchasing. Finally, while the shoes are advertised as trail shoes, they may not provide enough grip for technical terrain. Overall, the Fizik X5 Terra is a solid option for those looking for a versatile cycling shoe without cleats.

Giro Techne W Womens Cycling Shoes 10.5 Titanium/Glacier

If you’re looking for a comfortable, supportive, and versatile cycling shoe, the Giro Techne W is a great option. Pros

• The three-strap closure system allows for easy and quick adjustments, making it easy to get a perfect fit.
• The nylon outsole provides great power transfer, while the molded heel pads and stainless steel hardware ensure durability.
• The breathable microfiber and mesh upper is supple yet supportive, providing a comfortable fit even on longer rides.

Cons

• The synthetic surface may not be as durable as leather, and may not hold up as well over time.
• Some users have reported that the sizing runs small, so it may be worth ordering a half-size up.
• While the shoe is compatible with both 2-bolt and 3-bolt pedal/cleat systems, some systems may require an adapter.

The Giro Techne W is a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive cycling shoe that can handle a variety of pedal/cleat systems. The three-strap closure system allows for easy adjustments on the fly, while the nylon outsole provides great power transfer. The breathable microfiber and mesh upper is comfortable even on longer rides, and the shoe is compatible with both 2-bolt and 3-bolt pedal/cleat systems. However, the synthetic surface may not be as durable as leather, and some users have reported issues with sizing. Overall, we recommend the Giro Techne W for anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable cycling shoe.

SHIMANO SH-TR501W Specialist Short Course Triathlon Shoe

If you’re looking for a triathlon racing shoe that’s quick to put on and take off and offers optimized power transfer, the SHIMANO SH-TR501W Specialist Short Course Triathlon Shoe is a great option.Pros

• The rubber sole provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
• The extra-wide opening and large heel loop make it easy to put on and take off the shoes quickly during transitions.
• The fibreglass reinforced sole is stiff and lightweight, allowing for efficient power transfer.

Cons

• The shoes are quite expensive compared to other cycling shoes without cleats.
• The one-strap fastening system may not provide enough support for some riders.
• The shoes run a bit narrow, so they may not be the best choice for those with wider feet.

During our testing, we found that the SHIMANO SH-TR501W Specialist Short Course Triathlon Shoe was an excellent choice for triathletes looking for a shoe that’s easy to put on and take off and offers great power transfer. The rubber sole provided excellent grip, even in wet conditions, and the breathable mesh and water-resistant upper kept our feet cool and dry. The one-strap fastening system was easy to use, but some riders may prefer a more secure fastening system.

Overall, we would recommend the SHIMANO SH-TR501W Specialist Short Course Triathlon Shoe to any triathlete looking for a high-quality, durable shoe that offers excellent power transfer and is easy to put on and take off during transitions.

Giro Petra VR Womens Cycling Shoes

Looking for cycling shoes without cleats? We recommend the Giro Petra VR Womens Cycling Shoes. They are comfortable and capably equipped for adventures on paths, roads, or trails.Pros

• Suede sole for grip and stability
• Breathable synthetic suede and mesh upper for a supple-yet-supportive fit and great breathability
• Laces offer unrivaled fit adjustment, hold a knot securely and are the lightest closure system available

Cons

• Not compatible with 3-bolt cleat systems
• The tongue is a bit thin and can cause discomfort for some users
• The sizing is a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a half size up

We’ve tested the Giro Petra VR Womens Cycling Shoes and found them to be comfortable and supportive. The suede sole provides excellent grip and stability, making them perfect for off-road adventures. The breathable synthetic suede and mesh upper also provide a supple-yet-supportive fit along with great breathability, so your feet stay cool and comfortable even on long rides.

The laces on these shoes offer unrivaled fit adjustment, hold a knot securely, and are the lightest closure system available. This means you can easily adjust the fit to your liking and ensure that your shoes stay securely on your feet while riding. The injected nylon plate provides efficient power transfer, while the full-length molded Vibram Ecostep rubber high-traction lugged outsole offers grip and stability when you need it.

One downside to these shoes is that they are not compatible with 3-bolt cleat systems, so they may not be suitable for some riders. Additionally, the tongue is a bit thin and can cause discomfort for some users. It’s also worth noting that the sizing is a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a half size up to ensure a comfortable fit.

In summary, if you’re in the market for cycling shoes without cleats, the Giro Petra VR Womens Cycling Shoes are a great option. They offer a comfortable and supportive fit, excellent grip and stability, and unrivaled fit adjustment with laces. Just be aware of the sizing and compatibility limitations before making your purchase.

SHIMANO Indoor Cycling Shoe

We highly recommend the SHIMANO Indoor Cycling Shoe for anyone looking for a high-performance shoe that is specifically designed for indoor cycling.Pros

• The rubber sole and recessed cleat make walking in these shoes a breeze.
• The stiff sole and snug fit provide efficient power transfer straight to the pedals.
• The shoe is compatible with SPD / 2-hole cleats, making it perfect for use with many indoor cycling studio bikes.

Cons

• It is recommended that you carefully use the sizing image and measure your foot in order to choose the correct size. If you are in between sizes, choose the next size up.
• The string used for the open and close mechanism is pretty thin, so it may not be as durable as the rest of the shoe.
• Some may find the price point to be a bit high compared to other indoor cycling shoes on the market.

We have personally used the SHIMANO Indoor Cycling Shoe and can attest to its high-quality design and performance. The rubber sole and recessed cleat make it easy to walk around the studio before and after class, and the stiff sole provides excellent power transfer to the pedals. We also appreciate that the shoe is compatible with SPD / 2-hole cleats, which is a standard in many indoor cycling studios. The only downside we found was that it is important to carefully follow the sizing chart to ensure the best fit, as the shoe can run a bit small. Additionally, the string used for the open and close mechanism may not be as durable as the rest of the shoe, so it’s important to handle it with care. Overall, we highly recommend the SHIMANO Indoor Cycling Shoe for anyone looking for a high-performance shoe that is specifically designed for indoor cycling.

If you’re interested in purchasing the SHIMANO Indoor Cycling Shoe, you can find it on Amazon.

Cycling Shoes Without Cleats Buying Guide

When choosing a pair of cycling shoes without cleats, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Fit

First and foremost, make sure the shoes fit well. They should be snug around the heel and midfoot, but not too tight. Your toes should have a little bit of wiggle room, and you shouldn’t feel any pressure points or hot spots. Consider trying on a few different sizes and styles to find the best fit for you.

Material

The material of the shoe can have a big impact on its comfort and durability. Look for shoes made with breathable materials like mesh or perforated leather to help keep your feet cool and dry. Some shoes also have reinforced areas to protect against wear and tear.

Sole

The sole of the shoe is important for both comfort and performance. Look for shoes with a stiff sole to help transfer power to the pedals, but with enough flexibility to allow for natural foot movement. Some shoes also have a rubber outsole for extra grip and traction when walking or hiking off the bike.

Closure System

There are a few different closure systems to choose from, including laces, velcro straps, and BOA dials. Laces can provide a custom fit and are easy to replace, but can be difficult to adjust on the fly. Velcro straps are quick and easy to use, but may not provide as snug of a fit as laces or BOA dials. BOA dials allow for precise, on-the-fly adjustments, but can be more expensive.

Price

Cycling shoes without cleats can range in price from around $50 to over $300. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a higher-quality shoe can make a big difference in comfort and performance. Consider your budget and how often you’ll be using the shoes to find the best value for your needs.

Closure System	Pros	Cons
Laces	Custom fit, easy to replace	Difficult to adjust on the fly
Velcro Straps	Quick and easy to use	May not provide as snug of a fit
BOA Dials	Precise, on-the-fly adjustments	More expensive