You’ve likely heard of barefoot running, but what about barefoot cycling?
While the act (and hobby) of running without shoes on seems like a natural thing to do if you’re able to learn how to do it properly, riding a bike without shoes on can seem a little problematic.
Here’s the thing though; most of us have done it at some point, most likely as a kid. Those days of running around without shoes on often included hopping on the bike at some point.
But what about as an adult? Are there any benefits? This is debatable, but it’s easy to see why some may choose to do so, even if in limited situations and scenarios.
RIDING BAREFOOT EXPLAINED
So, we’ll go over why one might consider cycling barefoot, and some tips for doing so if you’re going to give it a shot.
WHY RIDE BAREFOOT?
The reasons that some choose to ride without anything on their feet all tend to revolve around retaining a more natural pedal motion.
Most riders, whether it’s road or mountain biking, tend to use clipless pedals. With these pedals, your feet are not only inside of a shoe, but actually attached to the pedals. While this does help in many areas, it also creates what barefoot cycling exhausts describe as an inefficient pedaling motion that can also have an affect on your lower body.
They argue that pedaling without anything on your feet causes you to both proactively and passively alter your pedaling motion to a more natural type.
Also, some just like to do it for the heck of it. And that’s fine. Regardless of your reasons, 99% of these riders will advise you to not barefoot cycle on mountain bike trails, or during serious road biking excursions. Leisurely rides are most suitable for obvious reasons.
WAYS TO HELP YOU RIDE BAREFOOT
You certainly have some options when it comes to finding a comfortable way to ride barefoot.
FLAT PEDALS
Probably the easiest way of them all, fitting your bike of choice with flat pedals will make things way more comfortable. Flat pedals are any pedals that don’t have small spikes or any surfaces that are designed to improve grip on a shoe. Rubber and wood pedals are solid options.
Here is the flat pedal replacement set I’d recommend:
- DURABLE:Rugged nylon fiber surface+high strength Cr-Mo spindle bike pedals, which has shock-proof, abrasion and corrosion resistance
- SIZE:4.30(L)*3.94(W)*0.98(H)inches,0.79bls each pair,moer fitted to the soles,big tread bicycle pedals provide a more comfortable ride...
- Easy To Install:CR-L for left; CR-R for right. Sealed bearing bicycle pedals protect spindles from water and dust which will cause noise and...
PEDAL BLOCKS
Pedal blocks are often used for those who can’t’ reach pedals on either an exercise bike, or on a child’s bike, but they can be used to cover up spiked petals, making them more comfortable.
NO PEDALS
If you really want a challenge, and don’t have any replacement pedals, you can simply use the pedal rods connected to the cranks instead. Remove the pedals to reveal the rods.
SOFT PADDING
For the more resourceful riders, you can affix some sort of soft padding to the pedal to make things more comfortable. A popular way to do this is to take a kitchen sponge and use rubber bands to attach it to the tops of each pedal.
BareFoot Cycling SHoes
If you want to get all the benefits from barefoot cycling, but still have a layer of protection in case you have to stop quickly and don’t want to scrape your feet, Irecommend getting a pair of barefoot cycling shoes.
Bit of a contradiction I know, right?
But it is becoming quite the trend, plus these shoes can be used in cross-training applications as well. Here is my favorite pick:
- Runs small, Go up a size
- Lightly padded tongue & speed lacing system.Care - Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry
- Serrated blade lug design.Select half size up or down
And for women:
- Wide Toe Box: SAGUARO barefoot shoes men are designed with the wide five-finger toe box provides enough space for the feet to move each toe...
- Promoted Natural Walk: The mens barefoot shoes are with zero-drop sole design promotes forefoot landing or whole foot, simulating the experience...
- Comfortable Breathable: Men minimalist barefoot sneakers are made of lightweight and breathable fabric that ensure good air circulation and...
CONCLUSION
Barefoot cycling is certainly not for everyone, although it’s worth giving it a shot if you’re available. You may even enjoy it more in some ways along with getting some benefits from it.
Have any of you ever tried barefoot cycling? If so, feel free to tell us about it below.
Resources
Last update on 2025-08-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
