Originally Posted by
unterhausen
I don't think I could justify winter cycling shoes for my commute. Since I ride long distances all winter recreationally, I have two pairs of winter shoes. I really hate cold feet, and neoprene booties weren't hacking it. My warmest shoes are the 45nrth Wulvhammer, which are expensive, but very warm, rated down to zero Fahrenheit. I have intermediate warmth shoes which are lighter weight, and they have done fine down into the '20s.
I concur and have the same set up, Wulvhammers and some old Sidi storms. But I do lots of rec rides of all sorts in winter which are generally a lot longer than my 14m RT commute. But if it is your first winter and the purpose is only to commute I'd suggest going with platform pedals (albeit not my favorite) and winter hikers. You'll learn a lot in the first year and then adjust as you go. Before you start throwing serious money at it find out if you really enjoy winter riding then upgrade your gear. The truth is not everyone likes winter riding and there is nothing wrong with that, it's easy to dislike.