spd vs spd sl long distance touring
 

I would like to build my way up to long distance touring (eg 100+ miles), if I have the time. Right now, I have spd cleats, a gavin road shoe with both two bolt and three bolt holes, and a fitting problem because I'm getting aches in my feet. (tried a whole bunch of things; made a thread for it too) So I want to decide between spd and spd sl. For long distances, is there really an advantage for spd sl cleats?

I'm also thinking about new pedals and/or cleats, so that I can be comfortable, and be all set for next several years. My current shoe is this. Obviously it's on the low end. Will this really matter for touring purposes?

I'm also thinking about replacing the stock spd pedals that came with the bikesdirect bicycle. They're one sided, which isn't really a big deal. But I've read that they're also on the low end, and could be flexing and contributing to my foot ache.

Any input is appreciated.

100+ miles isn't really "long distance touring". Touring is a multiple day activity, carrying with you the clothing etc. that you need. Is that what you are talking about? It's relevant because one of the reasons for choosing spd over spd sl for touring is to minimise the weight and bulk of extra shoes in your luggage.

If you are just talking about single rides of 100 miles or more, then personally I'd go with spd sl or some other road- specific system because I like the big contact area with the pedal. As for the shoes, how much they cost isn't an issue. The fact that you are suffering foot problems might be. If it is an issue with your current spd set-up you should consider either switching to a pedal with a nice big platform to spread the pressure - or going spd sl as you suggest.

I'd suggest a regular SPD double sided mountain bike pedal and a 'walkable' shoe if you are going to be touring. Road shoes are great if you only want to ride your bike. But touring often involves doing other things than riding your bike...seeing the sights, visiting museums, walking around camp, etc. A road shoe isn't all that great for those activities.

For pedals, you can't go wrong with a Shimano M520. Cheap ($24, new), rugged and durable. The mechanism works better than other pedals in it's price range.

The reason spd type pedals aren't included with road bikes is that the pedal / shoe selection is interdependent. A larger platform needs to be matched with a softer shoe and a smaller platform with a more rigid one to get the same pedaling effeciency and comfort.

You can make further selections based on how long you plan to stay clipped in at one time and whatever else the shoes have to do, but matching a small platform pedal to a soft shoe just doesn't work well for any extended period of time.

SPD-SL style pedals are road racing pedals and the shoes intended for those are so stiff you'll have to bring a second pair of footwear on a tour or go barefoot off the bike.

Suggest you drop by a good shop, bring the bike, and explain the issues and what your objectives are.

so for the shoe I linked in my first post, would that be considered a 'softer' shoe?

SPD SL mounts on the outside of hard soled road shoes, the outrigger pontoons touch the edges of the pedal ..
to give some stability , off the bike..

the edges of the recess of an SPD shoe do the pontoon's job , then the cleat does not protrude

they are a better shoe for hike-a-bike, where much walking is involved.