Originally Posted by
JoeyBike
I cycled much of the length of the Rocky Mountains - US and Canada - in Adidas running shoes with quill pedals and toe clips.
I cycled for 6 months and 6,000 miles over 30+ mountain passes in Hi-Tec light hikers high-tops and toe clips. Had to shave rubber off the soles to get them to fit in the clips.
I cycled for 7 Months and 6,000 in Merrell trail runners and toe clips.
I cycled for 5 months and 3,000 miles in Six-Six-One touring shoes with SPD clips.
I currently use platform pedals or SPD clips daily - depending on my mood and which bike I grab.
My message: Any sturdy shoe that you are comfortable in, with a suitable pedal for that shoe will work fine. DON'T OVER-THINK THE SHOES!
I did a tour wearing Crocs Crosstrails with a pair of platform pedal with studs. The studs stuck nicely to the Crocks so no slipping around. They were extremely comfortable in the heat and after a rain it took a very short time for my feet to dry. No soggy feet.