There are three different models of Shimano SPD-SL cleats to choose from that are designated by three colors: yellow, red, and blue. Each of the cleats offers unique features, including different float ranges and pivot points, and are designed with varied rider biomechanics in mind.
- Occupying the middle-ground between Shimano’s Yellow and Red cleat options, the SM-SH12 Blue cleats have two degrees of float (one degree in each direction), allowing for a small range of movement while still delivering a high degree of pedaling efficiency.
- Customizable: Seamlessly compatible with Shimano SPD-SL pedals, which allow you to adjust the spring force required to clip in and out of your pedals
- Ease of Disengagement: Feature a 12-degree clip-out angle, allowing you to quickly get out of your pedals when the time calls
- Off-Bike Friendly: Cleat size and shape provide stable walking platform and are less prone to clogging with dirt when off bike
- Built to Last: Composite construction combines injection molded main body with grip enhancing TPU tips that are durable and maintain long lasting pedal engagement
Blue SPD-SL Cleats – 2 Degrees of Float
Blue SPD-SL cleats are Shimano’s newest cleat option and they exist as a middle-ground between yellow and red. Blue cleats have two degrees of float (one degree in each direction), allowing for a small range of movement while still delivering a high amount of pedaling efficiency. The float pivot point is at the front of the cleat, which eliminates lateral sliding movement while allowing a small amount of angle change from the pivot point back towards the heel.
What is Cleat Float?
The key differentiator between the three Shimano cleat options is the amount of float each allows. Float refers to the back-and-forth movement of the foot while you are clipped in and is essentially how much you can point your toes left or right while your shoe is attached to your pedal. Different levels of float help accommodate different riding styles or help with biomechanical issues such as lack-of-flexibility, past injuries, or knee pain. While float can help reduce stress on joints and make for a more comfortable pedaling movement, it can also result in a feeling of slightly less power transfer if your foot moves around too much.
Your neutral foot position is also important to understand before selecting and installing the right SPD-SL Cleat for you. The neutral position of the foot is defined as its most natural or efficient angle while pedaling. For some athletes, this means that both feet point perfectly straight forward. For others, the toes naturally point slightly inward or outward. If you’ve had an injury on one side of the body, your neutral position may differ between your left and right feet.