What is the best brand of road cycling shoes?

•   Once again, Fizik's upgraded Vento Infinito Carbon 2 took first place. We could already endorse the platform here and name-drop it to friends because it was that outstanding. The upgrade added new BOA dials for tighter adjustment, a lighter, firmer outsole with the location of the cleats shifted back, and an updated upper. The outcome is a somewhat more comfortable ride with a little more kick. The outsole's enhanced stiffness and the cleats' relocation to a farther back position to aid in power transfer and lessen stress on the knees and other joints are the most noticeable improvements.

• Despite being at the top of Fizik's stiffness range, the new unidirectional carbon sole is still not as stiff as some of the models provided by Sidi or S-Works. It makes up for what it lacks in ultimate rigidity with form-fitting comfort. Their newly designed top folds are another intriguing feature. It looks lovely when it is closed, but an unanticipated inconvenience is that it occasionally gets snagged while you are trying to secure the shoe. You merely need to pay attention when putting the sneaker on; it's not a deal-breaker. These high-end road bike shoes are likely to appeal to most dedicated roadies, like us, who appreciate lengthy, comfortable rides that are occasionally punctuated by hard efforts and hills.

• The Fizik Tempo Overcurve R4 is an extremely functional and sleek bike shoe. It's nice but not fancy, which is why it gets praise for its excellent value. It doesn't rely heavily on gimmicky selling points or a tonne of sophisticated features. A single two-way BOA dial serves as the only fastening on the upper, which is a pretty conventional mesh constructed of polyurethane laminate. It is only as comfortable as is required. Because the R4 outsole is made of carbon-injected nylon, it offers improved power transmission and lighter weight without substantially increasing the cost. The end result is a shoe with high performance but no frills that is fairly simplified.

• You can anticipate it to have a few limitations and shortcomings due to its limited use of high-end technologies and add-ons, especially when compared to the expensive full-carbon shoes. Compared to the top biking shoes, the upper is not quite as flexible. In these, you'll receive a little more rub and possibly some hotspots. Since there is only one BOA dial, as was previously indicated, fit and fastening are not as exact as they could be. Naturally, since nylon makes up the majority of the outsole, there is a little more flex as you press down on the pedals. In any case, it's a fantastic shoe for any rider on a tight budget seeking for a reliable, sturdy bike shoe.

• Shimano's incredibly remarkable race-focused RC7 shoes underwent a big overhaul in 2019 that added dials and fully did away with Velcro. The carbon soles are stiff and vibration-free, and they are still a very comfortable, secure, and well-ventilated alternative (with a wonderful fit). However, they could be stiffer without compromising comfort.
  
• The two dials on the new RC7s, which are actually RC701s, make them simple to identify. With the mid-foot one, you can adjust security extremely precisely and quickly achieve a fit that is both firm and unrestrictive. The earlier style's Velcro strap closure system was never missed by me, and I valued the extra space it gave me around my toes for thick socks.

• The Regime Women's Road Cycling Shoes from Giro are stylish, incredibly comfortable, and performance-driven. There aren't many issues, however you'll need to check at the men's version if you need something larger than size 42.
  
• "I typically choose men's shoes since they appear to fit my wider-than-average feet better than female-specific ones," comments tester Emma. Though they haven't produced any discomfort or hotspots at all, even on rides lasting more than five hours, the Regimes have astonished me.

• The Synchwire upper design, which Giro defines as an ultralight mono-filament mesh to which it has incorporated thermal-welded TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) for structural strength and resistance to grit and dirt, is responsible for a large portion of this comfort. It was made in a one piece, eliminating any potential irritation-causing seams, and it truly fits and feels like a second skin, as claimed by Giro. For even the most vigorous riding, the two Boa L6 dials create a fully compliant upper that makes your feet feel snug and secure

Best road cycling shoes on a Tight Budget

• For a price around £100, Boardman's newest Carbon Cycle Shoes have an absolutely fantastic spec list. They provide good stiffness, are well ventilated, and the upper has a supple feel for comfort. You can also adjust them quickly and easily using the ratchet dials.
  
• Although the entire carbon sole used here isn't the stiffest, it works perfectly 95% of the time. The soft and flexible synthetic top is easily pulled around your foot by the dual dials with consistent pressure and no hot sports. If the weather causes your feet to expand or contract, adjusting the dials while seated is simple.

• The Boardman company has continued the trend of offering straightforward, high-quality items for extremely reasonable prices. The sole may be a touch too flexible for the strongest riders, but for most of us, they'll work for all riding styles.

• Our choice for the most economical option is the Bontrager Solstice. It has every feature you could ask for in a low-cost cycling shoe. It reaches an affordable price point. In all honesty, the upper comfort and fit are quite good for its market tier. It's one of the better Velcro strap closures out there, especially with the slightly flexible upper. It's a straightforward shoe designed to get you mounted quickly.

• On the Solstice, you won't be pushing the envelope. Given that it is not a high-performance road shoe, climbing will cause the nylon composite sole to flex slightly. It won't fit as tightly as the high-end sneakers and will probably be a little toasty. That being said, if you're new to the sport and just trying to dip your toe in without spending a lot of money upfront, you'll be satisfied enough. This will be ideal if you're looking for a quick Peloton or spin shoe to get you through your 45- or 1-hour sessions.

• The Louis Garneau Course Air Lite XZ is an improved version of the previous generation Course Air Lite II, one of our top finishers. This time, it gains recognition for its exceptional comfort. It's difficult to dispute that the combination of performance and comfort was what set it apart from its primary rivals. The incorporation of three adjustable arches designed to combine with the Ergo Air® Transfo 3D insole, the additional splay area in the toe box's X-Comfort Zone, and significant ventilation throughout the upper and outsole are just a few of its unbeatable details. Louis Garneau's offering is extremely excellent.

The best road cycling shoes for Stiffness and Power Transfer

• The Sidi Wire 2 Air Vent Carbon are just stunning cycling shoes, and that's the first thing you'll notice about them. You'll see why we were so taken by them once you start taking into account their top-tier performance, which includes unrivaled power transfer and the excellent ventilation that gives it its name. The combination of their extremely durable carbon sole, strong fastening mechanisms, and sturdy upper with reinforced structures makes them the best for stiffness and power transfer.

• However, these qualities come with some costs. If you're looking for a road bike shoe with a customized fit or adaptability, you probably won't find a better option. The Wire 2 has a tonne of adjustable features, but it's not always as simple to make changes while you're riding, like before or after a sprint point or climb. Even though it might seem insignificant, a two-way BOA dial is more easier to use than the Sidi closures. But they are much neater and more discrete. It's also important to note that the shoe's durability comes at the cost of a little extra weight. Although it is one of the heaviest shoes in the series, we still believe they are worth the few extra ounces.

• The company's initial attempt to add a pair of race shoes to its lineup, the Le Col Pro Carbon Road Shoes, is a success if these are any indication. They are surprisingly rigid, have a terrific shape, and a soft, supple covering. The fact that they are now only offered in full sizes 41 to 45 is the one potential disadvantage.
  
• On the website of the apparel company Le Col, ex-pro and founder Yanto Barker claims, "Your shoes are not only the main point of contact with your bike but some of the most personal pieces in a cyclist's kit." I've always wanted a pair of stylish, well-made shoes, so knowing what was required, I decided we should construct our own.

• Some cyclists choose utility over form, but on a warm, bright day, when you've got your nicest bike out and your favorite gear on, it's breathtaking to watch a pair of bling cycling shoes crank the pedals.

• Although it comes with the territory of laced shoes, the Specialized S-Works 7 Lace road shoes mix a super-stiff sole with supple uppers that support your foot firmly but comfortably. They are essentially the same as the Specialized S-Works 7 road shoes, except they have laces instead of dials, which offers you more control over how tightly the laces are wrapped around your foot. They continue to provide excellent fit, comfort, foot retention, and power transfer.

• The Powerline carbon outsole, according to Specialized, is its lightest and stiffest ever. "I tried as hard as I could to get some flex out of these, but they just won't budge in any way," test subject Mat writes. There is absolutely no movement in the sole, whether you are sprinting or making a strong effort to ascend a short, steep power climb.

• Any minor bony bumps can be comfortably accepted because the upper is sufficiently stretchy and flexible to accommodate different foot shapes. Speaking of comfort, the upper is one piece, so there are no bothersome seams to drive you crazy on a long ride. You also get some little but effective padding on the tongue and around the opening. I occasionally experience some rubbing around one ankle in some shoes due to an old injury, but this is not a problem in these because the collar is appropriately low.
  
• "In general, these shoes have great performance, a good fit for most people, and a high level of comfort. You can't go wrong here if you want laced shoes in your life.

• The superb Velcro-secured original design is updated in Giro's Trans Boa shoes to produce stiff, cosy, and utterly contemporary footwear. With their strong carbon soles and easily adjustable comfort, they'll appeal to everyone from dedicated amateurs to sportive riders and occasional racers, even though they're not the lightest options.
  
• With an Easton EC70 carbon sole, a wonderfully breathable microfiber and mesh upper, and a stylish blend of matt and gloss panels, these Trans are largely comparable to the model that earned an excellent 4.5 ratings back in 2016. Two of the three Velcro straps are no longer there, and in their stead is a quick-release Boa L6 dial with 1mm increments of tightening.

• The S-Works 7 road shoe from Specialized offers exceptional performance along with first-rate comfort, fit, foot retention, and power transfer. They are pricey, and if you choose custom insoles over standard ones (more on those below), it will cost you an additional £110, but they are comparable to other high-end shoes and are more than capable of competing with the best models in this price range.
  
• The S-Works Exos and Exos 99 are Specialized's lightest shoe models, if you're interested. Unless you're a weight wimp, the S-Works 7 is the shoe to choose for all-around performance, outright stiffness requirements, and durability.

• The Quoc Mono II shoes are exceptionally stiff-soled, lightweight, and minimalist go-faster slippers. They must be on your shortlist if you're seeking ultra-modern, high-performance shoes.
  
• The Mono II shoes are quite understated. Two sheets of microfiber synthetic leather with hundreds of microscopic ventilation holes make up the upper. A pair of ratchet dials that resemble Boa dials but aren't Boa dials keep it closed. Unidirectional carbon fiber makes up the sole. It's incredibly rigid and thin (Quoc claims it's only 4mm thick); if you're particularly sensitive to bike position and you're switching out cheaper shoes with thicker soles, you might need to move your saddle down a few millimeters.

• The DMT KR0 Road Shoes are extremely breathable, light, and comfortable. They conform to your feet thanks to the knit top, and if you're into aerodynamics, there isn't much heft to slow you down. However, they aren't the simplest to put on, and the cost can make some people wonder.

• "The flexible quality of the mesh means the KR0s literally wrap around your foot, feeling like your favorite pair of slippers," explains DMT KR0 Road Shoes Tester Stu. Although it improves the fit, it also makes them more difficult to put on because the aperture doesn't budge much to permit your foot in. As the material gained a little more give, it did become a little easier over time.

• "The dials in use here are the new Li2 models from Boa, which have a smaller profile than earlier iterations and are made of recycled plastic. As a result, it is simpler to wear overshoes over the top, which is perfect for the winter months when I've been trying the KR0s.
  
• "The sole of the shoe is made entirely of extremely stiff carbon fibre when you turn it over. DMT doesn't gush about stiffness or assign stiffness scores, but suffice it to say that these are among the stiffest clothes I've ever worn. I liked the form as well; the arch isn't very prominent, and I found the sole to be firm on uneven roads without feeling overly harsh.

• The KR0s are a pair of lightweight, really comfortable shoes, but because of their breathability, they should only be wornCLICK HERE on extremely hot days. When compared to the competition, they are neither cheap nor extravagant. Spending a lot of money is worthwhile if you want the most comfortable cycling shoes available.

• One of the most cutting-edge, adaptable, and comfortable pairs of shoes you can get is the Fizik Vento Stabilita Carbon road shoe, which has great power transfer. The performance is great despite the premium price, which places them at the top of the market.
  
• The innovative and highly functional adjustable arch support is the USP, which significantly boosts comfort for folks like our tester George who want a little additional support underfoot. They are also astonishingly light and rigid.

• They are not the lightest and the lace closing won't be to everyone's taste, but they are comfortable and have a stiff and solid sole.
  
• These in-house created kicks employ a last with a bit more volume in the forefoot than Rapha's earlier Grand Tour, Climber's, and Cross shoes, made in partnership with Giro. My feet are a medium width, and I felt that the front of the shoe gave me plenty of room for my toes to move around easily. The Velcro forefoot strap can be used to tighten the sides if your feet are narrower. Although the soft top allows for some flexibility, I suppose you would have trouble if your feet are extremely wide.

• When weighing the various aspects of value, we frequently choose function or performance over price. Poor performance, particularly in terms of comfort and power transmission, cannot be made up for by a shoe's aesthetic appeal or the reputation of its designer. We take into account the performance's intent as we evaluate it. We evaluate if it is intended to offer you a leg up on the competition while you are working up a 20 percent grade or if it is intended to get you from home to work in a 15-minute commute. We'll highlight the footwear in this part that, in our opinion, offers the finest performance for the price.

• The Fizik Tempo Overcurve R4 provides the best value in terms of price and performance. Even though it ranks exactly in the middle of the field, just below the finest road bike shoes, it costs around half as much as some of the top premium brands. Our preferred cycling shoe is the Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 if you're searching for something with professional-level performance. Even if the admission cost is greater, it is still lower than the most expensive option in our test lineup.

1. Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2
2. Specialized S-Works Ares
3. Louis Garneau Course Air Lit...
4. Shimano SH-RC9 S-Phyre
5. Giro Imperial
6. Giro Republic R Knit
7. Sidi Wire 2 Air Vent Carbon
8. Fizik Tempo Overcurve R4
9. Bontrager Velocis
10. Bontrager Solstice
11. Rapha Classic
12. Specialized Torch 2.0
13. Shimano RC3

1. Shimano SH-RC9 S-Phyre
2. Sidi Wire 2 Air Vent Carbon
3. Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2
4. Specialized S-Works Ares
5. Louis Garneau Course Air Lit...
6. Giro Imperial
7. Rapha Classic
8. Bontrager Solstice
9. Specialized Torch 2.0
10. Fizik Tempo Overcurve R4
11. Bontrager Velocis
12. Giro Republic R Knit
13. Shimano RC3

1. Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2
2. Specialized S-Works Ares
3. Shimano SH-RC9 S-Phyre
4. Louis Garneau Course Air Lite XZ
5. Sidi Wire 2 Air Vent Carbon
6. Giro Imperial
7. Fizik Tempo Overcurve R4
8. Bontrager Velocis
9. Rapha Classic
10. Bontrager Solstice
11. Specialized Torch 2.0
12. Shimano RC3