The winter cycling boots are very expensive. If you have a long commute 10+ miles one way and you plan to go all winter in very cold temps then they are worth it. I broke down and got some this year so I could continue using my spds. but had previously just used platform pedals and insulated hiking boots which worked fairly well for those cold months. I now spend 3 hours per day on the bike commuting weather permitting that is, so I wanted to continue using the clipless pedals for efficiency. I'll have to say if you decide to get some get them 2 sizes larger for thicker socks. I got 1 size larger and it wasn't enough for my really thick wool socks.