Why invest in winter shoes for road or MTB?

Cold, rain, wind — winter conditions can be harsh on the extremities of the body, and particularly the feet.

Manufacturers have therefore developed specific ranges to keep riding comfortably during this period. And because winter is also characterised by low light levels, many models feature reflective elements to increase the cyclist's visibility.

FEATURES OF WINTER ROAD AND MTB SHOES

• The design: high cuff, waterproofing, thickness;
• The materials: technical membranes to combat the elements, carbon, nylon;
• The closure system and fit: Velcro, wide fit;
• Overshoes: advantages and conditions of use.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ROAD AND MTB SHOES

One might think that cycling shoes are relatively simple in design. In reality, they are packed with technology and have evolved greatly in recent years to provide more comfort and better performance.

SHOE CONSTRUCTION

Taking the design of summer shoes and adding several elements to combat cold, rain and snow, winter shoes, road or MTB, are most often recognisable by their high cuff. This shape allows the ankle — which, like the foot, is very sensitive to the cold — to be fully wrapped.

Furthermore, the overall design of the winter shoe is engineered so that no water ingress is possible, at the junction with tights or trousers, at the seams, and also at the cleats. It is this last point that clearly distinguishes winter shoes from overshoes, which do not fully protect against water splashing up from the ground.

THE MATERIALS

In winter, the environment is harsh on equipment: moisture, temperature variations, mud, salt… gear suffers and wears out quickly.

Taking these constraints into account, winter shoes are made from thick, warm and highly durable materials, combined with the latest generation membranes, such as those from the famous Gore-Tex brand, which have the advantage of combining maximum protection with optimal breathability. The upper part of the shoe is often fitted with a neoprene collar that snugly wraps around the ankle to prevent any water ingress.

The result is a weight that is certainly much greater than summer models, but with unmatched comfort, even after several hours.

Regarding the soles, winter models most commonly use nylon, possibly reinforced with carbon for increased durability. The most demanding competitors will however find some models fitted with carbon soles to maintain the same level of pedalling stiffness all year round.

THE CLOSURE SYSTEM AND FIT

As with summer models, all types of closure systems are available (laces, Velcro, micro-buckle, BOA dial) depending on price, your riding style and your expectations. However, here the closures, and primarily the Velcro straps, are designed to be operated with thick gloves.

In terms of fit, these shoes are generally characterised by a wide cut that allows you to wear thick socks or even heat insoles without the foot feeling too tight, which would cause discomfort and a loss of thermal efficiency. However, with Gore-Tex shoes, it is recommended to wear relatively thin socks that promote moisture wicking, since the warmth is provided by the shoes themselves. Socks that are too thick — which might seem the natural choice in winter — could in fact absorb perspiration and create an unpleasant feeling of dampness.

OVERSHOES

While winter shoes are the ideal solution for riding comfortably throughout the cold season, their relatively high cost makes them a solution best suited to the dedicated cyclist.

If you only ride occasionally during winter, overshoes are already a great help for rides in bad weather. Very affordable, they can be removed during a ride as needed!

WHICH SHOES FOR MY RIDING STYLE?

Stiffness, weight, ventilation, material durability, sole type and closure type are all criteria to consider.

Hiking

A model with a rubber outsole that is as comfortable and grippy on the pedals as it is on foot allows you to get out of tricky situations by dismounting. Shoes that are both waterproof and warm, most often with a high cuff, allow you to approach Sunday rides with complete peace of mind and offer a good balance between pedalling efficiency and comfort.

Cross-Country

Here we can choose a model that remains high-performing despite the extra weight of the high-cuff waterproof construction. Carbon-reinforced soles, or even sometimes 100% carbon soles, allow you to maintain a rigorous training programme throughout winter.

All-Mountain

A well-insulated model is recommended here for potential rides at altitude. The waterproof membrane and high cuff will be a great help should you encounter snow! Here again, a well-studded sole is essential, as are reinforcements around the shoe to resist abrasion when walking. A shoe with a breathable membrane will also allow you to efficiently wick away moisture and keep your feet dry throughout the day.

Enduro

Winter shoes, very enveloping, thicker and heavier than their summer counterparts, can reduce riding feel. But let's not forget that a frozen foot has no feeling at all! Reinforced, high-cuff shoes provide protection against the elements and impacts. Feet stay dry in all situations.

DH / Freeride

These disciplines are not the most commonly practised in winter. But for dedicated riders who are not put off by the cold, high speeds or time spent waiting for the shuttle or trail building mean that feet get cold very quickly. A well-insulated model, capable of accommodating a pair of thick socks, will be ideal.

Road

Manufacturers offer high-performance winter models and sometimes use carbon to stiffen the soles. Competitive riders will thus enjoy maximum feel and efficiency. Some winter shoes focus more on warmth than waterproofing, and are more affordable. Other models offer both features. Depending on the region where you ride, these criteria should be carefully considered. In winter, visibility on the roads can be reduced: reflective strips, or even fluorescent colours, help to make yourself visible effectively.

Gravel and Cyclocross

In both disciplines, it is important to be able to dismount and cross obstacles or very rough sections on foot. Studded soles are recommended.

In Cyclocross, facing very high-intensity efforts, good breathability is essential. For a full-day winter ride on a Gravel bike, nothing beats materials that retain warmth even when at a standstill!