General Cycling Discussion - Numb toes??

I just bought a new pair of clip less shoes a little over a month and I notice on my rides, no matter how long the ride is my toes start to go numb or get "pins and needles". I was told that it was from improper fit, but when I’m off the bike the shoes feel great. Its only when I’m riding. Can anyone tell me what the problem might be? I don't really want to buy new shoes if I don't have to and the shoes I have now cannot be returned. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

This is an oft-discussed topic. Do a search for more information.

The short answer is that the problem comes from pressure on the nerves in your foot. You should start by adjusting your cleat position. Sometimes a mere millimeter or two can make the difference, after all nerves are pretty small. Both right-left and front-back position can be the source of the problem. I have read that moving the cleat backward is often a good place to start.

Also, make sure that you don't lace or strap-down (velcro) your shoes too tight. Your feet swell on the bike. I strap my shoes so loose that they feel almost like they're going to fall off while walking. A couple of kilometers down the road, my feet will have filled out the shoes a bit more, but the shoes still feel somewhat loose. If this seems like it might effect power transmission, trust me, it has little to no effect.

Cheers,
Jamie

Another option is go to the drug store and get some Dr Scholls inserts. These will pad your feet and should stop the problem. It worked for me.

Another point is that you could be hammering the pedals instead of using a smooth even spin. Try dropping to an easier gear and practice spinning.

The Dr. Scholl's gel inserts help a lot, as does a pair of cushioned socks.

Try loosening the shoes, if possible. My toes always get numb when my laces are too tight. Worth a try. I tend to always have my shoes too tight, but especially when biking.

the Cliffless pedal and the shoes and the feet should jibe with one another, otherwise, your going to have one problem after another, its a trial and error thing, but one thing is for sure the shoe or/your feet should be in a position "Toe In" from a right angle, both your toes, I mean the left and the right should be pointed very little to the bike frame,, this way you'll get maximum pedalling and you can pedal and ride you bike with out those numbness feeling on you feet...