Shimano's SPD-SL cleats use a three-bolt mounting pattern designed for road cycling shoes, where the cleat protrudes from the sole to maximize the contact area with the pedal. The larger platform distributes pedaling forces across a wider surface compared to two-bolt mountain bike cleats, which improves power transfer efficiency during sustained efforts. The plastic cleat body keeps weight down while the exposed design means these cleats aren't practical for walking—they're built for riding where you stay clipped in from start to finish. Shimano offers three SPD-SL cleat options that differ in the amount of rotational float they provide.

The SM-SH11 yellow cleats provide six degrees of float, allowing three degrees of rotation in each direction from the center position. This is the most movement Shimano offers in their SPD-SL lineup and comes standard with most Shimano road pedals. The increased float lets your foot find its natural position during the pedal stroke, which can reduce knee strain for riders whose biomechanics don't align perfectly with a fixed cleat position. The yellow cleats work well as a starting point if you're new to clipless pedals or if you've experienced knee discomfort with less float. The SM-SH12 blue cleats offer two degrees of float—one degree in each direction—with a front-center pivot point. The pivot sits at the front of the cleat rather than the center, which eliminates most lateral movement while allowing slight rotation from the pivot back toward the heel. This restricted movement provides more pedaling stability than the yellow cleats while still offering some accommodation for natural foot rotation.

The SM-SH10 red cleats have zero float and lock your foot in a completely fixed position. This eliminates any rotational movement, which maximizes power transfer efficiency but requires precise cleat positioning to avoid placing stress on your knees. The fixed position works for riders with consistent biomechanics or those who prioritize absolute pedaling efficiency over comfort. If you're considering red cleats, proper cleat alignment becomes critical—many riders benefit from professional fitting to dial in the exact position before committing to a fixed setup.... Read More