So I am in the market for a new pair of shoes. My first pair was bought on a whim when I was surprised with SPD pedals as a gift. I bought a cheap pair of shimano shoes. They have done alright, but are not as stiff as I would like.

So I started researching shoes and today picked up a pair of Sidi Dominators (yea went to the other end of the spectrum).

Problem is, they seemed to feel good in the store, but not so good tonight on the bike.

I usually wear an 8.5 or 9 shoe. When I tried a 42.5 it felt small and a bit too narrow. So I tried a 43 mega (which if I remember should equate to a 9.5). It felt good walking around (which isn't where they need to feel good anyhow), but too loose on the bike.

Of course the big problem is, I don't know any easy way to put on some cleats and take them for a test spin without scuffing up the soles enough to not be able to return them.

What I did tonight is put clear packing tape on the soles, and the cleat area. This kept the scuffing down. Hopefully it will work so I can exchange them for a smaller pair.

Any other tips? Or do you just buy a pair and sell them on ebay or something if they don't work out?

-D