Re: shoes and numbness

Tim McNamara wrote:
In article <1146359785.369827.163020@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>,
"bicycle_disciple" <1.crazyboy.only@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:


can u or can u not ride long distances with mountain biking shoes?


Please learn to use the shift key and spell words out rather than using the cute instant messaging lingo. it may b hard 4 u 2 do @ 1st. It was cute when Prince did it on album covers in the 90s. It's boring now.

The answer is "yes." I ride in Lake MX-101 MTB shoes with Speedplay Frog pedals, and do rides up to 200-400 km (125-250 miles) in a day. I have had no numbness or hot spots or other foot discomfort with this combination. I've used these for hundreds of long road rides, including the Alps, and have had excellent results.

I think that there are a few things to consider regarding shoes. First, the shoe has to fit properly. Different manufacturers use slightly different shaped lasts, so the shoes fit slightly differently. Find the maker whose lasts match your foot. In my case, the Lakes consistently fit really well. Lots of people find Sidi shoes to fit well, and my wife prefers Shimano's shoes. Second, the shoe should not be laced too tight. Third, the sole should be adequately stiff so that you don't feel the cleat like standing on a walnut when you pedal. Many people experience some foot swelling when riding, and this makes the shoes become tighter and tighter, which can result in numbness.

Try Smartwool wool cycling socks. I find that wool socks make an amazing difference in how comfortable my feet are.

Hope this helps!

I think Tim makes good sense, particularly with the comment about socks.
I find that I get numbness in my middle front part of my right foot with thick socks. Wearing thinner socks made the problem go away.

Also ISTM that cotton socks absorb water and do not breathe well.

HTH,
EJ in NJ
.

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