Why should you put insoles into your cycling shoes?
Cycling is all about power, efficiency and comfort. Whether you are a casual rider, an amateur or a competitive cyclist, your gear plays a big role in how you perform and feel on the bike. With choosing the correct gear you may come across insoles and ask yourself: Should I put insoles in my cycling shoes? We’ll explain why insoles matter and share some tips to help you get started with the right ones.
Why insoles matter in cycling shoes
Cycling shoes are designed to be stiff and snug, transferring every ounce of your pedaling power directly into your forward movement. But here is the catch: stock insoles that come with most cycling shoes are often thin, flat, and lack support. This can lead to discomfort, fatigue, or even injury over long rides. Here is why adding cycling insoles is worth it:
1.- Injury prevention
Poor foot support can lead to issues like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, or knee pain—problems no cyclist wants to deal with. Insoles that offer a good support to your feet help prevent these by putting your foot and lower limb into a healthier riding posture.
2.- Increased power transfer
A well-fitted insole supports your foot’s natural shape, minimizing energy loss. When your foot is stable, more of your effort goes into the pedals instead of being wasted on unnecessary movement inside the shoe.
3.- Enhanced comfort
Pedaling for hours puts repetitive pressure on your feet. Without proper support, you might experience hot spots, numbness, or aching arches. Insoles with cushioning and arch support can distribute pressure more evenly, keeping your feet comfortable mile after mile.
4.- Better foot alignment
Everyone’s feet are unique—high arches, flat feet, or pronation issues are common. Stock insoles rarely account for this. Insoles with a proper foot support can align your foot, ankle, and knee properly, reducing strain and improving your pedaling efficiency.
Recommendations: Choosing the right insoles for cycling
Thinking about increasing your power or preventing injuries? Here are some top picks for your cycling shoes:
1.SOLESTAR BLK
Why they’re great: These feature a lightweight, rigid carbon fiber core designed for maximum stability and power transfer—perfect for competitive cyclists. They hold your foot in an "Optimal Neutral Position," reducing energy loss and boosting efficiency.
Best for: Serious road racers or triathletes who prioritize performance and don’t mind a stiffer feel.
2. SOLESTAR KONTROL
Why they’re great: With a fiberglass core, these offer a balance of stability and slight flexibility, providing excellent support without the extreme rigidity of the SOLEESTAR BLK. They’re built for performance-minded cyclists who also want comfort on longer rides.
Best for: Ambitious amateurs or endurance riders seeking power and all-day comfort.
3.- Ergon IP Touring Insoles
Why they’re great: Developed with Solestar, these insoles use a composite core and EVA foam padding with ground walnut shells for a cool, comfy ride. They’re designed for touring cyclists, offering stability and support even in softer-soled shoes used with platform pedals.
Best For: Touring or casual riders who want ergonomic support for long distances without clipless setups.
Tips for Choosing Insoles
For cycling shoes, choose thin, low-profile insoles to fit their tight design and prevent toe cramping. Test them on short rides first to ensure comfort before longer trips. Unsure of your arch type? SOLESTAR’s insoles suit all feet by aligning them in a neutral position.
- Check Fit: Cycling shoes are tight, so opt for thin, low-profile insoles to avoid cramping your toes.
- Test Them Out: Start with short rides to ensure they feel right before committing to a long haul.
- Not sure if you have flat, normal or high arch: SOLESTAR offers perfectly shaped insoles for every foot type, due to putting the foot in the Neutral position.
Final Thoughts: Using cycling insoles or stick with stock insoles?
So, should you put insoles in your cycling shoes? If you’re chasing more comfort, better performance, or relief from foot woes, the answer is yes. By using the correct insoles in your cycling shoe you can boost your next ride's performance and feel even more. Keep in mind to listen to your feet and figure out what suits you best.