Toe cramping

[jilliebeanmn]

Hello!

I am a fairly new rider who just bought a new bike a couple weeks ago (I was riding a Schwinn last summer and doing spinning classes this winter before buying the new bike) and I had toe cages installed on the new bike. I had this done because my feet were frequently slipping off the pedals of the old bike AND I was told it would help me with power.

I can now go faster and further, but after about 12 miles or so my toes start cramping up pretty bad.

I went 14 miles last night and the only reason I had to stop was because of the cramping in the toes, on both feet!

Any thoughts or ideas?

[OakLeaf]

What kind of shoes are you wearing? Why not use your spinning shoes and compatible pedals? If you're wearing shoes with flexible soles on rat-trap pedals, that makes your foot muscles work in weird ways, that could definitely cause cramping. If you're not comfortable wearing your spinning shoes on the road and/or don't want to spring for new pedals, wear the stiffest shoes you can find. A couple of years ago I saw that someone is still making toe-clip/rat-trap compatible cleats for cycling shoes, but I can't remember who or where, and anyway I really wouldn't recommend those for safety reasons.

[jilliebeanmn]

I am just wearing my running shoes, as I always have. I was wearing those for spinning too. I hope to do some 50+ mile rides, but I need to get this toe thing figured out. :)

[OakLeaf]

Most running shoes are pretty flexible, to let your feet and toes conform to the ground. Mizunos are about the stiffest I've ever worn, but still much too flexible for cycling on rat-trap pedals. Try something with a stiffer sole. Or alternately, put on flat pedals big enough to support your feet.

[PamNY]

I had an issue with toe/foot cramps while cycling. Changing to a shoe with a stiffer sole solved the problem completely and immediately. Good luck.

[Wahine]

Agreed. A stiffer soled shoe is likely the answer for you. If you are planing to continue to use the toe cages, I'd encourage you to look into shoes with rubber that helps grip the pedal better. Your local bike shop should be able to help you with this.

[Helene2013]

I ride my roadbike with flat pedals and toe clips. I wanted my feet to remain free, but still able to push climbing hills, etc.

I bought those shoes (link is for reference only to show you) as I like the type of sole it has. Hard enough, but not too much large "bumps" on it so they adhere very well to the pedals. They are for spinning so you could use them later on on spd if you want to use clipless.
http://www.artscyclery.com/Giro_Womens_Whynd_Spin_Class_Shoes_Silver_Pink/descpage-GIWWS.html

clips I have are the Evo ATB/Hybrid Double Toe-Clips.

I did quite a few rides with my combo of pedals/toe clips/shoes and all is great. No slipping, enough power, etc. My toes will still get numb sometimes. I realized it is when I push too much in the front instead of smooth rotation heels down (pedal stroke is something I need to work on - old habits are hard to break).

I'm far from being the pro here but yes good equipment is necessary, but the technic as well.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

[jilliebeanmn]

Thanks, all. I am looking for some bike shoes.