Clipless Shoes and wear
 

How fast do these shoes wear out? I mean, regular sneakers are supposed to be replaced something like 3,000 miles (if you're a runner) / 6 months, or maybe 2x that or 0.5x that -- beats me, I go until either pain or holes or both (not a runner). Anyhow, the question is, do they wear out in terms of support over time and miles like regular shoes do? I know everything wears out, but are these types of shoes as often replaced like regular sneakers?

Running shoes need replaced regularly because the cushioning material in the soles breaks down from the constant impact forces. Cycling shoes have a completely different sole design that is very stiff to help transmit as much power to the pedals as possible. These shoes see very little impact force and the only cushioning comes from the removable insoles.

Over time, you may need to replace the insoles, but otherwise, so long as the shoe does not show signs of deteriorating, you should be able to continue using it. As you said, everything wears out eventually.

I've been using a pair of Shimano SH-M075s almost daily for about 2 years now. For the most part, they're holding up. The velcro is fraying, though, but that can be somewhat maintained with a pair of clippers. The only concern I have is that the rubber material around the cleat area is eroding from clipping-in impacts. I think that's where the point of failure will be, but I'm rather confident that it's at least another year away from happening.

Cool, thanks. I'm somewhat on the fence about clipless; was thinking "oh try a cheap pair, they'll just wear out fast and then if I like 'em, I'll pay for good ones". But if they don't wear out that fast, then it'd be money wasted.

I'll probably do Powergrips, I have toe straps right now and they work ok--mostly just getting in and out is an issue. Need other stuff first.

Thanks.

uh, isnt that money saved? if they dont wear out fast that means you dont have to spend money on a good set, or you could resell your cheap ones to someone else and use that money to pay for your new set

People buy used shoes? I'm thinking, if I buy a cheap set and they don't work well, then how can I resell them in good faith? They'd be wasted money. Sure, if they work good, money saved; but if not, then it's money out the window. Even if I sell them, it'll be at a significant loss.

I know people that are using 11 year old sidi's.

My first pair cracked badly at the heel after about four years, basically because I could never be bothered to undo them. They were still perfectly useable, but it gave me an excuse to buy nicer shoes, and relegate that pair to spin classes.

I imagine tennis shoes you use to ride a bike would wear much faster than that.

I've had some Cannondale shoes for the last 5 years or so and they're still holding up just fine. I replaced the insoles a couple times, but other than that, no problems.

I've got about 10,000 miles on my Sidi's (Genius 4's) They are showing some wear, but still going strong.