Commuting - Shoes for SPD cleats

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View Full Version : Shoes for SPD cleats


greenstork
01-03-07, 01:05 PM
I'm making the switch over to SPD pedals pretty soon. I don't necessarily need shoes to walk around town in, what I really need is good (stand up to the weather although not necessarily waterproof) biking shoes. The one essential element is that I would prefer that the cleat be completely recessed. I have nice wood floors at home and I don't want to ruin them with cleat marks if I accidentally forget to take of my shoes immediately upon coming home.

I was eyeing a pair of Sidi mountain biking shoes but the cleat protrudes just hair more than flush than the rest of the knobby sole.

Can anyone recommend an SPD shoes that doesn't click at all when walking? Does such a shoe even exist?


newbojeff
01-03-07, 02:42 PM
I have these (http://www.nashbar.com/profile_moreimages.cfm?category=&subcategory=&sku=16127&brand=0111). Totally recessed, inexpensive, and don't click too much, but you'll be hard pressed to find something that never clicks.

modernjess
01-03-07, 10:04 PM
With all due respect I think the clicking should perhaps be the last thing to be considered when it comes to choosing shoes. Since you are new to SPD's you may not realize just how important it is to have shoes that, A. Fit really well and are adjustable and, B. Are stiff, responsive, and provide a solid transfer of power to the pedal stroke.

For well over ten years I've ridden SPD's on all my bikes, and after using several different shoes I have come to conclude that for me you can't beat Sidi's for fit, comfort, and performance. I have the Genius 5 mesh - road, Dominator 5 lorica - mountain. I use the Dominator for commuting as well (above 20 F) Do they click when walking? To be honest I've never even noticed.

One thing they are not is cheap (some deals can be found if you are vigilant) But I will argue that they are a solid investment. They barely show any wear from year to year, they're always comfortable, and they perform perfectly every single day, and for me that's worth a lot.

Head down to your LBS and compare.

Good Luck!