Shimano MT31 shoes - off balance

[upandover]

Hi,

I've just had my first pair of SPD shoes through, MT31 shimano's and I've been wearing around the office this morning.

It hasn't taken me long to notice the strain on my calfs, and to realise that heels are lower in the shoe, than the ball of my foot, placing a strain on my calf. Unfortunately, although i wore them for five minutes inthe shop, I didn't spot that. I stuggle even with flat shoes (having always worn trainers or shoes with heels, so tipped the other way is even more difficult to wear.

I'm torn between finding a different shoe, and putting heel supports in which could solve the issue.

My question - (if i may be so presumtious!) - is are all stiff-sole cycling shoes likely to be like this. I choose these for stiffness as well as price, and wonder if I need to compromise a little on stiffness.

Thanks
Steve

 

[punkypossum]

Are you sure the heel is not lower down because the cleats stick out? Some shoes have the cleats further recessed than others, so this might be the cause of your problems. I would just stick some heel supports in, if they fit...

 

[swee'pea99]

I don't think SPD shoes are ever that great for wearing round the office. Can you not leave a pair of shoes at the office and just change when you get in?

 

[upandover]

Thanks guys.

The cleat isn't in at the moment, but the plate is quite a bit higher than the tread - thanks for the idea.

I do have a different pair of shoes here (my feet get wet often), and I recognise that going for the stiffer pair means less comfort. I was hoping though to be able to wear them to various places I cycle to, for uptp and hour or two, without having to carry a pair with me.

I'll try the heal supports first - and then consider swapping.

Does the stiff sole make a serious difference in power transfer - or one only a more serious cyclist would notice?

Thanks
Steve

 

[alecstilleyedye]

the stiff sole does make a difference, as all your energy is turning the cranks, not flexing the sole of your shoe.

i prefer look to spd, even though they're more awkward to walk in. people in my cycling club generally prefer spds for that reason, but as they aren't as good as the looks for power transfer i think that i'll choose the shoes best for the 50m miles of cycling, not the 10 metre walk into the café.

 

[upandover]

Thanks.

I've got used to mine now, and the addition of some trainer inserts made them uch easier to walk in.

I am concerned about the amount of heal swivel I have before they unclip, which doesn't seem normal - and will pop to a bike shop with them to check - I wonder if i have not entirely compatible cleats etc.

Cheers
Steve