I'm looking for no nonsense road shoes for 3-bolt pattern (Look Keo) under $100. Below is what I found so far. The Lake CX218 at the bottom are a screaming deal. However, no returns accepted so better get the size and width right. Hopefully normal width for them is close to between D and E width? If you're looking for other types of shoe (Shimano SPD et al), then feel free to post any deal(s) you have found. It might help others if they're looking for some footwear for this upcoming season. The deals from Bont look nice as well, but are not available in EU 47. So they are out for me, unfortunately.

All sizes are EU 47 / US 12 unless specified in parens.

Giro Stylus $76.47
white
https://www.amazon.com/Giro-Stylus-M...pD8QcACU&psc=1

Perl Izumi Men's Quest Road $75.00
white/navy or black
https://www.brandscycle.com/product/...d-368414-1.htm

Shimano RC100 $79.95
black
https://www.brandscycle.com/product/...s-386370-1.htm

Scott Road Comp BOA $87.99
white or black
https://www.brandscycle.com/product/...a-368763-1.htm

Bont Riot+ $69.95
white or black (only avail in EU 48 want EU 47)
https://shop.bontcycling.com/collect...41257338208389

Bont Helix $99.95
white/charcoal or black (only avail in EU 48 want EU 47)
https://shop.bontcycling.com/collect...41385501851781

Fizik Tempo Power Strap $74.77
white or black
https://mikesbikes.com/collections/c...40001115390021

Lake CX218 $68.99
white (normal width hope its like between D/E, screaming deal but no refumd)
https://www.lakecycling.com/collecti...46847678251348

Head to a shop that has a selection and try stuff in till you find something that fits. Only way that works mail order is order some in different sizes, returning what doesn’t fit. That’s a bit of a PITA?

It can be a bit risky to order shoes online. But you won't get some of the deals that are out there. I think the Lake looks good and is wider than some others if I recall reading that? Would be curious to hear what others that have owned Lake would say about their shoes.

I don't know what bike shops can afford to have a selection of shoes in a selection of sizes these days.

I never went clipless. My three road bikes have toe clips, and my old winter bike did, too. I have been commuting in firm-soled sneakers for 32 years. Toe clips are cheap, sneakers are cheap. I'm not denigrating anyone's choice to ride clipless with clipless shoes...I like foot retention, but if you're goal is frugal foot retention, toe clips and sneakers are a good option.

if you're willing to try pre-owned, I'm guessing there are many for sale from ppl who have tried cleated pedals /shoes but gave up. I frequently buy pre-owned clothing on

ebay
poshmark
craigslist

I had a pair of Lake shoes that I really liked, but I'm just one person.

I just did the foot outline as specced on:

https://www.lakecycling.com/pages/ho...-cycling-shoes

of my right foot (which is slightly bigger than my left). I measured 46 wide even adding +5mm to the length as they recommend. I thought I was 47 since I have been wearing US 12 shoes for a while (feet got bigger as I got older from 11.5 to 12). The deal above is only for standard width. I just bought the CX177 46 wide for $125.99. Its more $$ but I don't think I'm going to get new shoes with a better deal for now.

That sounds good. Let us know how they work out!

Hey weren't you formerly in the NYC area?

Yes, I used to live in Blooomfield, NJ. Have been in Thornton, CO (just 16 mi north of Denver) for the last three years now. Not much riding around here yet. There are some bike lanes but some roads are typical tight suburban ones, unfortunately. There is a nice bike path that goes along the river into Denver. But I'm still working from home so don't need it for commuting. At least not yet... :-)

A deal really isn't a deal if you are buying a bunch of stuff and trying to return it or guess sizing or something like that. Saving a couple bucks to get cheaper shoes that may not fit doesn't sound like much of a thing to me. I would much rather try something on, have someone who hopefully actually knows what they are doing help me out and make some good recommendations. I know the bike shop is a scary place where they charge money for goods and services and you can actually touch things and people might talk with you but you can develop a great relationship with them and get some great perks. Plus you are helping your local cycling community grow and thrive which we need more than ever.

This being the commuting sub-forum I wouldn't really go for 3 bolt road cleats but I don't always have the luxury of sitting down and walking in road cleats for any more than a minute is miserable and if I somehow forget shoes or something happens and I would be in trouble.

Have found several pair of cycling shoes at thrift stores. Found a 200.00 pair of Specialized 3 bolt patent leather new in the bag for 12.00. Louis Garneau mtb, Lake mtb, IP touring shoes for 10.00, etc. I find, under saddle bags, racks, panniers, water bottle cages, hb bags, floor pumps. Found a Topeak Joe Blow for 5.00. Thrift store staff don't know the value of alot of gear, components and price stuff ridiculously low. Worth checking out.