Closure mechanism
Closure mechanism
While shoes for walking and running rely almost universally on a lace to secure the shoe to the foot, there is a greater variety of closure mechanisms for cycling shoes.
The BOA, a dial operated mechanism that tightens or loosens a metallic cord, is the latest design, and suitable for most riders, according to Wall and Hewitt, but not necessarily for all.
Track sprinters, for example, will not gain the same security from a BOA as from a ratchet and buckle, for example.
A Velcro closure, while no longer considered cutting edge, might be the best option for a rider with a collapsed arch, Hewitt says, and therefore likely to benefit from a system that pulls the instep upwards.
Wall adds that a ratchet mechanism might not necessarily suit a rider with a high instep, which might force the strap to press against the top of the foot, or even leave insufficient length to pass through the buckle securely.
Hewitt cites the philosophy of choosing equipment that fits the body rather than trying to make the body fit the equipment.
“Choose the most appropriate equipment for the body and how the body will be used, whether it’s track sprinting or sportive riding, and that will help you decide which closure mechanism is the most appropriate for you.”