Originally Posted by
mtnroads
than force those dogs into hard, stiff soled shoes for extended periods anymore. It feels really good (literally) to get back to basics.
Disclaimer: I still use my Sidi mtn bike shoes and SPD pedals when riding singletrack - I've taken a couple nasty spills riding offroad without being clipped in - but the rest of the time it's free and comfortable feet for me.
really shows how everyone is diff-for me, biking in shoes that are not really stiff in the sole makes my feet hurt, as hardish pedalling makes the soles "bend" downwards, and this bugs my arch. When I replaced my old old Shimano spd a few summers ago with new Specialized mtn bike ones, my feet were immediately more comfortable--partly because tehy fit so well and also cuz of the stiffness.
re:Hot spots, Ive been lucky not to feel that before.
pathless--your example is a perfect one for the times that clipless are not good. I dont really mtn bike that much, but what I have done has shown me that I cant decide what is better, the safeness of having your feet seecurely attached for bouncy sections, the climbing aid (in my opinion) BUT then reg pedals are safer for getting feet off quickly and easily when things are tricky (like your example).....
I can also understand for long long tours like you have done that regular shoes are just plain handy for day to day "stuff". I just really am comfortable with spd but do get out of them whenever I can and always have a pair of sandals to get into.
cheers all, high today of 11c here!