BMX race shoes and freestyle

What shoes for BMX riding?

BMX puts more strain on shoes than most other activities: explosive starts, landing from jumps, feet slipping on pedals and hitting the frame or crank. A BMX shoe must therefore hold the foot firmly, cushion impacts upon landing, and resist abrasion from the studs, which wear out a regular basketball sole quickly. In competition, the French Cycling Federation simply requires, in its BMX race regulations, shoes that protect the feet well and stay securely fastened: the choice of model then depends on the discipline, track or freestyle, and type of pedal.

BMX race: flat or automatic pedals depending on age

On a BMX race track, everything happens at the start, behind the gate, and then in the acceleration between bumps. The federal regulations allow systems that attach the foot to the pedal, automatic or magnetic pedals, from the age of 13, that is, from the U15 category, at all levels of competition. They remain prohibited for younger categories, even for an overclassed rider, and strap pedals are banned for all.

Young riders therefore use flat pedals: choose a shoe with a firm enough sole to push hard at the start, fastened with a dial or a Velcro strap that doesn't loosen during the race. From the age of 13, a two-hole cleat shoe takes over: its rigid sole transfers all the sprint effort, and the recessed cleat allows normal walking between heats. The race pants should extend over the shoe, a point to keep in mind for a tall model.

Freestyle, street, park, and dirt: the flat shoe

In freestyle, the foot constantly moves on the pedal to chain tricks, and the rider must be able to remove it instantly. Riding is done with flat pedals, using a shoe with a soft sole that conforms to the pedal and soft rubber that grips the studs. A sole that is too stiff isolates the foot and hinders placement, while a sole that is too thin feels every landing.

High-top models protect the ankles from pedal and frame hits, which is useful in parks and dirt where falls on ramps are frequent. For street, comfort while walking and the resistance of the upper to abrasion count as much as grip.

Size, fastening, and wear: points to check

Try the shoe on with your racing socks, ideally high ones: the heel should not lift when you push on the pedal. For a child, resist the temptation to get two sizes up, as a foot that floats loses precision and safety. Laces should be tucked under a tongue or in a pouch to avoid getting caught in the chain, on the transmission side; a dial or Velcro strap avoids this issue. Finally, keep an eye on wear under the forefoot, at the studs or cleat location: a smooth rubber or a cleat with a rounded tip should be replaced before it fails at the start.

The rest of the BMX gear

In races, a full-face BMX helmet is mandatory, and BMX pants and finger-covering gloves complete the required outfit. All of this is included in the BMX equipment. If you also ride in the woods, MTB shoes are designed for walking and the mud of trails.

What BMX shoe brands to choose?

Shimano, originally behind the SPD system, outfits its off-road shoes with two-hole cleat soles: the XC302, with a BOA dial and wrapping upper, is suitable for BMX race riders transitioning to automatic pedals.

adidas distributes the Five Ten, whose Stealth rubber soles grip the studs: the Sleuth, an everyday shoe with Dotty studs, is alongside the Freerider Pro and the Hellcat, version for automatic pedals.

crankbrothers designed the Stamp Street with trial and freeride rider Fabio Wibmer: a soft midsole to wrap the pedal before a bunny up, MC2 rubber for high friction, and closely spaced studs for repositioning the foot; the Mallet comes in a children's version for the brand's automatic pedals.

S1 offers the Accell, a BMX race shoe for flat pedals, with a dial fastening, STKgrip sticky rubber sole, and a higher collar that keeps the leg away from the transmission, available in both adult and child sizes.

Leatt, founded by Dr. Chris Leatt and known for its Leatt-Brace neck brace, offers shoes in ProClip for automatic pedals and Flat for flat pedals, including the Flat 3.0 with RideGrip Pro rubber and WaffleGrip Pro patterns.

BMX shoes on sale

End-of-line products and older BMX colours can be found in the BMX clearance, handy for equipping a young rider who changes sizes each season. Newly arrived models are grouped in new arrivals, and summer sales precede the return of club training.

Frequently asked questions

What shoe to choose to start BMX racing?

A flat shoe with a firm sole and gripping rubber, secured with a dial or a Velcro strap. It is suitable for flat pedals required for under-13s in competition and allows learning starts and riding before considering automatic pedals.

At what age can you ride with automatic pedals in BMX?

In federal competition, from the age of 13, which is the U15 category. Younger riders must use flat pedals, even if they are overclassed. During training, the club coach advises on the right time to make the switch.

Are skate shoes suitable for BMX?

For street and park, many riders wear them, as their flat and soft sole provides a good feel for the pedal. However, the studs wear them out quickly: a shoe designed for cycling, with rubber made for studded pedals, lasts longer and protects the foot better.

How to avoid laces getting caught in the chain?

Tuck the loops into the shoe or under the elastic tongue when available, and tie a double knot. Shoes with dials or Velcro straps eliminate the issue, which explains their popularity in BMX racing.

Are high-top shoes necessary in BMX?

It is not mandatory, but a high upper protects the ankles from pedal hits and impacts against the frame, especially in park and dirt. The federal regulations also recommend, in races, socks that cover the ankles.