Originally Posted by
dh024
Winter-specific cycling shoes are not common and tend to be expensive. Have you given serious thought to switching to flat pedals in the winter and just using plain old winter boots? In the winter, I haven't found there to be many advantages to clipless pedals for commuting and recreational riding, but many benefits to simple platform pedals and warm winter boots.
While I agree that they are expensive, a winter boot can last for years. Spending a couple of hundred dollars for a pair of shoes that last 10 or 15 years isn't that onerous.
As for clipless, I find them to be highly advantageous. Powering over snow and ice is much easier when you can pull up on the pedal and the clipless pedal adds a degree of security that platform pedals doesn't. You platform guys put all kinds of pins on your pedals to keep the shoe attached but those only act as little razor blades if you miss the pedal.
I also know all the arguments about "being able to put your foot out to catch yourself" as well. I've never found putting anything out in the middle of falling to do anything but providing an avenue for injuring what you "put out to catch yourself". I've crashed many times on ice and snow. Riding the bike down and letting it take the brunt of the crash is always better than trying to "catch yourself". Bruises are easier to heal than broken bones.
Originally Posted by
MBurke
I am considering buying a pair of winter shoes or boots. I road ride (no mountain biking)
I do use SPD cleats though.
Iv been using Gore slip over booties over my shoes but the bottoms are getting tattered...They have lasted two seasons. They are windproof..... I have had great luck with them and they have kept my feet warm just fine.
Just thinking about getting a pair of shoes or boots that would be insulated and windproof.
Anyone here use Winter Shoes/Boots ? Any suggestions on some good ones ?
Thanks
I've been using
Lake MXZ303 winter boots for about 5 years now. They are much better than shoe covers. Shoe covers were always slippery when stopping at lights or just walking to the bike. They also do a better job of insulation. Mine are good down to about 0°F.
45NRTH Japanthers look intriguing for warmer riding. I also use water proof Shimano shoes with waterproof socks down to about 30°F when I don't want to mess with the Lakes...they are heavy.
One caveat on winter boots: They are big. Clipping the chain stay with the boot is an annoying problem. I solved that by going to
iSSi pedals. The pedal part isn't why I use them but you can get longer spindles that add either 6mm or 12mm of width to the pedals. That helps a lot with wider winter shoes.
Finally, get winter shoes that are slightly larger than you would ride for summer. You want some room for thicker socks. I usually wear a 45 but for winter I can go as high as a 47 depending on the shoe. You don't want a tight fitting shoe that cuts off circulation in the cold
