Numb toes- Is it the shoes?

[annekaren]

Hi all,
I've got a pair of Shimano shoes that I bought as a first foray into using clipless petals. However, they are mountain biking shoes that I've been using with my road bike.

On the rides, my toes have been getting numb. Have any of you had this problem? Is there an 'easy' solution? If I do need new shoes, can anyone recommend something on the inexpensive side (I'm on a student budget)? Thanks!

[Kpicha]

It just may be as simple as needing to loosen up the buckle/strap or wear thinner socks. If your socks or shoes are too tight or too thick (don't forget that your feet will swell once they're warmed up) then the blood circulation is cut off, hence, numb toes. :)

You also may want to have your LBS double check your cleat position. Even a Millimeter will make a big difference over the long haul all the from your toes to your hips and knees. ;)

If you do end up needing new shoes, check Pricepoint.com for some Lake shoes. They usually have some on sale for about $20-25. They're not nearly as stiff as the Shimanos, though.

Good luck!

[SadieKate]

While fit can be an issue, your pedalling technique can also come into play. If you consciously pull up and wiggle your toes, does it make a difference? You could be doing a lot of pushing and not enough pulling.

Also, road shoes are usually stiffer than the average mtbike shoe. You could have a pressure point screaming because the sole is collapsing over the pedal. You don't say what type of pedal you're using, but some pedals have less "collapse" factor simply because they provide a larger platform -- like Look and Time.

Are your Shimano shoes built for biking and hiking or are they more like what a racer would wear? Very stiff sole and minimal lugs. The latter not only look more like a road racer shoe with lugs on the sole, but would be a whole lot stiffer than a shoe that looks more like a light hiking shoe.

I know, I know. All these factors to consider!

[annekaren]

The shoes are mtb shoes that look more like street shoes. I got them mostly because it was my first foray into the clipless world and I wasn't sure I'd like it (and the shoes were only $20 at REI).

I've got spd pedals- so seems like a medium size support.

I have been trying to pull as well as push, as that's the whole advantage of being clipped in! ;-) But, maybe I'm just not doing it enough.

It seems like I should look into stiffer shoes- thanks for all the help!!

[Irulan]

I"m not sure exactly how this might figure in, but... those inexpensive bike shoes typeically have a pretty soft sole than can contribute to a lot of foot fatigue. Have you ever tried a shoe that has a stiff sole and if so, did you have this problem?

Penny

[adkoch]

I think Irulan is on to something - my Shimano clipless sandals (look like sport sandals) used to make my toes numb all the time. Now, I have a pair of regular road shoes - Sidi - and I never have that problem. I always thought with the sandals it was because my toes were curved upward, and they should be with the Sidi's, too, but I just don't have the issue anymore. My vote is due to the stiffness of the sole...

~Angie

[OrbeaJ]

I know the feeling, ak! (or I know no-feeling!)
I've got real stiff shoes, and it still happens. I go into the "thinking-about-my-pedaling" mode or click out for a minute and twist my ankles. Mine ususally only happens on my right foot, and I think it's because I'm really right-side dominant.
Thought neither of my feet would ever have any feeling again last weekend after a metric century. SHorter rides are ususally OK. How 'bout you?

[ChainsOflove]

I read that the numb toes is more related to how long/hard you are sitting, and should try lifting your butt up occasionally to aid circulation.