Hey folks,

I am experiencing numbness in my little toe and the one next to it when I'm riding for 15 miles or more on pavement and/or bike path (this is on a mountain bike turned into commuter/fitness bike). I will say that I've just begun using clipless shoes (I've already tried fixing the problem with lacing tightness/pattern). I'm wondering if it has something to do with saddle position or height and if having my foot attached to the bike is altering the way I ride on the saddle. I will say that I do enjoy riding with clipless pedals and shoes...maybe the best thing I've done to improve my biking.

Any advice on this topic greatly appreciated.

J

Have you tried using thinner socks? The shoes may not fit you properly. Don't cut off circulation with too tight lacing on the top.

I have this problem too! And I can't figure out what it is either. I don't make my shoes really tight, and it never happens on the right. It's only my left foot, and only my 4th toe. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Do you tend to clip in/out with the other foot while the "numb" foot stays clipped in for long periods of time? If so, it is probably lack of circulation. Sometimes you can avoid that just by wiggling your toes from time to time. Also, if your foot gets very numb, get off and walk for a few minutes, the movement will usually get the circulation going again pretty quickly.

try new insoles - I've got some custom ones(GBP50.00/USD80.00) that are made by sidas/conformable - no more hot spots or numb toes.

https://www.sidas.com/index.adml?id=3...12&r=437&l=111

I have Superfeet insoles, which help a little bit. I don't think it's cutting off circulation because there are no pain or other symptoms...maybe nerve compression? However, it DOES occur in the foot that doesn't clip out as often - I'll try clipping out more, good idea.

I was thinking wrong size shoe too. My first set of road shoes were really like one half size too small, and my feet really ached, after any considerable ride. Then I cranked it up half a size and it feels like i'm in a comfortable pair of old slippers.

it may also be the fore-aft postion of your cleat, move it a mm or two and see.

I had this problem it turned out to be mortens neuroma. It is a nerve between the the metatarsels that become aggravated and sends a numbing sensation.

Saddle adjustment solved my toe numbness.

How did you adjust your saddle? Height? Level? or back and forth (distance from handlebars)?

Thanks!
J

I cannot unfortunately, recommend over the INTERNET whether or not the saddle adjustment will solve your problem let alone rise it up or down/forward or back, tilt up or down or a combination of some or all of these adjustments. It could also be the shoes. Maybe even the seams on your garments. Who knows. Proper fit is a good place to start though.

Luckily I have an experienced ride bud that could evaluate and discus my ride positioning and give good advice to heed. The rest was up to me to find the optimal and comfortable position based on my physic, cycle, terrain, style etc.etc. etc.

May I suggest a fitting by your LBS is a very good place to start. Good luck.

I don't think that you will get a definitive answer to this question as there are so many variables to deal with, but you will get many suggestions to try out. It will be a matter of time and lots of experimenting with the many suggestions, be patient and you will solve the problem.I was the one who helped STV initially set up his bike. I set the seat to the "classic" set back position where, when the pedals are at three o'clock, and you drop a plumb line from the front of the knee, the line will intersect with the pedal axle, which should also be at the ball of your foot. I understand that he has adjusted the seat height upwards of 3/4 inch over the last year from my original setting. Just takes time and trying different combos until you get it feeling right.

Thanks everyone who replied to this thread. You answers are helpful.

J