The Importance of Professional Cycling Insoles in Bikefitting

Cycling is more than just pedalling and riding; it is an interplay of man and machine. At Bikefit Van Staeyen, we understand that every link in this chain must be perfect for an optimal cycling experience. An important, but often underestimated, part of this are cycling insoles.

The Divide in Bikefitting

In the world of bikefitting there is a division: bikefitters who do not use insoles and those who make them themselves. According to the Belgian Association of Podiatrists (BVP-ABP), the manufacture of insoles with corrections is reserved for trained podiatrists. This is a delicate matter in which we take a clear position.

Our Approach: Collaboration with Experts

At Bikefit Van Staeyen, we do not make insoles ourselves. Why? Because making a good cycling insole with correction is a complex art, which requires a specialised Bachelor’s degree. That is why we work together with an experienced cycling podiatrist, Thomas Meesters of Podologie Hermes, who manufactures insoles in-house for those who need them.

Bikefitting is in itself a very complex profession. As bikefitters, we focus on the biomechanical analyses, the cycling position, and we look at what we can do off the bike to improve. Cycling insoles are part of this whole but are not a must for everyone. In Thomas we have one of the best podiatrists in the Benelux, who helps us in his specialisation. Nowadays there are many bikefitters who make insoles themselves and who come to us with complaints or a shoe that pinches too much. We make the difference in mastering our own domain, and outsourcing podiatry. ‘Cobbler, stick to your last.’ Kevin Van Staeyen, Founder and Bikefit Expert Bikefit Van Staeyen

Bikefitting is in itself a very complex profession. As bikefitters, we focus on the biomechanical analyses, the cycling position, and we look at what we can do off the bike to improve. Cycling insoles are part of this whole but are not a must for everyone. In Thomas we have one of the best podiatrists in the Benelux, who helps us in his specialisation. Nowadays there are many bikefitters who make insoles themselves and who come to us with complaints or a shoe that pinches too much. We make the difference in mastering our own domain, and outsourcing podiatry. ‘Cobbler, stick to your last.’

Kevin Van Staeyen, Founder and Bikefit Expert Bikefit Van Staeyen

Not Everyone Needs Insoles

It is a misconception that every cyclist needs orthotic insoles or cycling insoles. We assess the complex biomechanics of each cyclist to determine whether a custom-made insole is necessary. Sometimes a semi-custom insole, which is already manufactured and provides sufficient support, is enough.

The Science Behind Our Insoles

Our custom insoles are made of a layer of carbon with EVA on top. Studies show that carbon cycling insoles exert less pressure from below, which contributes to better support in the kinematic chain, especially for people with knee, foot or hip problems.

Words from our Expert, Thomas Meesters: measuring the foot is crucial in the process of making your insole. This is the first step in the production of your custom-made insole. As a podiatrist, I specialise in making functional insoles, as opposed to classic orthotic insoles from orthopaedics. With a functional insole, we improve foot function by activating certain muscles more. The feet are the foundation of our body and must adapt to the surface and be stable when stepping forward. We call this the adaptive shock absorber and the rigid lever. When these functions fail, complaints often arise. In cycling, there is a dynamic and a static aspect to foot function. The foot does not make a full roll-off, but does move in the ankle and higher-lying joints. The foot sits in a stiff shoe for optimal power transfer to the pedal. A cycling insole must meet this property and is therefore measured in the position in which the most force is exerted on the pedal."

Words from our Expert, Thomas Meesters: measuring the foot is crucial in the process of making your insole. This is the first step in the production of your custom-made insole. As a podiatrist, I specialise in making functional insoles, as opposed to classic orthotic insoles from orthopaedics. With a functional insole, we improve foot function by activating certain muscles more. The feet are the foundation of our body and must adapt to the surface and be stable when stepping forward. We call this the adaptive shock absorber and the rigid lever. When these functions fail, complaints often arise. In cycling, there is a dynamic and a static aspect to foot function. The foot does not make a full roll-off, but does move in the ankle and higher-lying joints. The foot sits in a stiff shoe for optimal power transfer to the pedal. A cycling insole must meet this property and is therefore measured in the position in which the most force is exerted on the pedal."

Your Problem, Our Solution

Do you experience knee complaints or numb feet while cycling? Our specific bikefit can address these problems. Moreover, with our extensive shoe collection, we guarantee the perfect match for your feet. Cycling insoles are a discipline in their own right, and at Bikefit Van Staeyen we are proud to work together with the best in the field to offer you the best possible cycling experience.

For more info you can contact our podiatrist Thomas on the number 0456412859. You can also always contact us via the button below.

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