Cycling Shoe Selection, Cleat Setup & Insoles: The Perfect Trio for 947

Preparing for the 947 Ride Joburg isn’t only about training hard - it’s also about ensuring your bike fit and foot mechanics are dialed in. Poor shoe selection, incorrect cleat setup, or lack of proper support can quickly lead to foot pain, knee pain, hip strain, or even ITB syndrome. The good news? With the right cycling shoes, cleat positioning, and custom insoles, you can maximize comfort, power, and efficiency - and keep injuries at bay.

Why Cycling Shoe Selection Matters

Your cycling shoes are the foundation of your pedal stroke. The wrong shoe fit can cause hot spots, numbness, or loss of power.

• Stiffness matters: A stiff sole transfers power more efficiently.

• Fit is key: Shoes that are too tight restrict circulation; too loose cause instability.

• Ventilation & comfort: Long hours in the saddle mean you need shoes that keep your feet cool and supported.

Tip: Always try shoes on with your cycling socks and check for snug but not restrictive fit.

The Importance of Cleat Setup

Your cleat alignment determines how your knees and hips track with every pedal stroke. Misaligned cleats can lead to:

• Knee pain (from overuse or mis-tracking)

• Hip discomfort

• Reduced pedalling efficiency

Best practices for cleat setup:

• Position cleats under the ball of the foot.

• Adjust the angle to match your natural foot alignment (neutral, slight toe-in, or toe-out).

• Ensure equal spacing on both shoes to maintain balance.

A professional bike fit before the 947 Cycle Race is highly recommended to fine-tune this.

Custom Insoles: The Missing Piece

Even with the right shoes and cleats, many riders overlook foot support. Every foot is different - some overpronate, others supinate - and generic insoles rarely provide enough stability.

Benefits of custom cycling insoles:

• Reduce pressure hot spots and numbness

• Improve alignment from foot → knee → hip

• Boost power transfer by creating a stable pedalling platform

• Prevent injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and ITB syndrome

The Perfect Trio for the 947

When cycling shoes, cleat setup, and custom insoles work together, you get:

✅ Maximum comfort over long distances

✅ Improved power efficiency

✅ Reduced risk of injury

✅ Confidence to perform at your peak on race day

Final Takeaway

Don’t wait until race week to fix your setup. Get your shoes fitted, cleats aligned, and book a Footworxco custom insole scan well in advance. With the perfect trio for the 947, you’ll ride stronger, safer, and pain-free at the 947 Ride Joburg Cycle Challenge.