Flat Pedal Shoes

Cleats

Etnies

Giro

Northwave

Pearl Izumi

Triathlon Shoes

Clipless Triathlon Shoes

Indoor Cycling Shoes

Mountain Bike Shoes

Road Cycling Shoes

How to Shop for Flat Pedal Shoes: Finding the Right Fit for Your Riding Style

When shopping for flat pedal shoes, the most important thing to consider is how and where you ride. Flat pedal shoes are designed for riders who want the freedom to walk naturally off the bike, making them a great choice for commuters, trail riders, casual cyclists, and younger riders just getting started. Unlike clipless setups, flat pedal shoes work with standard platform pedals and require no special technique to clip in or out, keeping things simple and accessible. The sole is typically stiff enough to transfer power efficiently while still being comfortable to walk in, so you can move seamlessly from the bike to wherever the day takes you. At 99 Bikes, flat pedal shoes are available for men, women, and youth, so the whole family can find a comfortable fit.

Commonly Asked Questions about Flat Pedal Shoes

What are flat pedal shoes and how are they different from clipless cycling shoes?

Flat pedal shoes are designed to work with standard platform pedals and do not require any cleat system to attach to the bike. Unlike clipless shoes, they allow you to put your foot down naturally at any time, making them a more accessible and relaxed option for everyday riding. They are a great choice for riders who want some of the performance benefits of a cycling-specific shoe without the learning curve of clipping in and out.

Who are flat pedal shoes best suited for?

Flat pedal shoes are ideal for commuters, casual riders, tourers, and younger riders who are just getting started on the bike. They are also well suited to anyone who needs to walk comfortably at their destination without changing shoes. If you ride in urban environments, on shared paths, or on relaxed trails where stopping frequently is part of the experience, flat pedal shoes are a practical and comfortable choice.

How stiff should the sole of a flat pedal shoe be?

Flat pedal shoes typically have a moderately stiff sole that helps transfer pedalling power more efficiently than a standard sneaker, while still being flexible enough to walk in comfortably. More performance-oriented flat pedal shoes will have a stiffer sole for better power transfer on longer rides, while casual or lifestyle-focused options prioritise comfort and walkability. Consider how far you ride and whether walking comfort at your destination matters when choosing between these options.

Are there flat pedal shoes available for women and youth riders?

Yes, flat pedal shoes at 99 Bikes are available across men, women, and youth sizing, so riders of all ages and foot shapes can find a suitable fit. Women's and youth options are designed with appropriate sizing and fit considerations rather than simply being scaled-down versions of men's shoes. This makes it easy to find the right shoe for every member of the family regardless of riding experience or age.

What should I look for when choosing between entry-level and higher-end flat pedal shoes?

Entry-level flat pedal shoes focus on comfort, walkability, and value, making them a solid choice for casual or occasional riders. Mid-range and higher-end options typically offer improved sole stiffness for better pedaling efficiency and more advanced closure systems.

Related Categories

Road & Triathlon Shoes

Our range of road and triathlon shoes open up a whole new level of possibilities for you and your bike out on the road. Ride faster with less effort and improved comfort with clipless cycling shoes. Whether you are looking for clipless shoes to get started in road cycling, speed up your next triathlon transition or enhance the power transfer in your pedal stroke, 99 Bikes has you covered. Shop online or in-store today with 99 Bikes.

Explore More

Road Cycling Shoes

Explore More

Triathlon Shoes

Explore More

Mountain Bike Shoes

Our range of mountain bike shoes or MTB Shoes tend to have more traction on the sole than road cycling shoes, as the mountain biker is more likely to need to use their shoes to grip the trail at stages than a road rider. The cleats are also more recessed into the shoe which helps this, as well as acting to keep the area clear of mud. Shop online or in store today at your local 99 Bikes for New Zealand's best prices.

Explore More