How Do You Cycle in Cycling Shoes?

[Gez73]

That's a lot of fairly advanced kit for a relative newbie. I only use spd cleats and pedals and that was after many years of cycling. Some research is always useful but don't be put off by your experience. MBT shoes and a nice recessed spd system will be fine until you're ready to race. Practice practice practice! Gez

 

[Simontm]

May I beg to differ?
If your trainers are quite "spongy" soled and your flat pedals are of the spiked variety the difference is your feet get sore.
@Short_Lass
Imo, walking shoes from an outdoor store are better than trainers with flat pedals.
I have also noticed that proper cycling shoes have too many vents

I

I don't use clears as I like just jumping on a bike so use mountain walking shoes with my French clips.

 

[vickster]

My friend did 50 miles on her roadbike in trainers today, no mention of sore feet. She's also done 20+ miles in old converse. I'm assuming the OP is just getting into cycling and probably isn't riding huge distances yet. My feet get as sore clipped in, the lack of movement makes my toes cramp but I still prefer to be attached, as slipping can be very ouchy to shins and Achilles

 

[Firestorm]

I use Aldi mtb shoes without cleats , enouvgh stiffness to help.
mrs fs has a pair of sketchers cycling shoes which are stiffer than "normal" but do not have cleats

 

[Louch]

There's a really good thread in the beginners section that helps with clipless pedals questions , helped me get set up

 

[Profpointy]

Indeed, which is why I hadn't heard of them for 3 years.. It took that long to pluck up the courage to go to a "real" bike shop. And yes, men can feel like that too I'm sure.

Something like this experience perhaps?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=TxQqWSnsHoA

 

[Banjo]

hello @Short_Lass welcome to the forum.

You really don't need special shoes for leisure cycling. What you do need is a shoe that grips your flat pedal nicely so it doesn't slip off the pedal if you hit a rough bit of road or whatever.

I prefer to wear trainers and use flat pedals. My present "cycling shoes" are a pair of karrimor closed toe sandals that cost £13.99 in a local shop.