In my opinion, every ambitious cyclist and triathlete benefits from good insoles. However, I don't mean the thin token cardboard that comes factory-fitted into even the most expensive shoe models. And interestingly, unlike running and normal street shoes, custom-made insoles don't necessarily need to be made. During the pedaling movement there is a fixed, optimized position of the foot, with stiffness and low height being the trump card in order to get the most out of the interface between the rider and the bike - and preferably a watt or two more.
That's why I'm offering the top model Black (BLK 2) from SOLESTAR. The mastermind behind it is Oliver Elsenbach from Cologne, who not only had me fine-tune my shoe supply, but also the majority of all German professional cyclists.
SOLESTAR promises a lot with these insoles, which, according to Mr. Elsenbach, keep the foot in the optimal neutral position, no matter how hard you step: athletic performance should be increased, pain relieved and leg positions balanced, regardless of whether you have bow legs or knock knees.
Of course, as is often the case, just trying it out helps and that's why I'm giving you the chance to do so here for six weeks. If you are not 100 percent satisfied, you will get your money back, guaranteed.
I've been riding specifically with this model with a carbon core for years and have tried everything in terms of custom insoles, a wide variety of insole supply philosophies and all materials for over two decades. Move somewhere else? I can't imagine it at the moment. But again: just trying will make you smarter.
Please note these tips for choosing sizes; my Shimano 48s, for example, have 49er soles.
The key data concentrated:
- from 37 to 49 in full sizes.
- extremely low height for little stack, in the forefoot that's a marginal two millimeters.
- in size 42, a pair weighs a mere 98 grams.
- developed and designed in Germany, manufactured in Europe.
- black foam/carbon construction with 100% carbon core.
- stable shape, important when changing between several pairs of shoes.
And the best part: within Germany the soles will be sent to you free of charge.