Road Cycling - Shopping for my first pair of clipless shoes...

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tbreihan
10-08-04, 03:50 PM
Since I am a toe-clip using Luddite, I decided it was time for clipless pedals. I have already decided on the pedals--Crank Bros. Eggbeaters--but I am having some difficulty deciding on shoes. I am looking for a racing-type MTB shoe for more versatility/durability. I have gone to two LBSs to try on shoes, and of course they are attempting to sell me the most expensive shoe they have. The top-end of my budget right now is perhaps $100-$110, but if I can get by for less, so be it! I think I have it down to 3 shoes;

1) Sidi Pampa 3 ($109)

2) Pearl Vortex ($109)

3) Pearl Vagabond ($79)

Now, as far as brand differences go, all the shoes seem to be pretty comparable. One LBS was really selling the Sidi hard, and I know they have a great reputation, but the PIs seemed equally nice. I am really curious about the PI Vagabonds, since they seem to be the same shoe as the Vortex only without the ratchet strap. My main concern is the stiffness of the sole, and I couldn't see the Vagabond's in person to determine if they are, in fact, the same as Vortex only without the ratchet strap. If that is the case, those are the ones I am going for.

Anyway, what do you think?

late
10-08-04, 03:51 PM
If the shoe fits. wear it. You will be pulling up, back, forward and down. Any flaw in the fit can turn into a royal pain.
LordOpie
10-08-04, 03:56 PM
walk around the shop for 10-15 on the balls of your feet. If they're definitely not for you, you'll know it quickly.

If you can bend the shoe at the ball of the foot, don't bother trying it on. You want a shoe on an overdose of viagra.

ht001
10-08-04, 04:37 PM
I bought Nashbar Shadow shoes, made by Lake. I can't imagine needing anything else. Best part is I got them for $25 last year. Yesterday they were $30, now $40. It's just a waiting game. Plus they are black&white, not kaleidoscopic (sp!) colors which I prefer. I'm not brand conscious.

One thing you might consider is buying mountain shoes with recessed spd cleats. It allows you to walk around your house, stores, Starbucks without scratching the floor. Or maybe buy Look pedals/cleats (were included on my Jamis) and the rubber covers go on them so you can walk around. I like them, but I have spd's too and can't really tell the difference. SPD pedals can be cheaper if you stay away from Shimano

Of course, if you're going to be going into your lbs in them, you should probably buy from them...
Steelrider
10-08-04, 05:18 PM
I am looking for a racing-type MTB shoe for more versatility/durability. Is the versatility something that you actually need or think you will need? Does it mean you plan on doing a bunch of walking in these shoes? Just wondering as road shoes will actually be stiffer and more durable/last longer if used for their intended purpose - cycling. If you need to compromise, then the MTB's are definitely the best choice.

Good luck.