Investing in the long list of essential triathlon gear can make your love of the sport an expensive hobby, so we’ve rounded up the best cheap cycling shoes so you can fuel your passion on a budget.
Many people use triathlon-specific bike shoes for racing, as they can be better suited to the needs of multisport. But standard road bike shoes are more than capable of taking you the distance.
Whether you’re looking for a pair of cheap cycling shoes to use for your training, or use for everything, it is possible to find a suitable fit for your budget and triathlon needs. All products featured here are under £100 and have been included based on value, in-depth research and analysis of user reviews.
For more affordable cycling gear, take a look at the best cheap cycling jerseys.
Best cheap cycling shoes for 2022
Sundried Road Cycle Shoes
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In our road bike shoes test, this pair of Sundried road cycle shoes offered great breathability thanks to the perforated holes and mesh, so they’re a solid choice for a hot and sweaty cycle ride.
They have a narrow fit, so are not the easiest to pop on, but they cup the heels well for a secure fit. They’re great value and a pair to consider for off-season training. We also love the straightforward yet slick design – ideal if you’re looking for an understated look.
These affordable cycling shoes are compatible with Look Keo and Shimano SPD-SL cleats, and there’s a single dial fastening, as well as a Velcro strap for a personalised fit.
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Van Rysel Carbon Road Cycling Shoes
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Another good-looking pair of cheap cycling shoes to consider. The RCR520s from Van Rysel feature a sole unit that’s constructed of both polyamide and carbon, so if you find fully carbon soles too rigid, this pair could provide more flexibility for a comfortable fit.
They’re designed to be versatile too, as they’re said to be compatible with Look Delta, Kéo or Shimano SM-SH type cleats, as well as mountain bike style cleats, too. They’re also available in a petrol blue and red if you’re looking for something on the more vibrant side.
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Dhb Trinity Tri Shoes
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For speedy triathlon transitions, give these budget-friendly dhb Trinity Tri shoes a go. They feature a nylon composite sole to avoid being overly stiff and are made with a quick drying material. There’s also a crank loop so you can attach the shoes to your bike, so plenty of tri-specific features to help shave off those all-important seconds.
Going for almost half the price of their RRP price of £80, they’re a bit of a steal at the moment.
It’s recommended that you buy these cycling shoes in a size smaller than your normal size.
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Dhb Trinity Carbon Tri Shoes
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This is dhb’s Trinity Carbon Tri shoe, so a very similar design to the model above, but with a carbon sole. Offering similar features with the aim of aiding transition, you’ll find quick-drying mesh, rubber heel tabs and wide openings.
On test, our reviewer found the heel loop to be too small to grab at speed, so they’re not perfect by any means, but nonetheless a solid option if you’re looking to test out carbon triathlon shoes without breaking the bank.
For the full review and to browse more triathlon shoes, check out the best triathlon bike shoes reviewed.
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Shimano RC100 Road Cycling Shoes
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Designed to reduce chafing while you’re pedalling hard, this pair of cheap cycling shoes from Shimano could be worth considering. The nylon soles have been strengthened with fibreglass to allow for a stiffer platform underfoot and there are three Velcro straps to help allow for a snug and personalised fit.
The RC100 road cycling shoes are compatible with Shimano SPD-SL and Look Keo cleats.
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Bont Motion Road Cycling Shoes
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One for entry level cyclists looking for a cheap road cycling shoe that goes beyond the basics, Bont’s Motion cycling shoe features a stiff fibreglass base construction for speedy accelerations.
The anti-stretch material aims to keep your feet firmly in position and they work with all major road and pedal cleat systems. Other features include bumper protection for extra durability and there are lots of ventilation holes for breathability.
Described as the brand’s most accessible road shoe yet, this desirable design is intended to work well whatever your cycling ability.
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Dhb Dorica Road Shoes
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If you’re looking for something for under £50, try this classic road shoe from dhb. While Velcro cycling shoes are a natural choice for many, lace up cycling shoes have their perks, allowing you to achieve a more precise fit.
You can keep them in a clean state by simply removing the laces (a nice alternative to removing gravel and mud from dials and Velcro), which should improve their longevity, and lace designs are considered by many to be more aerodynamic.
The Dorica Road Shoes are available in both black and white.
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ROADR 100 Road Cycling Shoes
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This is the second pair of cheap cycling shoes in our list from Decathlon’s in-house cycling brand, Van Rysel, and for even more of a bargain. The ROADR 100 shoes are made with nylon soles and promise to be both light and stiff. You’ll find quick drying 3D mesh inside the shoes, which should come in handy when you’re cycling in the heat, and the tongue is also made of mesh for added breathability and comfort.
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Triban Road and Gravel SPD Cycling Shoes
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For a budget-friendly pair of cycling shoes you can wear to the pub post ride, this more trainer like design from Triban could do the trick. The lace up shoes feature PU rubber soles for added comfort as you walk, but thanks to the nylon and fibreglass sole, Decathlon says they’re stiff enough for efficient pedalling, too.
If the red isn’t doing it for you, choose from black, yellow or blue. These shoes are only compatible with SPD cleats and pedals.
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Check out the best budget road cycling helmets for more affordable cycling kit.