cycling sandals
#1
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 17
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
cycling sandals
We are going on a bike tour this summer in Canada. I want to buy a pair of cycling sandals for more comfort while riding. I am looking at Shimano and the Lake. Does anyone know which is more comfortable, better, etc.?
#2
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Centennial, Colorado
Posts: 220
Bikes: 1999 LeMond Zurich and 2004 Giant OCR Touring
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I bought the Lake sandals but I've only used them 3 times and not on any long rides yet so I don't have much to tell you. I bought them because they were so much cheaper and I'm kind of cheap (or frugal we like to say).
They have been surprisingly comfortable for me on the 20 mile rides I've done so far and one thing I noticed on them that I think is different than the Shimano ones is the front area kind of curls up in front of your toes to protect them from getting hit. I think this is a good thing, but I don't really know. I kind of like having it there.
All the people I've talked to that have the Shimano sandals really like them so if you don't mind paying more, you can go that route.
They have been surprisingly comfortable for me on the 20 mile rides I've done so far and one thing I noticed on them that I think is different than the Shimano ones is the front area kind of curls up in front of your toes to protect them from getting hit. I think this is a good thing, but I don't really know. I kind of like having it there.
All the people I've talked to that have the Shimano sandals really like them so if you don't mind paying more, you can go that route.
#3
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Fife Scotland
Posts: 2,053
Bikes: Airnimal Chameleon; Ellis Briggs; Moulton TSR27 Moulton Esprit
Mentioned: 37 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 3291 Post(s)
Liked 827 Times
in
583 Posts
Had the shimano ones for a few years and they are great for hot weather. Go for it!
#4
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: London, Ontario, Canada
Posts: 274
Bikes: Surly Cross Check, Trek 520, Giant VT1, Norco Scrambler, Norco Unicycle, Dirtsurfer
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Hi.
Mark Boyd and I worked together on an article called "Enjoying the warm rain splashing up on your feet while touring in sandals". This article discusses Shimano, Lake and Exustar sandals.
https://www.bicycletouring101.com/RidingInSandals.htm
I use Shimano sandals myself. I just purchased a second pair to put away for the day when my first pair wears out that's how much I like them. Combine them with a set of Goretex socks and you have very versatile footwear that handle lots of different weather conditions from sun to rain to snow (some icebikers wear sandals in the winter with appropriate layering).
One awesome feature of riding in warm weather in sandals is the great feeling of riding in the rain with warm water splashing up on your feet as you ride. Very, very nice!
~Jamie N
Mark Boyd and I worked together on an article called "Enjoying the warm rain splashing up on your feet while touring in sandals". This article discusses Shimano, Lake and Exustar sandals.
https://www.bicycletouring101.com/RidingInSandals.htm
I use Shimano sandals myself. I just purchased a second pair to put away for the day when my first pair wears out that's how much I like them. Combine them with a set of Goretex socks and you have very versatile footwear that handle lots of different weather conditions from sun to rain to snow (some icebikers wear sandals in the winter with appropriate layering).
One awesome feature of riding in warm weather in sandals is the great feeling of riding in the rain with warm water splashing up on your feet as you ride. Very, very nice!
~Jamie N
#5
In Banff, AB
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Eugene, Oregon
Posts: 1,621
Bikes: Cannondale F400, Worksman Trike (customized for hauling)
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Originally Posted by pgs
We are going on a bike tour this summer in Canada. I want to buy a pair of cycling sandals for more comfort while riding. I am looking at Shimano and the Lake. Does anyone know which is more comfortable, better, etc.?
Good Luck!
Dave
__________________
www.cyclingtheamericas.org
Prudoe Bay, Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina by bike...eventually. (2/3 done!)
Support Organic Farming
Whirrled Peas - No War!
www.cyclingtheamericas.org
Prudoe Bay, Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina by bike...eventually. (2/3 done!)
Support Organic Farming
Whirrled Peas - No War!
#7
or regret it later
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Second City
Posts: 5
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I've used the Shimano on my tours with good results when they are not combined with socks. I have a couple of pairs of socks that frayed from rubbing the ankle straps from just a day of riding. However, this may be a phenomenon with recumbents due to the high bottom bracket position.
#9
kipuka explorer
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Hilo Town, East Hawai'i
Posts: 3,297
Bikes: 1994 Trek 820, 2004 Fuji Absolute, 2005 Jamis Nova, 1977 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Are they much harder to unlock from the pedals than regular tight shoes?
__________________
--
-=- '05 Jamis Nova -=- '04 Fuji Absolute -=- '94 Trek 820 -=- '77 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36 -=-
Friends don't let friends use brifters.
--
-=- '05 Jamis Nova -=- '04 Fuji Absolute -=- '94 Trek 820 -=- '77 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36 -=-
Friends don't let friends use brifters.
#11
Member
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Australia
Posts: 38
Bikes: Surly 1x14
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
All these replys are right on the money I have had two pairs of Shimano sandals. I dont use them in winter because my toes get too cold but summer cycling is where they are best. The best feeling that other forgot to mention is to loosen off the front strap while riding and feel that sweet wind underneath your feet it was something that blew me away the first time I did it. Cheers Guru out.
#13
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 97
Mentioned: 5 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I have the Lakes and the Shimanos. I wore my lakes for 2 seasons, March to December and loved them. They were starting to get a bit 'ripe' and the sole was very worn so I replaced them with the Shimanos this year. I loved the Lakes but I adore the Shimanos! The Lakes are bulky and heavy compared to the Shimanos. This may not present a problem for you depending on the size of your foot. I wear a 10 - 11 womens shoe and the Lakes looked like I had skis attached to my feet. The Shimanos are much more streamlined and lighter. The lakes seem to run about 1 size big so keep that in mind when ordering.
Both are the same for ease of use in clipping and un-clipping and I don't notice any difference in the quality of the materials between them. Either is a great sandal and your feet will thank you for which ever you choose. Have a safe journey!
Both are the same for ease of use in clipping and un-clipping and I don't notice any difference in the quality of the materials between them. Either is a great sandal and your feet will thank you for which ever you choose. Have a safe journey!
#14
Displaced Yooper
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Great White North
Posts: 99
Bikes: Atlantis, Bridgestone, Trek, Cannondale, Osell
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
I've done all my touring with Lake Sandals. I use them to commute most of the summer. I like the higher lip of the Lake because they protect my toes while off the bike. I always wear socks when using them. I wear Teva's when off the bike. I do that to prevent abuse to the cleats. I don't have any experience with Shimanos. I just got back from a three week tour around Lake Superior and had no trouble with the Lakes. Nothing against the Shimanos.
#15
In Memory of One Cool Cat
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Charlottesville, VA
Posts: 2,722
Bikes: Lemond Victoire, Cannondale.Mountain Bike, two 1980s lugged steel Treks, ancient 1980-something Giant mountain bike converted into a slick tired commuter with mustache handlebars, 1960-something Raleigh Sports
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
My only experience is with the Shimanos. They are among a very few material possessions of mine that I really, really love.
__________________
Dead last finish is better than did not finish and infinitely better than did not start.
Dead last finish is better than did not finish and infinitely better than did not start.
#17
Junior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 17
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Thanks for all the input. I did purchase the Shimano sandals for a tour we took in Quebec. They are the most wonderful things! I had HAPPY FEET for the whole week on my bike!
#18
Guest
Posts: n/a
Mentioned: Post(s)
Tagged: Thread(s)
Quoted: Post(s)
I had to laugh... the Steve Martin "Happy Feet" skit he did on Saturday Night Live was the first thing that came to mind when I read that. But yes... I can see how yo'd have happy feet. I have happy feet too!
Koffee
Koffee
#19
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Belding, MI
Posts: 71
Bikes: Trek 2200-27 speed. Sch., Moab mtn bike
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
If you think the warm rain feels good between your toes, you should try the new golfing sandals . The cold wet grass feels wonderfull as you walk along looking for your ball.. hee hee
I have both kinds of sandals and I love them..I have Shimano for my bike riding and LoveJoy for my golfing.
BC
something else that is kind of neat...the funny tan you get on your feet. oh well.....
I have both kinds of sandals and I love them..I have Shimano for my bike riding and LoveJoy for my golfing.
BC
something else that is kind of neat...the funny tan you get on your feet. oh well.....
#20
Banned
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 5,115
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 2 Times
in
1 Post
If yu really want to feel the water between your toes, try some wading sandals for fly fishing.
I have the Lake, and will know how good they are when I take off tommorow on my tour. They are heavy, and seem more like a MTB thing than an onroad touring thing.
I have the Lake, and will know how good they are when I take off tommorow on my tour. They are heavy, and seem more like a MTB thing than an onroad touring thing.
#21
Member
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 44
Bikes: Giant Escape/Cross City 1
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Are they much harder to unlock from the pedals than regular tight shoes?
This from the manual:
Because the cleats can also be released by lifting your heel, they may become accidently released when applying upward force on the pedals.
These cleats should not be used for a riding style which may involve pulling up on the pedals or for activities such as jumping, in which pulling forces are applied to the pedals causing possible release from the pedals.
These cleats should not be used for a riding style which may involve pulling up on the pedals or for activities such as jumping, in which pulling forces are applied to the pedals causing possible release from the pedals.
#22
Member
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 44
Bikes: Giant Escape/Cross City 1
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Saw this on Shimano's website regarding the SH55 cleats: : "SM-SH55 for multi-directional release except PD-M959/M540/M520".
Looks like single release only when using the pedals above.
Looks like single release only when using the pedals above.
#23
kipuka explorer
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Hilo Town, East Hawai'i
Posts: 3,297
Bikes: 1994 Trek 820, 2004 Fuji Absolute, 2005 Jamis Nova, 1977 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Originally Posted by gescom
I just got a pair today and noticed they use a multi-release cleat (part SM-SH55). The manual with my pedals describes that they can be released by twisting in any directon, instead of the usual single-release outward.
__________________
--
-=- '05 Jamis Nova -=- '04 Fuji Absolute -=- '94 Trek 820 -=- '77 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36 -=-
Friends don't let friends use brifters.
--
-=- '05 Jamis Nova -=- '04 Fuji Absolute -=- '94 Trek 820 -=- '77 Schwinn Scrambler 36/36 -=-
Friends don't let friends use brifters.
#24
Senior Member
pgs, welcome to the club! I've got around 8,000 miles on my Lakes and still love them! I wear them all summer without socks and get funny tan lines (it's nice not having to deal with wet socks for the commute home). I also wear them wintertime, just loosen up the straps add wool sock layers and a neoprine cover over the top.
My Lakes have Shimano soles. I've even talked a few roadies on my weekly group ride into giving them a shot Happy Feet
My Lakes have Shimano soles. I've even talked a few roadies on my weekly group ride into giving them a shot Happy Feet
#25
this bike is an aqueduct
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Gainesville, FL
Posts: 1,073
Bikes: Villin custom touring, Medici Pro Pista, KHS Alite1000, Windsor fixed commuter
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 2 Times
in
1 Post
FYI everyone, the Shimanos are sixty and the Lakes are forty-five (!) at Nashbar.
I toured in the Lakes, still wear them sometimes. I'm going to get the Shimanos this time around. Wahoo....
I toured in the Lakes, still wear them sometimes. I'm going to get the Shimanos this time around. Wahoo....
__________________
Villin custom touring | Raleigh XXIX | Medici Pro Pista | 1978 Schwinn Stingray
Villin custom touring | Raleigh XXIX | Medici Pro Pista | 1978 Schwinn Stingray