@nscrbug, yes the soles are rubber type. I have a pair and I did not take the rubber part out that covers the cleats (or whatever they're called). I have platform pedals and I wear the Tahoe's all the time, even when I'm not riding a bike. I normally wear 39 in European shoes, but had to get 41 in these, so definitely try them on WITH the socks you intend to wear when cycling. I love them.