Originally Posted by
steelbikeguy
too bad that you don't have a cobbler handy. They could glue on some thin tread material or something.
Plan B, I believe, would be to apply a thin layer of Shoe Goo to provide some traction and abrasion resistance.
I'm in a semi-similar situation, but I'm planning on nailing on some Anquetil cleats as soon as I get enough miles on the shoes to mark the soles.
Steve in Peoria
Marking the soles by riding is a good way to dial in the angle to set the cleat slot because it will very nicely mimic the angle at which you naturally hold your foot while riding; but my advice is to use the wear pattern for fore/aft placement of the cleat as only a starting point. The marks will occur right at the forwardmost point that the toe clip allows your foot to travel, but unless you are very lucky in toe clip length, you will find that your best cleat position is either a little forward of the marks or a little back from them (in which case you need a longer toeclip.) Pay attention to your feet as you are riding without cleats to try to ascertain whether you would be more comfortable with your feet a little farther forward or a little farther back.
OP sorry for the tangent. I'm very envious of your new shoes!
Brent